Chronic Illness Therapists in Gladstone, OR

Photo of Elizabeth D Smith, PhD, MSW, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth D Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gladstone, OR 97027  (Online Only)
Most of my clients come to me in the midst of some sort of transition--a difficult relationship, a new job, divorce, retirement, a move, etc.--that they are unable to navigate alone. I also see many persons confronting cancer, chronic pain or a crisis of faith. When we first meet, we will explore what brings you into therapy at this time. We will create a plan together to achieve the outcome you would like best. Many times, I find that transitions involve a certain amount of loss and grief that has not yet been acknowledged. Our goal would be to fit this transition, or life condition, large or small, into your overall life journey.
Most of my clients come to me in the midst of some sort of transition--a difficult relationship, a new job, divorce, retirement, a move, etc.--that they are unable to navigate alone. I also see many persons confronting cancer, chronic pain or a crisis of faith. When we first meet, we will explore what brings you into therapy at this time. We will create a plan together to achieve the outcome you would like best. Many times, I find that transitions involve a certain amount of loss and grief that has not yet been acknowledged. Our goal would be to fit this transition, or life condition, large or small, into your overall life journey.
(971) 303-8464 View (971) 303-8464
Photo of Kathleen Mintzer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Mintzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gladstone, OR 97027
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adults who are ready and willing to work on issues that stand in their way of being content in their lives. I work with individuals who are often dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, medical issues, relationship problems, work or school difficulties, grief, loss and/or change. If you would like things to be different in your life and are ready to see if we can work together, please give me a call.
I enjoy working with adults who are ready and willing to work on issues that stand in their way of being content in their lives. I work with individuals who are often dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, medical issues, relationship problems, work or school difficulties, grief, loss and/or change. If you would like things to be different in your life and are ready to see if we can work together, please give me a call.
(805) 813-8482 View (805) 813-8482
Photo of Diane Calder - Clackamas Clinical Mental Health
Clackamas Clinical Mental Health
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Gladstone, OR 97027
I work with a variety of clients, all having one thing in common: They are unhappy with the direction their life has taken and seek insight so that their lives can change. Whether they are wanting to process a life event and only want to come one or two sessions, or whether they want to make a long-term connection with a counselor, I tailor my therapy to my clients' needs. My approach is interactive, engaging my clients in conversations that help them process past or present events, so that they can find their own path to healing.
I work with a variety of clients, all having one thing in common: They are unhappy with the direction their life has taken and seek insight so that their lives can change. Whether they are wanting to process a life event and only want to come one or two sessions, or whether they want to make a long-term connection with a counselor, I tailor my therapy to my clients' needs. My approach is interactive, engaging my clients in conversations that help them process past or present events, so that they can find their own path to healing.
(503) 832-6962 View (503) 832-6962
Photo of Theresa Graham, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladstone, OR 97027  (Online Only)
I am currently Accepting New Clients, including OHP. I offer a collaborative compassionate mind-body approach to healing and to reaching personal goals. I specialize in EMDR and Somatic Psychotherapy, mixed with Cognitive Behavioral interventions. I believe healing involves both mind and body as many symptoms of stress, anxiety, trauma and more are experienced in Both mind and body.
I am currently Accepting New Clients, including OHP. I offer a collaborative compassionate mind-body approach to healing and to reaching personal goals. I specialize in EMDR and Somatic Psychotherapy, mixed with Cognitive Behavioral interventions. I believe healing involves both mind and body as many symptoms of stress, anxiety, trauma and more are experienced in Both mind and body.
(503) 213-6748 View (503) 213-6748
Photo of Katie Palumbo, MA
Katie Palumbo
Professional Counselor Associate , MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladstone, OR 97027
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. Choosing a therapist can be overwhelming and I know that finding the right fit matters! You may be here looking for support navigating a tough internal critic that you can’t seem to silence, or a people-pleasing part that always prioritizes others over you. Maybe you are ready to process and heal from memories of abandonment or neglect from those who should have cared about you most. Whatever your brave starting point, there is hope! Together, we can turn inward and offer compassion and care to the parts of you that long for healing and freedom.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. Choosing a therapist can be overwhelming and I know that finding the right fit matters! You may be here looking for support navigating a tough internal critic that you can’t seem to silence, or a people-pleasing part that always prioritizes others over you. Maybe you are ready to process and heal from memories of abandonment or neglect from those who should have cared about you most. Whatever your brave starting point, there is hope! Together, we can turn inward and offer compassion and care to the parts of you that long for healing and freedom.
(971) 299-7446 View (971) 299-7446

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rose Walker, PCA, LPC Intern
Rose Walker
LPC Intern, PCA
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older, who are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain and chronic illness.
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in your journey of living a more authentic and fulfilling life. I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older. My approach to counseling is person-centered, providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space for you to explore the challenges and patterns preventing you from achieving your goals and to discover your unique path for spiritual, emotional, social, and mental wellness. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, depending upon each individual’s needs, informed by CBT, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older, who are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain and chronic illness.
My goal as a counselor is to assist you in your journey of living a more authentic and fulfilling life. I work with teens and adults, 14 years and older. My approach to counseling is person-centered, providing a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space for you to explore the challenges and patterns preventing you from achieving your goals and to discover your unique path for spiritual, emotional, social, and mental wellness. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, depending upon each individual’s needs, informed by CBT, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally-Focused Individual Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
(503) 855-6949 View (503) 855-6949
Photo of Sofia Jasani, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sofia Jasani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. I provide affirming, empowering care to children and adults in Oregon. We might be a good fit if you are Asian, Black, Indigenous, Latinx, first generation, queer, or gender expansive. I help people find relief from the pain and stress of grief, anxiety, depression, parenting, intergenerational trauma, chronic illness, and systemic oppression. ​I am currently offering both in-person therapy and secure telehealth video sessions for clients in Oregon during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. I provide affirming, empowering care to children and adults in Oregon. We might be a good fit if you are Asian, Black, Indigenous, Latinx, first generation, queer, or gender expansive. I help people find relief from the pain and stress of grief, anxiety, depression, parenting, intergenerational trauma, chronic illness, and systemic oppression. ​I am currently offering both in-person therapy and secure telehealth video sessions for clients in Oregon during the COVID-19 pandemic.
(971) 340-2665 View (971) 340-2665
Photo of Angelie Healy, Angelie Healy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelie Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Angelie Healy, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oregon, Idaho, and Colorado. I obtained my Master’s degree at Portland State University in 2006. I specialize in treating adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, neurologic disorders, eating disorders, grief and loss, chronic illness, caregiver strain, life transitions, and challenges in their personal relationships. I support diversity in my practice with clients.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oregon, Idaho, and Colorado. I obtained my Master’s degree at Portland State University in 2006. I specialize in treating adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, neurologic disorders, eating disorders, grief and loss, chronic illness, caregiver strain, life transitions, and challenges in their personal relationships. I support diversity in my practice with clients.
(541) 569-4792 View (541) 569-4792
Photo of Dr. Lily Iteld Child And Adolescent Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Lily Iteld Child And Adolescent Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I'm Dr. Lily, a board certified child and adolescent psychologist. Put simply, I work with kids and their parents to make daily life easier. I help kids develop skills and strategies to manage the difficulties they are facing and help parents develop tools to allow their child to thrive. I love the work I do and am honored to help families during their challenging times. With over a decade of experience in school and medical settings, I specialize in working with children and adolescents with anxiety, depression, challenges with self-regulation, chronic illness, pain management, picky eating/ARFID, encopresis, and tic disorders.
I'm Dr. Lily, a board certified child and adolescent psychologist. Put simply, I work with kids and their parents to make daily life easier. I help kids develop skills and strategies to manage the difficulties they are facing and help parents develop tools to allow their child to thrive. I love the work I do and am honored to help families during their challenging times. With over a decade of experience in school and medical settings, I specialize in working with children and adolescents with anxiety, depression, challenges with self-regulation, chronic illness, pain management, picky eating/ARFID, encopresis, and tic disorders.
(971) 251-1761 View (971) 251-1761
Photo of Sonia Milbank, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonia Milbank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I spent years working with adolescents and young adults with chronic illness (liver transplant and Inflammatory Bowel Disease populations).
With a background treating people across the lifespan, I have come to the realization that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most sacred spaces we can enter. With mutual respect and openness I can help you to process through grief, trauma, and chronic illness. It would be an honor to enter the sacred therapeutic space alongside you. Of note, while I am not currently taking insurance I am happy to provide you with a super bill for you to seek reimbursement from your insurance for out of network providers.
I spent years working with adolescents and young adults with chronic illness (liver transplant and Inflammatory Bowel Disease populations).
With a background treating people across the lifespan, I have come to the realization that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most sacred spaces we can enter. With mutual respect and openness I can help you to process through grief, trauma, and chronic illness. It would be an honor to enter the sacred therapeutic space alongside you. Of note, while I am not currently taking insurance I am happy to provide you with a super bill for you to seek reimbursement from your insurance for out of network providers.
(503) 549-1190 View (503) 549-1190
Photo of Jennifer Warner, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is dedicated to working with adults living with stress related to complex chronic illness (including COVID and post acute COVID syndrome, POTS, dysautonomia, vestibular disorders, migraine, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, MCAS, IBD, a) as well as with the caregivers, medical providers, and allied professionals who serve this population.
Asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do, but it can also be one of the hardest because of past experience of not being heard, believed, or supported. Extreme stressors and traumatic events - including new or ongoing health conditions - affect every aspect of our lives and can make relationships - with family, friends, colleagues, and even healthcare providers - very challenging. The impact of these events can make us feel isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported (even by the well-intentioned). They can lead us to make choices we aren't proud of and limit our enjoyment of life in general.
My practice is dedicated to working with adults living with stress related to complex chronic illness (including COVID and post acute COVID syndrome, POTS, dysautonomia, vestibular disorders, migraine, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, MCAS, IBD, a) as well as with the caregivers, medical providers, and allied professionals who serve this population.
Asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do, but it can also be one of the hardest because of past experience of not being heard, believed, or supported. Extreme stressors and traumatic events - including new or ongoing health conditions - affect every aspect of our lives and can make relationships - with family, friends, colleagues, and even healthcare providers - very challenging. The impact of these events can make us feel isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported (even by the well-intentioned). They can lead us to make choices we aren't proud of and limit our enjoyment of life in general.
(312) 584-1771 View (312) 584-1771
Photo of Samantha Auclair, MS, LPC, CRC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Auclair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
My clients often have a history of (or ongoing) trauma, including medical trauma, attachment trauma, single-incident traumatic events, and complex trauma; difficulty coping with chronic illness and/or disability (e.g., EDS, MCAS, POTS, gastrointestinal issues, cancer, autoimmune disease, mobility issues); anxiety/panic disorders; and/or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Some of my clients choose to do long-term depth work with me, while others may see me to work toward more immediate goals.
My clients often have a history of (or ongoing) trauma, including medical trauma, attachment trauma, single-incident traumatic events, and complex trauma; difficulty coping with chronic illness and/or disability (e.g., EDS, MCAS, POTS, gastrointestinal issues, cancer, autoimmune disease, mobility issues); anxiety/panic disorders; and/or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Some of my clients choose to do long-term depth work with me, while others may see me to work toward more immediate goals.
(503) 738-1080 View (503) 738-1080
Photo of Elva Redwood, MPW, DiplPW
Elva Redwood
MPW, DiplPW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97207
I'm all about helping people become more of themselves. If you are looking to discover and implement your own unique path forward, I may be the right counselor for you. I work with individuals and couples to resolve anxieties, manage the impact of chronic illness, and unravel old and constricting patterns, as well as resolve relationship conflicts and deepen emotional intimacy. Every person has strengths they are not yet aware of, as well as capacity to develop the skills and awareness needed for their life situation. It's my job to support your growth and flourishing, as well as deep self-care.
I'm all about helping people become more of themselves. If you are looking to discover and implement your own unique path forward, I may be the right counselor for you. I work with individuals and couples to resolve anxieties, manage the impact of chronic illness, and unravel old and constricting patterns, as well as resolve relationship conflicts and deepen emotional intimacy. Every person has strengths they are not yet aware of, as well as capacity to develop the skills and awareness needed for their life situation. It's my job to support your growth and flourishing, as well as deep self-care.
(971) 715-2522 View (971) 715-2522
Photo of Lavinia Paola Magliocco - Equipoise Integral Counseling LLC, LPC, CRC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Equipoise Integral Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
Life's challenges, especially chronic illness, can strain individuals & relationships.
Transformative Somatic Psychotherapy for individuals 14 & up, families & couples. Specializing in chronic illness, trauma, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, creativity, identity issues, sexuality, end-of-life care, & grief. Experienced in supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals & poly lifestyles. My approach is warm, direct, and compassionate, encouraging clients to grow past comfort zones & towards healing. Clients who are open to exploring bodily sensations, movement, & breath often find success in breaking free from limiting patterns & achieve lasting positive change.
Life's challenges, especially chronic illness, can strain individuals & relationships.
Transformative Somatic Psychotherapy for individuals 14 & up, families & couples. Specializing in chronic illness, trauma, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, creativity, identity issues, sexuality, end-of-life care, & grief. Experienced in supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals & poly lifestyles. My approach is warm, direct, and compassionate, encouraging clients to grow past comfort zones & towards healing. Clients who are open to exploring bodily sensations, movement, & breath often find success in breaking free from limiting patterns & achieve lasting positive change.
(971) 290-2570 View (971) 290-2570
Photo of Antonette Nelson Huff - Toni Nelson Huff Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toni Nelson Huff Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
I specialize in chronic illness, concerns related to transitions in aging, and later life/ end of life challenges.
Is life anything like you thought it would be at this stage? Are health care and life situations seemingly overwhelming? Who could have imagined the current world, country, climate and political situations we are facing today? I offer long term therapy for situations that are ongoing as well as short term problem- focused intervention of 6-8 weeks.
I specialize in chronic illness, concerns related to transitions in aging, and later life/ end of life challenges.
Is life anything like you thought it would be at this stage? Are health care and life situations seemingly overwhelming? Who could have imagined the current world, country, climate and political situations we are facing today? I offer long term therapy for situations that are ongoing as well as short term problem- focused intervention of 6-8 weeks.
(719) 652-5342 View (719) 652-5342
Photo of Sahar L. Jones, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sahar L. Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing structured, solution-focused, empathetic therapy for people experiencing anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, chronic illness and disability, and relationship stressors.
Feeling isolated, unsure of your purpose, stressed in your relationships, or ashamed or confused about your thoughts, actions or feelings? You are not alone. Mental health, relationship issues, socioeconomic stress, and life during COVID can all make it challenging to feel truly connected. But experiencing connection – whether with yourself, loved ones, community, or the natural world – is the cornerstone to wellness, and it's worth the vulnerability it takes to get there. Together we'll explore how to support you in building connections and coping skills that nourish you and your relationships for the long term.
I specialize in providing structured, solution-focused, empathetic therapy for people experiencing anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, chronic illness and disability, and relationship stressors.
Feeling isolated, unsure of your purpose, stressed in your relationships, or ashamed or confused about your thoughts, actions or feelings? You are not alone. Mental health, relationship issues, socioeconomic stress, and life during COVID can all make it challenging to feel truly connected. But experiencing connection – whether with yourself, loved ones, community, or the natural world – is the cornerstone to wellness, and it's worth the vulnerability it takes to get there. Together we'll explore how to support you in building connections and coping skills that nourish you and your relationships for the long term.
(503) 300-5274 View (503) 300-5274
Photo of Amber Caldera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Caldera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97086  (Online Only)
Hi! My case load is full but check out my website to match with one of my associates who would love to work with you! I am an LCSW in Oregon and Washington. I work with teens and adults particularly around trauma and more severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also work with those with chronic illness, body image issues, gender questions, and neurodivergence. I have a particular affinity for people who have endured trauma and who feel like they are outsiders. I pride myself in being culturally sensitive and welcoming to all, and someone who works as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I'm an approved clinical supervisor in Oregon.
Hi! My case load is full but check out my website to match with one of my associates who would love to work with you! I am an LCSW in Oregon and Washington. I work with teens and adults particularly around trauma and more severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also work with those with chronic illness, body image issues, gender questions, and neurodivergence. I have a particular affinity for people who have endured trauma and who feel like they are outsiders. I pride myself in being culturally sensitive and welcoming to all, and someone who works as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I'm an approved clinical supervisor in Oregon.
(503) 213-9201 View (503) 213-9201
Photo of Irene Gasde, MS, MiM, QMHP, CFEP, CHTP
Irene Gasde
MS, MiM, QMHP, CFEP, CHTP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086
I specialize in PTSD, Complex-PTSD, Family Scapegoating Abuse, Cult Recovery, Couples Therapy, Grief, Loss, Loneliness, Chronic Illness & how all the above impacts every facet of our lives, including work, family, intimate relationships, - most importantly, the relationship with ourselves.
I work with individuals, couples, & groups who want to heal through connection. Choosing a therapist who best meets your needs can be daunting. Ideally, this person is experienced and competent in your areas of concern, and their therapeutic style & personality make them well suited to match your preferences & comfort level. I offer a free consultation to help you decide if you would like to embark on this journey with me. My perspective is informed by a humanistic, bio-psycho-social worldview & a long practice of mindfulness. Change starts with curiosity that leads to greater awareness, which - in turn - reveals healthier choices.
I specialize in PTSD, Complex-PTSD, Family Scapegoating Abuse, Cult Recovery, Couples Therapy, Grief, Loss, Loneliness, Chronic Illness & how all the above impacts every facet of our lives, including work, family, intimate relationships, - most importantly, the relationship with ourselves.
I work with individuals, couples, & groups who want to heal through connection. Choosing a therapist who best meets your needs can be daunting. Ideally, this person is experienced and competent in your areas of concern, and their therapeutic style & personality make them well suited to match your preferences & comfort level. I offer a free consultation to help you decide if you would like to embark on this journey with me. My perspective is informed by a humanistic, bio-psycho-social worldview & a long practice of mindfulness. Change starts with curiosity that leads to greater awareness, which - in turn - reveals healthier choices.
(541) 708-1621 View (541) 708-1621
Photo of Sheila Somers - Sheila Somers, LPC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheila Somers, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
I provide a comforting presence to those with a life-limiting illness or family members caring for those with a chronic illness.
I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and couples. I provide counseling psychotherapy and integrate mindfulness psychotherapy, attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy, existential-humanistic and insight to encourage acceptance, balance and peace for the mind, body and spirit. I advocate and support couples from a variety of races, cultures and sexual orientations using Emotionally Focused Therapy to understand patterns and cycles and to build a better connection and a stronger relationship.
I provide a comforting presence to those with a life-limiting illness or family members caring for those with a chronic illness.
I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and couples. I provide counseling psychotherapy and integrate mindfulness psychotherapy, attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy, existential-humanistic and insight to encourage acceptance, balance and peace for the mind, body and spirit. I advocate and support couples from a variety of races, cultures and sexual orientations using Emotionally Focused Therapy to understand patterns and cycles and to build a better connection and a stronger relationship.
(503) 342-7207 View (503) 342-7207
Photo of Abbie Horn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abbie Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, or living with chronic illness and/or autoimmune disorders. I accept many commercial insurances in Oregon and Colorado.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, or living with chronic illness and/or autoimmune disorders. I accept many commercial insurances in Oregon and Colorado.
(503) 388-4517 View (503) 388-4517

See more therapy options for Gladstone

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.