Chronic Illness Therapists in River Forest, IL
Oak Park Behavioral Medicine LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Living with a chronic medical illness can be challenging. Depression, anxiety, fears, loss of identity, and doubt are all common, and physicians are continuing to acknowledge that how we feel mentally affects our physical symptoms. Navigating the medical system, treatments, and socializing can be stressful. We're dedicated to helping children (6-17) and adults navigate life with a chronic illness, with all of the social and emotional parts that may not be addressed in your doctor visits. Our team includes: Tiffany Taft PsyD, Emily Edlynn PhD, Emily Hahn LCSW, Alix Kramer MSW, and Clark Bray MSW.
Living with a chronic medical illness can be challenging. Depression, anxiety, fears, loss of identity, and doubt are all common, and physicians are continuing to acknowledge that how we feel mentally affects our physical symptoms. Navigating the medical system, treatments, and socializing can be stressful. We're dedicated to helping children (6-17) and adults navigate life with a chronic illness, with all of the social and emotional parts that may not be addressed in your doctor visits. Our team includes: Tiffany Taft PsyD, Emily Edlynn PhD, Emily Hahn LCSW, Alix Kramer MSW, and Clark Bray MSW.
Ethan Israelsohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305 (Online Only)
Is it difficult for you to achieve your goals because of depression, anxiety, panic, or fears? For over 25 years I have provided a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where results can be obtained quickly. Do you experience the overwhelming impact of chronic disease on you and your family? Do you or a loved one have physical or medical problems that just seem too stressful or confusing to manage? Many people seek my help with asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart, and other chronic diseases and achieve better treatment results and a higher level of control in their lives.
Is it difficult for you to achieve your goals because of depression, anxiety, panic, or fears? For over 25 years I have provided a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where results can be obtained quickly. Do you experience the overwhelming impact of chronic disease on you and your family? Do you or a loved one have physical or medical problems that just seem too stressful or confusing to manage? Many people seek my help with asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart, and other chronic diseases and achieve better treatment results and a higher level of control in their lives.
My goal as a therapist is to help people get back on track with what is truly important in their lives and let go of the unnecessary struggle that psychological pain can create. I believe that everyone can learn to take a new perspective on pain in order to prevent it from acting as a barrier to the most important parts of their lives.
My goal as a therapist is to help people get back on track with what is truly important in their lives and let go of the unnecessary struggle that psychological pain can create. I believe that everyone can learn to take a new perspective on pain in order to prevent it from acting as a barrier to the most important parts of their lives.
You want to be well, content, and feel better. But, managing chronic health conditions, feeling overwhelmed by high levels of stress and anxiety, and facing unexpected and sudden loss/grief can be enormous tasks, especially during our challenging times. Across the lifespan, we face emotional, relational, and physical difficulties that are often best navigated when we are heard, supported, and able to cultivate the natural curiosity that invites us to change.
You want to be well, content, and feel better. But, managing chronic health conditions, feeling overwhelmed by high levels of stress and anxiety, and facing unexpected and sudden loss/grief can be enormous tasks, especially during our challenging times. Across the lifespan, we face emotional, relational, and physical difficulties that are often best navigated when we are heard, supported, and able to cultivate the natural curiosity that invites us to change.
Heather L Corwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MFA, LPC
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Saturday available. Dr. Corwin’s diverse background and experiences inform her therapeutic approach, grounded in relationship & unconditional positive regard. Within a strength based, integrative approach to health and well being, Dr. Corwin includes sensory awareness & body connection to explore how impulses translate into our everyday actions. Populations of specialty include people who are seeking skills for anxiety & depression, trauma giving birth, and performers. She believes people are complex and that thoughts, feelings, and body sensations interact with each other and determine how we interface with the world around us.
Saturday available. Dr. Corwin’s diverse background and experiences inform her therapeutic approach, grounded in relationship & unconditional positive regard. Within a strength based, integrative approach to health and well being, Dr. Corwin includes sensory awareness & body connection to explore how impulses translate into our everyday actions. Populations of specialty include people who are seeking skills for anxiety & depression, trauma giving birth, and performers. She believes people are complex and that thoughts, feelings, and body sensations interact with each other and determine how we interface with the world around us.
Michelle Stahley
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305 (Online Only)
Finding a therapist you feel connected to and understood by is the key to a successful therapy experience. I pride myself on being an authentic, non-judgmental therapist, who is down-to-Earth & not afraid to use humor or a gentle nudge in my approach. Therapy is a partnership and my style is active, collaborative, and empowering. We will focus on finding solutions together by utilizing your strengths and fostering insight in a relaxed and safe environment. I especially love working with & empowering introverts and Highly Sensitive People!
Finding a therapist you feel connected to and understood by is the key to a successful therapy experience. I pride myself on being an authentic, non-judgmental therapist, who is down-to-Earth & not afraid to use humor or a gentle nudge in my approach. Therapy is a partnership and my style is active, collaborative, and empowering. We will focus on finding solutions together by utilizing your strengths and fostering insight in a relaxed and safe environment. I especially love working with & empowering introverts and Highly Sensitive People!
Jessica B Sittig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
My specialty is providing therapeutic services to children and adults. I utilize a client centered approach to join with my clients in the therapeutic process and offer gentle, non-judgmental support through the journey of therapy. I meet you where you are.
My specialty is providing therapeutic services to children and adults. I utilize a client centered approach to join with my clients in the therapeutic process and offer gentle, non-judgmental support through the journey of therapy. I meet you where you are.
Flores Wellness & Consulting, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
I view therapy as the process of investing in your growth as a person, a parent, and a partner. I have worked alongside people who have overcome their pain and suffering by focusing on a plan that centers on their strengths and resources. Our work could include a focus on how to build confidence, increase coping skills, process pain from the past, and learn to tolerate uncertainty about the future. Overall, I truly believe that with support and understanding, you have the ability and resilience to achieve your goals of wellness and health.
I view therapy as the process of investing in your growth as a person, a parent, and a partner. I have worked alongside people who have overcome their pain and suffering by focusing on a plan that centers on their strengths and resources. Our work could include a focus on how to build confidence, increase coping skills, process pain from the past, and learn to tolerate uncertainty about the future. Overall, I truly believe that with support and understanding, you have the ability and resilience to achieve your goals of wellness and health.
Higher Ground Wellness Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Higher Ground Wellness Group’s mission is to provide a safe therapeutic space for all people, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our vision is to end stigma in BIPOC communities regarding seeking mental health services, by increasing awareness and access to mental health resources. It is a courageous choice to seek therapy and with over 50 years of combined experience, Higher Ground Wellness Group is committed to providing extensive, high quality therapeutic services for individuals, couples, families in a safe and non-judgmental environment that reinforces emotional, physical, and mental wellness.
Higher Ground Wellness Group’s mission is to provide a safe therapeutic space for all people, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our vision is to end stigma in BIPOC communities regarding seeking mental health services, by increasing awareness and access to mental health resources. It is a courageous choice to seek therapy and with over 50 years of combined experience, Higher Ground Wellness Group is committed to providing extensive, high quality therapeutic services for individuals, couples, families in a safe and non-judgmental environment that reinforces emotional, physical, and mental wellness.
Crystal Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Reaching out for help can be difficult. It takes courage, vulnerability and hope to seek support and be open to seeing things from a new perspective. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and family coping. I work with adolescents, adults, families and couples to help them find greater fulfillment from life and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, culturally sensitive, strength based and client centered. As a former medical social worker, I am experienced in helping families cope through the many emotional and practical challenges a medical diagnosis and treatment can bring.
Reaching out for help can be difficult. It takes courage, vulnerability and hope to seek support and be open to seeing things from a new perspective. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and family coping. I work with adolescents, adults, families and couples to help them find greater fulfillment from life and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, culturally sensitive, strength based and client centered. As a former medical social worker, I am experienced in helping families cope through the many emotional and practical challenges a medical diagnosis and treatment can bring.
Margaret McGonegal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305 (Online Only)
Life’s challenges happen suddenly. Without warning it feels like you can’t navigate through with confidence and calm. Instead, you are plagued with worry, hesitation, anxiety, and depression. At times, life feels like a ticking time bomb, and you are desperately searching for an effective means to diffuse it. But your coping skills aren’t working well enough, or maybe they weren’t that healthy in the first place. How are you supposed to get comfortable with the challenges you are experiencing, let alone feel you are responding in a healthy way, when everything around you – maybe even your person – can be so unpredictable?
Life’s challenges happen suddenly. Without warning it feels like you can’t navigate through with confidence and calm. Instead, you are plagued with worry, hesitation, anxiety, and depression. At times, life feels like a ticking time bomb, and you are desperately searching for an effective means to diffuse it. But your coping skills aren’t working well enough, or maybe they weren’t that healthy in the first place. How are you supposed to get comfortable with the challenges you are experiencing, let alone feel you are responding in a healthy way, when everything around you – maybe even your person – can be so unpredictable?
Are you someone facing challenges with transitions, relationships, work or school? Are you looking for life coaching or support with executive functioning? I enjoy helping individuals with diverse needs including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, health issues, gender identity, self advocacy and more. Would you like to feel better and set reasonable goals for yourself by engaging in a compassionate, therapeutic relationship? Whether you find in person, teletherapy or “animal assisted therapy” helpful we have options for creating relaxed, productive sessions! I am here to help!
Are you someone facing challenges with transitions, relationships, work or school? Are you looking for life coaching or support with executive functioning? I enjoy helping individuals with diverse needs including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, health issues, gender identity, self advocacy and more. Would you like to feel better and set reasonable goals for yourself by engaging in a compassionate, therapeutic relationship? Whether you find in person, teletherapy or “animal assisted therapy” helpful we have options for creating relaxed, productive sessions! I am here to help!
More Therapists Nearby
I specialize in working with adults & children impacted by trauma, separation/loss, adults struggling with unsatisfying relationships and life transitions as well as children and adults impacted by chronic illness, depression & anxiety.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
I specialize in working with adults & children impacted by trauma, separation/loss, adults struggling with unsatisfying relationships and life transitions as well as children and adults impacted by chronic illness, depression & anxiety.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
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.
Shantel Mitchell-Cooley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I understand the unique challenges that illness, caregiving and grief add to your life and I can help. Living with chronic illness, cancer, multiple sclerosis, or dementia is unchartered territory which leads to stress and overwhelm and sometimes, depression and anxiety. I am here to help you navigate your way through to find a place of resilience.
I understand the unique challenges that illness, caregiving and grief add to your life and I can help. Living with chronic illness, cancer, multiple sclerosis, or dementia is unchartered territory which leads to stress and overwhelm and sometimes, depression and anxiety. I am here to help you navigate your way through to find a place of resilience.
Nia J Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60303
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.
Erin L McCombs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, BCN, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I work with adults seeking treatment for mood/anxiety disorders, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, grief/loss, developmental challenges, ADHD, chronic illness, relationship issues, and stress management.
As a clinician with 23 years of experience, I offer a body-based treatment approach to wellness. In collaboration with clients, I draw on my extensive training in traditional talk therapy, neurofeedback, biofeedback, mindfulness meditation, yoga and somatic healing to address symptoms and patterns that interfere with living to one's fullest potential.
I work with adults seeking treatment for mood/anxiety disorders, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, grief/loss, developmental challenges, ADHD, chronic illness, relationship issues, and stress management.
As a clinician with 23 years of experience, I offer a body-based treatment approach to wellness. In collaboration with clients, I draw on my extensive training in traditional talk therapy, neurofeedback, biofeedback, mindfulness meditation, yoga and somatic healing to address symptoms and patterns that interfere with living to one's fullest potential.
Heather Holzhauser, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60304 (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.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in pediatric health psychology. In my therapy approach, I draw from evidence-based practice, while collaboratively tailoring therapy to individual needs and symptoms. The goal is always to improve daily functioning and each person's quality of life regardless of their disease status. I have extensive experience working with a variety of illnesses and symptoms (eg, chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, diabetes, obesity, epilepsy, cancer) by using a combination of cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness, and stress management strategies. I have a special interest in youth managing grief and loss.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training in pediatric health psychology. In my therapy approach, I draw from evidence-based practice, while collaboratively tailoring therapy to individual needs and symptoms. The goal is always to improve daily functioning and each person's quality of life regardless of their disease status. I have extensive experience working with a variety of illnesses and symptoms (eg, chronic pain, gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, diabetes, obesity, epilepsy, cancer) by using a combination of cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness, and stress management strategies. I have a special interest in youth managing grief and loss.
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.
See more therapy options for River Forest
Nearby Chronic Illness Therapists Searches for River Forest
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Chicago
- Cicero
- Elmhurst
- Forest Park
- La Grange
- Norridge
- Oak Park
- Park Ridge
- Riverside
- Westchester
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.