Chronic Illness Therapists in Louisville, KY

Photo of Jayan Thomas, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jayan Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
Have you been told that it is all in your head, or that there are no medical explanations for your symptoms? Or maybe you have received a chronic illness diagnosis and aren't quite sure how to cope. You might be at a place in your life when you feel ready to tackle past hurt and grief and find a sense of peace. My practice focuses exclusively on individuals and family members coping with the diagnosis of a medical illness.
Have you been told that it is all in your head, or that there are no medical explanations for your symptoms? Or maybe you have received a chronic illness diagnosis and aren't quite sure how to cope. You might be at a place in your life when you feel ready to tackle past hurt and grief and find a sense of peace. My practice focuses exclusively on individuals and family members coping with the diagnosis of a medical illness.
(502) 547-9204 View (502) 547-9204
Photo of Kelly Ann Evans - Prospective Greenlight, MPA, MEd, LPCA, Counselor
Prospective Greenlight
Counselor, MPA, MEd, LPCA
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40218
These include Autism Spectrum, ADHD/ADD, mood disorders, anxiety, chronic illness, and eating challenges.
We are here and now; but is your past a healthy part of it? The past can be a time of learning and moving forward, or it can be a red light in our lives and freeze us in that moment of time. It can paralyze us. Or, it can have us living in a world of caution lights where we fearfully drift through them, unaware of the present or future, or vigilantly white knuckling our way, just existing and just “getting through” each day. How we come to terms with the past, forgiving our mistakes and others’ faults can catapult us into a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
These include Autism Spectrum, ADHD/ADD, mood disorders, anxiety, chronic illness, and eating challenges.
We are here and now; but is your past a healthy part of it? The past can be a time of learning and moving forward, or it can be a red light in our lives and freeze us in that moment of time. It can paralyze us. Or, it can have us living in a world of caution lights where we fearfully drift through them, unaware of the present or future, or vigilantly white knuckling our way, just existing and just “getting through” each day. How we come to terms with the past, forgiving our mistakes and others’ faults can catapult us into a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
(502) 236-1760 View (502) 236-1760
Photo of Carol A Niehaus,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol A Niehaus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40272  (Online Only)
I have a great deal of experience working with people who have chronic illness, depression, anxiety and co-dependency. I work with many people who are the caregivers to their families. I’ve observed that caregivers are often wonderful about taking care of everyone except themselves. As a therapist I will help you prioritize self care. I will support you in setting limits and boundaries and keeping that backbone when then temptation is to please others at your own expense. It is OK to say “No”. It is OK to put yourself first for a change. It is important that you feel seen and heard. Your feelings matter.
I have a great deal of experience working with people who have chronic illness, depression, anxiety and co-dependency. I work with many people who are the caregivers to their families. I’ve observed that caregivers are often wonderful about taking care of everyone except themselves. As a therapist I will help you prioritize self care. I will support you in setting limits and boundaries and keeping that backbone when then temptation is to please others at your own expense. It is OK to say “No”. It is OK to put yourself first for a change. It is important that you feel seen and heard. Your feelings matter.
(502) 878-7079 View (502) 878-7079
Photo of Christina Angelica Severo, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Angelica Severo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40220  (Online Only)
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, and chronic illness.
8/20/24- Accepting new clients at this time, you can schedule a free 15 minute consultation on my website severotherapy.com. I look forward to connecting with you!
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, and chronic illness.
8/20/24- Accepting new clients at this time, you can schedule a free 15 minute consultation on my website severotherapy.com. I look forward to connecting with you!
(502) 281-0645 View (502) 281-0645
Photo of Kristi Collier Thompson, MS, LMHC, LPCC
Kristi Collier Thompson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma-informed, licensed counselor specializing in children, teenagers, adults and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, relational trauma (adoption, foster care, chronic illness, abuse or neglect), chronic illness and chronic pain. With over 20 years of experience, I am certified in EMDR, and trained in Theraplay, internal family systems (IFS), DBT, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, solution-focused brief counseling, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Prepare-Enrich and mindfulness.
I am a trauma-informed, licensed counselor specializing in children, teenagers, adults and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, relational trauma (adoption, foster care, chronic illness, abuse or neglect), chronic illness and chronic pain. With over 20 years of experience, I am certified in EMDR, and trained in Theraplay, internal family systems (IFS), DBT, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, solution-focused brief counseling, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Prepare-Enrich and mindfulness.
(502) 287-0133 View (502) 287-0133
Photo of Meghana Suchak, PhD, Psychologist
Meghana Suchak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
Are thoughts of retirement or making career changes bringing up fear and angst for you? Have you recently become a caregiver for a loved one who is struggling with a chronic illness or have you been diagnosed with a life-threatening chronic illness and are still coming to terms with it? Are you struggling with a relationship loss or a death loss? As we go through life we undergo so many transitions- some planned and some unplanned. If you need a safe space to explore how these transitions are affecting you then I may be the professional for you.
Are thoughts of retirement or making career changes bringing up fear and angst for you? Have you recently become a caregiver for a loved one who is struggling with a chronic illness or have you been diagnosed with a life-threatening chronic illness and are still coming to terms with it? Are you struggling with a relationship loss or a death loss? As we go through life we undergo so many transitions- some planned and some unplanned. If you need a safe space to explore how these transitions are affecting you then I may be the professional for you.
(502) 912-1498 View (502) 912-1498
Photo of Connie R Mountfield, MS, LMFT, LPN , Marriage & Family Therapist
Connie R Mountfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40201  (Online Only)
My passion is walking along side clients in their journey to work through chronic illness such as POTS, Ehlers Danlos, MCAS, along with many other chronic conditions.
Are you struggling with excess worry and/or feelings of sadness/hopelessness related to chronic pain or illness? Do you notice your relationships with family or friends are suffering since you began physical symptoms? Chronic illness can impact all aspects of our lives and the struggle to maintain your desired lifestyle can often lead to distress.
My passion is walking along side clients in their journey to work through chronic illness such as POTS, Ehlers Danlos, MCAS, along with many other chronic conditions.
Are you struggling with excess worry and/or feelings of sadness/hopelessness related to chronic pain or illness? Do you notice your relationships with family or friends are suffering since you began physical symptoms? Chronic illness can impact all aspects of our lives and the struggle to maintain your desired lifestyle can often lead to distress.
(260) 231-1734 View (260) 231-1734
Photo of Bethany Killian, LPCA
Bethany Killian
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40201  (Online Only)
Hi there, and welcome! I’m Bethany, your friendly neighborhood queer, goth mental health counselor on wheels. Cerebral palsy and a lifetime as a wheelchair user has given me unique insight into chronic illness, anxiety, and feeling “othered” by society. You aren’t broken and you certainly don’t have to feel like a passive participant in your own life. Rock bottom often provides the most fertile soil for positive growth. I can’t wait to see what blooms for you. LLAP!
Hi there, and welcome! I’m Bethany, your friendly neighborhood queer, goth mental health counselor on wheels. Cerebral palsy and a lifetime as a wheelchair user has given me unique insight into chronic illness, anxiety, and feeling “othered” by society. You aren’t broken and you certainly don’t have to feel like a passive participant in your own life. Rock bottom often provides the most fertile soil for positive growth. I can’t wait to see what blooms for you. LLAP!
(270) 447-5258 View (270) 447-5258
Photo of Alexandria Pruitt, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexandria Pruitt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40243
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has committed my training and practice to helping children, adolescents, and families navigate psychological diagnoses compounded by medical complications. I deliver evidence-based treatments to individuals, groups, and families in a compassionate and solution focused manner. I also lead a perfectionism group, a body image group, and an adolescent support group.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has committed my training and practice to helping children, adolescents, and families navigate psychological diagnoses compounded by medical complications. I deliver evidence-based treatments to individuals, groups, and families in a compassionate and solution focused manner. I also lead a perfectionism group, a body image group, and an adolescent support group.
(502) 289-1843 View (502) 289-1843
Photo of Melanie Rivard, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Rivard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40242  (Online Only)
Let's talk about trauma. How common is it? The National Center on PTSD estimates 60% of men and 50% of women will experience at least one trauma in their lifetime. Experiencing trauma isn't a rare event, it can happen to anyone. Common reactions to traumatic experiences include feeling more anxious than normal, feeling detached and/or numb, experiencing nightmares or unwanted thoughts about the trauma, and going out of your way to avoid reminders of the event. If you’ve been through something in your past that you can’t seem to escape it in the present, you have the power to stop it from disrupting your future.
Let's talk about trauma. How common is it? The National Center on PTSD estimates 60% of men and 50% of women will experience at least one trauma in their lifetime. Experiencing trauma isn't a rare event, it can happen to anyone. Common reactions to traumatic experiences include feeling more anxious than normal, feeling detached and/or numb, experiencing nightmares or unwanted thoughts about the trauma, and going out of your way to avoid reminders of the event. If you’ve been through something in your past that you can’t seem to escape it in the present, you have the power to stop it from disrupting your future.
(859) 251-2773 View (859) 251-2773
Photo of Barbara J Martin, LCSW, MSSW, OSW, IIC, ESSE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara J Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW, OSW, IIC, ESSE
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40203
Waitlist for new clients
Heuser Hearing Institute Integrative Counseling & Wellness Clinic provides in-clinic, telehealth and video remote sessions for individuals, families and caregivers of all ages to cope with the stress and practical challenges of life, hearing health, as well as for those in need of connection to Community Health Navigation and/or other community-based resources. We offer patient-centered assessment, diagnosis and counseling services, integrative traditional and modern therapy approaches. We work with patients experiencing stress during sudden or progressive illness, traumatic brain injuries, hearing loss and ear-related disorders
Heuser Hearing Institute Integrative Counseling & Wellness Clinic provides in-clinic, telehealth and video remote sessions for individuals, families and caregivers of all ages to cope with the stress and practical challenges of life, hearing health, as well as for those in need of connection to Community Health Navigation and/or other community-based resources. We offer patient-centered assessment, diagnosis and counseling services, integrative traditional and modern therapy approaches. We work with patients experiencing stress during sudden or progressive illness, traumatic brain injuries, hearing loss and ear-related disorders
(502) 829-6834 View (502) 829-6834
Photo of Jennifer Komis Phelps, LMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Komis Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40245
Do you feel sad, worried, or unsatisfied and not sure why? Does your body feel tired or stressed? Do you feel like, at some point, your life, career, or relationship went off the rails and you need to pause and consider your next steps? All of us face thoughts and transitions like this; you are not alone. I'm here to help you manage these moments, helping you find direction, make decisions, and feel mental, physical and spiritual peace again.
Do you feel sad, worried, or unsatisfied and not sure why? Does your body feel tired or stressed? Do you feel like, at some point, your life, career, or relationship went off the rails and you need to pause and consider your next steps? All of us face thoughts and transitions like this; you are not alone. I'm here to help you manage these moments, helping you find direction, make decisions, and feel mental, physical and spiritual peace again.
(502) 289-6393 View (502) 289-6393
Photo of Sarah Shelton - Dr. Sarah Shelton - Shelton Forensic Solutions, PsyD, MS, MPH, MSCP, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Shelton - Shelton Forensic Solutions
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MPH, MSCP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Dr. Shelton and her team of psychology professionals provide traditional psychological evaluation and treatment as well as forensic psychological evaluations and expert witness testimony. They are licensed/authorized to practice in over 40 states and provide services in multiple office locations as well as remotely via secure video conferencing.
Dr. Shelton and her team of psychology professionals provide traditional psychological evaluation and treatment as well as forensic psychological evaluations and expert witness testimony. They are licensed/authorized to practice in over 40 states and provide services in multiple office locations as well as remotely via secure video conferencing.
(502) 306-0292 View (502) 306-0292
Photo of Samantha Griffitts, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Griffitts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40241
Samantha Griffitts focuses on the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and has training in Exposure and Response Prevention through NOCD. In addition to evidence-based treatment of OCD, Griffitts provides therapy for the treatment of anxiety disorders, including Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Separation Anxiety, Specific Phobias, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Samantha Griffitts focuses on the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and has training in Exposure and Response Prevention through NOCD. In addition to evidence-based treatment of OCD, Griffitts provides therapy for the treatment of anxiety disorders, including Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Separation Anxiety, Specific Phobias, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
(502) 912-8727 View (502) 912-8727
Photo of Jane E Gainer, MA, KY LPCC, WV LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Jane E Gainer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, KY LPCC, WV LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
Starting counseling can be hard...what will counseling sessions be like, which therapist will be the best fit, and what if I don't "click" with the therapist? Utilizing over 28 years of experience, i can help make starting the process more comfortable and less intimidating. I help clients successfully manage depression, anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, substance-use, body image, and stress-related issues in a warm. judgment-free, supportive environment. I am currently accepting new adult clients in WV and KY.
Starting counseling can be hard...what will counseling sessions be like, which therapist will be the best fit, and what if I don't "click" with the therapist? Utilizing over 28 years of experience, i can help make starting the process more comfortable and less intimidating. I help clients successfully manage depression, anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, substance-use, body image, and stress-related issues in a warm. judgment-free, supportive environment. I am currently accepting new adult clients in WV and KY.
(502) 653-8263 View (502) 653-8263
Photo of Ashley Vaden, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Vaden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
Accepting new clients! If you feel that past therapy has been “directionless,” I am the provider for you. My approach is rooted in compassion, and heavily skills-based. You’ll leave our sessions with tools, choices, and an increased understanding of yourself, your relationship, or your teen, My experience with attachment-based modalities, Internal Family Systems techniques, and complex PTSD, has helped me to incorporate somatic practices into my therapy session, as well as techniques to reprogram deep subconscious wiring that keeps us stuck in harmful patterns and ruts. I specialize in working with those struggling with anxiety.
Accepting new clients! If you feel that past therapy has been “directionless,” I am the provider for you. My approach is rooted in compassion, and heavily skills-based. You’ll leave our sessions with tools, choices, and an increased understanding of yourself, your relationship, or your teen, My experience with attachment-based modalities, Internal Family Systems techniques, and complex PTSD, has helped me to incorporate somatic practices into my therapy session, as well as techniques to reprogram deep subconscious wiring that keeps us stuck in harmful patterns and ruts. I specialize in working with those struggling with anxiety.
(502) 791-5108 View (502) 791-5108
Photo of George W. Cook, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
George W. Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
Welcome. You are here, and that’s an important step toward change. Some days it is a matter of taking one step and realizing you can take another step tomorrow. Other days it may feel difficult figuring out the next steps. As a therapist specializing in the unique challenges of depression, anxiety, trauma recovery and situational stress, I am here to help. Whether you are looking for a therapist for yourself or someone you care about, I appreciate the opportunity to get to know you.
Welcome. You are here, and that’s an important step toward change. Some days it is a matter of taking one step and realizing you can take another step tomorrow. Other days it may feel difficult figuring out the next steps. As a therapist specializing in the unique challenges of depression, anxiety, trauma recovery and situational stress, I am here to help. Whether you are looking for a therapist for yourself or someone you care about, I appreciate the opportunity to get to know you.
(502) 427-6421 View (502) 427-6421
Photo of Christina Bayens, PsyD, MA, ACP-EFT, Psychologist
Christina Bayens
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, ACP-EFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40220
You are the focus of treatment, as you should be. I treat my clients as individuals, not as disorders. Treatment is geared to meet your individualized goals and evoke the power within each of you to be your own best healer. Whether you are a veteran of therapy or a newcomer, we will work together to find the seeds of change already present within you. Together we will plant and nourish your existing strengths in order to allow you to grow into the best version of yourself.
You are the focus of treatment, as you should be. I treat my clients as individuals, not as disorders. Treatment is geared to meet your individualized goals and evoke the power within each of you to be your own best healer. Whether you are a veteran of therapy or a newcomer, we will work together to find the seeds of change already present within you. Together we will plant and nourish your existing strengths in order to allow you to grow into the best version of yourself.
(502) 514-4295 View (502) 514-4295
Photo of Alex Hammond, MEd, LPA, Psychological Associate
Alex Hammond
Psychological Associate, MEd, LPA
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40207
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with a variety of people. I know how difficult it can be to make that first step towards healing by seeing a therapist. I want to meet you along the way in making that step as simple as I can. My goal is to ensure that we are a good fit to collaborate and then determine what your most pressing needs are. I am especially interested in working with BIPOC individuals who are moving past cultural assumptions about mental health and pursuing healing in the midst of their doubts.
I enjoy working with a variety of people. I know how difficult it can be to make that first step towards healing by seeing a therapist. I want to meet you along the way in making that step as simple as I can. My goal is to ensure that we are a good fit to collaborate and then determine what your most pressing needs are. I am especially interested in working with BIPOC individuals who are moving past cultural assumptions about mental health and pursuing healing in the midst of their doubts.
(502) 237-8592 View (502) 237-8592
Katie - legal Name Valerie Catherine McCarthy
Art Therapist, MA, LPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40208
She believes in relationship-driven therapy where the client is in the driver’s seat and she is the navigator, offering directions for pathways to healing, recovery and freedom. She is a passionate advocate and ally to those who have been abused, underserved, or marginalized and cares deeply about individuals and groups working to find their voices and gain strength through therapy and other avenues of recovery. Katie is always looking to find common understanding with her client, and will strive to provide a holistic and respectful partnership with YOU! She believes everyone deserves the best life has to offer!
She believes in relationship-driven therapy where the client is in the driver’s seat and she is the navigator, offering directions for pathways to healing, recovery and freedom. She is a passionate advocate and ally to those who have been abused, underserved, or marginalized and cares deeply about individuals and groups working to find their voices and gain strength through therapy and other avenues of recovery. Katie is always looking to find common understanding with her client, and will strive to provide a holistic and respectful partnership with YOU! She believes everyone deserves the best life has to offer!
(502) 317-2992 View (502) 317-2992
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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.