Chronic Illness Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

Amber Wonder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to let go of what is no longer serving you and create change in your life? We all have times in our lives when we recognize that we are holding on to issues that are making our life more difficult than it needs to be, and we are ready to say "enough." These are pivotal moments when we can either react defensively or respond productively. Whether due to anxiety, relationship issues,
chronic illness
, premarital planning, managing transitions, or any number of other challenges that we can face in life, you do not have to figure it out on your own.
Are you ready to let go of what is no longer serving you and create change in your life? We all have times in our lives when we recognize that we are holding on to issues that are making our life more difficult than it needs to be, and we are ready to say "enough." These are pivotal moments when we can either react defensively or respond productively. Whether due to anxiety, relationship issues,
chronic illness
, premarital planning, managing transitions, or any number of other challenges that we can face in life, you do not have to figure it out on your own.

Robin San George
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
I also enjoy helping people struggling with
chronic illness
.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have been working in behavioral health since 2013. I love making genuine connections with my clients while providing individualized guidance throughout the healing process. I strongly believe that helping people to realize and trust that they are not alone in their struggles or trauma is always such a beneficial first step in establishing a solid foundation in our work together.
I also enjoy helping people struggling with
chronic illness
.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have been working in behavioral health since 2013. I love making genuine connections with my clients while providing individualized guidance throughout the healing process. I strongly believe that helping people to realize and trust that they are not alone in their struggles or trauma is always such a beneficial first step in establishing a solid foundation in our work together.

Jennifer Averyt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
8 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Not accepting new clients
I offer treatment for anxiety and depression and also specialize in helping individuals with health concerns related to
chronic illness
, diabetes, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic pain, eating disorders, and cancer.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or anxiety? Experiencing difficulties with sleep, pain, or adjusting to a new medical diagnosis? Binge eating or using food to cope with emotions? Looking to improve your quality of life by making positive changes for your health? As a clinical health psychologist, I offer treatments that have been proven effective in each of these areas.
I offer treatment for anxiety and depression and also specialize in helping individuals with health concerns related to
chronic illness
, diabetes, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic pain, eating disorders, and cancer.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or anxiety? Experiencing difficulties with sleep, pain, or adjusting to a new medical diagnosis? Binge eating or using food to cope with emotions? Looking to improve your quality of life by making positive changes for your health? As a clinical health psychologist, I offer treatments that have been proven effective in each of these areas.

Katie Lespron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, OSW-C
Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85054
I have a special interest in working with those with
chronic illness
/cancer.
Life is filled with challenges. It is not uncommon those hurdles you once were able to jump over, now seem unattainable to tackle. These challenges can leave us anxious, depressed or with a sense of loss. Grief and loss can feel heavy and isolating. Life transitions and change can be difficult to adapt to. Seeking support in someone who can truly listen and provide neutral guidance can make a large difference in how you navigate the crazy ride we call life.
I have a special interest in working with those with
chronic illness
/cancer.
Life is filled with challenges. It is not uncommon those hurdles you once were able to jump over, now seem unattainable to tackle. These challenges can leave us anxious, depressed or with a sense of loss. Grief and loss can feel heavy and isolating. Life transitions and change can be difficult to adapt to. Seeking support in someone who can truly listen and provide neutral guidance can make a large difference in how you navigate the crazy ride we call life.

Hart to Heart Family Support
MA, CCLS
Phoenix, AZ 85008
Are you overstimulated and overwhelmed as a parent? Do you find yourself yelling more than you want to and wish your children would cooperate more? As a development expert, my mission is to provide comprehensive support, guidance, and empowerment to children and families navigating the day to day challenges that come with parenting. In addition, If you have a child with a
chronic illness
or medical trauma, as a Child Life Specialist I provide education and support including but not limited to: new diagnosis education, preparation for procedures/surgery, sibling support for ill/hospitalized children, & grief and bereavement support.
Are you overstimulated and overwhelmed as a parent? Do you find yourself yelling more than you want to and wish your children would cooperate more? As a development expert, my mission is to provide comprehensive support, guidance, and empowerment to children and families navigating the day to day challenges that come with parenting. In addition, If you have a child with a
chronic illness
or medical trauma, as a Child Life Specialist I provide education and support including but not limited to: new diagnosis education, preparation for procedures/surgery, sibling support for ill/hospitalized children, & grief and bereavement support.

Dr. Ruth N. Faucette
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
Has life become so challenging that you ask yourself, “Will it ever get easier?” As we journey down the road of life, we will run into bumps, make wrong turns, and even get into wrecks. When that happens, we need guidance to get back to being our happiest, healthiest selves. Whether you’re facing the stress from common life-cycle transitions (e.g., beginning a new career, facing a big move, etc.), experiencing a loss of “spark” in your relationship, noticing a breakdown in communication with family members, or facing the psychological and biological comorbidity of
chronic illness
, I am here to help you navigate the road ahead.
Has life become so challenging that you ask yourself, “Will it ever get easier?” As we journey down the road of life, we will run into bumps, make wrong turns, and even get into wrecks. When that happens, we need guidance to get back to being our happiest, healthiest selves. Whether you’re facing the stress from common life-cycle transitions (e.g., beginning a new career, facing a big move, etc.), experiencing a loss of “spark” in your relationship, noticing a breakdown in communication with family members, or facing the psychological and biological comorbidity of
chronic illness
, I am here to help you navigate the road ahead.

Marlo Whitson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
We all experience trauma and severe life stressors' that leave us feeling stuck and hopeless. Your crisis may be depression, relationship issues, anxiety,
chronic illness
, sport performance or something that is so overwhelming you are struggling with life. Often time we hold ourselves in bondage to the choices we have made. I believe some of life's most difficult experiences leads us to our greatest growth. I will give you the tools to move forward from past attachments that seem to keep you stagnate in your life.
We all experience trauma and severe life stressors' that leave us feeling stuck and hopeless. Your crisis may be depression, relationship issues, anxiety,
chronic illness
, sport performance or something that is so overwhelming you are struggling with life. Often time we hold ourselves in bondage to the choices we have made. I believe some of life's most difficult experiences leads us to our greatest growth. I will give you the tools to move forward from past attachments that seem to keep you stagnate in your life.

Kelly N Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Navigating life's challenges, especially those as complex and interrelated as trauma,
chronic illness
, or emotional pain, can often feel isolating and alienating.
Clients who work with Kelly experience acute or chronic psychological or physiological distress that she can assist. You may have recently experienced an event of significant trauma or long-term issues like chronic pain, anxiety or depression that have been plaguing you - at this critical juncture you want more than relief - you want transformative change! When working with a therapist the goal should be finding evidence-based and efficient solutions tailored specifically to your circumstances that facilitate lasting change over time.
Navigating life's challenges, especially those as complex and interrelated as trauma,
chronic illness
, or emotional pain, can often feel isolating and alienating.
Clients who work with Kelly experience acute or chronic psychological or physiological distress that she can assist. You may have recently experienced an event of significant trauma or long-term issues like chronic pain, anxiety or depression that have been plaguing you - at this critical juncture you want more than relief - you want transformative change! When working with a therapist the goal should be finding evidence-based and efficient solutions tailored specifically to your circumstances that facilitate lasting change over time.

Lindsey R Buckman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I have received extensive training in the areas of care giving,
chronic illness
, infertility, trauma, couples/relationship concerns, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues, compulsive overeating/binge eating, and third party reproduction.
As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and help you find ways to be your best self. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can use them to better understand and resolve the current challenges in your life. By working collaboratively, we will work to adjust behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I have received extensive training in the areas of care giving,
chronic illness
, infertility, trauma, couples/relationship concerns, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues, compulsive overeating/binge eating, and third party reproduction.
As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and help you find ways to be your best self. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can use them to better understand and resolve the current challenges in your life. By working collaboratively, we will work to adjust behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Amra Stafford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003 (Online Only)
Crises and life transitions tend to spotlight where we need to grow. I have two typical clients. One is interested in ongoing psychotherapy and has often (though not necessarily) been in therapy before. The other is looking for shorter-term work (12-16 weeks) to sort through a decision or transition (relationship, career, new diagnosis, etc.) Depression, anxiety, "stuckness" or "emptiness" often inspire people to call, and I work with adults of all backgrounds. I have niche experience with Autistic people & ADHD from a neurodiversity perspective; people with
chronic illness
; and healthcare & mental health professionals.
Crises and life transitions tend to spotlight where we need to grow. I have two typical clients. One is interested in ongoing psychotherapy and has often (though not necessarily) been in therapy before. The other is looking for shorter-term work (12-16 weeks) to sort through a decision or transition (relationship, career, new diagnosis, etc.) Depression, anxiety, "stuckness" or "emptiness" often inspire people to call, and I work with adults of all backgrounds. I have niche experience with Autistic people & ADHD from a neurodiversity perspective; people with
chronic illness
; and healthcare & mental health professionals.

Dr. Kyrie Conseen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004 (Online Only)
Although I consider myself a specialist in trauma issues, I have worked with clients across the lifespan on a broad range of needs. Some of the most common topics include life adjustments, ADHD, anxiety,
chronic illness
& pain, grief, depressive disorders, parenting, relationships and PTSD. My therapy style is eclectic, warm, intuitive and interactive. For those interested, I can also integrate spiritual knowledge and practices into your therapy as well. Sessions will utilize education, dialogue & skills building. We will strive to close each session with a mutually agreed upon homework assignment to work on until the next session.
Although I consider myself a specialist in trauma issues, I have worked with clients across the lifespan on a broad range of needs. Some of the most common topics include life adjustments, ADHD, anxiety,
chronic illness
& pain, grief, depressive disorders, parenting, relationships and PTSD. My therapy style is eclectic, warm, intuitive and interactive. For those interested, I can also integrate spiritual knowledge and practices into your therapy as well. Sessions will utilize education, dialogue & skills building. We will strive to close each session with a mutually agreed upon homework assignment to work on until the next session.
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Kathleen Donaghy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Stress management and coping with acute and
chronic illness
.
Dr. Donaghy is a licensed psychologist providing psychotherapy and hypnosis for adults and children who present with a variety of issues. She has specialized training in conflict management, cancer, pain, disabilities, medical concerns, wellness, and medication management. She also treats depression, grief, anxiety, anger, and relationship problems. Her approach to therapy is based on extensive training, research, and publications. She offers individualized treatment for each patient, and integrates their spirituality/philosophy into the sessions as a means of strengthening existing resources.
Stress management and coping with acute and
chronic illness
.
Dr. Donaghy is a licensed psychologist providing psychotherapy and hypnosis for adults and children who present with a variety of issues. She has specialized training in conflict management, cancer, pain, disabilities, medical concerns, wellness, and medication management. She also treats depression, grief, anxiety, anger, and relationship problems. Her approach to therapy is based on extensive training, research, and publications. She offers individualized treatment for each patient, and integrates their spirituality/philosophy into the sessions as a means of strengthening existing resources.

Kimberly G. Bailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, DBH, LMFT
Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050
We also provide collaboration with providers, treatment and ongoing support for relational and emotional pain that often accompanies
chronic illness
and pain.
I specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy including parenting, family cooperation and marital discord/couples counseling. I work with blended and divorced families, emphasizing healthy communication and co-parenting. I work with families struggling with issues associated with ADHD, Depression, General Defiance and Attachment Difficulties. I focus on identifying individual's strengths and passionate about sports performance. I enjoy working with families as I believe it facilitates the greatest opportunity for change. I do also work with individuals who are not able to be accompanied by other family members or who choose not to.
We also provide collaboration with providers, treatment and ongoing support for relational and emotional pain that often accompanies
chronic illness
and pain.
I specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy including parenting, family cooperation and marital discord/couples counseling. I work with blended and divorced families, emphasizing healthy communication and co-parenting. I work with families struggling with issues associated with ADHD, Depression, General Defiance and Attachment Difficulties. I focus on identifying individual's strengths and passionate about sports performance. I enjoy working with families as I believe it facilitates the greatest opportunity for change. I do also work with individuals who are not able to be accompanied by other family members or who choose not to.

Gila Lesky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85001
Within all people there is a compelling force to move toward life and fulfillment. There are challenges along the way, and in the midst of COVID 19, there is extraordinary stress. Health, relationships and coping is of paramount importance. Is there hope for my marriage? What impact is marital conflict having on my children? I specialize in co parenting after divorce and those contemplating divorce. My background allows me to work with
chronic illness
, as well as with medical students, residents and fellows experiencing both acute and long term stress, particularly in their personal and professional lives.
Within all people there is a compelling force to move toward life and fulfillment. There are challenges along the way, and in the midst of COVID 19, there is extraordinary stress. Health, relationships and coping is of paramount importance. Is there hope for my marriage? What impact is marital conflict having on my children? I specialize in co parenting after divorce and those contemplating divorce. My background allows me to work with
chronic illness
, as well as with medical students, residents and fellows experiencing both acute and long term stress, particularly in their personal and professional lives.

Lisa Lorence del Valle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
People who struggle with their weight and/or experience poor body image; depression; anxiety; and
chronic illness
, are my specialties.
Are you in need of additional support and direction to get through difficult moments? Are you struggling with issues that have been around for weeks, or even decades? For 25 years, I have been working with adults who are looking to break old patterns (thinking, eating, etc), take better care of themselves, and create a more mindful way of living.
People who struggle with their weight and/or experience poor body image; depression; anxiety; and
chronic illness
, are my specialties.
Are you in need of additional support and direction to get through difficult moments? Are you struggling with issues that have been around for weeks, or even decades? For 25 years, I have been working with adults who are looking to break old patterns (thinking, eating, etc), take better care of themselves, and create a more mindful way of living.

Jennifer McCombs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
I am a LCSW providing virtual therapy in AZ, CA and NV. In my work, I believe that the true health and freedom we crave present themselves when we align body, mind and soul and return to the instinctual, intuitive wisdom that exists within us to guide us on our life journey. Through returning to ourselves and the sense of safety, security and love that come with feeling safe and at home in our bodies, we are able to open to life and live fully. Working with me requires a willingness to do hard, deep, but gentle, work.
I am a LCSW providing virtual therapy in AZ, CA and NV. In my work, I believe that the true health and freedom we crave present themselves when we align body, mind and soul and return to the instinctual, intuitive wisdom that exists within us to guide us on our life journey. Through returning to ourselves and the sense of safety, security and love that come with feeling safe and at home in our bodies, we are able to open to life and live fully. Working with me requires a willingness to do hard, deep, but gentle, work.

Mike Greenwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I work with clients throughout the course of the life span. I have skills for working with both youth and adults. I have been working in the helping professions since 2003. And a licensed provider from 2011. I personalized the treatment to each client and each need. I offer both long term and short term treatment options: EMDR, ACT, DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, SandTray Therapy, and Solution Focused Interviewing.
I work with clients throughout the course of the life span. I have skills for working with both youth and adults. I have been working in the helping professions since 2003. And a licensed provider from 2011. I personalized the treatment to each client and each need. I offer both long term and short term treatment options: EMDR, ACT, DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, SandTray Therapy, and Solution Focused Interviewing.

Dr. Shannon Jewell-Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044 (Online Only)
You’re having trouble recognizing yourself anymore; going from living a full life to feeling yourself restricted by exhaustion and poor sleep, obsessively focused on food and eating, overwhelmed by stress, sidelined by chronic pain or a serious medical diagnosis. For those struggling with sleep issues, you've taken the gummies, switched out your mattress, and you’re still not waking up feeling refreshed. Maybe you’re nervous about seeking help for your mental health struggles. It can feel like playing whack-a-mole: new things pop up all the time and it can be frustrating to work on just one problem one at a time all on your own.
You’re having trouble recognizing yourself anymore; going from living a full life to feeling yourself restricted by exhaustion and poor sleep, obsessively focused on food and eating, overwhelmed by stress, sidelined by chronic pain or a serious medical diagnosis. For those struggling with sleep issues, you've taken the gummies, switched out your mattress, and you’re still not waking up feeling refreshed. Maybe you’re nervous about seeking help for your mental health struggles. It can feel like playing whack-a-mole: new things pop up all the time and it can be frustrating to work on just one problem one at a time all on your own.

Durand Healing and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW
Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Now accepting new clients! At DHWC we believe that anyone has it within themselves to create change, our job is to give you the skills and empower you to do so. Dr. Durand is a Doctor of Behavioral Health and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with an extensive background in both outpatient and inpatient healthcare settings. In her many years of leadership experience, she has developed a passion for supervising and training up quality mental health professionals. Therefore, we offer several clinicians at our practice under her direct supervision with a range of skills and price ranges that can fit most patient needs.
Now accepting new clients! At DHWC we believe that anyone has it within themselves to create change, our job is to give you the skills and empower you to do so. Dr. Durand is a Doctor of Behavioral Health and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with an extensive background in both outpatient and inpatient healthcare settings. In her many years of leadership experience, she has developed a passion for supervising and training up quality mental health professionals. Therefore, we offer several clinicians at our practice under her direct supervision with a range of skills and price ranges that can fit most patient needs.

Dr. Lora Ward
Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC, FAAGC
Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85024
Not accepting new clients
In the midst of grief, finding a way forward can be daunting. As a grief therapist, I offer a safe haven where you can explore emotions, memories, and struggles. With empathy and active listening, I create an environment for you to express without judgment. My aim is to empower you to cope with loss and discover purpose. Together, we'll weave coping strategies into your journey, fostering gradual healing and growth. You're not just defined by grief; you're a person with experiences, memories, and potential. I'm here to walk alongside, offering guidance as you navigate.
In the midst of grief, finding a way forward can be daunting. As a grief therapist, I offer a safe haven where you can explore emotions, memories, and struggles. With empathy and active listening, I create an environment for you to express without judgment. My aim is to empower you to cope with loss and discover purpose. Together, we'll weave coping strategies into your journey, fostering gradual healing and growth. You're not just defined by grief; you're a person with experiences, memories, and potential. I'm here to walk alongside, offering guidance as you navigate.
See more therapy options for Phoenix
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.