Photo of Steven Pappas - Dr. Steve, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Steve
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kapaa, HI 96746
Aloha :) Currently accepting new Kaiser Permanente and HMSA clients. I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and life experiences into this shared work. I provide professional therapeutic services to couples, families, individual adults, adolescents, and children addressing a range of clinical issues. I honor wherever you are on your journey and believe in cultivating space, and curiosity as we navigate this path together. I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. ​
Aloha :) Currently accepting new Kaiser Permanente and HMSA clients. I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and life experiences into this shared work. I provide professional therapeutic services to couples, families, individual adults, adolescents, and children addressing a range of clinical issues. I honor wherever you are on your journey and believe in cultivating space, and curiosity as we navigate this path together. I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. ​
(808) 707-7839 View (808) 707-7839
Photo of Mike 'web' Webster, MHC, RT (R), Pre-Licensed Professional
Mike 'web' Webster
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC, RT (R)
Verified Verified
Kapaa, HI 96746
Tired of feeling overwhelmed by chronic pain? By life? Despite visiting numerous doctors, you've found no real answers or relief. You're not alone. I've recovered from years of chronic pain, so I understand firsthand how debilitating it can be. Your pain is 100% real—it's not just "all in your head." Here's the thing: our bodies are deeply connected to our thoughts and emotions. If you're ready to address the root cause of your chronic symptoms, I can guide you towards relief and empowerment, offering strategies to relieve not only your pain but also to address issues like anxiety, depression, grief, and identity development.
Tired of feeling overwhelmed by chronic pain? By life? Despite visiting numerous doctors, you've found no real answers or relief. You're not alone. I've recovered from years of chronic pain, so I understand firsthand how debilitating it can be. Your pain is 100% real—it's not just "all in your head." Here's the thing: our bodies are deeply connected to our thoughts and emotions. If you're ready to address the root cause of your chronic symptoms, I can guide you towards relief and empowerment, offering strategies to relieve not only your pain but also to address issues like anxiety, depression, grief, and identity development.
(808) 556-7664 View (808) 556-7664

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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.