Chronic Illness Therapists in Mendota Heights, MN

Photo of Michael Grewatz, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Grewatz
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
My ideal client are those who are in need of a supportive ear to help them overcome structural and interpersonal barriers to fulfillment, success, and meaning in their lives. My values center around decolonization, anti-racism, and social justice. As a queer and non-binary person myself, I understand the need for validating, judgement-free, and shame-free spaces in which we can feel liberated to be our full authentic selves, an environment I strive to build in therapy. You are the expert in your life, so you get to decide what your goals will be and how you reach them, and I’m here to help guide you on your journey towards healing.
My ideal client are those who are in need of a supportive ear to help them overcome structural and interpersonal barriers to fulfillment, success, and meaning in their lives. My values center around decolonization, anti-racism, and social justice. As a queer and non-binary person myself, I understand the need for validating, judgement-free, and shame-free spaces in which we can feel liberated to be our full authentic selves, an environment I strive to build in therapy. You are the expert in your life, so you get to decide what your goals will be and how you reach them, and I’m here to help guide you on your journey towards healing.
(612) 482-1686 View (612) 482-1686
Photo of Ellie Family Services - Ellie Family Services, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellie Family Services
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
Ellie’s therapists goal is to help people have access to a coach, teacher, therapist, confidant, counselor, and most of all person to share anything from your daily blunders to deepest secrets! If it's happening in your life, we provide judgement free counseling to help handle it head on, as a team! There is a positive vibe, an intuitive conscious and we place a special focus on engaging the whole family. We like to have fun, share new skills for stress management, and solve problems, while making sure individuals and families feel supported and safe while making change!
Ellie’s therapists goal is to help people have access to a coach, teacher, therapist, confidant, counselor, and most of all person to share anything from your daily blunders to deepest secrets! If it's happening in your life, we provide judgement free counseling to help handle it head on, as a team! There is a positive vibe, an intuitive conscious and we place a special focus on engaging the whole family. We like to have fun, share new skills for stress management, and solve problems, while making sure individuals and families feel supported and safe while making change!
(651) 583-7190 View (651) 583-7190
Photo of Brant Thomsen - Brant Thomsen: EMDR Therapist, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brant Thomsen: EMDR Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
EMDR offers an accelerated experience unlike any other therapy. If you want lasting healing from trauma and an upgrade in your confidence and well-being, let's talk. I'm here to collaborate and provide guidance through a process of change unlike any other.
EMDR offers an accelerated experience unlike any other therapy. If you want lasting healing from trauma and an upgrade in your confidence and well-being, let's talk. I'm here to collaborate and provide guidance through a process of change unlike any other.
(651) 409-6413 View (651) 409-6413
Photo of Lindsay Ramirez, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Ramirez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
Congratulations on taking the first steps towards better mental health. I have over 14 years of experience helping individuals living with mental health disorders develop coping strategies, find balance, and experience peace. I look forward to supporting you in creating lasting and effective change. My practice emphasizes dignity and self determination for every individual seeking recovery, balance, and well being.
Congratulations on taking the first steps towards better mental health. I have over 14 years of experience helping individuals living with mental health disorders develop coping strategies, find balance, and experience peace. I look forward to supporting you in creating lasting and effective change. My practice emphasizes dignity and self determination for every individual seeking recovery, balance, and well being.
(651) 661-2729 View (651) 661-2729
Photo of Annikki Hockert - Väki Holistic Healing, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Väki Holistic Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
Väki Holistic Healing offers Mental Health Therapy for individuals, families, & groups in person, virtually, & outside in nature. With the whole self approach, together we focus on mind, body, & soul rejuvenation. In therapy, you will find that it is a comfortable, calm, safe, & brave space to help you soothe as we work through life’s moments; all while finding your authentic self through this dance called life. Väki also offers healing workshops & retreats. Väki is the Finnish ancient word for life force energy; similar to chi, mana, aka, prana.
Väki Holistic Healing offers Mental Health Therapy for individuals, families, & groups in person, virtually, & outside in nature. With the whole self approach, together we focus on mind, body, & soul rejuvenation. In therapy, you will find that it is a comfortable, calm, safe, & brave space to help you soothe as we work through life’s moments; all while finding your authentic self through this dance called life. Väki also offers healing workshops & retreats. Väki is the Finnish ancient word for life force energy; similar to chi, mana, aka, prana.
(651) 371-0035 View (651) 371-0035
Photo of Amy Kalbrener, MA, LPCC, ATR
Amy Kalbrener
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, ATR
Verified Verified
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
Waitlist for new clients
(952) 522-1674 View (952) 522-1674

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alyssa Gamlin, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa Gamlin
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Whether you’re dealing with the strain of depression, the realities of living with chronic illness or disability, or other difficult circumstances, we will work together to address your concerns.
Welcome! I'm so glad you’ve taken the step to explore support on your journey. Navigating the complexities of life can be overwhelming, and it's important to have a supportive ally who truly understands these unique struggles. My goal is to offer a safe and compassionate space where you can openly share your experiences, challenges, and goals.
Whether you’re dealing with the strain of depression, the realities of living with chronic illness or disability, or other difficult circumstances, we will work together to address your concerns.
Welcome! I'm so glad you’ve taken the step to explore support on your journey. Navigating the complexities of life can be overwhelming, and it's important to have a supportive ally who truly understands these unique struggles. My goal is to offer a safe and compassionate space where you can openly share your experiences, challenges, and goals.
(952) 522-8012 View (952) 522-8012
Photo of Cara Snyder, LICSW, LIMHP, CMSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LIMHP, CMSW, LISW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
Change. Anxiety. Feeling stuck. Confusion. Loss. Chronic illness. Depression. Sleep. Relationships. Stress. Life feels like a struggle. Together we will develop a plan that uses evidence-based methods to help you identify and achieve your goals. I value your unique story and am dedicated to helping you stay motivated as you take steps toward improved mental wellness.
Change. Anxiety. Feeling stuck. Confusion. Loss. Chronic illness. Depression. Sleep. Relationships. Stress. Life feels like a struggle. Together we will develop a plan that uses evidence-based methods to help you identify and achieve your goals. I value your unique story and am dedicated to helping you stay motivated as you take steps toward improved mental wellness.
(531) 233-5007 View (531) 233-5007
Photo of Kaitlyn Valdez, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Valdez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Trauma, chronic illness(es), and eating disorders are intense, unique experiences that can change the way we think, respond, and prepare for day-to-day activities. It can also change the way our body functions on a basic level. My goal is to provide a comfortable environment where everyone can explore traumas, create coping skills, and gain self-confidence. It is within a safe, comforting environment that people have the potential to create meaningful change in their lives.
Trauma, chronic illness(es), and eating disorders are intense, unique experiences that can change the way we think, respond, and prepare for day-to-day activities. It can also change the way our body functions on a basic level. My goal is to provide a comfortable environment where everyone can explore traumas, create coping skills, and gain self-confidence. It is within a safe, comforting environment that people have the potential to create meaningful change in their lives.
(651) 427-7850 View (651) 427-7850
Photo of Summer Counseling, MA, LPCC, LPC, Counselor
Summer Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
Summer Counseling in Oakdale is accepting new clients year-round for immediate appointments 9am-9pm. Inclusiveness and acceptance are important to us, and we're proud to have a variety of therapeutic specialties. We understand that finding a good therapist can be challenging, and we're confident one of our therapists will be a perfect fit, including non-binary and LGBTQ therapists, neurodivergent therapists, sports performance experts, and chronic illness therapists. At Summer Counseling, you'll find large offices, comfortable waiting spaces, easy access to paperwork and scheduling, and a fresh cup of coffee or tea waiting for you!
Summer Counseling in Oakdale is accepting new clients year-round for immediate appointments 9am-9pm. Inclusiveness and acceptance are important to us, and we're proud to have a variety of therapeutic specialties. We understand that finding a good therapist can be challenging, and we're confident one of our therapists will be a perfect fit, including non-binary and LGBTQ therapists, neurodivergent therapists, sports performance experts, and chronic illness therapists. At Summer Counseling, you'll find large offices, comfortable waiting spaces, easy access to paperwork and scheduling, and a fresh cup of coffee or tea waiting for you!
(651) 967-7945 View (651) 967-7945
Photo of Karin Lyon - Lyon Counseling, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Lyon Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414  (Online Only)
I frequently hear my clients say some version of “If people ever knew what I’m struggling with on the inside…” Maybe you're a "people-pleaser" or someone with invisible chronic illness or maybe you're a high functioning individual who manages to hold it all together while feeling like a mess on the inside. If you're searching for some space to be heard and understood and sift through the internal dynamics, I can help.
I frequently hear my clients say some version of “If people ever knew what I’m struggling with on the inside…” Maybe you're a "people-pleaser" or someone with invisible chronic illness or maybe you're a high functioning individual who manages to hold it all together while feeling like a mess on the inside. If you're searching for some space to be heard and understood and sift through the internal dynamics, I can help.
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Photo of Shari L Marik-Roach, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shari L Marik-Roach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I have a strong passion in working with individuals coping with anxiety, depression, aging, grief, loss, chronic illness and trauma.
New diagnosis? Recent loss of a loved one? Life feeling overwhelming? I can help! I believe that healing is a journey that doesn't have to happen alone. As your therapist, I will work alongside you to help process, set goals, overcome obstacles and gain control back in your life. Also, I recognize how difficult it can be to take that first step which is why I am dedicated to ensuring my practice is offered with a very caring, non judgmental and client centered approach.
I have a strong passion in working with individuals coping with anxiety, depression, aging, grief, loss, chronic illness and trauma.
New diagnosis? Recent loss of a loved one? Life feeling overwhelming? I can help! I believe that healing is a journey that doesn't have to happen alone. As your therapist, I will work alongside you to help process, set goals, overcome obstacles and gain control back in your life. Also, I recognize how difficult it can be to take that first step which is why I am dedicated to ensuring my practice is offered with a very caring, non judgmental and client centered approach.
(651) 360-1636 View (651) 360-1636
Photo of Nicole Cardarella-Gasper, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Nicole Cardarella-Gasper
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55455
"I have found, through painful experience, that the most important step a person can take is always the next one.” -Brandon Sanderson Let me help you take the next step. I enjoy providing therapy for queer folx, chronic illness, nerds, adolescents, young adults, college students, and families. I have special interests in all things nerdy, sex, trauma, and exploring identities (gender, sexuality). I primarily work from a feminist, anti-capitalist, and strength-based perspective. My ideal client wants a strong therapeutic relationship with an affirming and relatable therapist.
"I have found, through painful experience, that the most important step a person can take is always the next one.” -Brandon Sanderson Let me help you take the next step. I enjoy providing therapy for queer folx, chronic illness, nerds, adolescents, young adults, college students, and families. I have special interests in all things nerdy, sex, trauma, and exploring identities (gender, sexuality). I primarily work from a feminist, anti-capitalist, and strength-based perspective. My ideal client wants a strong therapeutic relationship with an affirming and relatable therapist.
(612) 428-4945 View (612) 428-4945
Photo of Allison Nimlos, MA, LMFT, CDCES, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Nimlos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CDCES
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
My specialty is with people experiencing a chronic illness or health condition. I also enjoy helping individuals with anxiety and stress, boundaries and communication with family, and significant life stressors. I also work with couples on communication, conflict and life transitions, such as parenthood or with a medical diagnosis in the family.
My specialty is with people experiencing a chronic illness or health condition. I also enjoy helping individuals with anxiety and stress, boundaries and communication with family, and significant life stressors. I also work with couples on communication, conflict and life transitions, such as parenthood or with a medical diagnosis in the family.
(952) 260-5494 View (952) 260-5494
Photo of Sherry Merriam, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Sherry Merriam
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
My passion is for clients I love to call Misfits and Sensitives -- artists, geeks/nerds, kink/BDSM folk, ethical nonmonogamists including polyamorists, Pagans and other religious minorities, witches, punks, activists, healthcare providers, folks with chronic illness/physical disability.
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
My passion is for clients I love to call Misfits and Sensitives -- artists, geeks/nerds, kink/BDSM folk, ethical nonmonogamists including polyamorists, Pagans and other religious minorities, witches, punks, activists, healthcare providers, folks with chronic illness/physical disability.
You're sure the average therapist can't handle or accept you, because that's what you get everywhere else you go. School, work, almost everywhere, it's been an uphill struggle to fit in and feel understood -- IF you even bother anymore. If you DO find YOUR people, YOUR tribe, you spend the whole time secretly terrified they'll figure out you're not good enough and kick you out. You've been burned a few too many times, which just reinforces your belief that you'll never belong. All that rejection and pain sits in your body and spirit, grinding you down every day. But there's still part of you that believes you can find your place.
(612) 473-3190 View (612) 473-3190
Photo of Dr. Bracey Dangerfield, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Bracey Dangerfield
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
I work with clients 8+ and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma/PTSD, racial identity, multicultural therapy, stress, anger management, and chronic illness.
As a clinician, I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients where they can freely express their thoughts and feelings. I use research-based treatments to help you meet your therapy goals.
I work with clients 8+ and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma/PTSD, racial identity, multicultural therapy, stress, anger management, and chronic illness.
As a clinician, I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients where they can freely express their thoughts and feelings. I use research-based treatments to help you meet your therapy goals.
(651) 615-4056 View (651) 615-4056
Photo of Rebecca Pihl, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Pihl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
My areas of focus center around coping with change, chronic stress, and grief & loss--- anxiety & depression, aging, life transition, chronic illness , infertility, caregiving, and parenting are special interests.
Has life brought an overwhelming amount of changes and challenges? Are you seeking help to make peace with the past & find a path through your difficulties? Do you need to explore new ways of approaching life instead of the old patterns? Healing is possible, and as a compassionate and trained listener I will partner with you on your own unique journey toward growth & peace as you face your struggles. A warm & trusting therapy relationship helps you take the risk of exploring, understanding and accepting yourself so that you can open up to new tools for moving forward.
My areas of focus center around coping with change, chronic stress, and grief & loss--- anxiety & depression, aging, life transition, chronic illness , infertility, caregiving, and parenting are special interests.
Has life brought an overwhelming amount of changes and challenges? Are you seeking help to make peace with the past & find a path through your difficulties? Do you need to explore new ways of approaching life instead of the old patterns? Healing is possible, and as a compassionate and trained listener I will partner with you on your own unique journey toward growth & peace as you face your struggles. A warm & trusting therapy relationship helps you take the risk of exploring, understanding and accepting yourself so that you can open up to new tools for moving forward.
(651) 222-9835 View (651) 222-9835
Photo of Leah Bonine, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Bonine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
My areas of professional interest include: anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, disability, sexuality, and gender exploration.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, sex positive, attachment-based lens. I specialize in working with adults from diverse backgrounds, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I see clients for individual therapy. I especially enjoy working with creative people and have a deep understanding of the creative process. I am trained in EMDR, AEDP and DBT.
My areas of professional interest include: anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, disability, sexuality, and gender exploration.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction, sex positive, attachment-based lens. I specialize in working with adults from diverse backgrounds, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I see clients for individual therapy. I especially enjoy working with creative people and have a deep understanding of the creative process. I am trained in EMDR, AEDP and DBT.
(612) 800-0486 View (612) 800-0486
Photo of Alessandra Gaglio, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alessandra Gaglio
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407
I work with folks on non-monogamy, grief, and chronic illness.
In therapy I value equity, collaboration, humor, and patience. I believe in a holistic approach where we see you not as a set of symptoms, but as a whole, complex, capable human being. You are the expert in your own life– in our work I will strive to provide support, reflection, and camaraderie as you seek out a life that fulfills you. I love working with couples, families, adults, and teenagers.
I work with folks on non-monogamy, grief, and chronic illness.
In therapy I value equity, collaboration, humor, and patience. I believe in a holistic approach where we see you not as a set of symptoms, but as a whole, complex, capable human being. You are the expert in your own life– in our work I will strive to provide support, reflection, and camaraderie as you seek out a life that fulfills you. I love working with couples, families, adults, and teenagers.
(612) 482-4503 View (612) 482-4503
Photo of Brittni Ingvaldson, MA, LPCC, LADC, CCTP, CTALC
Brittni Ingvaldson
MA, LPCC, LADC, CCTP, CTALC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I am passionate about working with adolescents & adults that identify as female, male & LGBTQIA+ who are struggling with eating disorders/body image(HAES informed), anxiety, depression, self-esteem,identity development, life-transitions, bullying, self-injurious behaviors, abuse, co-occurring disorders, addictions, chronic illness & medical traumas.
I provide individuals with a safe and non-judgmental space where feelings of all kinds are received and validated, a trusted therapeutic relationship can be shared, and healing and self-discovery can happen! I want to support individuals in rediscovering their true authentic self through empowering individuals to explore,challenge,and invest in their healing. My client-centered approaches use a variety of evidence based therapeutic modalities that support individualized healing on all levels.
I am passionate about working with adolescents & adults that identify as female, male & LGBTQIA+ who are struggling with eating disorders/body image(HAES informed), anxiety, depression, self-esteem,identity development, life-transitions, bullying, self-injurious behaviors, abuse, co-occurring disorders, addictions, chronic illness & medical traumas.
I provide individuals with a safe and non-judgmental space where feelings of all kinds are received and validated, a trusted therapeutic relationship can be shared, and healing and self-discovery can happen! I want to support individuals in rediscovering their true authentic self through empowering individuals to explore,challenge,and invest in their healing. My client-centered approaches use a variety of evidence based therapeutic modalities that support individualized healing on all levels.
(952) 260-3803 View (952) 260-3803

See more therapy options for Mendota Heights

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.