Chronic Illness Therapists in Ontario

Photo of Laura Roberta Moll, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Laura Roberta Moll
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW RSW, CGT, BEC
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J
I engage in individual client-centred psychosocial assessment and counselling to help individuals and families confronted with chronic illness and /or disability work one on one with our clients to move past and through the trauma of illness and/or injury towards a future that is filled with possibility, joy, and hope .
I am a very enthusiastic, compassionate, and highly motivated self-directed health care professional with a physical disability committed to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families living with chronic illness and/or disability through clinical practice, education, and research at all phases of development, individually, and in collaboration with other stakeholders. I adhere to client-centred, and strength-oriented approaches to psychosocial assessment and counselling when working with these individuals. I am also cognizant of the impact of past and current socio-economic, bio-psychosocial, and health care policies a
I engage in individual client-centred psychosocial assessment and counselling to help individuals and families confronted with chronic illness and /or disability work one on one with our clients to move past and through the trauma of illness and/or injury towards a future that is filled with possibility, joy, and hope .
I am a very enthusiastic, compassionate, and highly motivated self-directed health care professional with a physical disability committed to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families living with chronic illness and/or disability through clinical practice, education, and research at all phases of development, individually, and in collaboration with other stakeholders. I adhere to client-centred, and strength-oriented approaches to psychosocial assessment and counselling when working with these individuals. I am also cognizant of the impact of past and current socio-economic, bio-psychosocial, and health care policies a
(647) 957-9921 View (647) 957-9921
Photo of Kat Singer, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Kat Singer
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
North York, ON M3J  (Online Only)
I primarily specialize in working with individuals who are: coming to terms with late-discovered Autism and/or ADHD; exploring sexual orientation and gender identity; employed in creative industries: artists, actors, performers; coping with chronic illness; seeking to incorporate art/creativity into healing.
Finding a therapist who gets you makes a big difference. Together, we can explore your challenges, and figure out what makes life happy and meaningful to you. We can work on recognizing and breaking out of patterns that no longer serve you, building new skills, and developing deeper, more meaningful relationships with others, as well as compassion and appreciation for yourself. My approach incorporates evidence-based therapy models including Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
I primarily specialize in working with individuals who are: coming to terms with late-discovered Autism and/or ADHD; exploring sexual orientation and gender identity; employed in creative industries: artists, actors, performers; coping with chronic illness; seeking to incorporate art/creativity into healing.
Finding a therapist who gets you makes a big difference. Together, we can explore your challenges, and figure out what makes life happy and meaningful to you. We can work on recognizing and breaking out of patterns that no longer serve you, building new skills, and developing deeper, more meaningful relationships with others, as well as compassion and appreciation for yourself. My approach incorporates evidence-based therapy models including Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
(289) 514-0052 View (289) 514-0052
Photo of Klara Siber-Simic, Psychotherapy and Supervision , Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Klara Siber-Simic, Psychotherapy and Supervision
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, MHSc, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
Have you experienced grief or loss? Are you going through a life transition? Are you living with health challenges, chronic or acute illness? Have you experienced injury and trauma? Do you provide care to a person living with chronic illness? Are you struggling to navigate through important decisions? Are you hoping to live a more balanced or more meaningful life? Through psychotherapy you can learn about yourself, identify and access your strengths, process past or present experience, gain valuable insight, build your resilience, examine beliefs and identify what you would like to change and how to go about moving forward.
Have you experienced grief or loss? Are you going through a life transition? Are you living with health challenges, chronic or acute illness? Have you experienced injury and trauma? Do you provide care to a person living with chronic illness? Are you struggling to navigate through important decisions? Are you hoping to live a more balanced or more meaningful life? Through psychotherapy you can learn about yourself, identify and access your strengths, process past or present experience, gain valuable insight, build your resilience, examine beliefs and identify what you would like to change and how to go about moving forward.
(647) 699-1987 View (647) 699-1987
Photo of Marilyn Hill, Psychologist in Ontario
Marilyn Hill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N5X  (Online Only)
Do you experience chronic pain? Have you been diagnosed with a chronic illness? Chronic pain / illness can impact so many areas of your life - your ability to work, maintain your home or garden, and participate in activities with your family and friends. Living with chronic pain / illness can be exhausting, overwhelming and so very frustrating. Many people who experience daily pain begin to struggle with stress, anxiety and /or depression, which increases their pain and makes it even harder to cope. Worried that group therapy "isn't for you"? I invite you to give us a chance to show you how enjoyable and helpful it can be.
Do you experience chronic pain? Have you been diagnosed with a chronic illness? Chronic pain / illness can impact so many areas of your life - your ability to work, maintain your home or garden, and participate in activities with your family and friends. Living with chronic pain / illness can be exhausting, overwhelming and so very frustrating. Many people who experience daily pain begin to struggle with stress, anxiety and /or depression, which increases their pain and makes it even harder to cope. Worried that group therapy "isn't for you"? I invite you to give us a chance to show you how enjoyable and helpful it can be.
(226) 455-1678 View (226) 455-1678
Photo of Christine Keown, Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Christine Keown
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd , RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I focused my master’s research on the interceptions of non-nociceptive pain and resilience, so have an interest in working with chronic pain and chronic illness.
Relationship-building and a strong therapeutic alliance come at the core of the work that I do. To me, it is important to create a space that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and relaxed, so that clients can feel open to share. I find importance in meeting each client where they are at, and with young clients (or young at heart) have been known to use creative formats for engagement such as: games, sand tray, art, music or going on walks. I am able to do work with children 7 and above, adolescents, and adult clients. I have over a decade of experience working with children/youth and adults, both in a counselling and teaching capacity.
I focused my master’s research on the interceptions of non-nociceptive pain and resilience, so have an interest in working with chronic pain and chronic illness.
Relationship-building and a strong therapeutic alliance come at the core of the work that I do. To me, it is important to create a space that is welcoming, non-judgmental, and relaxed, so that clients can feel open to share. I find importance in meeting each client where they are at, and with young clients (or young at heart) have been known to use creative formats for engagement such as: games, sand tray, art, music or going on walks. I am able to do work with children 7 and above, adolescents, and adult clients. I have over a decade of experience working with children/youth and adults, both in a counselling and teaching capacity.
(365) 607-9289 View (365) 607-9289
Photo of Prismatic Compassion - Therapy Collective, Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Prismatic Compassion - Therapy Collective
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, ADTP, HBASc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Angus, ON L0M  (Online Only)
Are you LGBT2SQ+ and need help exploring sexuality and gender identity? Are you self or late-diagnosed ADHD/Autistic and want help in understanding yourself better? Do you have a chronic illness, hormonal issues, or are going through menopause & want a therapist who understands and gets the challenges in navigating the medical system? Do you want help to improve your relationship with food and body image, to stop binge eating, or to better understand your sensory eating differences? Are you trying to divest from diet culture and are looking for weight-inclusive, health at every size support? If we could help, please book a consult.
Are you LGBT2SQ+ and need help exploring sexuality and gender identity? Are you self or late-diagnosed ADHD/Autistic and want help in understanding yourself better? Do you have a chronic illness, hormonal issues, or are going through menopause & want a therapist who understands and gets the challenges in navigating the medical system? Do you want help to improve your relationship with food and body image, to stop binge eating, or to better understand your sensory eating differences? Are you trying to divest from diet culture and are looking for weight-inclusive, health at every size support? If we could help, please book a consult.
(249) 703-5512 View (249) 703-5512
Photo of Dr. Paula Miceli, Psychologist in Ontario
Dr. Paula Miceli
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G
In our work together, the interpersonal perspective enables us to focus on the ways in which you have relations with yourself and with others. For some, the onset of an acute or chronic illness have shifted these relations, future goals and plans. Sometimes, the process of therapy involves learning to recognize behavioral patterns that evoke distress, or bring about unwanted outcomes. Through an atmosphere of support, you can carefully consider the decision to change, and efforts can be targeted towards building healthier, more effective patterns. Cognitive-behavioural strategies are integrated into sessions to facilitate change.
In our work together, the interpersonal perspective enables us to focus on the ways in which you have relations with yourself and with others. For some, the onset of an acute or chronic illness have shifted these relations, future goals and plans. Sometimes, the process of therapy involves learning to recognize behavioral patterns that evoke distress, or bring about unwanted outcomes. Through an atmosphere of support, you can carefully consider the decision to change, and efforts can be targeted towards building healthier, more effective patterns. Cognitive-behavioural strategies are integrated into sessions to facilitate change.
(437) 747-1678 View (437) 747-1678
Photo of Noga Lutzky-Cohen - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Health, Psychological Associate in Ontario
Noga Lutzky-Cohen - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Health
Psychological Associate, MA, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Additionally, she has a background in rehabilitation, working with people who are living with chronic illness and pain.
Noga values the importance of the therapeutic relationship as the foundation from which empowerment and positive change grow. She emphasizes creating a safe, non-judgmental, collaborative environment to help clients address their concerns and goals. She helps clients with their pain and suffering as well as deepen their personal growth and improve their emotional well-being.
Additionally, she has a background in rehabilitation, working with people who are living with chronic illness and pain.
Noga values the importance of the therapeutic relationship as the foundation from which empowerment and positive change grow. She emphasizes creating a safe, non-judgmental, collaborative environment to help clients address their concerns and goals. She helps clients with their pain and suffering as well as deepen their personal growth and improve their emotional well-being.
(437) 291-8191 View (437) 291-8191
Photo of Susan Cape, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Susan Cape
Registered Social Worker, MA, RSW, OAMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8T  (Online Only)
I am a 5th year PhD candidate in the School of Social Work at McMaster University and balance my time between my practice, academic research and my zoo (cats and dogs!) My commitment is to walk alongside you as you navigate your path through life. My work experience in the non-profit sector has found me working with those struggling with mental health challenges (general anxiety/panic, depression, OCD, agoraphobia, trauma), addiction, chronic illness/pain, relationship issues and domestic abuse. I also identify as a consumer of care as a woman with an invisible disability and am passionate about advocacy work for migraine patients.
I am a 5th year PhD candidate in the School of Social Work at McMaster University and balance my time between my practice, academic research and my zoo (cats and dogs!) My commitment is to walk alongside you as you navigate your path through life. My work experience in the non-profit sector has found me working with those struggling with mental health challenges (general anxiety/panic, depression, OCD, agoraphobia, trauma), addiction, chronic illness/pain, relationship issues and domestic abuse. I also identify as a consumer of care as a woman with an invisible disability and am passionate about advocacy work for migraine patients.
(365) 305-0045 View (365) 305-0045
Photo of Nazneen Mehdi in Ontario
Nazneen Mehdi
RN, CNP(Q)
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5N
Challenges and difficult times can happen to any one. Are you experiencing anxiety, unstable moods, life stress or transitions? Do you suffer from chronic illness, pain, perinatal challenges, or issues with substances? I will collaborate with at your pace to help you achieve more control, clarity, and solutions for difficult times. We will look at how thoughts, emotions, and behaviour work together to create different experiences in your life. A trusting relationship with a therapist allows you to enter into deeper discussions and exploration. This can help you transform and elevate your mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
Challenges and difficult times can happen to any one. Are you experiencing anxiety, unstable moods, life stress or transitions? Do you suffer from chronic illness, pain, perinatal challenges, or issues with substances? I will collaborate with at your pace to help you achieve more control, clarity, and solutions for difficult times. We will look at how thoughts, emotions, and behaviour work together to create different experiences in your life. A trusting relationship with a therapist allows you to enter into deeper discussions and exploration. This can help you transform and elevate your mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
(647) 905-6408 View (647) 905-6408
Photo of Julie Myers, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Julie Myers
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I’m passionate about providing clients the space to feel seen and heard, creating the safety to process difficult emotions and experiences, related to trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness/injury and life stressors and changes. I’ve also delved into the field of psychedelics offering Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy alongside talk therapy at the Canadian Centre for Psychedelic Healing. A Registered Social Worker in Sault Ste. Marie, I have been dedicated to the fields of mental health, medical challenges and rehabilitation for more than 15 years. I can't wait to explore innovative approaches to healing and well-being with you!
I’m passionate about providing clients the space to feel seen and heard, creating the safety to process difficult emotions and experiences, related to trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness/injury and life stressors and changes. I’ve also delved into the field of psychedelics offering Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy alongside talk therapy at the Canadian Centre for Psychedelic Healing. A Registered Social Worker in Sault Ste. Marie, I have been dedicated to the fields of mental health, medical challenges and rehabilitation for more than 15 years. I can't wait to explore innovative approaches to healing and well-being with you!
(249) 503-0038 View (249) 503-0038
Photo of Authentic Minds Counselling and Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Authentic Minds Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1G
I have nearly 15yrs experience in mental health with a special interest in anxiety, addictions, trauma, domestic violence, first responders, and chronic illness and pain.
Are you experiencing chronic pain, illness or anxiety? Are you a first responder trying to cope with flashbacks, nightmares and panic as a result of constant exposure to trauma? Are you looking for something more than standard talk therapy? You may think “my stuff isn't as bad as the next person”, however, our struggles aren’t measured by the event(s), they are based on our unique lens, physical reactions and experience. Feelings of numbness, shame, and anger are all perfectly valid reactions to any painful experience. Early intervention is key to avoiding longterm damage. Lets work together to get you the relief you deserve.
I have nearly 15yrs experience in mental health with a special interest in anxiety, addictions, trauma, domestic violence, first responders, and chronic illness and pain.
Are you experiencing chronic pain, illness or anxiety? Are you a first responder trying to cope with flashbacks, nightmares and panic as a result of constant exposure to trauma? Are you looking for something more than standard talk therapy? You may think “my stuff isn't as bad as the next person”, however, our struggles aren’t measured by the event(s), they are based on our unique lens, physical reactions and experience. Feelings of numbness, shame, and anger are all perfectly valid reactions to any painful experience. Early intervention is key to avoiding longterm damage. Lets work together to get you the relief you deserve.
(548) 489-0645 View (548) 489-0645
Photo of Daryna Skybina, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ontario
Daryna Skybina
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBSc, MPS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Living with an advanced or chronic illness like can feel like a full-time job.Alongside regular responsibilities, you’re juggling countless medical appointments and managing symptoms, while carrying a heavy mental/emotional load. You may be grieving life before illness, anxious about an uncertain future, and be grappling with difficult thoughts about death/dying, the purpose of suffering, or how to live a meaningful life. The process of finding a ‘new normal’ is unique to everyone. At times, it can feel isolating and exhausting, but you don't have to do it alone.
Living with an advanced or chronic illness like can feel like a full-time job.Alongside regular responsibilities, you’re juggling countless medical appointments and managing symptoms, while carrying a heavy mental/emotional load. You may be grieving life before illness, anxious about an uncertain future, and be grappling with difficult thoughts about death/dying, the purpose of suffering, or how to live a meaningful life. The process of finding a ‘new normal’ is unique to everyone. At times, it can feel isolating and exhausting, but you don't have to do it alone.
(289) 512-2533 View (289) 512-2533
Photo of Brenda Wainman, MSW, RSW Counselling Services, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Brenda Wainman, MSW, RSW Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Huntsville, ON P1H
Together, we can untangle your stories of being human. Are you facing a new diagnosis or a recurrence of cancer or a chronic illness? Are you struggling with how to speak to your children about a recent diagnosis? Are you a stressed out health care/education worker, veteran or ER personnel struggling with mental health, work/home balance & disability issues? Are you experiencing caregiver burnout? Are you a senior grappling with bereavement issues? Are you & your partner facing intimacy concerns? Are your creative energies on hold? Do you feel alarmed by climate change & global strife? Let's untangle and appreciate the moments!
Together, we can untangle your stories of being human. Are you facing a new diagnosis or a recurrence of cancer or a chronic illness? Are you struggling with how to speak to your children about a recent diagnosis? Are you a stressed out health care/education worker, veteran or ER personnel struggling with mental health, work/home balance & disability issues? Are you experiencing caregiver burnout? Are you a senior grappling with bereavement issues? Are you & your partner facing intimacy concerns? Are your creative energies on hold? Do you feel alarmed by climate change & global strife? Let's untangle and appreciate the moments!
(249) 488-4041 View (249) 488-4041
Photo of Holly Mathers, Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Holly Mathers
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MTS, RP
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J  (Online Only)
We are here to team up with you in phone or video sessions & can support you with issues you're facing in life relating to your gender identity, chronic illness, grief & other areas of concern. Focusing on your specific situation, we will work together to find options you find most helpful. Match with one of our therapists to meet your needs throughout Ontario. Contact us today to book an appointment with the best fit for you! We have therapy sessions available within a week so you can move forward with your wellness now. We are also able to access collaborative psychiatrists by video.
We are here to team up with you in phone or video sessions & can support you with issues you're facing in life relating to your gender identity, chronic illness, grief & other areas of concern. Focusing on your specific situation, we will work together to find options you find most helpful. Match with one of our therapists to meet your needs throughout Ontario. Contact us today to book an appointment with the best fit for you! We have therapy sessions available within a week so you can move forward with your wellness now. We are also able to access collaborative psychiatrists by video.
(855) 980-2104 View (855) 980-2104
Photo of Judeline Salomon Phd, Psychiatric Nurse in Ontario
Judeline Salomon Phd
Psychiatric Nurse, BN, MScN, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7M
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
(613) 777-5038 x2 View (613) 777-5038 x2
Photo of Virtue Churchill Bajurny, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Virtue Churchill Bajurny
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6R  (Online Only)
Maintaining a sense of balance while dealing with a chronic illness can be challenging. The day-to-day process of keeping your body well can feel like a tiring and overwhelming full-time job, leading to distress, anxiety, depression, and/or burnout. Unlike a job, however, you can't rest and recharge by taking a vacation from taking care of yourself. So what can you do? Counselling can help you find your footing amidst this distress, so that you can get you back to achieving your overall goals in health and in life.
Maintaining a sense of balance while dealing with a chronic illness can be challenging. The day-to-day process of keeping your body well can feel like a tiring and overwhelming full-time job, leading to distress, anxiety, depression, and/or burnout. Unlike a job, however, you can't rest and recharge by taking a vacation from taking care of yourself. So what can you do? Counselling can help you find your footing amidst this distress, so that you can get you back to achieving your overall goals in health and in life.
(647) 799-5584 View (647) 799-5584
Photo of Heather Prescott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Ontario
Heather Prescott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MSc
Verified Verified
Owen Sound, ON N4K
My approach aims to improve the connection between your body and mind and re-train your central nervous system to organically move toward balance when wellness has been impacted by physical or mental health concerns, persistent pain, chronic illness/women's health, overwhelming life events, and trauma.
My therapeutic approach with individuals rests on the belief that everyone is doing the best they can with the tools and resources they have at any given moment. I provide a safe, respectful, and non-judgmental space to be seen, heard, and understood. My mission is to provide clients with an accessible and supportive space to reclaim their bodies and empower their own health and healing with an emphasis on choice and safety.
My approach aims to improve the connection between your body and mind and re-train your central nervous system to organically move toward balance when wellness has been impacted by physical or mental health concerns, persistent pain, chronic illness/women's health, overwhelming life events, and trauma.
My therapeutic approach with individuals rests on the belief that everyone is doing the best they can with the tools and resources they have at any given moment. I provide a safe, respectful, and non-judgmental space to be seen, heard, and understood. My mission is to provide clients with an accessible and supportive space to reclaim their bodies and empower their own health and healing with an emphasis on choice and safety.
(226) 212-7748 View (226) 212-7748
Photo of Kylie Lavallee ~ Chronic Pain | Illness | Autism, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ontario
Kylie Lavallee ~ Chronic Pain | Illness | Autism
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BAHons, MACP, ASDI, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Sudbury, ON P3C
Let's be real, life is hard – let's not make the process of finding a therapist even harder. Whether you are struggling with chronic illness/pain, finding tools to live in a neurotypical world, or just having a tough time navigating life right now, we can work together to create a safe inclusive space for your unique needs.
Let's be real, life is hard – let's not make the process of finding a therapist even harder. Whether you are struggling with chronic illness/pain, finding tools to live in a neurotypical world, or just having a tough time navigating life right now, we can work together to create a safe inclusive space for your unique needs.
(249) 490-5560 View (249) 490-5560
Photo of Susan Ward, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Susan Ward
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PRT
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V  (Online Only)
Do you live with Chronic Pain? Or a Chronic Illness? Is dealing with pain and or the health care system exhausting and all-consuming? Are you still looking for that one thing to help with your pain? Is it hard to manage your daily activities or the demands of work, school or home? I have developed a deep understanding of the complex physical, emotional, and social factors that contribute to chronic pain. It’s what I do! I’ve been there. I have lived experience with chronic pain which is now behind me. My practice is solely virtual with clients who are residents or physically located in Ontario. There is hope for Chronic Pain.
Do you live with Chronic Pain? Or a Chronic Illness? Is dealing with pain and or the health care system exhausting and all-consuming? Are you still looking for that one thing to help with your pain? Is it hard to manage your daily activities or the demands of work, school or home? I have developed a deep understanding of the complex physical, emotional, and social factors that contribute to chronic pain. It’s what I do! I’ve been there. I have lived experience with chronic pain which is now behind me. My practice is solely virtual with clients who are residents or physically located in Ontario. There is hope for Chronic Pain.
(343) 338-4356 View (343) 338-4356

See more therapy options for Ontario

Chronic Illness Counsellors

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 behavioural 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.