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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sinead M Jackson - Sinead Jackson Counseling Services, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sinead Jackson Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85742
You no longer need to feel isolated or ashamed of your feelings. I have created a safe place for you to explore your concerns with empathic understanding and acceptance. I have specialized in anxiety, depression and relationship issues since 1982. Does your anxiety interfere with daily activities and relationships? We will explore the root of your issue and give you tools to help you calm down and be in control of them. Perhaps you force a smile on your face but inside are feeling despair or separated from others and your surroundings.Together we will get to the root of these issues so you can have healthy, fulfilling relationships.
You no longer need to feel isolated or ashamed of your feelings. I have created a safe place for you to explore your concerns with empathic understanding and acceptance. I have specialized in anxiety, depression and relationship issues since 1982. Does your anxiety interfere with daily activities and relationships? We will explore the root of your issue and give you tools to help you calm down and be in control of them. Perhaps you force a smile on your face but inside are feeling despair or separated from others and your surroundings.Together we will get to the root of these issues so you can have healthy, fulfilling relationships.
(520) 376-2323 View (520) 376-2323
Photo of Vanessa Vann, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Vann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85742
Have you found therapy unhelpful in the past? If you are looking for a change and a new approach, I can help. I have more than 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples and families overcome life's hurdles and feel fulfilled. I have a passion for helping individuals overcome PTSD, CPTSD, developmental, religious and other specific trauma. I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals, borderline, narcissistic and anti-social personalities, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, addiction, disassociation and chronic pain. I am passionate about LGBTQ+ and gender identity issues.
Have you found therapy unhelpful in the past? If you are looking for a change and a new approach, I can help. I have more than 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples and families overcome life's hurdles and feel fulfilled. I have a passion for helping individuals overcome PTSD, CPTSD, developmental, religious and other specific trauma. I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals, borderline, narcissistic and anti-social personalities, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, addiction, disassociation and chronic pain. I am passionate about LGBTQ+ and gender identity issues.
(520) 597-8042 View (520) 597-8042
Photo of Vanessa Vann - Restored Hope Counseling, LCSW, EMDR, LAC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Restored Hope Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, LAC, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85742
Have you found therapy unhelpful in the past? If you are looking for a change and a new approach, we can help. Our team of skilled therapists have decades of experience helping individuals, couples and families overcome life's hurdles and feel fulfilled. We offer specialization in PTSD, CPTSD, developmental, religious and other specific trauma, working with neurodivergent individuals, borderline, narcissistic and anti-social personalities, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, addiction, disassociation and chronic pain. We strive for cultural competency and are passionate about LGBTQ & gender identity issues.
Have you found therapy unhelpful in the past? If you are looking for a change and a new approach, we can help. Our team of skilled therapists have decades of experience helping individuals, couples and families overcome life's hurdles and feel fulfilled. We offer specialization in PTSD, CPTSD, developmental, religious and other specific trauma, working with neurodivergent individuals, borderline, narcissistic and anti-social personalities, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, addiction, disassociation and chronic pain. We strive for cultural competency and are passionate about LGBTQ & gender identity issues.
(520) 210-5797 View (520) 210-5797
Photo of Oralia Anda, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Oralia Anda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85743  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is grounded in person-centered theory, which recognizes that at our core we are all good people who are just trying to “make sense” of our complicated lives. I genuinely believe that every person is born with an inner strength and resilience to help them live their best life by being their true self. As your therapist, I can help you to identify and embrace your strengths and help you through the challenges in your life. My top priority is to build a therapeutic relationship rooted in trust, honesty and compassion. I create a safe, positive, uplifting and nurturing environment to help clients feel empowered.
My approach to therapy is grounded in person-centered theory, which recognizes that at our core we are all good people who are just trying to “make sense” of our complicated lives. I genuinely believe that every person is born with an inner strength and resilience to help them live their best life by being their true self. As your therapist, I can help you to identify and embrace your strengths and help you through the challenges in your life. My top priority is to build a therapeutic relationship rooted in trust, honesty and compassion. I create a safe, positive, uplifting and nurturing environment to help clients feel empowered.
(520) 462-4768 View (520) 462-4768
Photo of Ryan Schulz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Schulz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marana, AZ 85653  (Online Only)
I work with people using a variety of philosophies, but those encompassing humanistic and psychodynamic theories inform most of my practice. This generally means I am most interested in focusing on emotions, insight, relationships, past experiences, meta-emotion, self-worth, authenticity, fantasies, and the unconscious. I rely heavily on discussing shame, vulnerability, emotional needs, and creating meaning in life. I am fairly non-directive, and I will be most focused on helping you find your own authentic path by reflecting and exploring deeper meanings and patterns that arise in our discussions.
I work with people using a variety of philosophies, but those encompassing humanistic and psychodynamic theories inform most of my practice. This generally means I am most interested in focusing on emotions, insight, relationships, past experiences, meta-emotion, self-worth, authenticity, fantasies, and the unconscious. I rely heavily on discussing shame, vulnerability, emotional needs, and creating meaning in life. I am fairly non-directive, and I will be most focused on helping you find your own authentic path by reflecting and exploring deeper meanings and patterns that arise in our discussions.
(520) 210-5268 View (520) 210-5268
Photo of David A Cato - Cato Counseling & Consulting, LLC, LCSW, SEP, DARe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cato Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, DARe
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85742  (Online Only)
Note: Potential clients only, no soliciting. I have been a clinician in residential treatment for over 10 years. During that time, I treated adults of all ages with a myriad of issues. Since everyone's needs are different, I have learned to adapt my approach to the individual and their particular goals. Self-motivation to find healing is paramount to beginning the healing process. I primarily work with professionals and those willing to pursue treatment on their own. Additionally, I am a clinical supervisor and also work with Somatic Experiencing students to assist them with obtaining their certification. My practice is Telehealth.
Note: Potential clients only, no soliciting. I have been a clinician in residential treatment for over 10 years. During that time, I treated adults of all ages with a myriad of issues. Since everyone's needs are different, I have learned to adapt my approach to the individual and their particular goals. Self-motivation to find healing is paramount to beginning the healing process. I primarily work with professionals and those willing to pursue treatment on their own. Additionally, I am a clinical supervisor and also work with Somatic Experiencing students to assist them with obtaining their certification. My practice is Telehealth.
(520) 277-2788 View (520) 277-2788
Photo of Brittany Cabezas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Cabezas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marana, AZ 85658  (Online Only)
Humans are resilient and have an innate ability to heal. My goal is to meet you where you are currently at and build the therapeutic rapport necessary to assist you in your process of learning, growing and changing your circumstances by challenging things that no longer serve you. I provide a safe space, free of judgement, so you can show up authentically. We will work together to achieve your therapeutic goals by utilizing a variety of modalities, customized to your individual needs, with a strengths-based approach.
Humans are resilient and have an innate ability to heal. My goal is to meet you where you are currently at and build the therapeutic rapport necessary to assist you in your process of learning, growing and changing your circumstances by challenging things that no longer serve you. I provide a safe space, free of judgement, so you can show up authentically. We will work together to achieve your therapeutic goals by utilizing a variety of modalities, customized to your individual needs, with a strengths-based approach.
(520) 386-0286 View (520) 386-0286
Photo of Russell Johnson, MA, LPC, LISAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Russell Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Marana, AZ 85653  (Online Only)
I like working with individuals with a wide array of problems including: depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship problems, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, impulse control problems, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family problems, life skills deficits, and problems with decision-making. I provide compassionate care and I am an efficient and effective counselor who uses evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR.
I like working with individuals with a wide array of problems including: depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, relationship problems, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, impulse control problems, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family problems, life skills deficits, and problems with decision-making. I provide compassionate care and I am an efficient and effective counselor who uses evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR.
(520) 462-2002 View (520) 462-2002
Photo of Thomas Noth, MA, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas Noth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85742
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently accepting new clients. Therapy is an opportunity to heal from the past, cope with the present, and discover a brighter future. Together, we can build upon your strengths, process through traumas, and release the limiting beliefs that are keeping you stuck. My approach to therapy is client-centered and strength-based. As your therapist, I will support you with building practical skills, setting healthy boundaries, and channeling your inner confidence to help you thrive.
I am not currently accepting new clients. Therapy is an opportunity to heal from the past, cope with the present, and discover a brighter future. Together, we can build upon your strengths, process through traumas, and release the limiting beliefs that are keeping you stuck. My approach to therapy is client-centered and strength-based. As your therapist, I will support you with building practical skills, setting healthy boundaries, and channeling your inner confidence to help you thrive.
(520) 492-0515 View (520) 492-0515

Online Therapists

Photo of Christopher Trotman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Trotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284  (Online Only)
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
(301) 851-0601 View (301) 851-0601
Photo of Robin San George, MA, LAC, Counselor
Robin San George
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
I also enjoy helping people struggling with chronic illness.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have been working in behavioral health since 2013. I love making genuine connections with my clients while providing individualized guidance throughout the healing process. I strongly believe that helping people to realize and trust that they are not alone in their struggles or trauma is always such a beneficial first step in establishing a solid foundation in our work together.
I also enjoy helping people struggling with chronic illness.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have been working in behavioral health since 2013. I love making genuine connections with my clients while providing individualized guidance throughout the healing process. I strongly believe that helping people to realize and trust that they are not alone in their struggles or trauma is always such a beneficial first step in establishing a solid foundation in our work together.
(602) 663-9122 View (602) 663-9122
Photo of Nai (Audrey-Paige) Smiddy, LAC, Counselor
Nai (Audrey-Paige) Smiddy
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712  (Online Only)
 I have worked with a diverse population of people, including but not limited to, people who have endured trauma(s), people who endure racial injustice, and people who endure the injustice of ableism/ persons with disability or chronic illness.
I am a non-binary Licensed Associate Counselor in Arizona, license number LAC-20028.  I am currently working towards the Sex Therapist Certification and Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.  My personal and professional knowledge of gender identity, transgender treatment, and human sexuality allows me the tools to help transgender and non-binary folx live authentically with self-love and acceptance.  Working with the transgender and gender nonconforming community is my passion.  I also provide family therapy to help partners through transitions of gender identity and build connection with true acceptance of
 I have worked with a diverse population of people, including but not limited to, people who have endured trauma(s), people who endure racial injustice, and people who endure the injustice of ableism/ persons with disability or chronic illness.
I am a non-binary Licensed Associate Counselor in Arizona, license number LAC-20028.  I am currently working towards the Sex Therapist Certification and Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.  My personal and professional knowledge of gender identity, transgender treatment, and human sexuality allows me the tools to help transgender and non-binary folx live authentically with self-love and acceptance.  Working with the transgender and gender nonconforming community is my passion.  I also provide family therapy to help partners through transitions of gender identity and build connection with true acceptance of
(520) 210-4087 View (520) 210-4087
Photo of Susan Barrette-Mozes - Barrette Counseling Services, LLC, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barrette Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children/adolescents presenting with a variety of challenges: excessive worry/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, chronic illness/pain, self-harm behaviors, life transitional stress, and stresses related to the Military.
Sometimes our lives become so complicated and stressful that we all need an outside, non-judgmental person to help guide us back to our inner source and wisdom. My therapeutic strengths lie in my ability to create a safe and non-judgmental relationship with my clients to help them quickly identify their strengths and utilize them to problem solve and feel better. I approach all my clients with kindness and compassion, understanding that many are entering counseling for the first time or are searching for relief from stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic pain or illness, or many of life's difficult transitions.
I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children/adolescents presenting with a variety of challenges: excessive worry/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, chronic illness/pain, self-harm behaviors, life transitional stress, and stresses related to the Military.
Sometimes our lives become so complicated and stressful that we all need an outside, non-judgmental person to help guide us back to our inner source and wisdom. My therapeutic strengths lie in my ability to create a safe and non-judgmental relationship with my clients to help them quickly identify their strengths and utilize them to problem solve and feel better. I approach all my clients with kindness and compassion, understanding that many are entering counseling for the first time or are searching for relief from stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic pain or illness, or many of life's difficult transitions.
(520) 441-8823 View (520) 441-8823
Photo of Venessa De La Cruz- Therapy Instensives, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Venessa De La Cruz- Therapy Instensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I provide individual & intensive therapy to adults struggling with the demands of juggling multiple roles and who experience anxiety, grief & chronic illness.
Do you find yourself feeling exhausted & in a constant state of overwhelm that you can't seem to let go of? Each day you keep trying your best to keep it together at work and for your family, but it just doesn’t feel like it is enough and that leaves you feeling hopeless, frustrated & defeated. Or maybe you are beginning to experience health issues and there is a feeling of dread that takes over when you think about how to fit taking care of you into your daily to do’s. The overwhelm builds as you try to figure out how to manage it all. The good news is that you don’t have to figure all of this out on your own. I am here to help!
I provide individual & intensive therapy to adults struggling with the demands of juggling multiple roles and who experience anxiety, grief & chronic illness.
Do you find yourself feeling exhausted & in a constant state of overwhelm that you can't seem to let go of? Each day you keep trying your best to keep it together at work and for your family, but it just doesn’t feel like it is enough and that leaves you feeling hopeless, frustrated & defeated. Or maybe you are beginning to experience health issues and there is a feeling of dread that takes over when you think about how to fit taking care of you into your daily to do’s. The overwhelm builds as you try to figure out how to manage it all. The good news is that you don’t have to figure all of this out on your own. I am here to help!
(480) 526-4532 View (480) 526-4532
Photo of Laura Elena, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Elena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
Sometimes life throws you challenges that tax your ability to cope and thrive in healthy ways, leaving you in a state of survival, lacking connection with yourself, others and the world around you. My belief is that your innate strengths can be rediscovered to find the joy and peace you long for in your world – this begins with the relationship with yourself and sets the foundation for all other relationships & goal-achievement in your life. I work with teens and adults of all ages in areas including life changes, parenting challenges, chronic illness, substance abuse, and assistance navigating outside resources to attain your goals
Sometimes life throws you challenges that tax your ability to cope and thrive in healthy ways, leaving you in a state of survival, lacking connection with yourself, others and the world around you. My belief is that your innate strengths can be rediscovered to find the joy and peace you long for in your world – this begins with the relationship with yourself and sets the foundation for all other relationships & goal-achievement in your life. I work with teens and adults of all ages in areas including life changes, parenting challenges, chronic illness, substance abuse, and assistance navigating outside resources to attain your goals
(480) 470-7654 View (480) 470-7654
Photo of Katie Lespron, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Lespron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I have a special interest in working with those with chronic illness/cancer.
Life is filled with challenges. It is not uncommon those hurdles you once were able to jump over, now seem unattainable to tackle. These challenges can leave us anxious, depressed or with a sense of loss. Grief and loss can feel heavy and isolating. Life transitions and change can be difficult to adapt to. Seeking support in someone who can truly listen and provide neutral guidance can make a large difference in how you navigate the crazy ride we call life.
I have a special interest in working with those with chronic illness/cancer.
Life is filled with challenges. It is not uncommon those hurdles you once were able to jump over, now seem unattainable to tackle. These challenges can leave us anxious, depressed or with a sense of loss. Grief and loss can feel heavy and isolating. Life transitions and change can be difficult to adapt to. Seeking support in someone who can truly listen and provide neutral guidance can make a large difference in how you navigate the crazy ride we call life.
(480) 660-4779 View (480) 660-4779
Photo of Valerie Gold-Neil, EdD, Psychologist
Valerie Gold-Neil
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Green Valley, AZ 85614  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years of experience as a therapist working with individuals facing age-related changes, grief, stress, trauma, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety.
Hello, I’m Dr. Val, I offer you a safe and compassionate place where I listen deeply to you and together we can heal the pain you are experiencing. I will guide you in increasing your self-awareness, self-compassion, acceptance and learning new ways to be in this ever changing body and world. I believe through work in therapy you can make lasting and personally empowering changes that will serve you and those you love.
I have over 30 years of experience as a therapist working with individuals facing age-related changes, grief, stress, trauma, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety.
Hello, I’m Dr. Val, I offer you a safe and compassionate place where I listen deeply to you and together we can heal the pain you are experiencing. I will guide you in increasing your self-awareness, self-compassion, acceptance and learning new ways to be in this ever changing body and world. I believe through work in therapy you can make lasting and personally empowering changes that will serve you and those you love.
(520) 582-9794 View (520) 582-9794
Photo of Amy Sharp, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
I enjoy working with teens and adults from all backgrounds! I usually connect well with people who had developmental or complex trauma in childhood, as well as young adults struggling with the transition to "adulting." I have experience helping with low self-esteem, general anxiety, social anxiety, chronic illness, codependency, trauma, and depression. I believe we all go through challenges in life and need to work on our mental health to reach our full potential. You can do it, even when it's scary! You are the expert on your own life and have more strengths than you realize! I would be honored to meet with you.
I enjoy working with teens and adults from all backgrounds! I usually connect well with people who had developmental or complex trauma in childhood, as well as young adults struggling with the transition to "adulting." I have experience helping with low self-esteem, general anxiety, social anxiety, chronic illness, codependency, trauma, and depression. I believe we all go through challenges in life and need to work on our mental health to reach our full potential. You can do it, even when it's scary! You are the expert on your own life and have more strengths than you realize! I would be honored to meet with you.
(520) 523-2942 View (520) 523-2942
Photo of Dr. Heather A. Okvat, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Heather A. Okvat
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85274  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults with a variety of problems in living and believe in intermittent therapy throughout the life course. If you're looking to enhance your self-esteem and self-kindness, learning to be assertive, or wanting to be seen for who you really are - and knowing yourself who this is, I am here to support you. My private practice is small and focused on people coping with anxiety, chronic illness including chronic pain, and depression. It's not easy being a human, and you don't have to go it alone. If you are motivated to better manage life's challenges, I look forward to hearing from you.
I work with individual adults with a variety of problems in living and believe in intermittent therapy throughout the life course. If you're looking to enhance your self-esteem and self-kindness, learning to be assertive, or wanting to be seen for who you really are - and knowing yourself who this is, I am here to support you. My private practice is small and focused on people coping with anxiety, chronic illness including chronic pain, and depression. It's not easy being a human, and you don't have to go it alone. If you are motivated to better manage life's challenges, I look forward to hearing from you.
(480) 531-9809 View (480) 531-9809
Photo of Claudia Ward, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudia Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85286
Struggling with a chronic illness? Feeling overwhelmed by a cancer diagnosis or a cardiac event? Experiencing anxiety from life changes? Fear, sadness, uncertainty and a mix of other challenging emotions are natural but they can make getting through the day or even the next moment seem impossible. Priorities may shift. Life as you knew it no longer exists. You may feel alone. For some, the relationship with your body may change and that can decrease body confidence. While you may sometimes feel powerless, regardless of your life situation, you can chose to get support to cope.
Struggling with a chronic illness? Feeling overwhelmed by a cancer diagnosis or a cardiac event? Experiencing anxiety from life changes? Fear, sadness, uncertainty and a mix of other challenging emotions are natural but they can make getting through the day or even the next moment seem impossible. Priorities may shift. Life as you knew it no longer exists. You may feel alone. For some, the relationship with your body may change and that can decrease body confidence. While you may sometimes feel powerless, regardless of your life situation, you can chose to get support to cope.
(623) 244-7423 View (623) 244-7423
Chronic Illness Therapists

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.