Chronic Illness Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
As you begin your journey to self healing I would like to be an empowering support person for you. I believe we all have personal strengths and the resilience to overcome life’s challenges. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing and working through issues and concerns that you are facing. I believe in listening to one’s story and validating feelings. I have several years experience working in grief and loss and chronic illness. Past losses if not dealt with will present itself throughout life when other losses occur.
As you begin your journey to self healing I would like to be an empowering support person for you. I believe we all have personal strengths and the resilience to overcome life’s challenges. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing and working through issues and concerns that you are facing. I believe in listening to one’s story and validating feelings. I have several years experience working in grief and loss and chronic illness. Past losses if not dealt with will present itself throughout life when other losses occur.
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
Melissa Koway-Montana Lpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and I work with clients with eating disorders, chronic illness, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, women's issues and life transitions. Many times, we may not be aware of how certain situations have impacted us. We may even feel that we have dealt with things cognitively; however, our actions and emotions may not align. I work from a trauma-focused lens which means that I believe that we have all had our fair share of difficulties that are impacting our present-day thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with clients to address past, present and future struggles to have a more adaptive perspective.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and I work with clients with eating disorders, chronic illness, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, women's issues and life transitions. Many times, we may not be aware of how certain situations have impacted us. We may even feel that we have dealt with things cognitively; however, our actions and emotions may not align. I work from a trauma-focused lens which means that I believe that we have all had our fair share of difficulties that are impacting our present-day thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with clients to address past, present and future struggles to have a more adaptive perspective.
Kerry E Hill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I mainly see clients coping with depression and anxiety, major life transitions, LGBTQIA+ issues, chronic illness, and relational concerns. While everyone's decision to seek therapy is based on their specific situation, so many of us struggle to live authentically, to trust our ability to make healthy decisions, and to develop a sense of self and desires.
I mainly see clients coping with depression and anxiety, major life transitions, LGBTQIA+ issues, chronic illness, and relational concerns. While everyone's decision to seek therapy is based on their specific situation, so many of us struggle to live authentically, to trust our ability to make healthy decisions, and to develop a sense of self and desires.
Rachel Allender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I am highly skilled at helping clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, chronic illness, life transitions, and work/life balance. What brings individuals and couples to therapy is complicated and personal. I will meet you where you are, working with whatever you bring through the door and support you to become expert in shaping your own life.
I am highly skilled at helping clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, chronic illness, life transitions, and work/life balance. What brings individuals and couples to therapy is complicated and personal. I will meet you where you are, working with whatever you bring through the door and support you to become expert in shaping your own life.
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about my work in supporting youth, young adults and their families to address life’s challenges. Over the past 16 years, I have worked with diverse patients who are coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness-particularly chronic pain conditions, challenges related to gender and sexual identity, as well as difficulties faced with peer and family relationships.
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about my work in supporting youth, young adults and their families to address life’s challenges. Over the past 16 years, I have worked with diverse patients who are coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness-particularly chronic pain conditions, challenges related to gender and sexual identity, as well as difficulties faced with peer and family relationships.
Marty Steinberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am passionate about working with trans and gender nonconforming people, those with chronic illness, disabled people, and anyone hoping to create expansive understandings of masculinity.
I am an attentive listener, a compassionate peer, and an open-hearted person who is honored to be included in my clients’ worlds. Therapeutic relationships can have profound influence on individuals, but I hope that through these one-on-one connections, there can be a positive impact on the community at large. Living life in our current systems can be incredibly traumatic - I can relate. Heteronormativity and white supremacy limit our potential for expression and connection. As a therapist and rabble rouser, I aid clients in developing affirming relationships and in questioning and complicating the systems that confine them.
I am passionate about working with trans and gender nonconforming people, those with chronic illness, disabled people, and anyone hoping to create expansive understandings of masculinity.
I am an attentive listener, a compassionate peer, and an open-hearted person who is honored to be included in my clients’ worlds. Therapeutic relationships can have profound influence on individuals, but I hope that through these one-on-one connections, there can be a positive impact on the community at large. Living life in our current systems can be incredibly traumatic - I can relate. Heteronormativity and white supremacy limit our potential for expression and connection. As a therapist and rabble rouser, I aid clients in developing affirming relationships and in questioning and complicating the systems that confine them.
Brittany Hobbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and self-esteem.
With a commitment to open communication, therapy becomes a transformative journey that will help you reclaim control, peace, and happiness in your life. Embrace the potential for profound change and discover the strength within you. I empower clients to overcome challenges like panic attacks, generalized anxiety, depression, and other psychological stressors. Through personalized strategies, we will uncover the root causes of anxiety, eliminate self-destructive behaviours, and find comfort and clarity in your circumstances.
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and self-esteem.
With a commitment to open communication, therapy becomes a transformative journey that will help you reclaim control, peace, and happiness in your life. Embrace the potential for profound change and discover the strength within you. I empower clients to overcome challenges like panic attacks, generalized anxiety, depression, and other psychological stressors. Through personalized strategies, we will uncover the root causes of anxiety, eliminate self-destructive behaviours, and find comfort and clarity in your circumstances.
Elizabeth Pensack
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
If you're struggling to maintain your basic needs because you're in survival mode, I see you. It can feel impossible to navigate chronic burnout, especially when the path may be blocked by barriers related to chronic illness/pain, executive functioning and sensory needs, and/or unprocessed trauma. These barriers can often be accompanied by shame and guilt, which can make it difficult to connect with others around you. While it may feel overwhelming to find a path to healing, I am here to be a supportive and nonjudgmental co-navigator.
If you're struggling to maintain your basic needs because you're in survival mode, I see you. It can feel impossible to navigate chronic burnout, especially when the path may be blocked by barriers related to chronic illness/pain, executive functioning and sensory needs, and/or unprocessed trauma. These barriers can often be accompanied by shame and guilt, which can make it difficult to connect with others around you. While it may feel overwhelming to find a path to healing, I am here to be a supportive and nonjudgmental co-navigator.
Annie Strout
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19145
I specialize in Trauma and Chronic Illness.
I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert on your own life and only need guidance to access your deeper wisdom to heal from any issue, whether it be emotional, mental or physical. My goal is to provide useful and effective advice and interventions that help you move forward in an authentic way. I do not endorse therapies like CBT which endlessly talk in circles and try to cover up old wounds with positive self talk. Every effect has a cause, and I am an expert in deciphering the code of your life to determine how to move forward.
I specialize in Trauma and Chronic Illness.
I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert on your own life and only need guidance to access your deeper wisdom to heal from any issue, whether it be emotional, mental or physical. My goal is to provide useful and effective advice and interventions that help you move forward in an authentic way. I do not endorse therapies like CBT which endlessly talk in circles and try to cover up old wounds with positive self talk. Every effect has a cause, and I am an expert in deciphering the code of your life to determine how to move forward.
Additionally, I live with a chronic illness and can relate to the inconsistency it demands.
Let’s normalize beauty in disability and elicit self-love in adversity! I specialize in relationships, individual counseling, LGBTQ+, and coping with chronic illness. Self-reflection is a powerful tool for seeing the world through different eyes to reorient the self. I help you identify what you need and where you feel a sense of belonging so you can best feel connected to yourself and others. I strive for my couples to feel at peace and deeply connected while exploring sex and trauma.
Additionally, I live with a chronic illness and can relate to the inconsistency it demands.
Let’s normalize beauty in disability and elicit self-love in adversity! I specialize in relationships, individual counseling, LGBTQ+, and coping with chronic illness. Self-reflection is a powerful tool for seeing the world through different eyes to reorient the self. I help you identify what you need and where you feel a sense of belonging so you can best feel connected to yourself and others. I strive for my couples to feel at peace and deeply connected while exploring sex and trauma.
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Raelea Webster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19140 (Online Only)
Chronic illness, chronic pain, depression, or anxiety. Each of these have their own way of zapping our energy and enjoyment in life. These culprits tell us lies about ourselves and keep us from living our greatest potential. Maybe you've been faced with unforeseen circumstances, this is not the life you envisioned, and you're left wondering where to begin. It's hard to tell if or when you're making progress because life just doesn't look the same as it used to and you're left comparing yourself to others.
Chronic illness, chronic pain, depression, or anxiety. Each of these have their own way of zapping our energy and enjoyment in life. These culprits tell us lies about ourselves and keep us from living our greatest potential. Maybe you've been faced with unforeseen circumstances, this is not the life you envisioned, and you're left wondering where to begin. It's hard to tell if or when you're making progress because life just doesn't look the same as it used to and you're left comparing yourself to others.
My specialization includes work with individuals dealing with chronic pain, chronic illness, and trauma recovery, including traumatic injuries.
Therapy with me is an active, engaging process. My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. In therapy, I create a space characterized by authenticity, humor, and acceptance. I believe that being direct and genuine helps in building a therapeutic relationship where real change can occur. My approach integrates strategies from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindful Self-Compassion, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I also often incorporate hypnosis in my sessions, which has proven effective in both acute symptom management and deeper therapeutic processes.
My specialization includes work with individuals dealing with chronic pain, chronic illness, and trauma recovery, including traumatic injuries.
Therapy with me is an active, engaging process. My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. In therapy, I create a space characterized by authenticity, humor, and acceptance. I believe that being direct and genuine helps in building a therapeutic relationship where real change can occur. My approach integrates strategies from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindful Self-Compassion, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I also often incorporate hypnosis in my sessions, which has proven effective in both acute symptom management and deeper therapeutic processes.
Nicole J McKelvey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119 (Online Only)
I also work therapeutically with adolescents and adults to discuss strategies for coping with anxiety, chronic illness, and other general life stressors.
My goal is to help people find answers for questions they may have about themselves. This includes individuals exploring the diagnoses of Autism and ADHD in adulthood. I also work with individuals pursuing bariatric surgery, completing their evaluation and providing recommendations for their care. Regarding therapy, I provide ongoing therapy to individuals who are struggling with anxiety, chronic illness, or general life-related stress. My approach is to work collaboratively with you - you are the expert on yourself, I just bring the tools to the room!
I also work therapeutically with adolescents and adults to discuss strategies for coping with anxiety, chronic illness, and other general life stressors.
My goal is to help people find answers for questions they may have about themselves. This includes individuals exploring the diagnoses of Autism and ADHD in adulthood. I also work with individuals pursuing bariatric surgery, completing their evaluation and providing recommendations for their care. Regarding therapy, I provide ongoing therapy to individuals who are struggling with anxiety, chronic illness, or general life-related stress. My approach is to work collaboratively with you - you are the expert on yourself, I just bring the tools to the room!
Kristi Annette West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
I have over 18 years experience supporting people in crisis, traumatic loss and grief, chronic illness, complex caregiver issues, Veteran care, single parenting, domestic abuse, caregiver burnout and end of life.
Do you ever find yourself overwhelmed by multiple worries and anxious thoughts? Perhaps you even think, “If only I can have one day of happiness and peace?”It may be that the demands of caregiving are causing you to neglect your own health and well being.” The good news is that you do not have to struggle in isolation. I would love to partner with you and together build skills to weather life’s storms.
I have over 18 years experience supporting people in crisis, traumatic loss and grief, chronic illness, complex caregiver issues, Veteran care, single parenting, domestic abuse, caregiver burnout and end of life.
Do you ever find yourself overwhelmed by multiple worries and anxious thoughts? Perhaps you even think, “If only I can have one day of happiness and peace?”It may be that the demands of caregiving are causing you to neglect your own health and well being.” The good news is that you do not have to struggle in isolation. I would love to partner with you and together build skills to weather life’s storms.
Samantha Tomer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19130
I specialize in working with adults dealing with sexual abuse & assault, chronic illness & autoimmune conditions, and anxiety.
It’s like you’ve become a master at putting on a face, so that no one sees the true pain you feel. Maybe it’s a daily struggle to make sense of everything you’re feeling. Even on your best days, it can feel like your body is fighting against you, leaving you drained and defeated. You wish you could relax or slow down, but how? What you’ve been through has left deep scars on your personal life and relationships. It’s affecting your ability to trust others and feel safe. You may find yourself avoiding family and anything that triggers memories of the past, making it difficult to connect with others on a deep or meaningful level.
I specialize in working with adults dealing with sexual abuse & assault, chronic illness & autoimmune conditions, and anxiety.
It’s like you’ve become a master at putting on a face, so that no one sees the true pain you feel. Maybe it’s a daily struggle to make sense of everything you’re feeling. Even on your best days, it can feel like your body is fighting against you, leaving you drained and defeated. You wish you could relax or slow down, but how? What you’ve been through has left deep scars on your personal life and relationships. It’s affecting your ability to trust others and feel safe. You may find yourself avoiding family and anything that triggers memories of the past, making it difficult to connect with others on a deep or meaningful level.
Tanya Koifman - Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, NY, NJ, ID, PA, DE, VT, RI, SC, FL
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I support people through a range of life situations including: anxiety, grief/loss, living with chronic illness, dynamic disability, HSP, 2E, care givers, coming out, college, life transitions, exploring various new ventures in life, menopause, fertility treatments, DCP, parenting, couples/relationships, ENM/polyamory, navigating communication, sex/intimacy.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
I support people through a range of life situations including: anxiety, grief/loss, living with chronic illness, dynamic disability, HSP, 2E, care givers, coming out, college, life transitions, exploring various new ventures in life, menopause, fertility treatments, DCP, parenting, couples/relationships, ENM/polyamory, navigating communication, sex/intimacy.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
Elizabeth Paige Diamond
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19130
I work with couples and adults. People I have had the pleasure to work with are often in a transitional period of their life and feel stuck working through it on their own. You may fit criteria for the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar, chronic illness, sexual dysfunctions (including painful sex, low desire, erectile disorder, achieving orgasm too quickly, or not at all, STI diagnoses, sexual identity and/or orientation exploration, difficulty communicating with partners, partners who have mental health disorders, self-esteem, and body image challenges. I am a good fit for folks who are open to doing exercises at home.
I work with couples and adults. People I have had the pleasure to work with are often in a transitional period of their life and feel stuck working through it on their own. You may fit criteria for the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar, chronic illness, sexual dysfunctions (including painful sex, low desire, erectile disorder, achieving orgasm too quickly, or not at all, STI diagnoses, sexual identity and/or orientation exploration, difficulty communicating with partners, partners who have mental health disorders, self-esteem, and body image challenges. I am a good fit for folks who are open to doing exercises at home.
Elizabeth McElroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19111
Grief can be related to the death of a loved one; a chronic illness; or as a part of getting older.
Finding a therapist (for the first time ever or just the first time in awhile) can be overwhelming; I can make it easier for you. If you are grieving a loss, managing a chronic illness, or having trouble adjusting to changes in your life, I can help. You are the expert in your own life; I want to empower you to tell your story without fear of judgment. My role in our work together is to listen to your struggles, remind you of your strengths, and find a way to honor your losses.
Grief can be related to the death of a loved one; a chronic illness; or as a part of getting older.
Finding a therapist (for the first time ever or just the first time in awhile) can be overwhelming; I can make it easier for you. If you are grieving a loss, managing a chronic illness, or having trouble adjusting to changes in your life, I can help. You are the expert in your own life; I want to empower you to tell your story without fear of judgment. My role in our work together is to listen to your struggles, remind you of your strengths, and find a way to honor your losses.
Sarah Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Your chronic illness specialist. Are you reeling from a recent diagnosis? You are trying to make sense of it all, and find a way to have a great life anyway. When life presents this kind of challenge, you deserve to find support and ignite hope. Every situation, even the most difficult, holds the potential for profound growth and healing. I'm here to guide you on this transformative journey, helping you unlock your potential and build a stronger, more fulfilling life.
Your chronic illness specialist. Are you reeling from a recent diagnosis? You are trying to make sense of it all, and find a way to have a great life anyway. When life presents this kind of challenge, you deserve to find support and ignite hope. Every situation, even the most difficult, holds the potential for profound growth and healing. I'm here to guide you on this transformative journey, helping you unlock your potential and build a stronger, more fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Chronic Illness Therapists Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
- Bala Cynwyd
- Drexel Hill
- Elkins Park
- Gladwyne
- Havertown
- Lansdowne
- Merion Station
- Narberth
- Sharon Hill
- Wyncote
- Wynnewood
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.