Chronic Illness Therapists in Houston, TX

Photo of Lisa Balick, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Balick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice, a Clinical Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, and have a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Preventive Medicine. I work with outpatient adolescents, adults, and couples doing individual/couples therapy. My areas of expertise include eating disorders, stress management, chronic illness (adjustment to one's own and other's), loss, and grief. I also treat depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, survivors of sexual abuse, relationship problems, and homosexual concerns and adjustments. My involvement with eating disorders is extensive. I work with many clients who are emotional overeaters,compulsive overeaters, binge eaters, bulimic, or anorexic.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice, a Clinical Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, and have a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Preventive Medicine. I work with outpatient adolescents, adults, and couples doing individual/couples therapy. My areas of expertise include eating disorders, stress management, chronic illness (adjustment to one's own and other's), loss, and grief. I also treat depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, survivors of sexual abuse, relationship problems, and homosexual concerns and adjustments. My involvement with eating disorders is extensive. I work with many clients who are emotional overeaters,compulsive overeaters, binge eaters, bulimic, or anorexic.
(713) 338-9176 View (713) 338-9176
Photo of Bridges West Kaminski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridges West Kaminski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77009  (Online Only)
Hi there- it’s so nice to meet you! I'm Bridges, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults. I have a passion for guiding individuals through challenges and facilitating their growth across different stages of life. My expertise spans coping with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. From supporting a new diagnosis in a medical setting to helping parents navigate the challenges of parenthood, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients. I am deeply honored for you to consider me to be a part of your journey towards healing.
Hi there- it’s so nice to meet you! I'm Bridges, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults. I have a passion for guiding individuals through challenges and facilitating their growth across different stages of life. My expertise spans coping with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. From supporting a new diagnosis in a medical setting to helping parents navigate the challenges of parenthood, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients. I am deeply honored for you to consider me to be a part of your journey towards healing.
(346) 589-5300 View (346) 589-5300
Photo of Macie Lea Babo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Macie Lea Babo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77079
I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have personal experience in living with a chronic illness and being a competitive athlete.
Congratulations on taking the first — very courageous — step in making a change in your life! It can be hard to reach out and start the journey of therapy. And here we are. I believe that people have the power to make the change that they desire in their life. With that in mind, I believe in meeting you where you are at and working together to instill and implement change. This will help you to achieve your goals! I am passionate about helping kids, teenagers and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma to feel unstuck and more in control, through a personalized and collaborative approach to therapy
I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have personal experience in living with a chronic illness and being a competitive athlete.
Congratulations on taking the first — very courageous — step in making a change in your life! It can be hard to reach out and start the journey of therapy. And here we are. I believe that people have the power to make the change that they desire in their life. With that in mind, I believe in meeting you where you are at and working together to instill and implement change. This will help you to achieve your goals! I am passionate about helping kids, teenagers and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma to feel unstuck and more in control, through a personalized and collaborative approach to therapy
(713) 360-2060 View (713) 360-2060
Photo of Leigh Muths, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh Muths
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77058  (Online Only)
Each of my clients is going through a transition period in their life. I work people who live with chronic illness, who self-harm, who struggle with anxiety, have depression, hate their self-image, battle with addiction, or are adjusting to life's challenges. I help families navigate loss and change. We each have obstacles thrown our way in life. Maybe yours or your child’s isn’t listed above. That’s okay! Your experience is uniquely yours. I’m here to offer support and skills to help get you through the roughest times and get you back to living!
Each of my clients is going through a transition period in their life. I work people who live with chronic illness, who self-harm, who struggle with anxiety, have depression, hate their self-image, battle with addiction, or are adjusting to life's challenges. I help families navigate loss and change. We each have obstacles thrown our way in life. Maybe yours or your child’s isn’t listed above. That’s okay! Your experience is uniquely yours. I’m here to offer support and skills to help get you through the roughest times and get you back to living!
(832) 734-6563 View (832) 734-6563
Photo of Charlotte Judd, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Judd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057
Anxious? Depressed? Struggling with chronic illness or recently diagnosed? Have you experienced trauma and you can't seem to recover? Is depression or anxiety interfering with your daily functioning? Many of my Clients report that they start to feel better during the first session. I believe that healing can happen once you feel heard. Working together we will create a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and is guided by evidenced based practices. My Clients develop lifelong skills to make the most out of their lives. You've made it this far, go ahead and reach out. I look forward to hearing from you.
Anxious? Depressed? Struggling with chronic illness or recently diagnosed? Have you experienced trauma and you can't seem to recover? Is depression or anxiety interfering with your daily functioning? Many of my Clients report that they start to feel better during the first session. I believe that healing can happen once you feel heard. Working together we will create a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and is guided by evidenced based practices. My Clients develop lifelong skills to make the most out of their lives. You've made it this far, go ahead and reach out. I look forward to hearing from you.
(832) 358-3415 View (832) 358-3415
Photo of Elvin Aydin Keles, PhD, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elvin Aydin Keles
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77056  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults who suffer from anxiety and depression, relationship issues, family and work related concerns, lack of self-worth, identity and purpose, living with chronic illness - especially cancer.
If your life is fully functional, you don't have to struggle to understand why things are the way they are. It is when we hit a wall in our relationships, career or health that we get pushed out of our comfort zone and start looking for answers. People often think that they can deal with all these on their own. However, emotional wellbeing is essentially a two person process as we can only find ourselves in the eye of another. The therapist's questions might bring out the answers in you that will support you in developing a much needed fresh perspective in life.
I specialize in working with adults who suffer from anxiety and depression, relationship issues, family and work related concerns, lack of self-worth, identity and purpose, living with chronic illness - especially cancer.
If your life is fully functional, you don't have to struggle to understand why things are the way they are. It is when we hit a wall in our relationships, career or health that we get pushed out of our comfort zone and start looking for answers. People often think that they can deal with all these on their own. However, emotional wellbeing is essentially a two person process as we can only find ourselves in the eye of another. The therapist's questions might bring out the answers in you that will support you in developing a much needed fresh perspective in life.
(832) 669-6905 View (832) 669-6905
Photo of David M. Latini, PhD, MSCP, MSW, Psychologist
David M. Latini
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77063
I have a particular expertise in behavioral medicine, cancer, chronic illness and sexual health/sex therapy.
My approach to helping is supportive and collaborative. I want to work with you on agreed upon goals to help you improve your functioning in your daily life and in your relationships. My work is primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy model, with some influence by Emotionally Focused Therapy and with insights from dynamic approaches where appropriate. My own personal development work has been influenced by Jungian and Buddhist writings. Kink/poly/CNM friendly!!
I have a particular expertise in behavioral medicine, cancer, chronic illness and sexual health/sex therapy.
My approach to helping is supportive and collaborative. I want to work with you on agreed upon goals to help you improve your functioning in your daily life and in your relationships. My work is primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy model, with some influence by Emotionally Focused Therapy and with insights from dynamic approaches where appropriate. My own personal development work has been influenced by Jungian and Buddhist writings. Kink/poly/CNM friendly!!
(281) 607-2258 View (281) 607-2258
Photo of Liz Ross, PhD, Psychologist
Liz Ross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77098
I specialize in adjustment issues, sleep disorders including insomnia (using CBT-i), pain management, adjustment to chronic illness, PTSD, stress management, relationship issues, and substance abuse.
My practice centers around providing clients with the skills that they need to thrive in the face of stressful situations. Prior to entering private practice, I worked as a clinical psychologist on the spinal cord injury unit at TIRR. These individuals would have never otherwise sought mental health care but were faced with one of the most stressful and challenging experiences of their lives. My role was to help these individuals to effectively cope with serious, adverse medical events and to live happy, fulfilling lives. Likewise, in my private practice, I strive to help clients successfully navigate complex situations.
I specialize in adjustment issues, sleep disorders including insomnia (using CBT-i), pain management, adjustment to chronic illness, PTSD, stress management, relationship issues, and substance abuse.
My practice centers around providing clients with the skills that they need to thrive in the face of stressful situations. Prior to entering private practice, I worked as a clinical psychologist on the spinal cord injury unit at TIRR. These individuals would have never otherwise sought mental health care but were faced with one of the most stressful and challenging experiences of their lives. My role was to help these individuals to effectively cope with serious, adverse medical events and to live happy, fulfilling lives. Likewise, in my private practice, I strive to help clients successfully navigate complex situations.
(346) 214-4798 View (346) 214-4798
Photo of Mallory Striesfeld - Healing Pathways Houston, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mallory Striesfeld - Healing Pathways Houston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Some of these areas include play therapy, self-harm behaviors, teen & young adult issues, and those battling with chronic illness such as diabetes and cancer (caregivers too!).
Let's face it. You've tried therapy before. It wasn't for you, and truly people don't understand you anyway. What would happen if you tried it one more time? Maybe you're wondering what life would look like if you started learning coping skills and began healing. Life can be challenging, and you don't have to venture through it alone. We can navigate through this together. As your therapist, I commit to supporting you on this adventure and beyond!
Some of these areas include play therapy, self-harm behaviors, teen & young adult issues, and those battling with chronic illness such as diabetes and cancer (caregivers too!).
Let's face it. You've tried therapy before. It wasn't for you, and truly people don't understand you anyway. What would happen if you tried it one more time? Maybe you're wondering what life would look like if you started learning coping skills and began healing. Life can be challenging, and you don't have to venture through it alone. We can navigate through this together. As your therapist, I commit to supporting you on this adventure and beyond!
(832) 280-1603 View (832) 280-1603
Photo of Deborah McLeod - KBCC in the Heights/ Deborah McLeod, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
KBCC in the Heights/ Deborah McLeod
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77008
I have experience in working with grief and loss, LGBTQ+ issues, chronic illness, HIV/AIDS, end of life issues, depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues, feelings work, adult and childhood history of sexual, physical and emotional abuse, and myriad other issues.
As a psychotherapist, I have served people in the Houston area for the past 30 years. I have worked with a diverse group of clients presenting with a wide range of issues. I strive to help clients feel safe and comfortable enough so that they can talk about absolutely anything they choose. I believe it to be essential that we build a collaborative working relationship so that you succeed in resolving issues, making wanted changes and reaching chosen goals. I enjoy helping people build a life worth living based on their own values. I use a variety of modalities in working with clients, based on the individual's needs.
I have experience in working with grief and loss, LGBTQ+ issues, chronic illness, HIV/AIDS, end of life issues, depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues, feelings work, adult and childhood history of sexual, physical and emotional abuse, and myriad other issues.
As a psychotherapist, I have served people in the Houston area for the past 30 years. I have worked with a diverse group of clients presenting with a wide range of issues. I strive to help clients feel safe and comfortable enough so that they can talk about absolutely anything they choose. I believe it to be essential that we build a collaborative working relationship so that you succeed in resolving issues, making wanted changes and reaching chosen goals. I enjoy helping people build a life worth living based on their own values. I use a variety of modalities in working with clients, based on the individual's needs.
(713) 338-2674 View (713) 338-2674
Photo of Michele Horn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele Horn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of relationship therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I also specialize in chronic illness, chronic pain, body image, eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, life transitions, and many more presenting concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to move through challenges while uncovering your strengths and potential, so you may lead a more meaningful and integrated life. I offer a strength-based approach to help you access your resilience and find balance in your mind and body.
I specialize in the treatment of relationship therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I also specialize in chronic illness, chronic pain, body image, eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, life transitions, and many more presenting concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to move through challenges while uncovering your strengths and potential, so you may lead a more meaningful and integrated life. I offer a strength-based approach to help you access your resilience and find balance in your mind and body.
(512) 882-1384 View (512) 882-1384
Photo of Madalyn Ruble, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madalyn Ruble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm Madalyn - licensed therapist - I am so glad you're here! With a background in both medical & mental health settings, I've had the privilege of working with individuals across various age groups. My aim is to cultivate a safe & supportive environment where you can truly feel understood & valued. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, chronic illness, or navigating significant life changes like a recent diagnosis or relocation, I am here to provide guidance & support every step of the way.
Hi there! I'm Madalyn - licensed therapist - I am so glad you're here! With a background in both medical & mental health settings, I've had the privilege of working with individuals across various age groups. My aim is to cultivate a safe & supportive environment where you can truly feel understood & valued. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, chronic illness, or navigating significant life changes like a recent diagnosis or relocation, I am here to provide guidance & support every step of the way.
(346) 421-0666 View (346) 421-0666
Photo of Amanda Kathleen Dennis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Kathleen Dennis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77070
My background as a counselor in the hospital setting, gives me direct insight into your struggles with a chronic illness or losing those close to you.
Have you recently lost a loved one unexpectedly or had a loved one die of a chronic or terminal illness? Are you struggling with a new or long term medical diagnosis? How do you deal with people who just don't get it? You may be experiencing feelings of profound sadness, anger, loneliness, abandonment, and hopelessness. Talking with someone who is not emotionally involved in your personal struggles, often can be a transformative experience towards developing feelings of acceptance, peace, and comfort.
My background as a counselor in the hospital setting, gives me direct insight into your struggles with a chronic illness or losing those close to you.
Have you recently lost a loved one unexpectedly or had a loved one die of a chronic or terminal illness? Are you struggling with a new or long term medical diagnosis? How do you deal with people who just don't get it? You may be experiencing feelings of profound sadness, anger, loneliness, abandonment, and hopelessness. Talking with someone who is not emotionally involved in your personal struggles, often can be a transformative experience towards developing feelings of acceptance, peace, and comfort.
(713) 999-4734 View (713) 999-4734
Photo of Ariana Detert, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ariana Detert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with over 19 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in several areas which include schools, court systems, home health, outpatient mental health centers, and oncology. I have spent my career working in a wide range of areas that include but are not limited to relationships, parent/child dynamics, family conflicts, adolescence, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, caregivers, chronic illness, and health issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with over 19 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in several areas which include schools, court systems, home health, outpatient mental health centers, and oncology. I have spent my career working in a wide range of areas that include but are not limited to relationships, parent/child dynamics, family conflicts, adolescence, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, caregivers, chronic illness, and health issues.
(281) 916-1716 View (281) 916-1716
Photo of Sara Damiano, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Damiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77001
While my practice specializes in challenges around life transitions, adjustment, grief, aging, caregiving issues, and chronic illness, over the years I have also had the privilege of working successfully with people bringing a broad range of other concerns, including depression, career counseling, anxiety, parenting concerns, and self-esteem.
Welcome! My goal is to empower clients to overcome adversity and gain the confidence needed to thrive and achieve success. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas. I have received a dual masters in Social Work and Gerontology from the University of Southern California, as well as hold a Bachelors of Arts in Sociology from the University of Michigan. Schedule an initial session with me today!
While my practice specializes in challenges around life transitions, adjustment, grief, aging, caregiving issues, and chronic illness, over the years I have also had the privilege of working successfully with people bringing a broad range of other concerns, including depression, career counseling, anxiety, parenting concerns, and self-esteem.
Welcome! My goal is to empower clients to overcome adversity and gain the confidence needed to thrive and achieve success. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas. I have received a dual masters in Social Work and Gerontology from the University of Southern California, as well as hold a Bachelors of Arts in Sociology from the University of Michigan. Schedule an initial session with me today!
(737) 264-6173 View (737) 264-6173
Photo of Dr. Erin Andrews, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Erin Andrews
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
Are you trying to make sense of your life following the diagnosis of a disability or chronic illness? Are you looking for help managing emotional distress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you struggle with the aftermath of adoption trauma? Sometimes life throws unexpected obstacles at us. Therapy can help, whether you are dealing with a new onset disability, coping with the frustrations of living disabled in an ableist society, or navigating the complexities of international or transracial adoption.
Are you trying to make sense of your life following the diagnosis of a disability or chronic illness? Are you looking for help managing emotional distress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you struggle with the aftermath of adoption trauma? Sometimes life throws unexpected obstacles at us. Therapy can help, whether you are dealing with a new onset disability, coping with the frustrations of living disabled in an ableist society, or navigating the complexities of international or transracial adoption.
(512) 881-7201 View (512) 881-7201
Photo of Michelle Koudsi, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michelle Koudsi
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008
My primary objective is to empower women at every life stage, offering them new perspectives and unwavering support throughout life's highs and lows. Recognizing each person is unique, I tailor therapy to ensure it is relevant and personalized. In session, I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can freely express your experiences, struggles, and aspirations. Together, we'll engage both your mind and body in the healing process, fostering growth and resilience along the journey. My primary areas of focus include women’s issues, expecting/postpartum mothers, chronic illness, and the neurodivergent population.
My primary objective is to empower women at every life stage, offering them new perspectives and unwavering support throughout life's highs and lows. Recognizing each person is unique, I tailor therapy to ensure it is relevant and personalized. In session, I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can freely express your experiences, struggles, and aspirations. Together, we'll engage both your mind and body in the healing process, fostering growth and resilience along the journey. My primary areas of focus include women’s issues, expecting/postpartum mothers, chronic illness, and the neurodivergent population.
(281) 393-4804 View (281) 393-4804
Photo of Anne Claire Woods, MA, CCLS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Claire Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CCLS, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
Life is busy and can be complicated and messy. Balancing relationships, family, work, and your health is a challenge. You probably can’t remember the last time you took the time to care for YOU! Do you struggle to find balance in your life and time to take care of yourself? Do you struggle with partner, personal, or professional relationships? Do you feel defeated as a parent? Do you feel overwhelmed by feelings, worries, and stress? Do you feel exhausted from creating “what ifs” in your head, feeling dread and uncertainty about the future? Does chronic illness impact your life? Don’t worry, there is hope!
Life is busy and can be complicated and messy. Balancing relationships, family, work, and your health is a challenge. You probably can’t remember the last time you took the time to care for YOU! Do you struggle to find balance in your life and time to take care of yourself? Do you struggle with partner, personal, or professional relationships? Do you feel defeated as a parent? Do you feel overwhelmed by feelings, worries, and stress? Do you feel exhausted from creating “what ifs” in your head, feeling dread and uncertainty about the future? Does chronic illness impact your life? Don’t worry, there is hope!
(512) 982-4889 View (512) 982-4889
Photo of Victor Lamarr Jones, PhD, Psychologist
Victor Lamarr Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77021  (Online Only)
I have worked in a variety of interdisciplinary settings, addressing concerns related to depression, anxiety, chronic illness, sleep, and interpersonal/relationship distress.
I have a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate a range of behavioral, emotional, physical, and spiritual concerns. My experiences have not only provided me with an in-depth knowledge of psychological theories and evidence-based interventions, but also an intimate understanding that healing and growth through psychotherapy cannot take place without a strong acceptance, appreciation, and integration of the unique strengths, needs, and identities of those with whom I work. My responsibility as your therapist is to walk alongside you in a collaborative manner that will help facilitate the change and healing you desire.
I have worked in a variety of interdisciplinary settings, addressing concerns related to depression, anxiety, chronic illness, sleep, and interpersonal/relationship distress.
I have a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate a range of behavioral, emotional, physical, and spiritual concerns. My experiences have not only provided me with an in-depth knowledge of psychological theories and evidence-based interventions, but also an intimate understanding that healing and growth through psychotherapy cannot take place without a strong acceptance, appreciation, and integration of the unique strengths, needs, and identities of those with whom I work. My responsibility as your therapist is to walk alongside you in a collaborative manner that will help facilitate the change and healing you desire.
(773) 830-2781 View (773) 830-2781
Photo of LaTia Green, MEd, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaTia Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77003  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who have dealt with chronic illness or other serious health disabilities.
I approach therapy with the mindset that every client has internal skills that give them the ability to reach personal goals. With an integrative client-centered approach, the client takes the lead as the expert to their life and patterns of behaviors, and I help guide the client to uncover causes of core beliefs systems that fuel areas of concern. My role in this process is to support clients with encouragement while also maintaining accountability for positive change.
I specialize in working with individuals who have dealt with chronic illness or other serious health disabilities.
I approach therapy with the mindset that every client has internal skills that give them the ability to reach personal goals. With an integrative client-centered approach, the client takes the lead as the expert to their life and patterns of behaviors, and I help guide the client to uncover causes of core beliefs systems that fuel areas of concern. My role in this process is to support clients with encouragement while also maintaining accountability for positive change.
(806) 454-7442 View (806) 454-7442
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.