Chronic Illness Therapists in Brookfield, IL

Photo of Heather R. Holzhauser - Heather Holzhauser, LCSW, PLLC, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Holzhauser, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on key areas such as attachment theory/style, conflict, life transitions, aging, chronic illnesses, infertility issues, and supporting parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Engaging in this meaningful work with my clients is a daily privilege for me. I create a secure, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, encouraging individuals to explore beneath the surface.
I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on key areas such as attachment theory/style, conflict, life transitions, aging, chronic illnesses, infertility issues, and supporting parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Engaging in this meaningful work with my clients is a daily privilege for me. I create a secure, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, encouraging individuals to explore beneath the surface.
(708) 613-8708 View (708) 613-8708
Photo of Loredana Kratzer, LCPC , CRC, Counselor
Loredana Kratzer
Counselor, LCPC , CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513  (Online Only)
At the core of our happiness and restoration are the relationships we build with ourselves and the ones around us. I believe collaboration, empathy, and safety are the foundations of a successful therapeutic experience. Working collaboratively with clients, I strive to cultivate a stable therapeutic environment in order to help you resolve pain, conflict, discouragement, and tension by identifying your strengths, building your sense of self and setting goals that bring clarity, direction, and acceptance in your life.
At the core of our happiness and restoration are the relationships we build with ourselves and the ones around us. I believe collaboration, empathy, and safety are the foundations of a successful therapeutic experience. Working collaboratively with clients, I strive to cultivate a stable therapeutic environment in order to help you resolve pain, conflict, discouragement, and tension by identifying your strengths, building your sense of self and setting goals that bring clarity, direction, and acceptance in your life.
(708) 290-3286 View (708) 290-3286
Photo of Megan John, LCPC, CRC, Counselor
Megan John
Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513
We are all on this journey to find meaning in life while alleviating suffering. We want change, but don’t always know how to make it happen. Without realizing it, we may have developed an inner voice that is self-defeating, and habits that are holding us back or causing us to feel stuck in the same patterns. Therapy is an opportunity to grow, heal, and activate long-lasting change. By fostering a mindful and cognitive-behavioral approach, we can tune into our inner world to better understand who we are and how we function in our relationships. When we deepen our understanding of the self we can truly heal and show up authentically.
We are all on this journey to find meaning in life while alleviating suffering. We want change, but don’t always know how to make it happen. Without realizing it, we may have developed an inner voice that is self-defeating, and habits that are holding us back or causing us to feel stuck in the same patterns. Therapy is an opportunity to grow, heal, and activate long-lasting change. By fostering a mindful and cognitive-behavioral approach, we can tune into our inner world to better understand who we are and how we function in our relationships. When we deepen our understanding of the self we can truly heal and show up authentically.
(773) 770-5970 View (773) 770-5970
Photo of Dina Owen- Psychealth Services Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dina Owen- Psychealth Services Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 10 years of experience dedicated to helping clients improve and address their mental health. I offer a wide variety of services, including support for anxiety, depression, and communication issues. My approach is client-centered, providing warmth and compassion to meet you wherever you are on your journey. My practice is built on providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and feelings. I am committed to meeting you with empathy and understanding, offering a compassionate environment that encourages growth and healing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 10 years of experience dedicated to helping clients improve and address their mental health. I offer a wide variety of services, including support for anxiety, depression, and communication issues. My approach is client-centered, providing warmth and compassion to meet you wherever you are on your journey. My practice is built on providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and feelings. I am committed to meeting you with empathy and understanding, offering a compassionate environment that encourages growth and healing.
(708) 546-3811 View (708) 546-3811
Photo of Nicole Gerndt, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Nicole Gerndt
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Brookfield, IL 60513
Waitlist for new clients
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, relationship or family conflict and have been hesitant to try therapy or return to therapy, please feel free to reach out for help navigating these difficulties. We all have times in life when it would be beneficial to talk through and process challenging life events with a trained professional who is non-judgmental, empathic and firmly believes in an individual's internal wisdom towards healing when provided the right resources. Often life has a way of throwing us curveballs. It helps to have another person participate alongside us as we figure out how best to cope.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, loss, relationship or family conflict and have been hesitant to try therapy or return to therapy, please feel free to reach out for help navigating these difficulties. We all have times in life when it would be beneficial to talk through and process challenging life events with a trained professional who is non-judgmental, empathic and firmly believes in an individual's internal wisdom towards healing when provided the right resources. Often life has a way of throwing us curveballs. It helps to have another person participate alongside us as we figure out how best to cope.
(773) 332-9637 View (773) 332-9637
Photo of Diana M Rivera - Interactive Counseling Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Interactive Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513
Not accepting new clients
Hey there, I am Diana, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I have ten years of experience as a therapist. Chicago-born, bicultural, Spanish-speaking, culturally sensitive, and proud Latina. I treat adults, adolescents, children, first responders, and couples. I specialize in working with those who have experienced complex trauma. I have a safe space for you to unload those stressors when life can get tricky. Let's explore those challenges such as depression, anxiety, unhealthy relationships, anger issues, and self-harm behaviors. Working with me, you will learn tools and techniques to manage depressed mood, stress, and anxiety.
Hey there, I am Diana, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I have ten years of experience as a therapist. Chicago-born, bicultural, Spanish-speaking, culturally sensitive, and proud Latina. I treat adults, adolescents, children, first responders, and couples. I specialize in working with those who have experienced complex trauma. I have a safe space for you to unload those stressors when life can get tricky. Let's explore those challenges such as depression, anxiety, unhealthy relationships, anger issues, and self-harm behaviors. Working with me, you will learn tools and techniques to manage depressed mood, stress, and anxiety.
(708) 741-2317 View (708) 741-2317

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Elizabeth Nelson - Alchemical Therapy and Counseling, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alchemical Therapy and Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
I support clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic illness, and the effects of abuse (emotional, physical, sexual, or narcissistic abuse).
Maybe you feel empty, trapped, or lost. Perhaps you can identify the source of this pain. Perhaps you cannot and feel that you “should” be happier. Loved ones may give well-intentioned but unhelpful advice: “Just be positive! Have gratitude!” But this only leaves you feeling even more isolated, alienated, and misunderstood. You feel confused about what you really want, catering instead to everyone else's needs but your own. You sense that a new, more meaningful life could be possible… but somehow it always feels just out of reach. Maybe you are close to giving up altogether and feel resigned to a life of suffering.
I support clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic illness, and the effects of abuse (emotional, physical, sexual, or narcissistic abuse).
Maybe you feel empty, trapped, or lost. Perhaps you can identify the source of this pain. Perhaps you cannot and feel that you “should” be happier. Loved ones may give well-intentioned but unhelpful advice: “Just be positive! Have gratitude!” But this only leaves you feeling even more isolated, alienated, and misunderstood. You feel confused about what you really want, catering instead to everyone else's needs but your own. You sense that a new, more meaningful life could be possible… but somehow it always feels just out of reach. Maybe you are close to giving up altogether and feel resigned to a life of suffering.
(708) 801-6551 View (708) 801-6551
Photo of Julie Skokna, LCPC, RN, NCC, EMDR, therapy
Julie Skokna
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RN, NCC, EMDR, therapy
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525  (Online Only)
Ever feel like you just Can't Do It Anymore! Or you would like to improve your work and personal relationships? At times we get to this point and know it's time to reach out for SUPPORT. Time for change. I work with those who may have experienced difficult childhood events, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, or other mental health disorders that create stress keeping you from enjoying your life. I can teach you techniques to create the calm you require to pursue your career or relationship dreams. You can prepare for the next life challenge, even if it's scary or seems impossible.
Ever feel like you just Can't Do It Anymore! Or you would like to improve your work and personal relationships? At times we get to this point and know it's time to reach out for SUPPORT. Time for change. I work with those who may have experienced difficult childhood events, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, or other mental health disorders that create stress keeping you from enjoying your life. I can teach you techniques to create the calm you require to pursue your career or relationship dreams. You can prepare for the next life challenge, even if it's scary or seems impossible.
(630) 448-8912 View (630) 448-8912
Photo of Anthony Brooks, LCPC, Counselor
Anthony Brooks
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
As a 3rd generation social services worker, I often joke that I was born into this field. I cannot imagine myself in any other profession. This is all I have ever wanted to do. With that being said, I was also born into a society that often refuses to accept the necessity for therapy. Especially for men and people of color. Part of my aim as a clinician is to dispel some of the bias towards seeking help for mental health issues. If you had an injured limb, you would seek out help. If you had contracted a virus, you would seek out help. Why should seeking out help for emotional and mental illness be any different? It should not!
As a 3rd generation social services worker, I often joke that I was born into this field. I cannot imagine myself in any other profession. This is all I have ever wanted to do. With that being said, I was also born into a society that often refuses to accept the necessity for therapy. Especially for men and people of color. Part of my aim as a clinician is to dispel some of the bias towards seeking help for mental health issues. If you had an injured limb, you would seek out help. If you had contracted a virus, you would seek out help. Why should seeking out help for emotional and mental illness be any different? It should not!
(630) 626-8160 View (630) 626-8160
Photo of James R. Matter, PsyD, Psychologist
James R. Matter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
I enjoy working with pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and couples who face diverse challenges. I seek to provide a collaborative and caring environment for processing difficult life events. I encourage individuals to develop healthy ways of caring for themselves as they develop acceptance and greater ownership of their life story.
I enjoy working with pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and couples who face diverse challenges. I seek to provide a collaborative and caring environment for processing difficult life events. I encourage individuals to develop healthy ways of caring for themselves as they develop acceptance and greater ownership of their life story.
(630) 426-3830 View (630) 426-3830
Photo of Lisa Wiersema, LCPC
Lisa Wiersema
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Riverside, IL 60546
Does your life seem to be less fulfilling and you do not know why? Look no further. Your best life is waiting. I work to provide a safe space and collaborate with clients on finding their inner strengths to utilize them in building resiliency. I work to guide children ages four and older, adolescents, adults, couples, and first responders to reach their goals and experience a happier life. Given my experience working in emergency rooms, outpatient, residential and schools, I understand how the impact of these challenges can often leave people feeling unable to participate in life roles that lead to life satisfaction.
Does your life seem to be less fulfilling and you do not know why? Look no further. Your best life is waiting. I work to provide a safe space and collaborate with clients on finding their inner strengths to utilize them in building resiliency. I work to guide children ages four and older, adolescents, adults, couples, and first responders to reach their goals and experience a happier life. Given my experience working in emergency rooms, outpatient, residential and schools, I understand how the impact of these challenges can often leave people feeling unable to participate in life roles that lead to life satisfaction.
(708) 564-3227 View (708) 564-3227
Photo of Amina Mussa, MS, LCPC, ICDVP, NCC
Amina Mussa
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, ICDVP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, IL 60546  (Online Only)
Life transitions and difficulties often can be overwhelming to go through alone. We sometimes need guidance and support to overcome life challenges and to achieve our goals. You may be struggling with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem issues or chronic mental health disorders. Ultimately, you want to live a more fulfilling and satisfying life, free from the limitations and obstacles that have been holding you back. We can work together to achieve your goals and work towards the process of self-discovery and healing.
Life transitions and difficulties often can be overwhelming to go through alone. We sometimes need guidance and support to overcome life challenges and to achieve our goals. You may be struggling with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem issues or chronic mental health disorders. Ultimately, you want to live a more fulfilling and satisfying life, free from the limitations and obstacles that have been holding you back. We can work together to achieve your goals and work towards the process of self-discovery and healing.
(708) 787-3869 View (708) 787-3869
Photo of Sandra Armendariz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Armendariz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558
Sandra Armendariz, LPC, is an empathic and compassionate therapist who offers each client guidance, support, and knowledge as they discover their inner wisdom and resilience. Sandra earned a graduate degree in clinical mental health from Adler University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Central University of Ecuador. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Sandra worked around the world as a therapist and graduate level teacher. She helps teens and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, domestic abuse, and more.
Sandra Armendariz, LPC, is an empathic and compassionate therapist who offers each client guidance, support, and knowledge as they discover their inner wisdom and resilience. Sandra earned a graduate degree in clinical mental health from Adler University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Central University of Ecuador. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Sandra worked around the world as a therapist and graduate level teacher. She helps teens and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, domestic abuse, and more.
(708) 834-7832 View (708) 834-7832
Photo of Katie Butusov, MS, LPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Butusov
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
Seeking help can be scary and overwhelming, but you are not alone! I am here to offer a safe, nonjudgmental, and comfortable place that you can feel heard and validated. I believe that building strong foundations and relationships with people are imperative to the growth and healing of an individual’s mind and soul. I bring energy, compassion, and even a little humor to my work with clients, to create a collaborative environment that you can be comfortable and yourself in.
Seeking help can be scary and overwhelming, but you are not alone! I am here to offer a safe, nonjudgmental, and comfortable place that you can feel heard and validated. I believe that building strong foundations and relationships with people are imperative to the growth and healing of an individual’s mind and soul. I bring energy, compassion, and even a little humor to my work with clients, to create a collaborative environment that you can be comfortable and yourself in.
(331) 241-6562 View (331) 241-6562
Photo of Sarah Ahmed, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Ahmed
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
Being a culturally competent therapist is extremely important to me. As the daughter of immigrants, this experience has helped me to get in touch with my own beliefs and value systems. Therefore, I am able to help clients connect to their own values and take committed action steps in service of those values. I work primarily with adults and specialize in working with emerging adults who may be undergoing life transitions. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, severe or chronic mental illness and trauma.
Being a culturally competent therapist is extremely important to me. As the daughter of immigrants, this experience has helped me to get in touch with my own beliefs and value systems. Therefore, I am able to help clients connect to their own values and take committed action steps in service of those values. I work primarily with adults and specialize in working with emerging adults who may be undergoing life transitions. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, severe or chronic mental illness and trauma.
(708) 249-3255 View (708) 249-3255
Photo of Nancy Sanchez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lyons, IL 60534  (Online Only)
Now Accepting County Care. Ready to start the next phase in your life? I am available for you, to guide you, listen to you and to learn from your experiences. We will form an individualized space for your worries, thoughts and stories. You will have a safe space to explore your next steps into bettering your mental health. Lista(o) para entrar a la nueva etapa de tu vida? Estoy disponible para ti, para guiar, escuchar y aprender de tus experiencias. Construiremos un espacio para tus pensamientos, preocupaciones y historias. Tendras un lugar sano y seguro para poder explorar los siguientes pasos para mejorar tu salud mental.
Now Accepting County Care. Ready to start the next phase in your life? I am available for you, to guide you, listen to you and to learn from your experiences. We will form an individualized space for your worries, thoughts and stories. You will have a safe space to explore your next steps into bettering your mental health. Lista(o) para entrar a la nueva etapa de tu vida? Estoy disponible para ti, para guiar, escuchar y aprender de tus experiencias. Construiremos un espacio para tus pensamientos, preocupaciones y historias. Tendras un lugar sano y seguro para poder explorar los siguientes pasos para mejorar tu salud mental.
(773) 207-3195 View (773) 207-3195
Photo of Dr. Erica Wade, PhD, LCPC, ACS, BC-TMH, CIMHP, Counselor
Dr. Erica Wade
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, ACS, BC-TMH, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154  (Online Only)
Do you need support and a non-judgmental sounding board to navigate life, career, and relationships? Do you find yourself second-guessing decisions, procrastinating on taking action, and remaining stagnant even though you have big dreams you’d like to fulfill? Is imposter syndrome overshadowing your strides and accomplishments? Allow me to assist you on your holistic wellness journey where I can help you to explore mindsets that are blocking you from living your very best life. To request a Free consultation appointment, feel free to call or email me. I look forward to working with you!
Do you need support and a non-judgmental sounding board to navigate life, career, and relationships? Do you find yourself second-guessing decisions, procrastinating on taking action, and remaining stagnant even though you have big dreams you’d like to fulfill? Is imposter syndrome overshadowing your strides and accomplishments? Allow me to assist you on your holistic wellness journey where I can help you to explore mindsets that are blocking you from living your very best life. To request a Free consultation appointment, feel free to call or email me. I look forward to working with you!
(312) 262-5387 View (312) 262-5387
Photo of Jennifer Waterman, LCSW, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Waterman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525  (Online Only)
I have over sixteen years of experience, specializing in individual therapy with Adults (18+) dealing with stress, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, shame and guilt issues, communication difficulties, family and relationship issues, grief and loss issues, work-life issues, anger management, young adult issues, fertility and reproductive issues, pregnancy loss, perinatal and postpartum stressors, new parent and parenting issues, caregiver stress, and "sandwich generation" stress (caring for both parents and children). I have a special clinical interest working to empower women to handle all of life's challenges.
I have over sixteen years of experience, specializing in individual therapy with Adults (18+) dealing with stress, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, shame and guilt issues, communication difficulties, family and relationship issues, grief and loss issues, work-life issues, anger management, young adult issues, fertility and reproductive issues, pregnancy loss, perinatal and postpartum stressors, new parent and parenting issues, caregiver stress, and "sandwich generation" stress (caring for both parents and children). I have a special clinical interest working to empower women to handle all of life's challenges.
(708) 274-4135 View (708) 274-4135
Photo of Kathleen McShane - Begin Within Therapy Services, Inc, LCPC, MA, CCTP, Counselor
Begin Within Therapy Services, Inc
Counselor, LCPC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
Begin Within Therapy was established in 2015. We believe within every person lies a meaningful story. We are a group of therapists who are all attachment-focused and trauma-informed and ready to understand your story. We offer a variety of therapy options to help you meet your goals, that include options outside of traditional talk therapy, as well as more traditional therapy modalities. Please give us a call to speak with our director and determine which therapist would be the best fit for you.
Begin Within Therapy was established in 2015. We believe within every person lies a meaningful story. We are a group of therapists who are all attachment-focused and trauma-informed and ready to understand your story. We offer a variety of therapy options to help you meet your goals, that include options outside of traditional talk therapy, as well as more traditional therapy modalities. Please give us a call to speak with our director and determine which therapist would be the best fit for you.
(708) 340-6719 View (708) 340-6719
Photo of Alison Thayer, LCPC, Counselor
Alison Thayer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
Welcome to taking the next step into feeling better. If you struggle with feeling not good enough or down, or general stress and not able to manage life's challenges, I would love to help reboot your lifestyle and find healthier ways to become who you really are. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has worked with adults, adolescents, children and couples since 1998. Through my own journey, I have worked in high demand positions where I struggled to maintain balance. Today, I am honored to counsel and support those that are considering making improvements in their lives.
Welcome to taking the next step into feeling better. If you struggle with feeling not good enough or down, or general stress and not able to manage life's challenges, I would love to help reboot your lifestyle and find healthier ways to become who you really are. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has worked with adults, adolescents, children and couples since 1998. Through my own journey, I have worked in high demand positions where I struggled to maintain balance. Today, I am honored to counsel and support those that are considering making improvements in their lives.
(312) 800-1702 View (312) 800-1702

See more therapy options for Brookfield

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.