Chronic Illness Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Judith Anna Nitchie, MA, CMT, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judith Anna Nitchie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CMT, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Interactive and educational workshops address stress and emotions relative to chronic illness and loss for self-help groups and professional organizations; education and training for counselors and therapists who work with clients with chronic illness.
Life with a chronic illness presents unique challenges. Not only do you have your new (and changing) physical reality, but anxiety, depression and overwhelm can show up unannounced. I've been there! The great news is that, with help, we can transform our state of mind and start loving life again. WE can get YOU back on the road to loving your life--let's get to it!
Interactive and educational workshops address stress and emotions relative to chronic illness and loss for self-help groups and professional organizations; education and training for counselors and therapists who work with clients with chronic illness.
Life with a chronic illness presents unique challenges. Not only do you have your new (and changing) physical reality, but anxiety, depression and overwhelm can show up unannounced. I've been there! The great news is that, with help, we can transform our state of mind and start loving life again. WE can get YOU back on the road to loving your life--let's get to it!
(415) 799-9266 View (415) 799-9266
Photo of Ida Vandaei, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ida Vandaei
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111
Are you hoping to find a solution out of a specific problem? Are you looking to make improvements in your life but just don't know where to start? Do you struggle coping with a chronic illness or chronic pain disorder? Do you find yourself feeling "stuck", unmotivated, or unable to experience the same joy as before? Are you constantly worried about something bad happening? Are you having difficulty sleeping? Have you experienced a loss, whether it's the death of a loved one or the loss of a future life you imagined? Is your relationship on the rocks or suffered broken trust? Is anxiety taking over your life?
Are you hoping to find a solution out of a specific problem? Are you looking to make improvements in your life but just don't know where to start? Do you struggle coping with a chronic illness or chronic pain disorder? Do you find yourself feeling "stuck", unmotivated, or unable to experience the same joy as before? Are you constantly worried about something bad happening? Are you having difficulty sleeping? Have you experienced a loss, whether it's the death of a loved one or the loss of a future life you imagined? Is your relationship on the rocks or suffered broken trust? Is anxiety taking over your life?
(818) 960-6045 View (818) 960-6045
Photo of Christina Frenzel, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christina Frenzel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94158  (Online Only)
Many clients come to see me because they are strengthening their neurodivergent identity and coping skills (ADHD, Autism, AuDHD), they are experiencing relationship, family, or dating issues (self-esteem, complex trauma, narcissistic & emotional abuse), or they are living with chronic illness (diabetes, autoimmune disorders, medical trauma). Others are struggling with career issues, particularly if they are creative professionals or work in highly technical fields (creative blocks, imposter syndrome, confidence). Together we'll work to better understand and navigate the systems and patterns that may be keeping you stuck.
Many clients come to see me because they are strengthening their neurodivergent identity and coping skills (ADHD, Autism, AuDHD), they are experiencing relationship, family, or dating issues (self-esteem, complex trauma, narcissistic & emotional abuse), or they are living with chronic illness (diabetes, autoimmune disorders, medical trauma). Others are struggling with career issues, particularly if they are creative professionals or work in highly technical fields (creative blocks, imposter syndrome, confidence). Together we'll work to better understand and navigate the systems and patterns that may be keeping you stuck.
(650) 910-5548 View (650) 910-5548
Photo of Rachael A. Henderson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachael A. Henderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I work with individuals in a private practice setting who struggle with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, phase of life challenges and more.
I began my master's training in 2014, and I have worked with individuals and their families struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and seizure disorders.
I work with individuals in a private practice setting who struggle with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, phase of life challenges and more.
I began my master's training in 2014, and I have worked with individuals and their families struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and seizure disorders.
(415) 539-2643 View (415) 539-2643
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Randazzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Randazzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I have a strong passion for working with individuals who experience anxiety, panic attacks, and persistent fear due to their chronic illness.
I am a clinical psychologist and specialize in treating adults who experience life challenges as a result of stress, anxiety, and chronic medical conditions. Common conditions treated are panic attacks, phobias, chronic pain, IBS, and insomnia. Clients often reach out when they are looking for support in changing their actions to move towards their values in life. In therapy, we will work together to identify your strengths, values, and actions to move towards positive change.
I have a strong passion for working with individuals who experience anxiety, panic attacks, and persistent fear due to their chronic illness.
I am a clinical psychologist and specialize in treating adults who experience life challenges as a result of stress, anxiety, and chronic medical conditions. Common conditions treated are panic attacks, phobias, chronic pain, IBS, and insomnia. Clients often reach out when they are looking for support in changing their actions to move towards their values in life. In therapy, we will work together to identify your strengths, values, and actions to move towards positive change.
(628) 313-5767 View (628) 313-5767
Photo of Whitney M. Keilman, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Whitney M. Keilman
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with issues including but not limited to: Aging, Anxiety, Bereavement, Body image, Depression, Drug and Alcohol, Chronic illness, Chronic pain, Family conflicts, Interpersonal boundaries, Life transitions, Oppression, Parenting, PTSD, Relationships, Support for caregivers, Terminal illness, and Trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to teens and adults residing in California. I believe that every individual is unique and deserving of love, and I feel that this shines through in my work. Seeking therapy is not always easy, and I’m truly honored to be a part of my Patient’s healing and strengthening processes.
I have experience working with issues including but not limited to: Aging, Anxiety, Bereavement, Body image, Depression, Drug and Alcohol, Chronic illness, Chronic pain, Family conflicts, Interpersonal boundaries, Life transitions, Oppression, Parenting, PTSD, Relationships, Support for caregivers, Terminal illness, and Trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to teens and adults residing in California. I believe that every individual is unique and deserving of love, and I feel that this shines through in my work. Seeking therapy is not always easy, and I’m truly honored to be a part of my Patient’s healing and strengthening processes.
(415) 903-8664 View (415) 903-8664
Photo of Pearl B Werfel, PhD, Psychologist
Pearl B Werfel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
Even the most capable and intelligent person will sometimes need help. My clients include professionals, supervisors, executives, and healthcare providers who seek to better manage the stressors of their professional and personal lives. I create a safe and comfortable environment where you can learn how to decrease stress and anxiety, sleep better, reduce or eliminate pain, live well with chronic illness, resolve past trauma and stop self-limiting behaviors. My over 25 years of experience and training enables me to tailor therapeutic interventions to your needs.
Even the most capable and intelligent person will sometimes need help. My clients include professionals, supervisors, executives, and healthcare providers who seek to better manage the stressors of their professional and personal lives. I create a safe and comfortable environment where you can learn how to decrease stress and anxiety, sleep better, reduce or eliminate pain, live well with chronic illness, resolve past trauma and stop self-limiting behaviors. My over 25 years of experience and training enables me to tailor therapeutic interventions to your needs.
(510) 665-5802 View (510) 665-5802
Photo of Kasey Mandelbaum -Chronic Illness And Neurodivergent Specialist, MS, AMFT
Kasey Mandelbaum -Chronic Illness And Neurodivergent Specialist
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
As a neurodivergent, queer, and disabled therapist, I know what it is like to not see yourself in your therapist. I'm a therapist with ADHD- I'm going to understand the grief you feel when talking about your past and how different it would have been if the world was built with neurodiverse people in mind. I'm a therapist with chronic illness- I'll understand how flares, injustice, and medical trauma effects your brain and your inner world. This world was not made for us in mind, but my counseling space was. Welcome!
As a neurodivergent, queer, and disabled therapist, I know what it is like to not see yourself in your therapist. I'm a therapist with ADHD- I'm going to understand the grief you feel when talking about your past and how different it would have been if the world was built with neurodiverse people in mind. I'm a therapist with chronic illness- I'll understand how flares, injustice, and medical trauma effects your brain and your inner world. This world was not made for us in mind, but my counseling space was. Welcome!
(213) 642-2948 View (213) 642-2948
Photo of Armine Manukian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Armine Manukian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Hi there, I'm Armine! I have provided mental health services for 15 years helping clients with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic illness, postpartum, and life/career transitions in diverse populations of adults. Given my experience, I have developed a therapeutic approach that is based on the needs of clients. I combine evidence-based interventions with cognitive, and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a supportive environment where clients openly and safely express their experiences, emotions, and thoughts with acceptance and non-judgment.
Hi there, I'm Armine! I have provided mental health services for 15 years helping clients with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic illness, postpartum, and life/career transitions in diverse populations of adults. Given my experience, I have developed a therapeutic approach that is based on the needs of clients. I combine evidence-based interventions with cognitive, and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a supportive environment where clients openly and safely express their experiences, emotions, and thoughts with acceptance and non-judgment.
(916) 794-3439 View (916) 794-3439
Photo of Sean Fitzgerald, DMFT, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Sean Fitzgerald
Counselor, DMFT, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Do you feel unbalanced and overwhelmed? Feeling trapped by your own life? Sometimes people and life expect more and more out of us, leaving nothing for us but a full schedule and an empty life. You may also fear expressing our emotions because you're not sure what will happen if you do. Whether it’s problems with work, home life, a relationship, chronic illness or a specific event like a major transition, accident, or sudden death, I can help by providing a safe place for you to open up and feel heard.
Do you feel unbalanced and overwhelmed? Feeling trapped by your own life? Sometimes people and life expect more and more out of us, leaving nothing for us but a full schedule and an empty life. You may also fear expressing our emotions because you're not sure what will happen if you do. Whether it’s problems with work, home life, a relationship, chronic illness or a specific event like a major transition, accident, or sudden death, I can help by providing a safe place for you to open up and feel heard.
(909) 532-6100 View (909) 532-6100
Photo of Susan Harden, PhD, Psychologist
Susan Harden
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I am a cognitive behavioral psychologist and as such I utilize a goal oriented focus in working with problems that you may be experiencing. I also believe that understanding the meaning of experiences are essential to working through them. I have worked both with children and adults in my practice and have done a great deal of work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and chronic illness.
I am a cognitive behavioral psychologist and as such I utilize a goal oriented focus in working with problems that you may be experiencing. I also believe that understanding the meaning of experiences are essential to working through them. I have worked both with children and adults in my practice and have done a great deal of work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and chronic illness.
(310) 341-0907 View (310) 341-0907
Photo of David A Martinez, PhD, Psychologist
David A Martinez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide care for clients who reside in California. I work with people who are interested in improving: Depression; Social Anxiety and other specific phobias; Generalized Anxiety; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; Panic Disorder; Health behavior (e.g., adherence, coping with chronic illness, managing chronic pain); Smoking cessation; Insomnia; Trauma/PTSD; Issues related to experiences of LGBTQI+; Sexual health; Grief; and Stress.
I provide care for clients who reside in California. I work with people who are interested in improving: Depression; Social Anxiety and other specific phobias; Generalized Anxiety; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder; Panic Disorder; Health behavior (e.g., adherence, coping with chronic illness, managing chronic pain); Smoking cessation; Insomnia; Trauma/PTSD; Issues related to experiences of LGBTQI+; Sexual health; Grief; and Stress.
(510) 937-3211 View (510) 937-3211
Photo of Dr. Deepti Vaswani - Deep Insight Psychology , PsyD, Psychologist
Deep Insight Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
In my work over the past several years, I have found that empowering individuals to explore themselves and the impact of their social, cultural, and inner world helps them navigate their own growth. It also empowers them to direct their healing. My experience of treatment ranges from depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, and psychosomatic disorders to integral work in self-esteem, patterned behaviors, relational issues, and work-life balance issues tied to the symptoms experienced.
In my work over the past several years, I have found that empowering individuals to explore themselves and the impact of their social, cultural, and inner world helps them navigate their own growth. It also empowers them to direct their healing. My experience of treatment ranges from depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, and psychosomatic disorders to integral work in self-esteem, patterned behaviors, relational issues, and work-life balance issues tied to the symptoms experienced.
(530) 454-8680 View (530) 454-8680
Photo of Sonia Milbank, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonia Milbank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I spent years working with adolescents and young adults with chronic illness (liver transplant and Inflammatory Bowel Disease populations).
With a background treating people across the lifespan, I have come to the realization that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most sacred spaces we can enter. With mutual respect and openness I can help you to process through grief, trauma, and chronic illness. It would be an honor to enter the sacred therapeutic space alongside you. Of note, while I am not currently taking insurance I am happy to provide you with a super bill for you to seek reimbursement from your insurance for out of network providers.
I spent years working with adolescents and young adults with chronic illness (liver transplant and Inflammatory Bowel Disease populations).
With a background treating people across the lifespan, I have come to the realization that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most sacred spaces we can enter. With mutual respect and openness I can help you to process through grief, trauma, and chronic illness. It would be an honor to enter the sacred therapeutic space alongside you. Of note, while I am not currently taking insurance I am happy to provide you with a super bill for you to seek reimbursement from your insurance for out of network providers.
(503) 549-1190 View (503) 549-1190
Photo of Gillian E Gillette, MS, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gillian E Gillette
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
I am trained in EMDR by an EMDRIA-certified Basic Trainer and can use this modality of healing for many issues. Traumas often affect our day-to-day ways of coping and I don't believe that we should have to stay stuck in those ways. Struggling with chronic illness issues and caretaking are under stress? Feeling depression and anxiety around a diagnosis or experiencing anticipatory grief? Are you an individual or couple seeking a (Spanish/English) bilingual therapist to understand and explore cross-cultural coupledom? You may be a new parent who needs help and support as you navigate your new family configuration.
I am trained in EMDR by an EMDRIA-certified Basic Trainer and can use this modality of healing for many issues. Traumas often affect our day-to-day ways of coping and I don't believe that we should have to stay stuck in those ways. Struggling with chronic illness issues and caretaking are under stress? Feeling depression and anxiety around a diagnosis or experiencing anticipatory grief? Are you an individual or couple seeking a (Spanish/English) bilingual therapist to understand and explore cross-cultural coupledom? You may be a new parent who needs help and support as you navigate your new family configuration.
(510) 398-4935 View (510) 398-4935
Photo of Kamla Fennimore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kamla Fennimore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with the complexities of chronic illness, bereavement, and faith transitions.
Feeling stuck in the messy middle? Finding yourself on an unexpected life path? Do you feel misunderstood, judged, or alone in your suffering? Looking for insight and growth? Over the last 20 years I have worked with a variety of clients who have diverse life experiences and various intersecting identities. I have a warm, supportive, empathetic and collaborative approach.
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with the complexities of chronic illness, bereavement, and faith transitions.
Feeling stuck in the messy middle? Finding yourself on an unexpected life path? Do you feel misunderstood, judged, or alone in your suffering? Looking for insight and growth? Over the last 20 years I have worked with a variety of clients who have diverse life experiences and various intersecting identities. I have a warm, supportive, empathetic and collaborative approach.
(510) 680-2149 View (510) 680-2149
Photo of Shavontae Golden-McCants, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shavontae Golden-McCants
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94132
Welcome, my name is Shavontae and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with adolescents/teens, adults and their families. As someone who has gone through a life-changing event, I am passionate about supporting others and their families to overcome challenges related to coping with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other chronic illnesses and about bringing awareness of how a chronic illness can have a major impact on an individual and their families’ mental health. Chronic illnesses can causes depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief and I am here to support you through it.
Welcome, my name is Shavontae and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with adolescents/teens, adults and their families. As someone who has gone through a life-changing event, I am passionate about supporting others and their families to overcome challenges related to coping with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other chronic illnesses and about bringing awareness of how a chronic illness can have a major impact on an individual and their families’ mental health. Chronic illnesses can causes depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief and I am here to support you through it.
(760) 284-6734 View (760) 284-6734
Photo of Angela M Anderson - Angela M. Anderson, LCSW, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela M. Anderson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
I am trained in EMDR and EFT which can be very helpful in processing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Feeling alone and overwhelmed? Do you want to make a change and don't know where to start? Are old wounds holding you back? Do you struggle with old habits and behaviors that keep you stuck? I can help you find what you need. I help clients find their voice and find their own unique path through an open and honest partnership. Clients gain self-awareness, self-acceptance, and the skills they need to continue to heal and grow in connection with others.
I am trained in EMDR and EFT which can be very helpful in processing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Feeling alone and overwhelmed? Do you want to make a change and don't know where to start? Are old wounds holding you back? Do you struggle with old habits and behaviors that keep you stuck? I can help you find what you need. I help clients find their voice and find their own unique path through an open and honest partnership. Clients gain self-awareness, self-acceptance, and the skills they need to continue to heal and grow in connection with others.
(510) 257-9468 View (510) 257-9468
Photo of Lital Diament (She Her) - Envision Wellness Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Envision Wellness Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
We are passionate about helping women who are faced with various challenges related to infertility, postpartum, women's health, and chronic illness. Our team of therapists uses their specialized training and lived experience to customize ways to best support you during this time.
We are passionate about helping women who are faced with various challenges related to infertility, postpartum, women's health, and chronic illness. Our team of therapists uses their specialized training and lived experience to customize ways to best support you during this time.
(805) 800-8278 View (805) 800-8278
Photo of Caitlin Skorupski, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Caitlin Skorupski
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Imagine the life challenges you are facing- trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic illness and pain, etc. Knowing that you want help and to make a change is the first step, whether it is for you or a loved one. You're seeking compassion, understanding and strategies to navigate what is going on. That is where I step in. With my use of CBT, Solution Focused Therapy and EMDR I am here to help you in your journey. Providing telehealth therapy so that you can get support from the comfort of your own space. Accepting clients virtually from anywhere in California. I will be offering ADHD testing and evaluation reports (est 08/24).
Imagine the life challenges you are facing- trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic illness and pain, etc. Knowing that you want help and to make a change is the first step, whether it is for you or a loved one. You're seeking compassion, understanding and strategies to navigate what is going on. That is where I step in. With my use of CBT, Solution Focused Therapy and EMDR I am here to help you in your journey. Providing telehealth therapy so that you can get support from the comfort of your own space. Accepting clients virtually from anywhere in California. I will be offering ADHD testing and evaluation reports (est 08/24).
(951) 749-6439 View (951) 749-6439

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.