Chronic Illness Therapists in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Lindsay Cirincione, PsyD, Psychologist
Lindsay Cirincione
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
I offer individualized therapy for children, teens, and young adults suffering from chronic illness.
Are you or your child struggling with a health condition, pain or chronic illness that affects your day to day life? You may be feeling overwhelmed or discouraged by everything you have to do to take care of your physical health while still trying to get through the day. You may be tired of explaining your health concerns over and over to doctors, family, and friends. Do you wonder how to get back to life as you knew it before your illness started? Are you struggling to cope with or manage your symptoms? Living with a chronic illness can feel uncertain at the best of times.
I offer individualized therapy for children, teens, and young adults suffering from chronic illness.
Are you or your child struggling with a health condition, pain or chronic illness that affects your day to day life? You may be feeling overwhelmed or discouraged by everything you have to do to take care of your physical health while still trying to get through the day. You may be tired of explaining your health concerns over and over to doctors, family, and friends. Do you wonder how to get back to life as you knew it before your illness started? Are you struggling to cope with or manage your symptoms? Living with a chronic illness can feel uncertain at the best of times.
(410) 680-2733 View (410) 680-2733
Photo of Michelle McWhirter, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle McWhirter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21213  (Online Only)
As a dedicated therapist specializing in grief, illness, trauma, and caregiving concerns, I am here to support you through life's most challenging moments. With a compassionate approach, I integrate CBT, mindfulness techniques, and EMDR to help clients process their experiences and build resilience. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your feelings, gain insight, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you're navigating loss, dealing with chronic illness, or facing the complex emotions of caregiving, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and empowerment.
As a dedicated therapist specializing in grief, illness, trauma, and caregiving concerns, I am here to support you through life's most challenging moments. With a compassionate approach, I integrate CBT, mindfulness techniques, and EMDR to help clients process their experiences and build resilience. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your feelings, gain insight, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you're navigating loss, dealing with chronic illness, or facing the complex emotions of caregiving, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and empowerment.
(443) 267-9939 View (443) 267-9939
Photo of Nicholas Davenport, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas Davenport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with older adults, people with chronic illness, and caregivers. I help people who are struggling with coming to terms with an illness or disability, managing the stresses of life with these conditions, or dealing with emotional distress near the end of life. As a clinical social worker, I have 10 years of experience working in the healthcare field, primarily with older adults, and was inspired to start my practice by seeing the need for more support for this population. I also work with the general adult population on issues such as depression, anxiety, adjustment, OCD, and sexually diverse identities.
I specialize in working with older adults, people with chronic illness, and caregivers. I help people who are struggling with coming to terms with an illness or disability, managing the stresses of life with these conditions, or dealing with emotional distress near the end of life. As a clinical social worker, I have 10 years of experience working in the healthcare field, primarily with older adults, and was inspired to start my practice by seeing the need for more support for this population. I also work with the general adult population on issues such as depression, anxiety, adjustment, OCD, and sexually diverse identities.
(410) 453-1287 View (410) 453-1287
Photo of Dr. Rachel Kovacs, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Rachel Kovacs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21230
In addition to chronic illness, my work with kids, adolescents, and adults includes management of emotional difficulties including anxiety and depression.
I am a clinical psychologist providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with individuals who have medical conditions (e.g., chronic pain, headaches, diabetes, sleep) and chronic illness. I am uniquely qualified to provide psychological services for illness management including adjustment to medical conditions and medically related treatment. I additionally work with healthcare professionals and students including medical and graduate students, psychology trainees, and undergraduates.My goal is to help you function in daily life not to just get by, but to live the life you want to live.
In addition to chronic illness, my work with kids, adolescents, and adults includes management of emotional difficulties including anxiety and depression.
I am a clinical psychologist providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with individuals who have medical conditions (e.g., chronic pain, headaches, diabetes, sleep) and chronic illness. I am uniquely qualified to provide psychological services for illness management including adjustment to medical conditions and medically related treatment. I additionally work with healthcare professionals and students including medical and graduate students, psychology trainees, and undergraduates.My goal is to help you function in daily life not to just get by, but to live the life you want to live.
(410) 240-3708 View (410) 240-3708
Photo of Alicia M Dorn, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Alicia M Dorn
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
Everyone deserves that - including YOU! Let's been honest - having a chronic illness can be scary, but it doesn't mean you don't get to have a meaningful life! Joy is not out of your reach.
Whether you've been newly diagnosed or have been living with an illness for a while, you’ve been trying to push through to live the best you can. Every day is a battle because your body feels sick from aches, pains or other symptoms. You brace yourself for the worst to happen, because that’s unfortunately been your “new norm.” You miss being your old self - the one that could “do more things." Now, you feel like a failure in many areas of your life. The smile you wear covers what you really feel – alone, worried, helpless and angry. All of this has taken a toll on you emotionally and you want to feel more in control of your worries.
Everyone deserves that - including YOU! Let's been honest - having a chronic illness can be scary, but it doesn't mean you don't get to have a meaningful life! Joy is not out of your reach.
Whether you've been newly diagnosed or have been living with an illness for a while, you’ve been trying to push through to live the best you can. Every day is a battle because your body feels sick from aches, pains or other symptoms. You brace yourself for the worst to happen, because that’s unfortunately been your “new norm.” You miss being your old self - the one that could “do more things." Now, you feel like a failure in many areas of your life. The smile you wear covers what you really feel – alone, worried, helpless and angry. All of this has taken a toll on you emotionally and you want to feel more in control of your worries.
(410) 216-0930 View (410) 216-0930
Photo of Courtney Parks, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21252  (Online Only)
Welcome to Water Lily Therapy! My primary areas of practice include depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief and loss, low self-esteem, OCD, LGBTQIA+ and trauma. My approach is eclectic, but based primarily in Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with inclusions of motivational interviewing and narrative therapy techniques. When appropriate, I love to incorporate creative interventions such as art, film and humor! I believe that the bond formed between therapist and client is the foundation for healing, change and growth. My goal is to create a safe space for a person to feel truly heard, accepted and valued.
Welcome to Water Lily Therapy! My primary areas of practice include depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief and loss, low self-esteem, OCD, LGBTQIA+ and trauma. My approach is eclectic, but based primarily in Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with inclusions of motivational interviewing and narrative therapy techniques. When appropriate, I love to incorporate creative interventions such as art, film and humor! I believe that the bond formed between therapist and client is the foundation for healing, change and growth. My goal is to create a safe space for a person to feel truly heard, accepted and valued.
(443) 398-3141 View (443) 398-3141
Photo of Karin M Senft, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karin M Senft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21250  (Online Only)
Are you feeling on shaky ground and overwhelmed by coping with all the tough stuff? Life events and transitions can hit you hard. You don't have to go through it alone and keep caring for yourself last. Are you starting/ending a relationship, beginning/graduating from school, having a child, making a job/career change, grieving, managing chronic illness, or experiencing any other major life stress? You can build resiliency and believe you are worthy of the life you want. You can have support to practice your values and gain new perspective to cope with the fear of change. You are already taking a brave step forward by seeking help.
Are you feeling on shaky ground and overwhelmed by coping with all the tough stuff? Life events and transitions can hit you hard. You don't have to go through it alone and keep caring for yourself last. Are you starting/ending a relationship, beginning/graduating from school, having a child, making a job/career change, grieving, managing chronic illness, or experiencing any other major life stress? You can build resiliency and believe you are worthy of the life you want. You can have support to practice your values and gain new perspective to cope with the fear of change. You are already taking a brave step forward by seeking help.
(301) 960-5934 View (301) 960-5934
Photo of Jillian Ginsberg, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Ginsberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21214  (Online Only)
My work focuses on clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, disability/ chronic illness, life transitions, or who are seeking self-exploration and growth. Together we can find ways to cope with life’s uncertainties and live a life aligned with your values. It is important to have a space where you can feel seen and affirmed, and where you can show up as your authentic self. As a therapist, I aim to create a collaborative and supportive relationship, where we can identify and work towards your goals.
My work focuses on clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, disability/ chronic illness, life transitions, or who are seeking self-exploration and growth. Together we can find ways to cope with life’s uncertainties and live a life aligned with your values. It is important to have a space where you can feel seen and affirmed, and where you can show up as your authentic self. As a therapist, I aim to create a collaborative and supportive relationship, where we can identify and work towards your goals.
(410) 618-0580 View (410) 618-0580
Photo of Chelsea Moreau, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Chelsea Moreau
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have 11 years of experience in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, complex trauma and PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, PMDD, perinatal mental health and women’s health, chronic illness, toxic/dysfunctional relationships, grief and loss, boundaries, assertiveness skills, life transitions, and stress management.
I believe that each person is the expert of their own experience. Through a person-centered lens of compassion and resilience-focused approaches, we will build insight to gain a better understanding of your past and present experiences and how these impact your relationships, behaviors, beliefs, and quality of life.
I have 11 years of experience in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, complex trauma and PTSD, mood disorders, ADHD, PMDD, perinatal mental health and women’s health, chronic illness, toxic/dysfunctional relationships, grief and loss, boundaries, assertiveness skills, life transitions, and stress management.
I believe that each person is the expert of their own experience. Through a person-centered lens of compassion and resilience-focused approaches, we will build insight to gain a better understanding of your past and present experiences and how these impact your relationships, behaviors, beliefs, and quality of life.
(410) 346-9400 View (410) 346-9400
Photo of Linda M. Dalder, MA, LCPC
Linda M. Dalder
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
Thank you for reaching out- I believe reaching out to talk to a therapist takes a lot of courage. I offer a calm, non judgmental approach in sessions using several treatment modalities to help guide my clients reach their personal life goals. As individuals, we evolve and change over time with our relationship with ourselves and with others. I offer a diverse background of training and clinical experience to work with individuals who struggle with mood disorders, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, grief, bereavement and life changes/stressors. I work only with individuals at this time.
Thank you for reaching out- I believe reaching out to talk to a therapist takes a lot of courage. I offer a calm, non judgmental approach in sessions using several treatment modalities to help guide my clients reach their personal life goals. As individuals, we evolve and change over time with our relationship with ourselves and with others. I offer a diverse background of training and clinical experience to work with individuals who struggle with mood disorders, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, grief, bereavement and life changes/stressors. I work only with individuals at this time.
(410) 698-1941 View (410) 698-1941
Photo of Emily Swoveland, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Swoveland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21230  (Online Only)
I also strive to support those with chronic illness and individuals navigating life transitions.
Do you feel stuck? Do you feel like you no longer recognize yourself? Have depression, anxiety, illness, or life stressors made it difficult to be true to yourself or live an authentic life? Through therapy, you can learn to break free of patterns that are keeping you stuck. You will learn to ride the waves of change that are an inevitable part of life. You will build your ability to recognize what can and cannot be changed, and learn to sit with difficult emotions. You will develop the skill to respond skillfully when life does not go according to plan, and will gain the confidence to create a life built around your values.
I also strive to support those with chronic illness and individuals navigating life transitions.
Do you feel stuck? Do you feel like you no longer recognize yourself? Have depression, anxiety, illness, or life stressors made it difficult to be true to yourself or live an authentic life? Through therapy, you can learn to break free of patterns that are keeping you stuck. You will learn to ride the waves of change that are an inevitable part of life. You will build your ability to recognize what can and cannot be changed, and learn to sit with difficult emotions. You will develop the skill to respond skillfully when life does not go according to plan, and will gain the confidence to create a life built around your values.
(443) 991-8937 View (443) 991-8937
Photo of Taylor Buchanan, MA, LCPC, LCPAT, Counselor
Taylor Buchanan
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210  (Online Only)
I am a great fit for individuals struggling with disordered eating, poor body image, or chronic illness.
You feel disconnected from yourself, but are unsure how to get out of the endless loop of stress and grief. Worries about your body are taking up too much of your energy and brain space. People in your life may have a hard time relating to what you’re going through, which makes you feel hopeless and isolated. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I enjoy working with individuals looking to connect more deeply to their bodies, and in turn their authentic selves. Maybe you are dealing with chronic illness, struggling with poor body image, or working to accept body changes that come with the perinatal period.
I am a great fit for individuals struggling with disordered eating, poor body image, or chronic illness.
You feel disconnected from yourself, but are unsure how to get out of the endless loop of stress and grief. Worries about your body are taking up too much of your energy and brain space. People in your life may have a hard time relating to what you’re going through, which makes you feel hopeless and isolated. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I enjoy working with individuals looking to connect more deeply to their bodies, and in turn their authentic selves. Maybe you are dealing with chronic illness, struggling with poor body image, or working to accept body changes that come with the perinatal period.
(443) 227-4783 View (443) 227-4783
Photo of Helena Zappolino, MA, LPC, LCPC
Helena Zappolino
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
Issues we can address during our sessions include (but are not limited to): multi-cultural issues, divorce care, chronic illness, co-parenting, women's empowerment, abuse, trauma and grief.
Are you struggling to get back on your feet after a major life setback? Is trauma or abuse from your past affecting your day-to-day life, or do feel like you are coming up against the same obstacles over and over again that are keeping you from living your life fully? Together we can work to help you make meaningful, long-term changes in a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental environment.
Issues we can address during our sessions include (but are not limited to): multi-cultural issues, divorce care, chronic illness, co-parenting, women's empowerment, abuse, trauma and grief.
Are you struggling to get back on your feet after a major life setback? Is trauma or abuse from your past affecting your day-to-day life, or do feel like you are coming up against the same obstacles over and over again that are keeping you from living your life fully? Together we can work to help you make meaningful, long-term changes in a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental environment.
(864) 387-5685 View (864) 387-5685
Photo of Laureen Rodgers, LCSW-C, LICSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laureen Rodgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224  (Online Only)
I work with women, moms and couples on a variety of issues– anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, infertility, caregiver stress, chronic illness, career exploration and burnout, parenting, and relationship/family issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or disconnected from others? Maybe you are struggling with identity and a changing lifestyle while newly pregnant. Is parenthood and other life transitions causing hardship or a strain on your relationships? Sometimes we can feel overwhelmed by challenging situations and overcome by our intrusive thoughts. There is a path to feeling better, creating stronger relationships and thriving in life. My practice helps women, Moms and couples handle life transitions by offering a comfortable and understanding environment while creating a tailored approach to address your needs and wellness goals.
I work with women, moms and couples on a variety of issues– anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, infertility, caregiver stress, chronic illness, career exploration and burnout, parenting, and relationship/family issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or disconnected from others? Maybe you are struggling with identity and a changing lifestyle while newly pregnant. Is parenthood and other life transitions causing hardship or a strain on your relationships? Sometimes we can feel overwhelmed by challenging situations and overcome by our intrusive thoughts. There is a path to feeling better, creating stronger relationships and thriving in life. My practice helps women, Moms and couples handle life transitions by offering a comfortable and understanding environment while creating a tailored approach to address your needs and wellness goals.
(240) 792-8662 View (240) 792-8662
Photo of Wei Reidy, LGPC, Counselor
Wei Reidy
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I am a multiracial, multi-ethnic (Chinese, Irish, Taiwanese) queer therapist. I practice from a justice-centered, liberation focused, and nature-informed therapy orientation. I particularly enjoy exploring issues related to climate awareness, disability, chronic illness, gender identity, grief, neurodivergence, racialized trauma, and sexuality. I am currently enrolled in EMDR Basic Training with Deany Laliotis of the Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy.
I am a multiracial, multi-ethnic (Chinese, Irish, Taiwanese) queer therapist. I practice from a justice-centered, liberation focused, and nature-informed therapy orientation. I particularly enjoy exploring issues related to climate awareness, disability, chronic illness, gender identity, grief, neurodivergence, racialized trauma, and sexuality. I am currently enrolled in EMDR Basic Training with Deany Laliotis of the Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy.
(301) 360-4349 View (301) 360-4349
Photo of Kim Lowery Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Lowery Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21230  (Online Only)
I’ve worked with individuals facing chronic illness, cancer, end-of-life concerns, and caregivers, offering compassionate, goal-driven therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a serious illness or caring for a loved one who's struggling? Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, grief, or family conflict, I’m here to provide support. Together, we’ll navigate complicated emotions, improve how you cope with stress, and work on restoring balance in your life. While I don’t have a “magic wand” to solve all the challenges of living with a serious illness, together, we can work towards what matters most to you.
I’ve worked with individuals facing chronic illness, cancer, end-of-life concerns, and caregivers, offering compassionate, goal-driven therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a serious illness or caring for a loved one who's struggling? Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, grief, or family conflict, I’m here to provide support. Together, we’ll navigate complicated emotions, improve how you cope with stress, and work on restoring balance in your life. While I don’t have a “magic wand” to solve all the challenges of living with a serious illness, together, we can work towards what matters most to you.
(301) 709-6119 View (301) 709-6119
Photo of Meghan Bower, LCPC, CAC-AD, RPS
Meghan Bower
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CAC-AD, RPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21234
I've supported clients facing a wide range of issues, including addiction, anxiety, depression, divorce, infidelity, chronic illness, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, life coaching, parenting, and stress. I also collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to assist clients with medication management, therapy, addiction treatment, and other behavioral health needs. I understand and respect the importance of a team approach and utilizing various resources as part of the therapeutic process.
I've supported clients facing a wide range of issues, including addiction, anxiety, depression, divorce, infidelity, chronic illness, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, life coaching, parenting, and stress. I also collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to assist clients with medication management, therapy, addiction treatment, and other behavioral health needs. I understand and respect the importance of a team approach and utilizing various resources as part of the therapeutic process.
(443) 991-8920 View (443) 991-8920
Photo of Jesse Lee Robertson, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse Lee Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
I have had experience with a very wide range of folks that I've liked to work with and have found all of that work valuable and fulfilling. I think I am hoping to work with folks who are curious and open about themselves or at least would like to be. Therapy can be hard work at times and without that curiousness it can be hard to sit with those tough times. I think all folks coming into therapy are hoping to get better which I think is the earliest sign of hope in this process.
I have had experience with a very wide range of folks that I've liked to work with and have found all of that work valuable and fulfilling. I think I am hoping to work with folks who are curious and open about themselves or at least would like to be. Therapy can be hard work at times and without that curiousness it can be hard to sit with those tough times. I think all folks coming into therapy are hoping to get better which I think is the earliest sign of hope in this process.
(410) 862-2708 View (410) 862-2708
Photo of Lorena Patricia Lues, LCSW-C , RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorena Patricia Lues
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C , RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I value an open dialogue with my clients that incorporates feedback to ensure their needs are being met during our time together.  In my view, the client-therapist relationship should prioritize honesty and respect and while diagnosing is one aspect of psychotherapy, I am most interested in how your daily life is being impacted and what we can do in our work together to develop coping and awareness that will bring more harmony and help you lead a more fulfilled life.
I value an open dialogue with my clients that incorporates feedback to ensure their needs are being met during our time together.  In my view, the client-therapist relationship should prioritize honesty and respect and while diagnosing is one aspect of psychotherapy, I am most interested in how your daily life is being impacted and what we can do in our work together to develop coping and awareness that will bring more harmony and help you lead a more fulfilled life.
(410) 835-9351 View (410) 835-9351
Photo of Shaina Edelson, PhD, Psychologist
Shaina Edelson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
I have worked in multiple settings such as medical centers and outpatient clinics and have experience treating a wide variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety/panic, phobias, post-traumatic stress, relationship difficulties, and more. A health psychologist by training, I am passionate about working with adults who are struggling with co-occurring medical and mental health symptoms (e.g., insomnia, coping with medical diagnoses & surgery, chronic pain, organ transplant, etc.). I am dedicated to working with healthcare providers, who are currently facing unprecedented struggles due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
I have worked in multiple settings such as medical centers and outpatient clinics and have experience treating a wide variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety/panic, phobias, post-traumatic stress, relationship difficulties, and more. A health psychologist by training, I am passionate about working with adults who are struggling with co-occurring medical and mental health symptoms (e.g., insomnia, coping with medical diagnoses & surgery, chronic pain, organ transplant, etc.). I am dedicated to working with healthcare providers, who are currently facing unprecedented struggles due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
(410) 807-8824 View (410) 807-8824
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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.