Chronic Illness Therapists in Ithaca, NY
I have worked many years in hospice and palliative care, and often work with clients through the impact of illness, new diagnosis, chronic illness, death & grief.
Clients often tell me I am an engaged, interactive counselor. I am a deep listener, allowing you to hear and reflect on yourself, while also actively offering guidance, practical techniques, insight and coaching. With over 15 years of clinical experience, I offer expertise in steering a course through times of change and finding what is most essential.
I have worked many years in hospice and palliative care, and often work with clients through the impact of illness, new diagnosis, chronic illness, death & grief.
Clients often tell me I am an engaged, interactive counselor. I am a deep listener, allowing you to hear and reflect on yourself, while also actively offering guidance, practical techniques, insight and coaching. With over 15 years of clinical experience, I offer expertise in steering a course through times of change and finding what is most essential.
Emma Novick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14851 (Online Only)
Therapy can feel daunting after much contemplation. You have been feeling exhausted, stressed, or emotionally overwhelmed, especially if you are experiencing chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, or relationship issues. You may find it difficult to navigate your healthcare and get the help you need. Constantly reaccepting your illness or stuck on thoughts from your past and struggling to express needs or feelings to others can be draining. I connect with adults who want to explore these stressors, understand them, and find ways to become their own advocates.
Therapy can feel daunting after much contemplation. You have been feeling exhausted, stressed, or emotionally overwhelmed, especially if you are experiencing chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, or relationship issues. You may find it difficult to navigate your healthcare and get the help you need. Constantly reaccepting your illness or stuck on thoughts from your past and struggling to express needs or feelings to others can be draining. I connect with adults who want to explore these stressors, understand them, and find ways to become their own advocates.
Hannah Rumpf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850 (Online Only)
I have specialized experience working with people struggling with panic, trauma, traumatic brain injuries, individuals with disabilities and/or chronic illness, and the LGBTQ community.
Welcome! Everyone goes through challenges at some point in their lives, and we all need support in difficult times. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, injury, trauma, or other challenges, therapy can provide the tools you need for renewed hope, healing, and transformation. I believe in a therapeutic relationship grounded in kindness, trust, and empathy. During our sessions, I will listen deeply and non-judgmentally to your unique experience. Our relationship can be the catalyst for positive change in your life.
I have specialized experience working with people struggling with panic, trauma, traumatic brain injuries, individuals with disabilities and/or chronic illness, and the LGBTQ community.
Welcome! Everyone goes through challenges at some point in their lives, and we all need support in difficult times. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, injury, trauma, or other challenges, therapy can provide the tools you need for renewed hope, healing, and transformation. I believe in a therapeutic relationship grounded in kindness, trust, and empathy. During our sessions, I will listen deeply and non-judgmentally to your unique experience. Our relationship can be the catalyst for positive change in your life.
Alison Christiansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850
Waitlist for new clients
I'm licensed in NY, CA and MA and specialize in treating anxiety, childhood trauma, medical trauma, depression, substance use, grief, chronic illness, life transitions and relational concerns.
Please note: I currently have a waitlist for new clients - please email. Welcome! I recognize asking for help is no simple task and respect your curiosity in exploring this step. I view therapy as an invitation to delve deeper into your current concerns, personal history, conditioning and defenses in order to reconnect with your true self and experience growth and wellness in your life. Therapy is a unique experience for every person, with the potential to be transformational.
I'm licensed in NY, CA and MA and specialize in treating anxiety, childhood trauma, medical trauma, depression, substance use, grief, chronic illness, life transitions and relational concerns.
Please note: I currently have a waitlist for new clients - please email. Welcome! I recognize asking for help is no simple task and respect your curiosity in exploring this step. I view therapy as an invitation to delve deeper into your current concerns, personal history, conditioning and defenses in order to reconnect with your true self and experience growth and wellness in your life. Therapy is a unique experience for every person, with the potential to be transformational.
Jennifer Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850 (Online Only)
My practice focuses on individuals and couples, ranging in age from 18 to elderly. I strive to create a safe environment in which to explore life stressors, patterns of relating with others, and how past experiences impact the present. Areas of professional practice include anxiety/depression, chronic illness including HIV, grief/loss, relationships, sexual issues, separation/divorce, LGBTQ, family planning, career transition, and finances. I have extensive experience with addictions, and work collaboratively with clients, whether the goal is safer substance use, reducing use, or abstinence.
My practice focuses on individuals and couples, ranging in age from 18 to elderly. I strive to create a safe environment in which to explore life stressors, patterns of relating with others, and how past experiences impact the present. Areas of professional practice include anxiety/depression, chronic illness including HIV, grief/loss, relationships, sexual issues, separation/divorce, LGBTQ, family planning, career transition, and finances. I have extensive experience with addictions, and work collaboratively with clients, whether the goal is safer substance use, reducing use, or abstinence.
I am a psychologist with expertise in working with anxiety, life transitions, identity formation, grief, family-of-origin, people living with a chronic illness (cancer, pain), ADHD, relationships, depression, men's issues, and existentialism (values, meaning-making). Outside of my clinical practice, I am a Professor of Psychology at Brooklyn College, with extensive teaching experience at the university-level and research program (over 20 peer-reviewed publications), including funding from the National Institute of Mental Health.
I am a psychologist with expertise in working with anxiety, life transitions, identity formation, grief, family-of-origin, people living with a chronic illness (cancer, pain), ADHD, relationships, depression, men's issues, and existentialism (values, meaning-making). Outside of my clinical practice, I am a Professor of Psychology at Brooklyn College, with extensive teaching experience at the university-level and research program (over 20 peer-reviewed publications), including funding from the National Institute of Mental Health.
Are you searching for a therapist because you feel stressed, worried, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for a therapist to support you while you struggle with your problems? Or how to make changes in your life? Or, maybe you have decided it is time to explore and resolve those personal issues that keep coming up again and again - the ones you cannot ignore any longer? I may be that therapist for you. Contact me for a free consultation or visit my website at www.drchetlesniak.com
Are you searching for a therapist because you feel stressed, worried, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for a therapist to support you while you struggle with your problems? Or how to make changes in your life? Or, maybe you have decided it is time to explore and resolve those personal issues that keep coming up again and again - the ones you cannot ignore any longer? I may be that therapist for you. Contact me for a free consultation or visit my website at www.drchetlesniak.com
Sarah McGuire-Mendoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850 (Online Only)
8/2024: I currently have a couple of morning and early afternoon openings Monday-Thursday. Hi, hello, and welcome! I’m glad you’re here, taking the first big step towards making change in your life. I know it can be intimidating, but therapy doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I’m here to help you get where you want to be in life, and that is something we can do together. My specialties are anxiety, panic, stress management, and chronic or new medical conditions, including pain. If you'd like to schedule a free consultation or learn more about me please check out my website for more information!
8/2024: I currently have a couple of morning and early afternoon openings Monday-Thursday. Hi, hello, and welcome! I’m glad you’re here, taking the first big step towards making change in your life. I know it can be intimidating, but therapy doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I’m here to help you get where you want to be in life, and that is something we can do together. My specialties are anxiety, panic, stress management, and chronic or new medical conditions, including pain. If you'd like to schedule a free consultation or learn more about me please check out my website for more information!
Kristen M Haddad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850 (Online Only)
My primary therapeutic focus is to help teenagers and adults to develop a stronger sense of self and to develop the coping skills they will need to address issues of anxiety, self esteem and self worth. I use a non-judgmental, trauma informed and holistic approach to help clients develop their ability to self soothe, including using body/movement and grounding techniques. I focus on both personal autonomy and understanding ourselves in relationships, with the goal of moving out of stuck feelings and thoughts to embody a more curious stance of your experiences and the world around you.
My primary therapeutic focus is to help teenagers and adults to develop a stronger sense of self and to develop the coping skills they will need to address issues of anxiety, self esteem and self worth. I use a non-judgmental, trauma informed and holistic approach to help clients develop their ability to self soothe, including using body/movement and grounding techniques. I focus on both personal autonomy and understanding ourselves in relationships, with the goal of moving out of stuck feelings and thoughts to embody a more curious stance of your experiences and the world around you.
Accepting New Clients- Hello and welcome! Looking for a therapist that is a good fit can be challenging. Our work together is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. While accepting clients of all ages, I have a special interest in working with adults after graduating high school or entering college, maternal mental health and supporting parents and caregivers navigate life transitions and challenges.
Accepting New Clients- Hello and welcome! Looking for a therapist that is a good fit can be challenging. Our work together is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. While accepting clients of all ages, I have a special interest in working with adults after graduating high school or entering college, maternal mental health and supporting parents and caregivers navigate life transitions and challenges.
Brian Cobb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients... May I support you in managing your strengths and resources to feel empowered to cope with life challenges? Together, in a compassionate, safe, collaborative environment, we will create a positive path towards your well-being and success, whether you’re on a healing journey or looking to gain more achievements. I have over 16 years of experience working with individuals, families, couples and groups. I work with everyone across the lifespan from ages 5 years on up.
Accepting New Clients... May I support you in managing your strengths and resources to feel empowered to cope with life challenges? Together, in a compassionate, safe, collaborative environment, we will create a positive path towards your well-being and success, whether you’re on a healing journey or looking to gain more achievements. I have over 16 years of experience working with individuals, families, couples and groups. I work with everyone across the lifespan from ages 5 years on up.
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Randi Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling unstable or broken, no matter what you do? You've tried toughing it out, burying your feelings, taking medications, going to therapy. None of it has been enough, and you're afraid you'll never feel better. You're tired of getting triggered, living through the same ups and downs over and over again, and feeling bad about yourself all the time. I want you to know that your life can be better; your life can be good.
Do you find yourself feeling unstable or broken, no matter what you do? You've tried toughing it out, burying your feelings, taking medications, going to therapy. None of it has been enough, and you're afraid you'll never feel better. You're tired of getting triggered, living through the same ups and downs over and over again, and feeling bad about yourself all the time. I want you to know that your life can be better; your life can be good.
Alison Beach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850 (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients for August and Fall 2024. For continuity of services during academic breaks, I am licensed to practice in Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania in addition to New York State.
I am accepting new clients for August and Fall 2024. For continuity of services during academic breaks, I am licensed to practice in Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania in addition to New York State.
Geri Moore Manahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, HS-BCP
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked extensively with individuals who struggle with alcoholism, addictions, co-occurring disorders, and recovery challenges, as well as with relationship and family issues.
I have worked extensively with individuals who struggle with alcoholism, addictions, co-occurring disorders, and recovery challenges, as well as with relationship and family issues.
I’ve been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 20 years, working the last 10+ years in private practice in Ithaca, NY. While I have an office on N. Tioga Street in downtown Ithaca, the majority of my meetings happen online. I take a collaborative approach to this work and draw on my experience and education to provide an individualized approach to therapy. I work with people who are managing acute or chronic physical illness, pain and the often complicated diagnostic process.
I’ve been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 20 years, working the last 10+ years in private practice in Ithaca, NY. While I have an office on N. Tioga Street in downtown Ithaca, the majority of my meetings happen online. I take a collaborative approach to this work and draw on my experience and education to provide an individualized approach to therapy. I work with people who are managing acute or chronic physical illness, pain and the often complicated diagnostic process.
I’m passionate about helping to heal from trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I'm also interested in identity issues - “who am I in the face of this?” - such as those coming from life transitions, realizations about sexual orientation, severe addiction, spirituality or religion, being in a relationship with an addicted or narcissistic person, or from having a long-term diagnosis like ADHD or Borderline Personality Disorder. I work with teens, young adults, middle aged and elders; couples, families, and individuals.
I’m passionate about helping to heal from trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I'm also interested in identity issues - “who am I in the face of this?” - such as those coming from life transitions, realizations about sexual orientation, severe addiction, spirituality or religion, being in a relationship with an addicted or narcissistic person, or from having a long-term diagnosis like ADHD or Borderline Personality Disorder. I work with teens, young adults, middle aged and elders; couples, families, and individuals.
I am currently not accepting new patients until 2024. Experiencing a loss of sexual desire? Arguing about frequency of sex? Worried about performance issues? Healing from sexual trauma or infidelity? Want to better understand your sexuality? I specialize in working with individuals, couples and multi-partnered relationships as they explore concerns related to sex, intimacy and gender identity. Using a combination of proven methods in sex therapy and relationship/family therapies, I help people heal and experience a satisfying sex life so they can live a more connected and thriving life.
I am currently not accepting new patients until 2024. Experiencing a loss of sexual desire? Arguing about frequency of sex? Worried about performance issues? Healing from sexual trauma or infidelity? Want to better understand your sexuality? I specialize in working with individuals, couples and multi-partnered relationships as they explore concerns related to sex, intimacy and gender identity. Using a combination of proven methods in sex therapy and relationship/family therapies, I help people heal and experience a satisfying sex life so they can live a more connected and thriving life.
Are you seeking evidence-based psychotherapy to help you achieve your goals or manage your symptoms in the most effective way? If you or your child are struggling with your mood, anxiety, trauma, obsessive or unhelpful thinking patterns, chronic pain, or behaviors you wish to change, I or another qualified therapist at MindWell Psychology may be able to help you.
Are you seeking evidence-based psychotherapy to help you achieve your goals or manage your symptoms in the most effective way? If you or your child are struggling with your mood, anxiety, trauma, obsessive or unhelpful thinking patterns, chronic pain, or behaviors you wish to change, I or another qualified therapist at MindWell Psychology may be able to help you.
Ellen Maranca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850 (Online Only)
Hello, Are you a student or professional looking for some support? I am accepting new clients. Common issues I can help with include relationship or work/academic stressors, grief/loss, trauma/abuse, phobias, significant life changes, and parenting challenges. I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds, and have helped numerous people to heal, reduce symptoms, and essentially lead a more fulfilling life. My approach is very individualized, and I am able to put clients at ease right from the start.
Hello, Are you a student or professional looking for some support? I am accepting new clients. Common issues I can help with include relationship or work/academic stressors, grief/loss, trauma/abuse, phobias, significant life changes, and parenting challenges. I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds, and have helped numerous people to heal, reduce symptoms, and essentially lead a more fulfilling life. My approach is very individualized, and I am able to put clients at ease right from the start.
Challenges and occasional catastrophes are inevitable, and serve to strengthen our confidence in the long run. If our fear and negativity are running the show, however, we get stuck. Let's pick apart the patterns that do not serve and re-author a peaceful, vibrant future. Using a combination of psychotherapy and coaching allows us to uncover destructive patterns, heal, and then move forward in a positive, purposeful direction. What are the painful ideas, feelings and memories that fuel your reactions?
Challenges and occasional catastrophes are inevitable, and serve to strengthen our confidence in the long run. If our fear and negativity are running the show, however, we get stuck. Let's pick apart the patterns that do not serve and re-author a peaceful, vibrant future. Using a combination of psychotherapy and coaching allows us to uncover destructive patterns, heal, and then move forward in a positive, purposeful direction. What are the painful ideas, feelings and memories that fuel your reactions?
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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.