Chronic Illness Therapists in Hickory Hills, IL

Photo of Elizabeth Carol Frantz, MA, LCPC, AAT, Counselor
Elizabeth Carol Frantz
Counselor, MA, LCPC, AAT
Verified Verified
Hickory Hills, IL 60457
Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Master’s in counseling from Saint Xavier University. Elizabeth received a certification in Animal Assisted Therapy from Oakland University and is also a registered handler through Pet Partners. Elizabeth has experience working with mild to severe mental illness, as well as children and adults with developmental disabilities in outpatient settings. Elizabeth has worked in Community Agencies as a Mental Health Counselor, providing individual, group, couples and family counseling. Elizabeth also has a background in animal training, enrichment and rescue.
Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Master’s in counseling from Saint Xavier University. Elizabeth received a certification in Animal Assisted Therapy from Oakland University and is also a registered handler through Pet Partners. Elizabeth has experience working with mild to severe mental illness, as well as children and adults with developmental disabilities in outpatient settings. Elizabeth has worked in Community Agencies as a Mental Health Counselor, providing individual, group, couples and family counseling. Elizabeth also has a background in animal training, enrichment and rescue.
(708) 942-8271 View (708) 942-8271

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stacey J. Feuer, PsyD, MLD, Psychologist
Stacey J. Feuer
Psychologist, PsyD, MLD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130
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.
(773) 295-0537 View (773) 295-0537
Photo of Samina Ahmed Jauregui, PsyD, Psychologist
Samina Ahmed Jauregui
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palos Hills, IL 60465  (Online Only)
Deciding to start therapy and finding a therapist is a difficult process and the current demand is only complicating matters. If you feel overwhelmed, low or unmotivated, and struggling to manage your worries than I may be able to help. Chronic illness management, sleep/insomnia, life transition, or major life stressors (e.g., navigating conflicting cultures) are common treatment concerns for my clients. If these concerns are keeping you stuck, isolated, or unsatisfied with life then it is time to make changes. Whether you know exactly what you want but unsure of how to achieve it or just contemplating change you can find support!
Deciding to start therapy and finding a therapist is a difficult process and the current demand is only complicating matters. If you feel overwhelmed, low or unmotivated, and struggling to manage your worries than I may be able to help. Chronic illness management, sleep/insomnia, life transition, or major life stressors (e.g., navigating conflicting cultures) are common treatment concerns for my clients. If these concerns are keeping you stuck, isolated, or unsatisfied with life then it is time to make changes. Whether you know exactly what you want but unsure of how to achieve it or just contemplating change you can find support!
(440) 553-8919 View (440) 553-8919
Photo of Nia J Butler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nia J Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Everyone could use more support these days, if you're ready to make the decision to start therapy then I am here to help. As a licensed clinical social worker, it's my passion to help you facilitate growth, healing and progress. I specialize in anxiety, depression, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues and chronic illness.
Everyone could use more support these days, if you're ready to make the decision to start therapy then I am here to help. As a licensed clinical social worker, it's my passion to help you facilitate growth, healing and progress. I specialize in anxiety, depression, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues and chronic illness.
(630) 426-3283 View (630) 426-3283
Photo of Denise Ann Jabaay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Ann Jabaay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
My areas of expertise includes, but are not limited to, chronic Illness, grief and loss, anxiety/depression, general stress management and crises intervention.
Whether you are wanting to work through a crises or feeling overwhelmed and seeking clarity, finding a compassionate therapist that works along with you is key. My approach to therapy starts from a strengths-based approach integrating using proven strategies (CBT/ mindfulness techniques) tailored to my individual clients needs and goals. I have had the privilege working with people from diverse backgrounds and ages in the field of mental health.
My areas of expertise includes, but are not limited to, chronic Illness, grief and loss, anxiety/depression, general stress management and crises intervention.
Whether you are wanting to work through a crises or feeling overwhelmed and seeking clarity, finding a compassionate therapist that works along with you is key. My approach to therapy starts from a strengths-based approach integrating using proven strategies (CBT/ mindfulness techniques) tailored to my individual clients needs and goals. I have had the privilege working with people from diverse backgrounds and ages in the field of mental health.
(779) 243-5189 View (779) 243-5189
Photo of Carolyn Necas, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Carolyn Necas
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
I am especially passionate about working with those struggling with chronic pain and chronic illness.
I utilize a wide array of therapeutic modalities when working with my clients, as I believe in tailoring my approach to each individual person. My clinical experience includes working with adolescents and adults in the following treatment settings: residential living facilities, schools, community agencies, and private practice. I have helped clients address and overcome a broad range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress management, low self-esteem, body image concerns, major life transitions, and chronic health concerns.
I am especially passionate about working with those struggling with chronic pain and chronic illness.
I utilize a wide array of therapeutic modalities when working with my clients, as I believe in tailoring my approach to each individual person. My clinical experience includes working with adolescents and adults in the following treatment settings: residential living facilities, schools, community agencies, and private practice. I have helped clients address and overcome a broad range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress management, low self-esteem, body image concerns, major life transitions, and chronic health concerns.
(773) 985-8125 View (773) 985-8125
Photo of Dr. Aisha Kazi, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Aisha Kazi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, cancer, infertility, pregnancy loss, third-party reproduction, postpartum depression and anxiety, and grief.
I believe it's important to have a place where you can feel safe and comfortable when in therapy. I try to provide that for my clients. There is usually a point in everyone's life where they need a little extra help and guidance to deal with depression, anxiety or stressful life events. The best thing you can do for yourself and your family is to get that help and work on improving your quality of life. You won't regret making yourself a priority even with all the other demands on your time.
I have advanced training in working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, cancer, infertility, pregnancy loss, third-party reproduction, postpartum depression and anxiety, and grief.
I believe it's important to have a place where you can feel safe and comfortable when in therapy. I try to provide that for my clients. There is usually a point in everyone's life where they need a little extra help and guidance to deal with depression, anxiety or stressful life events. The best thing you can do for yourself and your family is to get that help and work on improving your quality of life. You won't regret making yourself a priority even with all the other demands on your time.
(312) 854-2601 View (312) 854-2601
Photo of Robert J Gellman - Rob Gellman, MS, LMFT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rob Gellman, MS, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
-Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy. Trained at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Kansas State University's School of Family Studies, and The University of Chicago School of Medicine, Clinic Founder Rob Gellman has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 14 years, and was a professor at Adler University from 2008-2011. He is a regularly invited speaker with local mental health agencies and national conferences. A recognized expert on families coping with chronic illness, infidelity, and the training of therapists and physicians, Rob's clinical practice is diverse, helping adults, children, couples and families on the path to wellness. ***Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Distress, Infidelity, Sex Therapy, Young Couples, Depression, Chronic Illness, Grief and Loss, Family Conflict, and Lifecycle Transitions.
-Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy. Trained at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Kansas State University's School of Family Studies, and The University of Chicago School of Medicine, Clinic Founder Rob Gellman has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 14 years, and was a professor at Adler University from 2008-2011. He is a regularly invited speaker with local mental health agencies and national conferences. A recognized expert on families coping with chronic illness, infidelity, and the training of therapists and physicians, Rob's clinical practice is diverse, helping adults, children, couples and families on the path to wellness. ***Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Distress, Infidelity, Sex Therapy, Young Couples, Depression, Chronic Illness, Grief and Loss, Family Conflict, and Lifecycle Transitions.
(872) 206-3435 View (872) 206-3435
Photo of Joann M Shere, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joann M Shere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
My experience includes working with people dealing with grief, anxiety, low-self esteem, and acute and chronic illness and depression.
As we deal with life events, our relationships and even we ourselves continue to change during our lifetime. These changes may leave us feeling lonely, anxious, angry or depressed. It's during these times that considering therapy might prove helpful. It's the first step in making positive changes for yourself that takes courage and determination.
My experience includes working with people dealing with grief, anxiety, low-self esteem, and acute and chronic illness and depression.
As we deal with life events, our relationships and even we ourselves continue to change during our lifetime. These changes may leave us feeling lonely, anxious, angry or depressed. It's during these times that considering therapy might prove helpful. It's the first step in making positive changes for yourself that takes courage and determination.
(708) 263-4072 View (708) 263-4072
Photo of Jill Vogel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Vogel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I have a specialized focus on low self-esteem, codependency, chronic illness/pain, grief/loss, life transitions, and sexual abuse.
It is a true privilege to be by your side through the most difficult times in your life. As a dedicated and passionate therapist, I will partner with you to create a tailored plan to meet your goals. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) coupled with a Strengths Based approach.
I have a specialized focus on low self-esteem, codependency, chronic illness/pain, grief/loss, life transitions, and sexual abuse.
It is a true privilege to be by your side through the most difficult times in your life. As a dedicated and passionate therapist, I will partner with you to create a tailored plan to meet your goals. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) coupled with a Strengths Based approach.
(847) 892-1413 View (847) 892-1413
Photo of Valerie J Piazza, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Valerie J Piazza
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
My 30 year background in Nursing lends a deep understanding when working with clients faced with the challenge of living with life-changing, chronic illness.
When facing a stressful life experience or traumatic event that is causing significant emotional distress, you may realize that working through it alone or talking with family and friends isn't enough to bring relief. Calling a professional dedicated to helping you understand and develop healthy coping skills is often the most difficult, but necessary step to finding relief, emotional growth and healing.
My 30 year background in Nursing lends a deep understanding when working with clients faced with the challenge of living with life-changing, chronic illness.
When facing a stressful life experience or traumatic event that is causing significant emotional distress, you may realize that working through it alone or talking with family and friends isn't enough to bring relief. Calling a professional dedicated to helping you understand and develop healthy coping skills is often the most difficult, but necessary step to finding relief, emotional growth and healing.
(773) 672-8656 View (773) 672-8656
Photo of Felicia Muhammad, MA, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felicia Muhammad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60636  (Online Only)
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to older adults. I have provided mental health counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to older adults. I have provided mental health counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
(773) 825-3667 View (773) 825-3667
Photo of Noel C Green, AM, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Noel C Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evergreen Park, IL 60805  (Online Only)
I have experience with anxiety, grief, adjustment to chronic illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, and complex family systems.
I bring extensive knowledge with over 15 years of experience, specializing in helping individuals navigate traumatic life experiences within child welfare and public health fields. I passionately believe in fostering connections and combating isolation to improve mental health outcomes. I value creating relationships based on honesty, accountability, and warmth using Functional Analytic Psychotherapy as a framework to assist clients in overcoming complex trauma and anxiety.
I have experience with anxiety, grief, adjustment to chronic illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, and complex family systems.
I bring extensive knowledge with over 15 years of experience, specializing in helping individuals navigate traumatic life experiences within child welfare and public health fields. I passionately believe in fostering connections and combating isolation to improve mental health outcomes. I value creating relationships based on honesty, accountability, and warmth using Functional Analytic Psychotherapy as a framework to assist clients in overcoming complex trauma and anxiety.
(773) 692-0712 View (773) 692-0712
Photo of Dr. Andrea Michelle Graves, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Andrea Michelle Graves
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
If you are feeling stuck in life and overwhelmed by life's daily stressors, we can work together to restore greater balance, purpose, hope and a pathway forward. Change can be difficult, but I will strive to help you overcome obstacles such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, chronic illness, and women's health issues. I enjoy treating work and school stress, parenting/family concerns, and relationship issues. I also conduct a wide variety of neuropsychological evaluations through the lifespan, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, sensory processing, learning disabilities, mood disorders, disability, and memory concerns.
If you are feeling stuck in life and overwhelmed by life's daily stressors, we can work together to restore greater balance, purpose, hope and a pathway forward. Change can be difficult, but I will strive to help you overcome obstacles such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, chronic illness, and women's health issues. I enjoy treating work and school stress, parenting/family concerns, and relationship issues. I also conduct a wide variety of neuropsychological evaluations through the lifespan, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, sensory processing, learning disabilities, mood disorders, disability, and memory concerns.
(630) 949-3509 View (630) 949-3509
Photo of Emily Flaws, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Flaws
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
I'm particularly interested in helping people who have chronic illnesses. These individuals deal with more than just physical challenges; they also face emotional and psychological difficulties. Living with a chronic illness can be tough, as it brings uncertainty, pain, and limitations. I believe therapy can provide a safe place for them to talk about these emotional challenges, learn how to cope and find hope and strength with which to move forward. I'm also passionate about helping those who struggle with self-esteem and body image issues. Our self-talk and how we view ourselves deeply affects our mental health.
I'm particularly interested in helping people who have chronic illnesses. These individuals deal with more than just physical challenges; they also face emotional and psychological difficulties. Living with a chronic illness can be tough, as it brings uncertainty, pain, and limitations. I believe therapy can provide a safe place for them to talk about these emotional challenges, learn how to cope and find hope and strength with which to move forward. I'm also passionate about helping those who struggle with self-esteem and body image issues. Our self-talk and how we view ourselves deeply affects our mental health.
(708) 842-6594 View (708) 842-6594
Photo of John Paul Komperda - Integrative Counseling and Psychology, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Integrative Counseling and Psychology
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
(331) 241-7436 View (331) 241-7436
Photo of Tonja Horn, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tonja Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523  (Online Only)
Taking steps to improve your quality of life may begin with reaching out to a therapist. I welcome you to give me a call! I have built my therapeutic practice upon the guiding principles of support and collaboration. We will work towards determining challenges and obstacles in your life and create a plan that is individualized to your needs. I take a functional approach to healing and help clients determine underlying challenges to health and wellness. I truly enjoy providing a space to help clients gain insight and understanding in order to move towards balance with improved quality of life.
Taking steps to improve your quality of life may begin with reaching out to a therapist. I welcome you to give me a call! I have built my therapeutic practice upon the guiding principles of support and collaboration. We will work towards determining challenges and obstacles in your life and create a plan that is individualized to your needs. I take a functional approach to healing and help clients determine underlying challenges to health and wellness. I truly enjoy providing a space to help clients gain insight and understanding in order to move towards balance with improved quality of life.
(708) 487-0719 View (708) 487-0719
Photo of Ashlyn Lopez, LCPC, Counselor
Ashlyn Lopez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60652  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling stuck in your life? It can often seem like our financial situation, time availability, or even our own health concerns put up obstacles that seem impossible to overcome! If your frequent experience is one of waking up and dreading the day to day tasks, trust that you're not alone. If you're seeking value, excitement, passion, or even just simplicity and peace of mind, I can help. I've been counseling clients now for over a decade who deal with chronic health concerns, life transitions, burn out, stress, and anxiety.
Have you been feeling stuck in your life? It can often seem like our financial situation, time availability, or even our own health concerns put up obstacles that seem impossible to overcome! If your frequent experience is one of waking up and dreading the day to day tasks, trust that you're not alone. If you're seeking value, excitement, passion, or even just simplicity and peace of mind, I can help. I've been counseling clients now for over a decade who deal with chronic health concerns, life transitions, burn out, stress, and anxiety.
(708) 694-9873 View (708) 694-9873
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
Riverside, IL 60546  (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 Karaleigh Salmi, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Karaleigh Salmi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
Karaleigh obtained her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and went on to doctoral program. Karaleigh provides telehealth and individual counseling to adults. Karaleigh has extensive experience in providing therapy to those with complex and chronic PTSD, difficulty managing stress, suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Karaleigh is trained in many empirically based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused and has training with the Center for Deployment Psychology. She understands the importance of meeting you where you are at.
Karaleigh obtained her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and went on to doctoral program. Karaleigh provides telehealth and individual counseling to adults. Karaleigh has extensive experience in providing therapy to those with complex and chronic PTSD, difficulty managing stress, suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Karaleigh is trained in many empirically based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused and has training with the Center for Deployment Psychology. She understands the importance of meeting you where you are at.
(708) 726-0560 x847456 View (708) 726-0560 x847456

See more therapy options for Hickory Hills

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.