Chronic Illness Therapists in Charlotte, NC
![Photo of Michelle Einson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a361f06-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
With over 14 years in the medical setting, I also specialize in chronic illness, bereavement and pain management.
Raising a child with developmental, medical, or psychological difficulties can be a struggle for even the best of families. Couples, as well, often need help with navigating the myriad of "man/woman communication styles and parenting difficulties..
With over 14 years in the medical setting, I also specialize in chronic illness, bereavement and pain management.
Raising a child with developmental, medical, or psychological difficulties can be a struggle for even the best of families. Couples, as well, often need help with navigating the myriad of "man/woman communication styles and parenting difficulties..
![Photo of Lucy Dunning, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4de978b9-e1ee-4014-899c-69e208f9cac3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lucy Dunning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, BC-TMC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277 (Online Only)
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
Connecting with the right therapist is critical when starting your therapeutic journey. I provide free consultations to potential clients, ensuring they feel confident when committing to their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with patients and families who experience Chronic Illness and Pain. As a chronic illness patient and therapist, I recognize the unique and personal journey clients experience. I understand the obstacles, stigma, and barriers my clients face as they work on building their quality of life.
![Photo of Levette Scott, PhD, NCC, LCMHC, LSC, EMDR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2ab859f-171c-406e-adc4-570b034be48d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction in Counselor Education from University of South Florida in 2013. I have over 10 years of school counseling experience, 25 years of nursing experience where two of those years were in psychiatric nursing and five years of mental health counseling. My areas of special interest and experience are working with individuals with a chronic illness, adolescent with anxiety and depressive issues, and group counseling specializations. I have also counseled children and adults with career readiness after being diagnosed with a chronic illness.
I have a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction in Counselor Education from University of South Florida in 2013. I have over 10 years of school counseling experience, 25 years of nursing experience where two of those years were in psychiatric nursing and five years of mental health counseling. My areas of special interest and experience are working with individuals with a chronic illness, adolescent with anxiety and depressive issues, and group counseling specializations. I have also counseled children and adults with career readiness after being diagnosed with a chronic illness.
![Photo of Lauren Morales, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb76e6e2-3c19-4e22-8f25-2ade8f1719af/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer individual therapy to those navigating chronic illness, cancer, infertility, military life, & young adulthood.
Have you found yourself going through the motions of your life? You probably feel disconnected from the people around you, unable to relax, and find yourself having a hard time dealing with triggers. Perhaps you are a self identified people-pleaser, control freak, or struggle with your self-worth/body acceptance. You may even deal with chronic illness and have found that your body feels like your worst enemy. If this resonates, I'd bet you are likely are recovering from a significant loss or trauma in your life. I know how hard it can be to reach out for help and I am so glad you are here.
I offer individual therapy to those navigating chronic illness, cancer, infertility, military life, & young adulthood.
Have you found yourself going through the motions of your life? You probably feel disconnected from the people around you, unable to relax, and find yourself having a hard time dealing with triggers. Perhaps you are a self identified people-pleaser, control freak, or struggle with your self-worth/body acceptance. You may even deal with chronic illness and have found that your body feels like your worst enemy. If this resonates, I'd bet you are likely are recovering from a significant loss or trauma in your life. I know how hard it can be to reach out for help and I am so glad you are here.
![Photo of Kylie Peele, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2753c991-7d10-431a-83a9-29f26357b87d/2/320x400.jpeg)
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
It may be difficult to find a therapist who is well versed on being sex positive, kink friendly, non-monogamous allied, and informed on chronic illnesses. These unique relationships require experience from someone who is passionate about them! You may need help with your multiple relationships, your relationship structure, or just someone to talk to who will not wince when your sex life is brought up. You may be struggling with a recent diagnosis of a chronic illness and want to talk with someone about it who understands the gravity a chronic illness diagnosis can bring. I love for clients to educate me on their lived experiences!
![Photo of Celine Bongaerts - Wellness Counseling PLLC, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/019b507a-d422-4929-909f-72b10566f40b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you really good at burying feelings, just to find them surprisingly unleashing one day and you didn’t see it coming? Find yourself experiencing anxiety, having flashbacks, and/or thinking about things over and over again? Have past relationship trauma and want a healthy relationship, but it feels really scary? Suffering from chronic illness or pain and feeling depressed/anxious, and wondering how you’re going to adapt to your new life?
Are you really good at burying feelings, just to find them surprisingly unleashing one day and you didn’t see it coming? Find yourself experiencing anxiety, having flashbacks, and/or thinking about things over and over again? Have past relationship trauma and want a healthy relationship, but it feels really scary? Suffering from chronic illness or pain and feeling depressed/anxious, and wondering how you’re going to adapt to your new life?
![Photo of Carla Kucinski, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51d5a9e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carla Kucinski
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277 (Online Only)
What so many of us are craving lately is peace. Our hearts, bodies and souls are carrying so much. We’re worried and weary. Maybe that’s what brought you here. You need help navigating uncertainty and change in your life--whether it's trauma, chronic illness, loss or anxiety. Sometimes we need someone to help guide us through these seasons of life and discover our inner wisdom to grow, heal and thrive again--not just survive. I’m here to help you find your way. To move through and heal from our pain, we need tools to feel grounded, to feel our feelings instead of run from them, and to develop a deeper relationship with ourselves.
What so many of us are craving lately is peace. Our hearts, bodies and souls are carrying so much. We’re worried and weary. Maybe that’s what brought you here. You need help navigating uncertainty and change in your life--whether it's trauma, chronic illness, loss or anxiety. Sometimes we need someone to help guide us through these seasons of life and discover our inner wisdom to grow, heal and thrive again--not just survive. I’m here to help you find your way. To move through and heal from our pain, we need tools to feel grounded, to feel our feelings instead of run from them, and to develop a deeper relationship with ourselves.
![Photo of Lauren Barker, LCMHCA, MA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2347ac2b-8add-437b-a07b-68a13ac0ba77/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Barker
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209 (Online Only)
You might be struggling with an eating disorder or body image, anxiety, chronic illness, or trauma. Or you may be dealing with relationship concerns even if you're currently in couples counseling or have tried it before. You may also be a mental health provider seeking therapy for yourself. Working through any of these concerns can be overwhelming and feel impossible to manage alone. I aim to meet you where you're at and work as your partner to build coping skills, meaningful connections to yourself & others, and ultimately a life that you fully enjoy living.
You might be struggling with an eating disorder or body image, anxiety, chronic illness, or trauma. Or you may be dealing with relationship concerns even if you're currently in couples counseling or have tried it before. You may also be a mental health provider seeking therapy for yourself. Working through any of these concerns can be overwhelming and feel impossible to manage alone. I aim to meet you where you're at and work as your partner to build coping skills, meaningful connections to yourself & others, and ultimately a life that you fully enjoy living.
![Photo of Cody W Chase, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e65654a-7f55-4e65-8fc9-369f5e4702d2/3/320x400.jpeg)
I can help navigate a new diagnosis, chronic illness, or caregiving.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
I can help navigate a new diagnosis, chronic illness, or caregiving.
Life is messy and sometimes we need help making sense of the chaos. I provide a safe and confidential space to be heard, be real, and be understood. I am passionate about helping people navigate the various expected and unexpected happenings in their lives. Whether it is managing the new territory of parenthood, dealing with an unexpected diagnosis, or handling the stresses of everyday life, I strive to help people remain grounded and arm them with healthy coping strategies to get on their desired path.
![Photo of Amy S Royal, LCSWA, CDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b316296c-3c65-4bae-9b05-80794834ebae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy S Royal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, CDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
Hello and welcome! I am one of the therapists at Next Chapter Counseling PLLC (visit our website via the link). I specialize in working with older adults, family caregivers, and mid-to older adults (primarily 50+) who are experiencing the stressors and transitions of middle age and beyond. This can include grief, loss, depression, anxiety, career changes, adjusting to new situations or environments, redefining purpose, navigating "empty nesting" or aging, dealing with difficult adult children, coping with chronic illness, caregiving responsibilities, and more.
Hello and welcome! I am one of the therapists at Next Chapter Counseling PLLC (visit our website via the link). I specialize in working with older adults, family caregivers, and mid-to older adults (primarily 50+) who are experiencing the stressors and transitions of middle age and beyond. This can include grief, loss, depression, anxiety, career changes, adjusting to new situations or environments, redefining purpose, navigating "empty nesting" or aging, dealing with difficult adult children, coping with chronic illness, caregiving responsibilities, and more.
![Photo of Samii Stephens, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5699ed37-24e8-4dc2-ae1e-b23c4d9ec99f/4/320x400.png)
Samii Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
Hi there! Thank you for taking the initiative to seek care for yourself or a loved one. I have multiple years of experience in working with adolescents and adults in the mental health field. Primarily, my areas of focus are treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain/chronic illness and mental health in athletes. I appreciate holistic approaches to therapy but I enjoy being able to adapt treatment to the unique characteristics/needs of each client. My hope is to be a support for you as you reach your goals, face obstacles and celebrate victories!
15 Second Videos
Carla Kucinski
Lauren Barker
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Kayla Reeve
Taylor Cummins(Vinson)
Taylor Cummins(Vinson)
Patricia S. Duggan
Stephen Pleasant
Neil D. Beresin
Alexis Skelley
Robert Limkeman
Terri Ray
Matthew House Counseling Center/Anthony Redfearn
Clarrice King
Connie Mele
Another Level Counseling and Consultation
Joey Hess
Kaci Pennington
Ellie Bensinger
Maria Dimova
Diana Levitt
Trauma Eating Disorder Anxiety Recovery Laura Saune
Sarah Webber
Susan MacDonald Roddey
Kristin Hammond
Kayla Patterson
Kelly Stilwell Saylor
Daniel Miles
Asha Sims
Breanna Crisp
Jourdan Brickey
Katelyn Kivett
Robin Fine
Kristin Hammond
Steffie M Beard
LeeAnna Perry
Laura H. Frohboese
Sarah Webber
Carolyn J Henderson
Blossom Wellness Plaza Midwood
Another Way Recovery Services
Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy
Nichole Gause
Veronda Bellamy
Dignity Weight Center
James William Pruett
Zoë Endicott
Palmetto Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC
M. Kathleen Holmes
Danielle Houston Coleman
![Photo of Katie Boone, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/733a77dc-5ec8-4d1d-a6aa-e5752ab9ce87/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who face a range of challenges, including stress; symptoms of anxiety and depression; adjustment to life transitions; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; chronic illness; trauma; and issues related to sexual and/or gender identity.
Sometimes in life we find ourselves feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed. When I work with clients, I strive to help them create the supportive, therapeutic ground from which they can find the stability and balance to move forward, heal, and grow. I applaud you for taking the first step in this process – reaching out for help.
I work with clients who face a range of challenges, including stress; symptoms of anxiety and depression; adjustment to life transitions; grief and loss; relationship difficulties; chronic illness; trauma; and issues related to sexual and/or gender identity.
Sometimes in life we find ourselves feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed. When I work with clients, I strive to help them create the supportive, therapeutic ground from which they can find the stability and balance to move forward, heal, and grow. I applaud you for taking the first step in this process – reaching out for help.
![Photo of Lisa Lorence del Valle, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b28231a-f78a-4cde-9f13-f0fa19a00a1b/3/320x400.jpeg)
People who struggle with their weight and/or experience poor body image; depression; anxiety; and chronic illness, are my specialties.
Are you in need of additional support and direction to get through difficult moments? Are you struggling with issues that have been around for weeks, or even decades? For 28 years, I have been working with adults who are looking to break old patterns (thinking, eating, behaving), take better care of themselves, and create a more mindful way of living.
People who struggle with their weight and/or experience poor body image; depression; anxiety; and chronic illness, are my specialties.
Are you in need of additional support and direction to get through difficult moments? Are you struggling with issues that have been around for weeks, or even decades? For 28 years, I have been working with adults who are looking to break old patterns (thinking, eating, behaving), take better care of themselves, and create a more mindful way of living.
![Photo of Parker Reid Anderson - Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, LCMHC, NCC, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f539581-3f7e-4290-8c81-532904d72ccb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28206 (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
![Photo of Nancy Waring, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd8cf74-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, a wide range of relationship issues (including marital, pre-marital, divorce and singleness), chronic illness, grief and also offer career assessment and counseling. I combine a practical, problem solving approach with a focus on the client's emotional and family history to facilitate greater insight for the client as we collaborate to bring balance and wholeness to that client's life. In my many years of practice, I have been on staff at a university counseling center, a large private practice and currently am with a ministry-based counseling center.
I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, a wide range of relationship issues (including marital, pre-marital, divorce and singleness), chronic illness, grief and also offer career assessment and counseling. I combine a practical, problem solving approach with a focus on the client's emotional and family history to facilitate greater insight for the client as we collaborate to bring balance and wholeness to that client's life. In my many years of practice, I have been on staff at a university counseling center, a large private practice and currently am with a ministry-based counseling center.
![Photo of Maekela Delk, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/900664fa-10fa-42d7-83db-ae355538d8d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you’re struggling with managing chronic illness, navigating the complexities of women's health issues spanning from birth trauma to menopause? Feeling crushed by the weight of relationship struggles, or simply burdened by daily anxiety, depression, or past traumas? You're not alone! It's natural to feel overwhelmed and isolated in the face of these hurdles. But you don't have to bear it all alone. We create a safe and supportive space, free from judgment, where you can openly share your deepest thoughts and emotions. We're dedicated to helping you achieve your desired goals for personal growth.
Are you’re struggling with managing chronic illness, navigating the complexities of women's health issues spanning from birth trauma to menopause? Feeling crushed by the weight of relationship struggles, or simply burdened by daily anxiety, depression, or past traumas? You're not alone! It's natural to feel overwhelmed and isolated in the face of these hurdles. But you don't have to bear it all alone. We create a safe and supportive space, free from judgment, where you can openly share your deepest thoughts and emotions. We're dedicated to helping you achieve your desired goals for personal growth.
![Photo of Tia Hunter, MS, LCMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/015828bc-b438-453c-8268-0081e16ca256/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tia Hunter
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207 (Online Only)
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
![Photo of Haley Cohen, MS, LCMHC, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ea0f7c0-66d6-4d72-9932-fb3a6ff9a919/2/320x400.jpeg)
Haley Cohen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269 (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, lost or overwhelmed? Perhaps you feel like you have to invest so much energy but still feel unfulfilled and empty. Do you struggle with intense worry, self doubt or shame? You might not know where these feelings come from, what you are needing or perhaps, you are in a painful situation, relationship or job. You might struggle with chronic illness and have the added stress of navigating your physical health when you already feel drained. Perhaps you are deeply impacted by past wounds or trauma. It is possible to feel better and it's possible to have healthy relationships both with yourself and others.
Do you feel stuck, lost or overwhelmed? Perhaps you feel like you have to invest so much energy but still feel unfulfilled and empty. Do you struggle with intense worry, self doubt or shame? You might not know where these feelings come from, what you are needing or perhaps, you are in a painful situation, relationship or job. You might struggle with chronic illness and have the added stress of navigating your physical health when you already feel drained. Perhaps you are deeply impacted by past wounds or trauma. It is possible to feel better and it's possible to have healthy relationships both with yourself and others.
![Photo of Sherrá Watkins - Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76ca12ec-70fa-40a9-958e-ab58880b5206/1/320x400.png)
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262 (Online Only)
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
We give so much of ourselves to our jobs, families, friends and more that we often lose ourselves and focus on the daily struggle of just surviving. Becoming overwhelmed or feeling anxious, depressed, scared or even angry, may stop you from reaching your full potential. We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. We have a passion for helping others to find their voice, passion, and to create a healthier reality than their present state. We provide Teletherapy & Coaching services. Therapy services are provided by a Four Therapists & Coaching services by Drs. Watkins, Elbert & Blumell.
![Photo of Kayla Reeve, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0a29db9-3e72-4bfa-b03c-372ed28a1f84/2/320x400.png)
Now accepting Clients: Have you gotten so good at predicting others' needs that you have suddenly forgotten how to have any of your own? I love empowering professional people-pleasers to explore their authenticity.
Now accepting Clients: Have you gotten so good at predicting others' needs that you have suddenly forgotten how to have any of your own? I love empowering professional people-pleasers to explore their authenticity.
See more therapy options for Charlotte
Nearby Chronic Illness Therapists Searches for Charlotte
- Belmont
- Concord
- Cornelius
- Harrisburg
- Huntersville
- Indian Trail
- Matthews
- Mint Hill
- Newell
- Pineville
- Waxhaw
- Weddington
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.