Chronic Illness Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
Joni Keating
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced in helping LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals navigate life transitions, chronic illness management, gender/sexual identity concerns, anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, disordered eating, body image and complex trauma. I'm flexible to work with you however you need, whether that's building coping strategies for daily stressors, processing emotions or traumatic memories, or figuring out who you are and what you want. I can work with clients brand new to therapy and those uncertain how therapy can be helpful to them.
I am experienced in helping LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals navigate life transitions, chronic illness management, gender/sexual identity concerns, anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, disordered eating, body image and complex trauma. I'm flexible to work with you however you need, whether that's building coping strategies for daily stressors, processing emotions or traumatic memories, or figuring out who you are and what you want. I can work with clients brand new to therapy and those uncertain how therapy can be helpful to them.
Dr. Angela Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, FT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Waitlist for new clients
Drawing upon years of experience with patients and caregivers affected by chronic illness, I rely on proven methods that enable you to cope and overcome hurdles.
You miss your old, capable self. Your days are now busy with appointments, interrupted by the side effects of your disease or treatment, and flooded with emotions. Life is sometimes difficult, but chronic illness has made your circumstances even more complicated. You're so tired of feeling lost and waiting for life to return to normal. As others dismiss your concerns with well-meaning statements of hope or offers of vague promises of help, your isolation grows. Hopelessness and fear creep in. You know you need support or guidance, but figuring out who or what will be helpful feels overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
Drawing upon years of experience with patients and caregivers affected by chronic illness, I rely on proven methods that enable you to cope and overcome hurdles.
You miss your old, capable self. Your days are now busy with appointments, interrupted by the side effects of your disease or treatment, and flooded with emotions. Life is sometimes difficult, but chronic illness has made your circumstances even more complicated. You're so tired of feeling lost and waiting for life to return to normal. As others dismiss your concerns with well-meaning statements of hope or offers of vague promises of help, your isolation grows. Hopelessness and fear creep in. You know you need support or guidance, but figuring out who or what will be helpful feels overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
Brittany Hobbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201 (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.
Jeanne (Jeana) Foster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232 (Online Only)
Hi! I have almost 25 years experience working as a licensed professional counselor. My training and expertise is in helping people overcome anxiety, panic, depression, mood disorders and PTSD. I also have also experience helping people manage chronic illness and pain.
Hi! I have almost 25 years experience working as a licensed professional counselor. My training and expertise is in helping people overcome anxiety, panic, depression, mood disorders and PTSD. I also have also experience helping people manage chronic illness and pain.
Joanne R Bissell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCM, CMIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218 (Online Only)
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD and stage of life issues.
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD and stage of life issues.
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.
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.
Kyla Feliz-Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
My clients are usually self-aware but feeling stuck, often prioritizing others’ needs while struggling with their own. They might be dealing with trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or chronic illness, and they want to feel more peaceful, present, and in control of their life. Their goal is to heal from past experiences, build stronger relationships, and develop practical coping skills for future stressors. They seek therapy because they’re ready to break free from old patterns, process unresolved pain, and find a path forward to a more balanced, fulfilling life!
My clients are usually self-aware but feeling stuck, often prioritizing others’ needs while struggling with their own. They might be dealing with trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or chronic illness, and they want to feel more peaceful, present, and in control of their life. Their goal is to heal from past experiences, build stronger relationships, and develop practical coping skills for future stressors. They seek therapy because they’re ready to break free from old patterns, process unresolved pain, and find a path forward to a more balanced, fulfilling life!
I currently work with healing systems that have proven effective for issues like anxiety, trauma, addiction, chronic illness and pain, and spiritual crisis.
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
I currently work with healing systems that have proven effective for issues like anxiety, trauma, addiction, chronic illness and pain, and spiritual crisis.
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
Amy Gamble-Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
With over 17 years of experience in psychotherapy, I specialize in treating issues related to trauma, spiritual & religious abuse, chronic illness/pain, eating disorders and grief & loss.
Have you been feeling lonely, disconnected or not like yourself? Maybe there are issues from the past that you haven't dealt with that you would like to heal without feeling overwhelmed. Possibly you feel swept away by your emotions and don't know how to get them under control. Perhaps you are feeling stuck, frustrated or tired. Oftentimes these issues can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. My specialty is in helping you identify & address the root issues, develop the skills to deal with those issues, while getting in better relationship with yourself.
With over 17 years of experience in psychotherapy, I specialize in treating issues related to trauma, spiritual & religious abuse, chronic illness/pain, eating disorders and grief & loss.
Have you been feeling lonely, disconnected or not like yourself? Maybe there are issues from the past that you haven't dealt with that you would like to heal without feeling overwhelmed. Possibly you feel swept away by your emotions and don't know how to get them under control. Perhaps you are feeling stuck, frustrated or tired. Oftentimes these issues can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. My specialty is in helping you identify & address the root issues, develop the skills to deal with those issues, while getting in better relationship with yourself.
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Margaret Ann Deverin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241 (Online Only)
I have experience treating trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness or pain, relationship and/or marital conflict, depression and anxiety.
Witnessing positive change in my clients has provided not only professional joy, but unflagging belief in the benefit of psychotherapy as a catalyst for personal growth. Investment in self can bring great personal and professional rewards. I am ready to work with clients who are seeking to identify key areas, issues or goals in their lives that will support recovery, relief and new insights into life's many confounding challenges. Optimizing my clients' potential is my primary focus.
I have experience treating trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness or pain, relationship and/or marital conflict, depression and anxiety.
Witnessing positive change in my clients has provided not only professional joy, but unflagging belief in the benefit of psychotherapy as a catalyst for personal growth. Investment in self can bring great personal and professional rewards. I am ready to work with clients who are seeking to identify key areas, issues or goals in their lives that will support recovery, relief and new insights into life's many confounding challenges. Optimizing my clients' potential is my primary focus.
As a Counselor and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), I support and hold space for the healing of all kinds of trauma. I enjoy working with clients who seek support with chronic illness, sexuality, self growth, relationships & attachment, life transitions, family, systemic trauma and multigenerational or cultural matters. I believe we are deeply impacted by the cultural, social and historical contexts to which we originate, exist, and navigate; therefore I strive to attune to and support these facets of your experience in our work.
As a Counselor and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), I support and hold space for the healing of all kinds of trauma. I enjoy working with clients who seek support with chronic illness, sexuality, self growth, relationships & attachment, life transitions, family, systemic trauma and multigenerational or cultural matters. I believe we are deeply impacted by the cultural, social and historical contexts to which we originate, exist, and navigate; therefore I strive to attune to and support these facets of your experience in our work.
I view therapy as a collaborative space to explore, grow, and learn together. I strive to provide support, resources, and psycho-education tailored to your individual needs. Whether you're navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, health related concerns, grief, or other challenges, I am here to join you alongside every layer of your experience.
I view therapy as a collaborative space to explore, grow, and learn together. I strive to provide support, resources, and psycho-education tailored to your individual needs. Whether you're navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, health related concerns, grief, or other challenges, I am here to join you alongside every layer of your experience.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
Would you like to feel less overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, depressed or unsure of yourself? Are you going through a life transition, dealing with chronic illness, or are unproductive behaviors holding you back? Perhaps you’re unhappy at work/school, experiencing grief/loss, uncertain about your professional goals, or dissatisfied with your relationships. Life issues may seem insurmountable. Once you begin therapy with me, we'll work collaboratively to increase your self-understanding & insight. I'll help you identify & effectuate necessary life changes (step by step), embrace self acceptance, or move toward a little of both.
Emani Wade
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205 (Online Only)
I have 8 years of additional experience helping adults face racial and gender identity and affirmation, grief, anxiety (depression following anxiety), PTSD, couples counseling with traditional and nontraditional relationship dynamics, chronic illness, women issues, and college academic stress.
Hi, I am Emani from Focus Therapy LLC. Focus is a mental wellness practice that provides BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, and young working professionals who struggle with imposter syndrome a safe, positive, and nonjudgmental space. At Focus, your intersected identities matter and you do not have to choose one to fit in. The most valuable work in transforming your care lies in our work together through a collaborative effort to explore supportive values that inspire you to cultivate what makes you passionate, nurturing, and happy. By validating inner strengths, individuals can become more aware of the great value they hold as human beings.
I have 8 years of additional experience helping adults face racial and gender identity and affirmation, grief, anxiety (depression following anxiety), PTSD, couples counseling with traditional and nontraditional relationship dynamics, chronic illness, women issues, and college academic stress.
Hi, I am Emani from Focus Therapy LLC. Focus is a mental wellness practice that provides BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, and young working professionals who struggle with imposter syndrome a safe, positive, and nonjudgmental space. At Focus, your intersected identities matter and you do not have to choose one to fit in. The most valuable work in transforming your care lies in our work together through a collaborative effort to explore supportive values that inspire you to cultivate what makes you passionate, nurturing, and happy. By validating inner strengths, individuals can become more aware of the great value they hold as human beings.
Now accepting new clients. Life hands each of us all types of challenges. Therapy can help when we feel the need to 'update' our skills in our own 'toolbox' for coping or to make a changes in our behaviors to reduce any negative impact certain situations can have on our mood and on our lives! I have over 25 years experience working as a therapist with mental health and substance issues, coping with trauma, relationship issues, chronic illness, stress reactions, diabetes, breast cancer, codependency, personality disorders, grief and loss, thought disorders and mood disorders.
Now accepting new clients. Life hands each of us all types of challenges. Therapy can help when we feel the need to 'update' our skills in our own 'toolbox' for coping or to make a changes in our behaviors to reduce any negative impact certain situations can have on our mood and on our lives! I have over 25 years experience working as a therapist with mental health and substance issues, coping with trauma, relationship issues, chronic illness, stress reactions, diabetes, breast cancer, codependency, personality disorders, grief and loss, thought disorders and mood disorders.
Basil Guyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (Online Only)
I’ve supported clients with late-diagnosed & lifelong neurodivergent journeys, chronic illness & disability life, trauma work, self regulation, interpersonal dynamics and cycles of conflict, nontraditional relationships, unpacking power dynamics, grief, boundaries, reparenting yourself, navigating complex family of origin relationships, and more.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. I've been providing psychotherapy since 2017, and have a long career history in disability work. Overall I have 17 years experience in Carework. I work primarily with adult individuals & couples with marginalized identities (in gender, sexuality, ability, neurotype, race, body size, etc), and I also provide EMDR Intensives as well as Autism & ADHD Assessments for adults.
I’ve supported clients with late-diagnosed & lifelong neurodivergent journeys, chronic illness & disability life, trauma work, self regulation, interpersonal dynamics and cycles of conflict, nontraditional relationships, unpacking power dynamics, grief, boundaries, reparenting yourself, navigating complex family of origin relationships, and more.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. I've been providing psychotherapy since 2017, and have a long career history in disability work. Overall I have 17 years experience in Carework. I work primarily with adult individuals & couples with marginalized identities (in gender, sexuality, ability, neurotype, race, body size, etc), and I also provide EMDR Intensives as well as Autism & ADHD Assessments for adults.
Angeline Buczkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
I also have an interest in working with individuals impacted by chronic illness.
Every individual has their own strengths and unique needs. I believe that meeting people where they are and allowing them to take a steering wheel to their own life is the way to see change. As a counselor my job is to empower you to meet your goals as well provide you with the tools you are needing to see change. Trust and intimacy in oneself can be built by allowing you the space to feel heard, understood and to develop your own insight into your own thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
I also have an interest in working with individuals impacted by chronic illness.
Every individual has their own strengths and unique needs. I believe that meeting people where they are and allowing them to take a steering wheel to their own life is the way to see change. As a counselor my job is to empower you to meet your goals as well provide you with the tools you are needing to see change. Trust and intimacy in oneself can be built by allowing you the space to feel heard, understood and to develop your own insight into your own thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
Paul Basenfelder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMDP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122 (Online Only)
I work with a range of issues for individual therapy clients, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, gambling disorder, substance use/abuse, chronic illness, career issues, existential issues, relationship issues, etc.
I love being a therapist, and I have several beliefs about therapy that embody my therapeutic philosophy. First, I believe that the therapist-client relationship is sacred, and that only meaningful therapeutic work can occur through a strong alliance built on trust and free of shame and judgment. Secondly, I believe that therapy is a portal to healing wounds that loneliness and isolation worsen. Thirdly, I believe it is important to support and guide clients in living lives that are true to their own values and reflective of their authentic selves.
I work with a range of issues for individual therapy clients, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, gambling disorder, substance use/abuse, chronic illness, career issues, existential issues, relationship issues, etc.
I love being a therapist, and I have several beliefs about therapy that embody my therapeutic philosophy. First, I believe that the therapist-client relationship is sacred, and that only meaningful therapeutic work can occur through a strong alliance built on trust and free of shame and judgment. Secondly, I believe that therapy is a portal to healing wounds that loneliness and isolation worsen. Thirdly, I believe it is important to support and guide clients in living lives that are true to their own values and reflective of their authentic selves.
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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.