Chronic Illness Therapists in Chicago, IL
![Photo of Sarah Razo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/947c8f43-6a17-4784-a5bd-fc39eaadb715/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life pulls us in all different directions. Sometimes the direction is exciting and sometimes it's overwhelming. I'd be honored to help you walk through the parts of life that feel like too much. I specialize in working with people dealing with trauma, chronic illness, grief, and people who care for others. I work with a trauma informed approach and somatic approach to help you reach your goals.
Life pulls us in all different directions. Sometimes the direction is exciting and sometimes it's overwhelming. I'd be honored to help you walk through the parts of life that feel like too much. I specialize in working with people dealing with trauma, chronic illness, grief, and people who care for others. I work with a trauma informed approach and somatic approach to help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Abbey Storey, LCPC, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb99458e-2168-4d30-8c83-fe22f456a7bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abbey Storey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
My areas of expertise include working with individuals navigating chronic illness, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, and vocational rehabilitation.
Each of us are navigating our own personal journeys, with challenges along the way. We make connections each day through our successes and struggles, where it is important to remember that we are not alone. You can overcome barriers, feel a true sense of belonging, relieve worry and stress, increase joy, and know yourself on a deeper level as you achieve more than you thought possible. I am passionate about helping you make lasting improvements using your unique talents to create the life that you desire as we uncover your personal definition of success.
My areas of expertise include working with individuals navigating chronic illness, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, and vocational rehabilitation.
Each of us are navigating our own personal journeys, with challenges along the way. We make connections each day through our successes and struggles, where it is important to remember that we are not alone. You can overcome barriers, feel a true sense of belonging, relieve worry and stress, increase joy, and know yourself on a deeper level as you achieve more than you thought possible. I am passionate about helping you make lasting improvements using your unique talents to create the life that you desire as we uncover your personal definition of success.
![Photo of Tara Reen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5185b846-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive clinical experience working with diverse populations struggling with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and difficulty adjusting to a myriad of life stressors. I have offered trauma informed care and I am knowledgeable of somatic tools used to assist in coping and promote healing. I strive to offer a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment so you can create the change you are seeking.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive clinical experience working with diverse populations struggling with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and difficulty adjusting to a myriad of life stressors. I have offered trauma informed care and I am knowledgeable of somatic tools used to assist in coping and promote healing. I strive to offer a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment so you can create the change you are seeking.
![Photo of Taylor Flores, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d342a56-0e7d-4bb2-b5de-284074ec28b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in supporting clients experiencing depression; religious, medical, or sexual traumas; disability/chronic illness; and incarceration/court-related issues.
I work together with my clients to help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and self-esteem, manage relationships and life transitions, and provide the tools and resources to express and cope with emotions. I support my clients who feel stuck or dissatisfied gain better insight into negative thought patterns that may be hindering their ability to achieve a fulfilled life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, with you being the expert of your own life. By working together, I will create an individualized approach tailored specifically to each client in order to best suite your specific needs.
I specialize in supporting clients experiencing depression; religious, medical, or sexual traumas; disability/chronic illness; and incarceration/court-related issues.
I work together with my clients to help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and self-esteem, manage relationships and life transitions, and provide the tools and resources to express and cope with emotions. I support my clients who feel stuck or dissatisfied gain better insight into negative thought patterns that may be hindering their ability to achieve a fulfilled life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, with you being the expert of your own life. By working together, I will create an individualized approach tailored specifically to each client in order to best suite your specific needs.
![Photo of Victor Lamarr Jones, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/703ba86d-aeae-4149-97a0-e7a025d055a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked in a variety of interdisciplinary settings, addressing concerns related to depression, anxiety, chronic illness, sleep, and interpersonal/relationship distress.
I have a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate a range of behavioral, emotional, physical, and spiritual concerns. My experiences have not only provided me with an in-depth knowledge of psychological theories and evidence-based interventions, but also an intimate understanding that healing and growth through psychotherapy cannot take place without a strong acceptance, appreciation, and integration of the unique strengths, needs, and identities of those with whom I work. My responsibility as your therapist is to walk alongside you in a collaborative manner that will help facilitate the change and healing you desire.
I have worked in a variety of interdisciplinary settings, addressing concerns related to depression, anxiety, chronic illness, sleep, and interpersonal/relationship distress.
I have a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate a range of behavioral, emotional, physical, and spiritual concerns. My experiences have not only provided me with an in-depth knowledge of psychological theories and evidence-based interventions, but also an intimate understanding that healing and growth through psychotherapy cannot take place without a strong acceptance, appreciation, and integration of the unique strengths, needs, and identities of those with whom I work. My responsibility as your therapist is to walk alongside you in a collaborative manner that will help facilitate the change and healing you desire.
![Photo of Robin B Katz, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/910d562e-5e1a-40f8-b1db-e821cb5dadbc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robin B Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, health anxiety, working with cancer patients, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues, as well chronic illness.
The therapeutic experience is as unique as one’s thumb print. I strive to help you achieve your goals in navigating life’s transitions and challenges by creating a safe place for you to process your feelings and concerns. It takes courage and strength to reach out and ask for help. I work collaboratively with each client to establish the best treatment plan based on their needs at the time we meet. I am supportive, non-judgmental and warm - with a calm style… and some humor.
I specialize in depression, health anxiety, working with cancer patients, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues, as well chronic illness.
The therapeutic experience is as unique as one’s thumb print. I strive to help you achieve your goals in navigating life’s transitions and challenges by creating a safe place for you to process your feelings and concerns. It takes courage and strength to reach out and ask for help. I work collaboratively with each client to establish the best treatment plan based on their needs at the time we meet. I am supportive, non-judgmental and warm - with a calm style… and some humor.
![Photo of Peggy Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1689d21d-aa62-49ac-a354-b082b78f7c5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peggy Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
My background and experience draws on over 36 years of experience working in a large teaching medical center overseeing cancer support programs, chronic illness, bereavement, couples therapy, anxiety and depression.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
My background and experience draws on over 36 years of experience working in a large teaching medical center overseeing cancer support programs, chronic illness, bereavement, couples therapy, anxiety and depression.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
![Photo of Jacqueline Patterson, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9c3f443-7280-472d-9952-039da6563add/2/320x400.jpeg)
You are deserving of care and support as you navigate the ups and downs in life. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate, non-judgemental space for clients to work through difficult emotions and experiences while feeling safe, seen, and supported. My goal is for clients to feel a sense of ease when they enter sessions and a sense of understanding and hope when they leave. I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating a range of concerns, including trauma, grief, difficult relationships, chronic illness, disability, neurodivergence, immigration, sexuality, stress, anxiety, and depression.
You are deserving of care and support as you navigate the ups and downs in life. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate, non-judgemental space for clients to work through difficult emotions and experiences while feeling safe, seen, and supported. My goal is for clients to feel a sense of ease when they enter sessions and a sense of understanding and hope when they leave. I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating a range of concerns, including trauma, grief, difficult relationships, chronic illness, disability, neurodivergence, immigration, sexuality, stress, anxiety, and depression.
![Photo of Cassandra Kandah, MS, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f997380b-4d23-4b63-889d-408227d057c9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Your heart drops into your stomach and you are at a loss for words. Maybe you feel numb. Maybe you can't stop crying. No matter what your reaction is, your life as you know it has changed in one instance. You've been diagnosed with a terminal or chronic illness. A flood of questions comes to your mind: is this the beginning of the end, how will this effect my career, how do I tell my family? I have dedicated my life to guiding people through the emotional difficulties related to managing conditions such as: mild cognitive impairment, dementia, TBI, stroke, cancer, transplant, and pregnancy/fertility concerns.
Your heart drops into your stomach and you are at a loss for words. Maybe you feel numb. Maybe you can't stop crying. No matter what your reaction is, your life as you know it has changed in one instance. You've been diagnosed with a terminal or chronic illness. A flood of questions comes to your mind: is this the beginning of the end, how will this effect my career, how do I tell my family? I have dedicated my life to guiding people through the emotional difficulties related to managing conditions such as: mild cognitive impairment, dementia, TBI, stroke, cancer, transplant, and pregnancy/fertility concerns.
![Photo of Emily Petroschuk, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/394cb017-1f6d-41ae-b74e-47c14fc00424/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have found success and fulfillment in working with those with or loved ones of those who experience the impacts or rare and chronic illness or pain, as well as educators.
Let’s be honest, life can be exhausting, unpredictable, and terrifying. It can also be full of pain and shit, things are always going to come up to derail us. I am here to get into all of it with you to figure it out, and help you find a life that brings some joy along with said shit. I greatly enjoy working with clients who have experienced a variety of struggles, and feel exhausted. I’m ready to sit with you and be present with you in your pain. I will work to see you and help you see yourself as the person you really are as we work to create change or process past pain.
I have found success and fulfillment in working with those with or loved ones of those who experience the impacts or rare and chronic illness or pain, as well as educators.
Let’s be honest, life can be exhausting, unpredictable, and terrifying. It can also be full of pain and shit, things are always going to come up to derail us. I am here to get into all of it with you to figure it out, and help you find a life that brings some joy along with said shit. I greatly enjoy working with clients who have experienced a variety of struggles, and feel exhausted. I’m ready to sit with you and be present with you in your pain. I will work to see you and help you see yourself as the person you really are as we work to create change or process past pain.
![Photo of Bri Beck, LCPC, ATR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3ce1fd7-66f6-4ee0-98a4-a87cb264dd07/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a particular passion and expertise in supporting clients living with disabilities (such as chronic illness, physical disability, sensory impairments, ASD/ADHD, and rare diseases), however, I also enjoy working with individuals facing a variety of life challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and relationship issues.
As a therapist, my goal is to co-create an authentic, safe, and courageous relationship with each unique individual. I firmly believe that within a strong therapeutic bond, beautiful transformations can unfold. My approach to therapy is characterized by openness, collaboration, affirmation, and honesty. I bring my full humanity into the therapeutic space and encourage each client to do the same. I utilize a blend of theoretical frameworks such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatically-Integrated Therapy, Art Therapy, "parts" work, and Feminist Therapy.
I have a particular passion and expertise in supporting clients living with disabilities (such as chronic illness, physical disability, sensory impairments, ASD/ADHD, and rare diseases), however, I also enjoy working with individuals facing a variety of life challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and relationship issues.
As a therapist, my goal is to co-create an authentic, safe, and courageous relationship with each unique individual. I firmly believe that within a strong therapeutic bond, beautiful transformations can unfold. My approach to therapy is characterized by openness, collaboration, affirmation, and honesty. I bring my full humanity into the therapeutic space and encourage each client to do the same. I utilize a blend of theoretical frameworks such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatically-Integrated Therapy, Art Therapy, "parts" work, and Feminist Therapy.
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![Photo of Morgan Wilson, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/273c85a7-0a60-4ec4-8cf5-b597b8c7b3ff/3/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
I bring years of experience working with survivors of domestic violence, as well as individuals and families navigating chronic illness, grief, and daily struggles.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or burnout, you’re not alone. These struggles can affect every part of your life, making it hard to stay present and connected with others. You might feel slower, more tired, or irritable without realizing that these are signs of a deeper mood condition. I offer a safe space where you can explore these feelings and begin to understand what’s really going on. You only need to be curious about your emotions to start the journey—together, we’ll work on the rest.
I bring years of experience working with survivors of domestic violence, as well as individuals and families navigating chronic illness, grief, and daily struggles.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or burnout, you’re not alone. These struggles can affect every part of your life, making it hard to stay present and connected with others. You might feel slower, more tired, or irritable without realizing that these are signs of a deeper mood condition. I offer a safe space where you can explore these feelings and begin to understand what’s really going on. You only need to be curious about your emotions to start the journey—together, we’ll work on the rest.
![Photo of Mindy Elizabeth Levin-Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ccd75a0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults who are suffering from a multitude of mental health issues, chronic illness, Loss, PTSD, and transitions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
I work with adults who are suffering from a multitude of mental health issues, chronic illness, Loss, PTSD, and transitions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
![Photo of Beth Bennion, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eeab59f-6fae-4749-8c72-0de094ed416c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My specialization is working with those experiencing relationship issues, anxiety, major life transitions, chronic illness, and depression.
I firmly believe that therapy is for everyone. I offer a safe, healing, and open space for folks to be heard and understood. My goal is to provide meaningful therapy specific to you, your life experiences, and your goals. Through my diverse experiences in community mental health, I have learned that we are not ‘one size fits all’. My practice is enriched through Mindfulness & Grounding, CBT, and IFS. I use a combination of trauma-informed, person-centered, and strength-based practices to explore new perspectives and foster growth.
My specialization is working with those experiencing relationship issues, anxiety, major life transitions, chronic illness, and depression.
I firmly believe that therapy is for everyone. I offer a safe, healing, and open space for folks to be heard and understood. My goal is to provide meaningful therapy specific to you, your life experiences, and your goals. Through my diverse experiences in community mental health, I have learned that we are not ‘one size fits all’. My practice is enriched through Mindfulness & Grounding, CBT, and IFS. I use a combination of trauma-informed, person-centered, and strength-based practices to explore new perspectives and foster growth.
![Photo of Sidra Koss, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/accb8e30-1fde-43b3-80e2-a534dbce482b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Using a client-centered and narrative-based approach with adults and adolescents, I specialize in anxiety, self-esteem, burnout, chronic illness, grief, and more.
Whether you're facing difficulties related to anxiety, depression, stress, or grief, I offer a warm, thoughtful space for exploration and growth. I enjoy collaborating with clients who seek to understand their experiences, identify unhelpful patterns, and find meaning and purpose in their lives. Together, we can work to untangle how past and present events have shaped you and discover new ways to care for yourself.
Using a client-centered and narrative-based approach with adults and adolescents, I specialize in anxiety, self-esteem, burnout, chronic illness, grief, and more.
Whether you're facing difficulties related to anxiety, depression, stress, or grief, I offer a warm, thoughtful space for exploration and growth. I enjoy collaborating with clients who seek to understand their experiences, identify unhelpful patterns, and find meaning and purpose in their lives. Together, we can work to untangle how past and present events have shaped you and discover new ways to care for yourself.
![Photo of Tova Gottlieb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/394e9828-eb29-45b8-8f9e-a626809d6f1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a big fan of being human and in my office, I try to empower you to embrace all the messy yet beautiful emotions and experiences that come with being human. Many of life's events such as the diagnosis of a chronic illness, divorce, work or school issues, relationship issues, and life transitions can feel overwhelming with a roller-coaster of emotions. I can offer you a safe, engaging, and non-judgmental space to help you through all the challenges that life brings. I specialize in working with individuals (adolescents ages 5+, young adults, adults) to better manage daily stressors and any expected & unexpected life transitions.
I'm a big fan of being human and in my office, I try to empower you to embrace all the messy yet beautiful emotions and experiences that come with being human. Many of life's events such as the diagnosis of a chronic illness, divorce, work or school issues, relationship issues, and life transitions can feel overwhelming with a roller-coaster of emotions. I can offer you a safe, engaging, and non-judgmental space to help you through all the challenges that life brings. I specialize in working with individuals (adolescents ages 5+, young adults, adults) to better manage daily stressors and any expected & unexpected life transitions.
![Photo of Stacey J. Feuer, PsyD, MLD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e1b6e1a-abb3-4505-a9c8-3a3ff0313db7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with chronic illness.
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with chronic illness.
![Photo of Amy Weider, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/353e310c-eb43-44a6-b221-99536ee0640b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Weider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
![Photo of Susan Zeigler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4988023b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
![Photo of Julia Rubinshteyn, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df6bbd3-51ae-4129-bb7c-0cd775694b4f/3/320x400.jpeg)
I take a compassionate, warm, and collaborative approach to connect with my clients and understand their goals for improving their quality of life. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can help you to feel empowered to face challenges in your life. I work with clients who have issues related to anxiety, stress, and depression. I also have specialized training in treating insomnia, chronic pain, coping with chronic illness, and coping with the stress of caring for a loved one with chronic illness.
I take a compassionate, warm, and collaborative approach to connect with my clients and understand their goals for improving their quality of life. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can help you to feel empowered to face challenges in your life. I work with clients who have issues related to anxiety, stress, and depression. I also have specialized training in treating insomnia, chronic pain, coping with chronic illness, and coping with the stress of caring for a loved one with chronic illness.
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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.