Chronic Illness Therapists in Idyllwild, CA

Photo of Jacqui Boles, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BC-TMH, ATR
Jacqui Boles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BC-TMH, ATR
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You have questions about yourself that seem more pressing after watching a video in which you heard the speaker share your own experiences navigating your sexuality or gender expression through their words. The realizations about who you are and what you want have brought levels of self-doubt about how to show up in your current relationships; platonic, coworker, familial or romantic. How do you now identify, how do you express that identity? You continue to struggle with the need to love/accept yourself exactly as you are and with what the social consequences may be should you choose to express that part of yourself openly.
You have questions about yourself that seem more pressing after watching a video in which you heard the speaker share your own experiences navigating your sexuality or gender expression through their words. The realizations about who you are and what you want have brought levels of self-doubt about how to show up in your current relationships; platonic, coworker, familial or romantic. How do you now identify, how do you express that identity? You continue to struggle with the need to love/accept yourself exactly as you are and with what the social consequences may be should you choose to express that part of yourself openly.
(760) 548-4085 View (760) 548-4085
Photo of Julie Anne Steiger - A Human Sanctuary , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Human Sanctuary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Idyllwild, CA 92549
At A Human Sanctuary, we are dedicated to cultivating the tools and practices required for healing and growth after trauma. We blend the science of the nervous system, the creativity of the arts, and the wisdom of nature to guide people in reconnecting to their inherent wholeness and resiliency. We meet each person with true curiosity, openness, and authentic compassion. Our mission is to be a safe place for people seeking refuge, healing, and personal transformation. We specialize in supporting individuals who feel overwhelmed about the future or struggling to adapt to the rapid changes unfolding in the world.
At A Human Sanctuary, we are dedicated to cultivating the tools and practices required for healing and growth after trauma. We blend the science of the nervous system, the creativity of the arts, and the wisdom of nature to guide people in reconnecting to their inherent wholeness and resiliency. We meet each person with true curiosity, openness, and authentic compassion. Our mission is to be a safe place for people seeking refuge, healing, and personal transformation. We specialize in supporting individuals who feel overwhelmed about the future or struggling to adapt to the rapid changes unfolding in the world.
(951) 514-3124 View (951) 514-3124
Photo of Tima Ivanova - Child Therapist - Tima Ivanova, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Child Therapist - Tima Ivanova
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Online Only
As a dedicated child and adolescent therapist, I believe that healing and self-discovery happen through experience, not just conversation. In my practice, I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where young minds can explore their emotions and thoughts through various expressive modalities. Utilizing techniques such as drawing, role play, pantomime, storytelling, play therapy, movements, dance, poetry, and music, I help children and adolescents engage with their inner world in a way that feels natural and supportive.
As a dedicated child and adolescent therapist, I believe that healing and self-discovery happen through experience, not just conversation. In my practice, I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where young minds can explore their emotions and thoughts through various expressive modalities. Utilizing techniques such as drawing, role play, pantomime, storytelling, play therapy, movements, dance, poetry, and music, I help children and adolescents engage with their inner world in a way that feels natural and supportive.
(323) 630-4726 View (323) 630-4726

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Veronica Regueiro, Psychologist, PsyD
Veronica Regueiro
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Dr. Regueiro enjoys working with children, adolescents, and transitional age youth struggling with anxiety, depression, and adjustment to new situations. While symptom relief is an important goal for those entering therapy, Dr. Regueiro believes that therapy can offer more - not just the opportunity to stop being sad, or stop being worried, but the opportunity to thrive and create lives that are meaningful, peaceful, and joyful. Symptom relief is the starting point, not the end of the journey.
Dr. Regueiro enjoys working with children, adolescents, and transitional age youth struggling with anxiety, depression, and adjustment to new situations. While symptom relief is an important goal for those entering therapy, Dr. Regueiro believes that therapy can offer more - not just the opportunity to stop being sad, or stop being worried, but the opportunity to thrive and create lives that are meaningful, peaceful, and joyful. Symptom relief is the starting point, not the end of the journey.
(909) 328-6910 View (909) 328-6910
Photo of Kiran Haynes, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kiran Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Whether you are in mourning, facing difficulties of neurodivergence, struggling with a chronic illness, experiencing systemic issues as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, or facing constant change as a military family member, it can be daunting to confront these challenges on your own.
I employ a person-centered approach, grounding my practice in the belief that you are the expert in your own life. This method fosters a supportive environment that encourages self-exploration and personal growth, helping you navigate your unique experiences and challenges.
Whether you are in mourning, facing difficulties of neurodivergence, struggling with a chronic illness, experiencing systemic issues as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, or facing constant change as a military family member, it can be daunting to confront these challenges on your own.
I employ a person-centered approach, grounding my practice in the belief that you are the expert in your own life. This method fosters a supportive environment that encourages self-exploration and personal growth, helping you navigate your unique experiences and challenges.
(951) 621-9841 View (951) 621-9841
Photo of Roger Moore - Palm Desert Hypnosis, Counselor, CHT, RC
Palm Desert Hypnosis
Counselor, CHT, RC
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Are you dealing with disease, illness, anxiety, depression or other physical, mental and emotional issues? I am a Medical Counselor and Hypnotherapist specializing in cancer, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, dementia, end-of-life, IBS, fibromyalgia, weight loss, hypertension, phobia, anxiety and other health and wellness matters. I have more than 23 years counseling experience. I was in private practice in the Medical Dental Building in downtown Seattle and on Bainbridge Island from 1997 - 2018. Since February 2019, I am now at 74-967 Sheryl Ave, Palm Desert, California 92260. I have been live online worldwide since 2005.
Are you dealing with disease, illness, anxiety, depression or other physical, mental and emotional issues? I am a Medical Counselor and Hypnotherapist specializing in cancer, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, dementia, end-of-life, IBS, fibromyalgia, weight loss, hypertension, phobia, anxiety and other health and wellness matters. I have more than 23 years counseling experience. I was in private practice in the Medical Dental Building in downtown Seattle and on Bainbridge Island from 1997 - 2018. Since February 2019, I am now at 74-967 Sheryl Ave, Palm Desert, California 92260. I have been live online worldwide since 2005.
(760) 219-8079 View (760) 219-8079
Photo of Christa Cuison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, MPH
Christa Cuison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, MPH
Online Only
Hi, I’m Christa, an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW) who values authenticity, compassion, and creating a genuine connection with my clients. I earned a dual Master of Social Work and Master of Public Health (MSW/MPH) from San Diego State University and am currently a third year Naturopathic Medical Student (ND) at Bastyr University. I identify as a highly sensitive person (HSP) and Filipino-American (she/her). I bring a culturally informed and inclusive perspective, striving to meet every client where they are in their journey. I am deeply committed to ensuring you feel truly seen, heard, and understood in our work together.
Hi, I’m Christa, an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW) who values authenticity, compassion, and creating a genuine connection with my clients. I earned a dual Master of Social Work and Master of Public Health (MSW/MPH) from San Diego State University and am currently a third year Naturopathic Medical Student (ND) at Bastyr University. I identify as a highly sensitive person (HSP) and Filipino-American (she/her). I bring a culturally informed and inclusive perspective, striving to meet every client where they are in their journey. I am deeply committed to ensuring you feel truly seen, heard, and understood in our work together.
(805) 669-2589 View (805) 669-2589
Photo of Sara Kolsin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sara Kolsin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
“What is to give light must endure burning.” ― Victor Frankl. Everyone needs someone to hear them. I am here to lend an ear, be present when life gets tough, and assist you in finding coping skills to weather any storm successfully. Life can be stressful and we all need a helping hand in becoming the most authentic versions of ourselves. I enjoy and welcome working with older teenagers (16+) and adult individuals that want to become more resilient, feel better about themselves, and want to move past their past. I truly believe that our past holds us hostage and prevents us from being in, and enjoying, the present moments in life.
“What is to give light must endure burning.” ― Victor Frankl. Everyone needs someone to hear them. I am here to lend an ear, be present when life gets tough, and assist you in finding coping skills to weather any storm successfully. Life can be stressful and we all need a helping hand in becoming the most authentic versions of ourselves. I enjoy and welcome working with older teenagers (16+) and adult individuals that want to become more resilient, feel better about themselves, and want to move past their past. I truly believe that our past holds us hostage and prevents us from being in, and enjoying, the present moments in life.
(626) 240-5488 View (626) 240-5488
Photo of Cindy L Andrews, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cindy L Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Depressed, anxious, hurt, angry? Grieving? Need to reduce stress, improve self-esteem, gain communication skills or strengthen relationships? Weekends may be available. Benefit from new perspectives & effective personal tools. Practice new skills in a safe compassionate atmosphere. New vision & better understanding can improve our lives. Old issues can improve with fresh insight & effective action. With personal growth, relationships can become more enriched & fulfilling. Move away from former positions of self-doubt, become empowered, act with newly found purpose & confidence. It IS possible to heal & enjoy satisfying life changes.
Depressed, anxious, hurt, angry? Grieving? Need to reduce stress, improve self-esteem, gain communication skills or strengthen relationships? Weekends may be available. Benefit from new perspectives & effective personal tools. Practice new skills in a safe compassionate atmosphere. New vision & better understanding can improve our lives. Old issues can improve with fresh insight & effective action. With personal growth, relationships can become more enriched & fulfilling. Move away from former positions of self-doubt, become empowered, act with newly found purpose & confidence. It IS possible to heal & enjoy satisfying life changes.
(442) 275-8892 View (442) 275-8892
Photo of Maria Chavez-Brown - CV Therapy, Maria Chavez-Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
CV Therapy, Maria Chavez-Brown, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Palm Desert, CA 92211
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, chronic illness/pain management, trauma, and emotional abuse.
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused and client-centered counseling. I will engage you in the process of developing a treatment plan that is driven by your particular needs.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, chronic illness/pain management, trauma, and emotional abuse.
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused and client-centered counseling. I will engage you in the process of developing a treatment plan that is driven by your particular needs.
(760) 227-2434 View (760) 227-2434
Photo of Leann Margaret Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Leann Margaret Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling helpless as you attempt to assist your loved one with their addiction or mental health condition? Is there a lot of tension and anger within your family? The constant arguments, belittling, fighting, and avoidance, and feeling emotionally disconnected is just too much to handle? My goal is to assist you and/or your family in developing warmth and care, good communication, predictability, and strong connections to others within your community. I will assist you in learning how to look after yourself so you can feel loved, safe, secure, and connected to those within your family. Let's work on a new approach together.
Are you feeling helpless as you attempt to assist your loved one with their addiction or mental health condition? Is there a lot of tension and anger within your family? The constant arguments, belittling, fighting, and avoidance, and feeling emotionally disconnected is just too much to handle? My goal is to assist you and/or your family in developing warmth and care, good communication, predictability, and strong connections to others within your community. I will assist you in learning how to look after yourself so you can feel loved, safe, secure, and connected to those within your family. Let's work on a new approach together.
(909) 351-5514 View (909) 351-5514
Photo of David Alan Bonfanti, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
David Alan Bonfanti
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, my name is David Bonfanti, LMFT. I enjoy couples therapy and working with older populations, and those who need to manage chronic medical conditions. I prefer to work with adults aged 30 and above. I employ techniques from CBT, Strength based, Solution-Focused, and Psychodynamic modalities. I've found that being a better listener is more effective than having something to say. I certainly do have things to say, but it really helps to hear a client's perspective of the problem(s) they are experiencing or have suffered with. I invite and guide others to decide the best course of action for their lives
Hi, my name is David Bonfanti, LMFT. I enjoy couples therapy and working with older populations, and those who need to manage chronic medical conditions. I prefer to work with adults aged 30 and above. I employ techniques from CBT, Strength based, Solution-Focused, and Psychodynamic modalities. I've found that being a better listener is more effective than having something to say. I certainly do have things to say, but it really helps to hear a client's perspective of the problem(s) they are experiencing or have suffered with. I invite and guide others to decide the best course of action for their lives
(341) 895-5709 View (341) 895-5709
Photo of Ana Isabel Castaneda - Serenity and Solutions Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serenity and Solutions Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hemet, CA 92543
“Serenity is the tranquil balance of heart and mind” (H. Becker). At Serenity and Solutions Counseling Center, we are here to support you on your journey toward discovering inner strength, lasting peace, and personal serenity. Life does not always unfold as we planned—trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress can shift our path in unexpected ways. Yet each of us has the capacity to grow, heal, and find meaningful solutions. Our goal is to help you tap into that resilience so you can feel more grounded, empowered, and whole.
“Serenity is the tranquil balance of heart and mind” (H. Becker). At Serenity and Solutions Counseling Center, we are here to support you on your journey toward discovering inner strength, lasting peace, and personal serenity. Life does not always unfold as we planned—trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress can shift our path in unexpected ways. Yet each of us has the capacity to grow, heal, and find meaningful solutions. Our goal is to help you tap into that resilience so you can feel more grounded, empowered, and whole.
(951) 502-2190 View (951) 502-2190
Photo of Gabriel Arroyo - Soaring Families Counseling, LMFT
Soaring Families Counseling
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Similar to our speciality in working with chronic illness support and life adjustments, we work on strengthening existing skills.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or challenges within your marriage? Struggling with depression, anxiety, and daily stressors? If you are facing any of the challenges, now may be the time to start with a therapist that specializes in these areas. We can work together to rebuild skills to reconnect in your relationship by rebuilding communication, intimacy, and trust. Or growing coping skills to manage the stressors daily life can throw at us. Continue reading below to see if this would be the best fit for your needs or feel free to call.
Similar to our speciality in working with chronic illness support and life adjustments, we work on strengthening existing skills.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or challenges within your marriage? Struggling with depression, anxiety, and daily stressors? If you are facing any of the challenges, now may be the time to start with a therapist that specializes in these areas. We can work together to rebuild skills to reconnect in your relationship by rebuilding communication, intimacy, and trust. Or growing coping skills to manage the stressors daily life can throw at us. Continue reading below to see if this would be the best fit for your needs or feel free to call.
(951) 499-4331 View (951) 499-4331
Photo of Lori Sanderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MPH , LCSW
Lori Sanderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MPH , LCSW
Online Only
I have a lot of experience working with those with chronic pain, chronic illness, obesity, depression, anxiety, and poor body image.
I'm Dr. Lori Sanderson. I enjoy looking at your thoughts & how they are contributing to your stress level, anxiety level, overall feelings of sadness, & perhaps chronic pain. I will meet you where you are but will also help you to develop a stronger and healthier version of you. We will do this together by helping you to get to the root of your struggles and giving you the tools to get through it. You deserve somewhere that you can share what is on your mind without fear of being judged negatively. You deserve a better life and a healthier you.
I have a lot of experience working with those with chronic pain, chronic illness, obesity, depression, anxiety, and poor body image.
I'm Dr. Lori Sanderson. I enjoy looking at your thoughts & how they are contributing to your stress level, anxiety level, overall feelings of sadness, & perhaps chronic pain. I will meet you where you are but will also help you to develop a stronger and healthier version of you. We will do this together by helping you to get to the root of your struggles and giving you the tools to get through it. You deserve somewhere that you can share what is on your mind without fear of being judged negatively. You deserve a better life and a healthier you.
(909) 765-0696 View (909) 765-0696
Photo of Caitlin Skorupski, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAAADHD
Caitlin Skorupski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAAADHD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals and families facing depression, trauma, and chronic illness/pain.
You may look like you’re holding everything together on the outside while internally feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode. Many of my clients are neurodivergent adults, parents, college students, helping professionals, or individuals carrying trauma, burnout, chronic stress, or difficult life transitions. They are often tired of overthinking, masking, people-pleasing, or constantly feeling “too much” while still trying to function for everyone else.
I work with individuals and families facing depression, trauma, and chronic illness/pain.
You may look like you’re holding everything together on the outside while internally feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode. Many of my clients are neurodivergent adults, parents, college students, helping professionals, or individuals carrying trauma, burnout, chronic stress, or difficult life transitions. They are often tired of overthinking, masking, people-pleasing, or constantly feeling “too much” while still trying to function for everyone else.
(951) 749-6439 View (951) 749-6439
Photo of Dr. Pamela R Perez, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Dr. Pamela R Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Serves Area
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing complex, fluctuating neurological symptoms, particularly following brain injury, stroke, and related conditions. Many of my patients describe persistent headaches, cognitive fatigue, symptom variability, sensory overwhelm, and depression/anxiety related to ongoing neurological symptoms. Others are navigating the emotional impact of serious medical trauma. These experiences are often real, dynamic, and difficult to capture in standard models, leaving people feeling unseen or misunderstood.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing complex, fluctuating neurological symptoms, particularly following brain injury, stroke, and related conditions. Many of my patients describe persistent headaches, cognitive fatigue, symptom variability, sensory overwhelm, and depression/anxiety related to ongoing neurological symptoms. Others are navigating the emotional impact of serious medical trauma. These experiences are often real, dynamic, and difficult to capture in standard models, leaving people feeling unseen or misunderstood.
(702) 710-8958 View (702) 710-8958
Photo of Bonnie L Monfils, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, BA, LMFT
Bonnie L Monfils
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, BA, LMFT
Serves Area
Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile! I'm Bonnie Monfils, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I offer concierge and telehealth therapy sessions tailored to your unique needs. Over the years, I’ve worked with diverse populations, including county agencies, court systems, first responders, military families, and more. I also have extensive experience in the K-12 setting, particularly in supporting families through the IEP process and addressing special education needs. My goal is to provide compassionate, individualized support to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional well-being.
Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile! I'm Bonnie Monfils, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I offer concierge and telehealth therapy sessions tailored to your unique needs. Over the years, I’ve worked with diverse populations, including county agencies, court systems, first responders, military families, and more. I also have extensive experience in the K-12 setting, particularly in supporting families through the IEP process and addressing special education needs. My goal is to provide compassionate, individualized support to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional well-being.
(951) 574-2952 View (951) 574-2952
Photo of Monica Sterling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Monica Sterling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Everyone’s journey is unique, and therapy is a space to explore yours with care and openness. I help clients manage challenges such as anxiety, stress, and life transitions while fostering resilience and self-discovery. If you’re ready to begin this process, let’s take that step together. Because every person’s journey is unique, I draw from various approaches—including CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy—to tailor a treatment plan that fits your needs. Some sessions may focus on learning new coping skills, while others may explore emotions or patterns that are getting in the way.
Everyone’s journey is unique, and therapy is a space to explore yours with care and openness. I help clients manage challenges such as anxiety, stress, and life transitions while fostering resilience and self-discovery. If you’re ready to begin this process, let’s take that step together. Because every person’s journey is unique, I draw from various approaches—including CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy—to tailor a treatment plan that fits your needs. Some sessions may focus on learning new coping skills, while others may explore emotions or patterns that are getting in the way.
(949) 731-5891 View (949) 731-5891
Photo of Terra Forristel, Counselor, LCSW
Terra Forristel
Counselor, LCSW
Online Only
I provide compassionate, strengths-based therapy to support individuals navigating life’s most difficult seasons, including trauma, major life transitions, and grief. My approach centers on helping clients feel seen, supported, and empowered as they work through emotional challenges and move toward healing and resilience. I specialize in grief and loss, adjustment to terminal illness, and anxiety. Using process-oriented and compassion-focused counseling techniques, I help clients explore their experiences at a deeper level while developing practical tools for emotional balance and self-understanding.
I provide compassionate, strengths-based therapy to support individuals navigating life’s most difficult seasons, including trauma, major life transitions, and grief. My approach centers on helping clients feel seen, supported, and empowered as they work through emotional challenges and move toward healing and resilience. I specialize in grief and loss, adjustment to terminal illness, and anxiety. Using process-oriented and compassion-focused counseling techniques, I help clients explore their experiences at a deeper level while developing practical tools for emotional balance and self-understanding.
(530) 514-0294 View (530) 514-0294

See more therapy options for Idyllwild

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.