Chronic Illness Therapists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Abigail Longpre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Abigail Longpre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I work with both adolescents and adults and specialize in working with complex trauma, queer individuals, neurodivergent individuals, those experiencing chronic illness, mood disorders, as well as chronic suicidality.
I approach individual therapy through an eclectic approach, but I lean toward Internal Family Systems/parts work, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I additionally draw from CBT/DBT in my work with clients.
I work with both adolescents and adults and specialize in working with complex trauma, queer individuals, neurodivergent individuals, those experiencing chronic illness, mood disorders, as well as chronic suicidality.
I approach individual therapy through an eclectic approach, but I lean toward Internal Family Systems/parts work, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I additionally draw from CBT/DBT in my work with clients.
(760) 706-7301 View (760) 706-7301
Photo of Alison Dawn Murphey - Alison Murphey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Alison Murphey, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or defeat as a result of trauma or a significant life change? Maybe a relationship has ended or a new phase of life has just begun. Perhaps you’re living with the long-term effects of abuse, assault, or other traumatic experience. You may feel unsafe & out of control of your life or emotions, anxious about even the smallest things, or like you just can’t find your footing. Eventually, these things start to overflow into other areas of life: your relationships, work, and decisions about the future. And yet, despite how hard things are right now, you know there’s more to life than this.
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or defeat as a result of trauma or a significant life change? Maybe a relationship has ended or a new phase of life has just begun. Perhaps you’re living with the long-term effects of abuse, assault, or other traumatic experience. You may feel unsafe & out of control of your life or emotions, anxious about even the smallest things, or like you just can’t find your footing. Eventually, these things start to overflow into other areas of life: your relationships, work, and decisions about the future. And yet, despite how hard things are right now, you know there’s more to life than this.
(747) 477-8649 View (747) 477-8649
Photo of Jerry Kao, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jerry Kao
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hey there! Feeling weighed down by depression or gripped by anxiety? Lost in life's twists and turns? Your journey matters, and I'm here to walk alongside you. I specialize in supporting those facing depression and anxiety by offering a compassionate hand to guide you toward healing and growth. I also assist those feeling adrift, helping them rediscover their purpose and direction. Our sessions are anything but cut-and-dried. They're dynamic, engaging, and full of possibilities. Bring a pen and notebook as we co-create strategies to propel you toward your aspirations.
Hey there! Feeling weighed down by depression or gripped by anxiety? Lost in life's twists and turns? Your journey matters, and I'm here to walk alongside you. I specialize in supporting those facing depression and anxiety by offering a compassionate hand to guide you toward healing and growth. I also assist those feeling adrift, helping them rediscover their purpose and direction. Our sessions are anything but cut-and-dried. They're dynamic, engaging, and full of possibilities. Bring a pen and notebook as we co-create strategies to propel you toward your aspirations.
(909) 787-2051 View (909) 787-2051
Photo of Saige Savannah Portera, Psychologist, PhD
Saige Savannah Portera
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I've helped families through countless difficulties from sleep, diagnosis and treatment of a chronic illness, parenting difficulties, and beyond.
My passion is working with children who have co-occurring medical conditions and behavioral health symptoms. I’m here to help support families through some of the most difficult times. I focus on providing evidence based treatment that focuses on learning and developing skills to help change mindset and help to build new goals all while moving towards what’s most important to my patients! I’m here to support during the acute phase of a new diagnosis all the way through treatment. Another specialty of mine is sleep, whether it’s your child or teen who is having issues staying/falling asleep or feeling anxious about going to sleep
I've helped families through countless difficulties from sleep, diagnosis and treatment of a chronic illness, parenting difficulties, and beyond.
My passion is working with children who have co-occurring medical conditions and behavioral health symptoms. I’m here to help support families through some of the most difficult times. I focus on providing evidence based treatment that focuses on learning and developing skills to help change mindset and help to build new goals all while moving towards what’s most important to my patients! I’m here to support during the acute phase of a new diagnosis all the way through treatment. Another specialty of mine is sleep, whether it’s your child or teen who is having issues staying/falling asleep or feeling anxious about going to sleep
(510) 380-6908 View (510) 380-6908
Photo of Anahita Mazdiyassni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Anahita Mazdiyassni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Jose, CA 95120
You may be carrying too much and don’t know how to set it down. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, stressed, overwhelmed by grief, or just unsure how to move forward. You might be a parent trying to hold everything together, a partner wanting more connection, or someone facing big career changes. My clients often seek therapy when emotions become too much to manage on their own. Whether it's chronic or fluctuating depression, illness, PTSD, or trauma, it's important to start the journey of healing somewhere.
You may be carrying too much and don’t know how to set it down. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, stressed, overwhelmed by grief, or just unsure how to move forward. You might be a parent trying to hold everything together, a partner wanting more connection, or someone facing big career changes. My clients often seek therapy when emotions become too much to manage on their own. Whether it's chronic or fluctuating depression, illness, PTSD, or trauma, it's important to start the journey of healing somewhere.
(408) 359-4154 View (408) 359-4154
Photo of Julie D Holsopple, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julie D Holsopple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I provide services to those experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, coping with medical issues/ chronic illness, pregnancy/ postpartum issues, parenting/ relationship issues, life transitions and trauma.
Are you feeling sad, anxious and overwhelmed? Do you feel angry and frustrated at life? Do you find yourself feeling lost, stuck in old patterns and scared that life will never change? You are not alone. Making changes in life may seem overwhelming. I am here to help! No matter your story, I believe that we all have within us the strength and courage to create a life filled with joy, connection and peace. It may feel difficult to make the decision to embark on a new journey in life through psychotherapy. Often, the first step of reaching out can be the hardest. I am here for you and look forward to guiding you through your journey.
I provide services to those experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/ loss, coping with medical issues/ chronic illness, pregnancy/ postpartum issues, parenting/ relationship issues, life transitions and trauma.
Are you feeling sad, anxious and overwhelmed? Do you feel angry and frustrated at life? Do you find yourself feeling lost, stuck in old patterns and scared that life will never change? You are not alone. Making changes in life may seem overwhelming. I am here to help! No matter your story, I believe that we all have within us the strength and courage to create a life filled with joy, connection and peace. It may feel difficult to make the decision to embark on a new journey in life through psychotherapy. Often, the first step of reaching out can be the hardest. I am here for you and look forward to guiding you through your journey.
(408) 583-6914 View (408) 583-6914
Photo of Jennifer C Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500
Jennifer C Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
I have many hours of specialized training in working with the LGBTQ+ population and am LGBTQ+ affirmative. I have worked extensively with trauma survivors, individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities as well as the family member helping care for them. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic medical, and spirituality.
I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
I have many hours of specialized training in working with the LGBTQ+ population and am LGBTQ+ affirmative. I have worked extensively with trauma survivors, individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities as well as the family member helping care for them. I specialize in working with chronic pain, chronic medical, and spirituality.
(562) 454-0709 View (562) 454-0709
Photo of Jessie Baum, Psychologist, PsyD
Jessie Baum
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Dr. Jessie Baum is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in behavioral medicine, anxiety, and life stressors. She has extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns, including generalized anxiety, depression, stress reduction, life transitions, and relationship issues. Dr. Baum’s approach is person-centered, evidence-based, and culturally-sensitive. Her approach integrates CBT, mindfulness, and values-based interventions to help patients learn effective tools to increase connection, meaning, and empowerment in their lives.
Dr. Jessie Baum is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in behavioral medicine, anxiety, and life stressors. She has extensive experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns, including generalized anxiety, depression, stress reduction, life transitions, and relationship issues. Dr. Baum’s approach is person-centered, evidence-based, and culturally-sensitive. Her approach integrates CBT, mindfulness, and values-based interventions to help patients learn effective tools to increase connection, meaning, and empowerment in their lives.
(628) 258-7621 View (628) 258-7621
Photo of Jasey Stetser, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Jasey Stetser
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additionally, I am currently running a chronic illness support group, a trans support group, and a social anxiety group.
I believe that the meaning of life is to tell one’s story. Everyone has a story to tell and we unconsciously share our stories everyday through words, actions, and interactions, despite whether or not someone is listening or willing to put the pieces together. The journey that we each take through life shapes us with each choice, decision, and coping strategy. I chose to become a counselor because I want to listen to those stories and help you to piece your puzzle together. I strive to create a safe space to explore, experiment, understand, and grow into yourself as you would like to become.
Additionally, I am currently running a chronic illness support group, a trans support group, and a social anxiety group.
I believe that the meaning of life is to tell one’s story. Everyone has a story to tell and we unconsciously share our stories everyday through words, actions, and interactions, despite whether or not someone is listening or willing to put the pieces together. The journey that we each take through life shapes us with each choice, decision, and coping strategy. I chose to become a counselor because I want to listen to those stories and help you to piece your puzzle together. I strive to create a safe space to explore, experiment, understand, and grow into yourself as you would like to become.
(831) 480-1463 View (831) 480-1463
Photo of Dr. Aleksandra (Sasha) Soykin, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Aleksandra (Sasha) Soykin
Psychologist, PhD
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I strongly believe that lasting change occurs in a safe and collaborative environment, and I know that making the decision to reach out to a psychologist and embark on a path towards change can be extremely difficult. I trust in the importance of finding a clinician who will be the right match for you, so please feel free to explore both my profile and website in order to find out more about me and the services that I offer. Please note: I offer virtual services to those residing in CA, OR, and FL, and I do NOT accept insurance at this time.
I strongly believe that lasting change occurs in a safe and collaborative environment, and I know that making the decision to reach out to a psychologist and embark on a path towards change can be extremely difficult. I trust in the importance of finding a clinician who will be the right match for you, so please feel free to explore both my profile and website in order to find out more about me and the services that I offer. Please note: I offer virtual services to those residing in CA, OR, and FL, and I do NOT accept insurance at this time.
(408) 556-9974 View (408) 556-9974
Photo of Cherry Aslarona, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cherry Aslarona
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As you share your story, we’ll create a treatment plan based on your strengths, tools that have worked in the past, and resources from my clinical training and experience. I value the therapeutic relationship and view therapy as a collaborative approach. Each individual is the expert of their own experiences and symptoms. I use aspects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and/or EMDR. We’ll work together to achieve your goals and bring greater well-being to your life.
As you share your story, we’ll create a treatment plan based on your strengths, tools that have worked in the past, and resources from my clinical training and experience. I value the therapeutic relationship and view therapy as a collaborative approach. Each individual is the expert of their own experiences and symptoms. I use aspects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and/or EMDR. We’ll work together to achieve your goals and bring greater well-being to your life.
(510) 592-6757 View (510) 592-6757
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.
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re carrying trauma, chronic stress, or health challenges while trying to keep everything together. Many of my clients feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, burnout, emotional overwhelm, or disconnection from themselves and others. They often want relief from intrusive memories, emotional reactivity, or exhaustion, and are seeking clarity, healing, and a way to feel more like themselves again.
I work with individuals and families facing depression, trauma, and chronic illness/pain.
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re carrying trauma, chronic stress, or health challenges while trying to keep everything together. Many of my clients feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, burnout, emotional overwhelm, or disconnection from themselves and others. They often want relief from intrusive memories, emotional reactivity, or exhaustion, and are seeking clarity, healing, and a way to feel more like themselves again.
(951) 749-6439 View (951) 749-6439
Photo of Angela Hutton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Angela Hutton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have had success working with people who suffer from depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and trauma.
Are you looking to feel more connected to yourself and others? Do you feel trapped in certain areas of your life? I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years and am passionate about this work. I work with teens, adults, and mental health professionals and can effectively address issues that keep you feeling depressed, anxious, and disconnected from yourself and others. I want to help you make the necessary changes to have the life you desire. Therapy isn't about finding out what is wrong with you, it is about building on what is RIGHT with you.
I have had success working with people who suffer from depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and trauma.
Are you looking to feel more connected to yourself and others? Do you feel trapped in certain areas of your life? I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years and am passionate about this work. I work with teens, adults, and mental health professionals and can effectively address issues that keep you feeling depressed, anxious, and disconnected from yourself and others. I want to help you make the necessary changes to have the life you desire. Therapy isn't about finding out what is wrong with you, it is about building on what is RIGHT with you.
(408) 459-6324 View (408) 459-6324
Photo of Galina Zlotnikova, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Galina Zlotnikova
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you've experienced emotional or physical abuse, trauma, chronic illness, or are simply struggling with making sense of yourself and other people in this crazy world, therapy can help.
I practice holistic and somatic trauma psychotherapy, integrating traditional focus on thoughts and feelings with the body and the nervous system. My approach is grounded in interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, and parts work. I specialize in working with people who've experienced complex trauma and those living with chronic and invisible illness.
If you've experienced emotional or physical abuse, trauma, chronic illness, or are simply struggling with making sense of yourself and other people in this crazy world, therapy can help.
I practice holistic and somatic trauma psychotherapy, integrating traditional focus on thoughts and feelings with the body and the nervous system. My approach is grounded in interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, and parts work. I specialize in working with people who've experienced complex trauma and those living with chronic and invisible illness.
(831) 282-5315 View (831) 282-5315
Photo of Jillian Walsh Rosoff, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CT
Jillian Walsh Rosoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CT
Online Only
I frequently work with clients who have experienced a recent death, chronic illness or challenges adjusting to a life transition.
I have a compassionate, direct, and nonjudgmental approach. I believe therapy should be collaborative, meaning we will work together to figure out what is most helpful to you. This might include talking through your feelings, mindfulness exercises, meditation, or expressive arts.
I frequently work with clients who have experienced a recent death, chronic illness or challenges adjusting to a life transition.
I have a compassionate, direct, and nonjudgmental approach. I believe therapy should be collaborative, meaning we will work together to figure out what is most helpful to you. This might include talking through your feelings, mindfulness exercises, meditation, or expressive arts.
(650) 686-2232 View (650) 686-2232
Photo of Becky Clement, Psychologist, LP
Becky Clement
Psychologist, LP
Online Only
As a therapist, my primary commitment is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. Building trust is fundamental to the therapeutic process, and I approach each client with empathy, compassion, and genuine respect for their unique journey. I recognize that seeking therapy can be a courageous and vulnerable step and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic alliance grounded in mutual respect, honesty, and confidentiality. Your well-being is my utmost priority, and I am here to support you.
As a therapist, my primary commitment is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. Building trust is fundamental to the therapeutic process, and I approach each client with empathy, compassion, and genuine respect for their unique journey. I recognize that seeking therapy can be a courageous and vulnerable step and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic alliance grounded in mutual respect, honesty, and confidentiality. Your well-being is my utmost priority, and I am here to support you.
(619) 485-9879 View (619) 485-9879
Photo of Dr. G. Katie Dashtban, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. G. Katie Dashtban
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Persons who have been coping with their ongoing psychological or physical health issues and are in need of a strong and structured therapy environment in which they can finally understand why their problems keep coming up and how to put an end to their chronic struggles are strongly welcomed to call my practice.
Persons who have been coping with their ongoing psychological or physical health issues and are in need of a strong and structured therapy environment in which they can finally understand why their problems keep coming up and how to put an end to their chronic struggles are strongly welcomed to call my practice.
(510) 808-6167 View (510) 808-6167
Photo of Olivia Belknap, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Olivia Belknap
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you're looking to explore your neurodivergence (like autism or ADHD), find support related to chronic illness, or process pandemic stress, I'm here for you.
You’re feeling burnt out & overwhelmed. You want to create a sustainable life for yourself but aren’t sure where to start. You crave feeling calm and grounded when the world around you feels chaotic. You’ve been so dysregulated it feels like all your energy is going into survival. You want to be connected with your authentic self, but you’ve been people pleasing for so long you don’t know how to honor your own needs. You’re tired of saying yes when you wish you could say no, and want to cultivate the confidence and inner strength it takes to set boundaries. You’re worried it’ll never get any easier & want someone who really gets it.
Whether you're looking to explore your neurodivergence (like autism or ADHD), find support related to chronic illness, or process pandemic stress, I'm here for you.
You’re feeling burnt out & overwhelmed. You want to create a sustainable life for yourself but aren’t sure where to start. You crave feeling calm and grounded when the world around you feels chaotic. You’ve been so dysregulated it feels like all your energy is going into survival. You want to be connected with your authentic self, but you’ve been people pleasing for so long you don’t know how to honor your own needs. You’re tired of saying yes when you wish you could say no, and want to cultivate the confidence and inner strength it takes to set boundaries. You’re worried it’ll never get any easier & want someone who really gets it.
View
Photo of Andrea Cook, Psychologist, PhD
Andrea Cook
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Many of us struggle with chronic stress and worry. The holidays can bring additional challenges as we wrestle with family tension, managing finances, and pressure to eat in ways we later regret. Therapy can be a place to brainstorm how to better handle stressful situations like family gatherings and holiday parties. We can develop a plan with a wide variety of tools to help you set clear limits. I can support you step-by-step as you create changes to improve your health and help you to feel calm, energized, focused, and content.
Many of us struggle with chronic stress and worry. The holidays can bring additional challenges as we wrestle with family tension, managing finances, and pressure to eat in ways we later regret. Therapy can be a place to brainstorm how to better handle stressful situations like family gatherings and holiday parties. We can develop a plan with a wide variety of tools to help you set clear limits. I can support you step-by-step as you create changes to improve your health and help you to feel calm, energized, focused, and content.
(650) 540-7707 View (650) 540-7707
Photo of Vanessa Fierstadt, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Vanessa Fierstadt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Finding immense joy and passion in my work as a nurturing and interactive therapist, I offer a holistic approach to therapy. I address the interconnected facets of body, mind, and spirit. Drawing inspiration from Existential principles, I integrate Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. As we navigate the intricacies of your unique experience, my goal is to instill in you a sense of empowerment that will go beyond the therapy room. I am dedicated to ensuring that you feel seen and heard.
Finding immense joy and passion in my work as a nurturing and interactive therapist, I offer a holistic approach to therapy. I address the interconnected facets of body, mind, and spirit. Drawing inspiration from Existential principles, I integrate Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. As we navigate the intricacies of your unique experience, my goal is to instill in you a sense of empowerment that will go beyond the therapy room. I am dedicated to ensuring that you feel seen and heard.
(408) 443-2723 View (408) 443-2723

See more therapy options for San Jose

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.