Photo of Addrisa (Addi) Ankrah; Adults Teens Seniors, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Addrisa (Addi) Ankrah; Adults Teens Seniors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I am fueled by supporting individuals as they manage some difficult challenges they may encounter; such as grief, loss, chronic illness, substance use, and depression. I help teens and adults navigate experiences and emotions by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed practices, and an empowerment approach. I am passionate about working with older adults over 65 and individuals living with chronic illness through life transitions. Developing a queer safe space in which clients can honor their emotions is a priority for me. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team.
I am fueled by supporting individuals as they manage some difficult challenges they may encounter; such as grief, loss, chronic illness, substance use, and depression. I help teens and adults navigate experiences and emotions by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed practices, and an empowerment approach. I am passionate about working with older adults over 65 and individuals living with chronic illness through life transitions. Developing a queer safe space in which clients can honor their emotions is a priority for me. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team.
(862) 322-6467 View (862) 322-6467
Photo of Empower And Thrive Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Empower And Thrive Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Our team of therapists have various specialty areas including OCD, anxiety, eating disorders/body image, ADHD, family/relationships, trauma, depression, mood disorders/bipolar, chronic illness management, LGBTQ+ support and gender dysphoria/transitioning, and grief/life changes.
Accepting new clients! Are you ready to find relief from anxiety, stress, or depression? Are you going through a stressful time in your life or relationships and need support in navigating that? Are you struggling with eating or body image? Do you have difficulty focusing or a mind that just won't "shut off"? If you are looking to make some positive changes in yourself and in your life, lets start today. There's no time like the present, and every step towards health and happiness is a win. Let's tackle these challenges together and build the life you want. Get matched with the right therapist today!
Our team of therapists have various specialty areas including OCD, anxiety, eating disorders/body image, ADHD, family/relationships, trauma, depression, mood disorders/bipolar, chronic illness management, LGBTQ+ support and gender dysphoria/transitioning, and grief/life changes.
Accepting new clients! Are you ready to find relief from anxiety, stress, or depression? Are you going through a stressful time in your life or relationships and need support in navigating that? Are you struggling with eating or body image? Do you have difficulty focusing or a mind that just won't "shut off"? If you are looking to make some positive changes in yourself and in your life, lets start today. There's no time like the present, and every step towards health and happiness is a win. Let's tackle these challenges together and build the life you want. Get matched with the right therapist today!
(609) 593-2664 View (609) 593-2664
Photo of Molly Clarke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Molly Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CTTS
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Telehealth therapy is perfect for people too busy to make it to an office, or people with chronic illness, anxiety, young children, transportation issues, or maybe you prefer the comfort of your own couch! I am fully invested in co-creating a space where you feel comfortable and safe.
Accepting new telehealth clients! My clients describe me as a relaxed, real, calm, upfront, "kind yet challenging" sort of therapist. I strive to create a safe, open and collaborative space for you to dig in and explore. I have experience working with lots of issues but my specialties include: anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, infertility and life coaching. I primarily use techniques such as CBT, DBT, IFS and Motivational Interviewing and I feel strongly that each and every one of us has the innate resiliency and power to make the positive changes we want in our lives. Take charge of your life today and give me a call:)
Telehealth therapy is perfect for people too busy to make it to an office, or people with chronic illness, anxiety, young children, transportation issues, or maybe you prefer the comfort of your own couch! I am fully invested in co-creating a space where you feel comfortable and safe.
Accepting new telehealth clients! My clients describe me as a relaxed, real, calm, upfront, "kind yet challenging" sort of therapist. I strive to create a safe, open and collaborative space for you to dig in and explore. I have experience working with lots of issues but my specialties include: anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, infertility and life coaching. I primarily use techniques such as CBT, DBT, IFS and Motivational Interviewing and I feel strongly that each and every one of us has the innate resiliency and power to make the positive changes we want in our lives. Take charge of your life today and give me a call:)
(848) 253-6038 View (848) 253-6038
Photo of Max Laffend: Couples, Adults, LGBTQ, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Max Laffend: Couples, Adults, LGBTQ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
As a Queer/LGBTQ individual who has worked extensively within my community, I have learned that everyone has their own idea of what it means to suffer, but we need not approach it alone nor without help. First and foremost, I believe that individual needs and each relationship is unique; this informs the work I do with clients. If you are not feeling seen or heard in your relationships with others, be they romantic or otherwise, we can work together to build the needed skills for you or you and your partner to better navigate needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
As a Queer/LGBTQ individual who has worked extensively within my community, I have learned that everyone has their own idea of what it means to suffer, but we need not approach it alone nor without help. First and foremost, I believe that individual needs and each relationship is unique; this informs the work I do with clients. If you are not feeling seen or heard in your relationships with others, be they romantic or otherwise, we can work together to build the needed skills for you or you and your partner to better navigate needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(551) 226-8361 View (551) 226-8361
Photo of Irmak Dagistanli, Counselor in 08753, NJ
Irmak Dagistanli
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
One of the most essential things in life is for a person to know themselves deeply. This is not exclusive to either the so-called “good” or “bad” parts of ourselves, but rather involves taking inventory of all parts to be able to see the whole picture accurately. Whether it be learning to trust others, setting stronger boundaries, or gaining more self-compassion, we will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan that targets your needs. My approach is straightforward yet warm, inviting you to join a non-judgmental environment where you are encouraged to deeply explore your inner world.
One of the most essential things in life is for a person to know themselves deeply. This is not exclusive to either the so-called “good” or “bad” parts of ourselves, but rather involves taking inventory of all parts to be able to see the whole picture accurately. Whether it be learning to trust others, setting stronger boundaries, or gaining more self-compassion, we will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan that targets your needs. My approach is straightforward yet warm, inviting you to join a non-judgmental environment where you are encouraged to deeply explore your inner world.
(732) 607-4541 View (732) 607-4541
Photo of Sand Path Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Sand Path Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I believe knowledge of our nervous systems with its attachment and stress response functions is important. The relationship we form in therapy can help you to move toward relief, understanding and the change you are hoping for. Knowledge of the nervous system also informs how we will specifically work to heal difficult or even traumatic experiences. We will build awareness, gain skills and ultimately heal mind and body. We will work on past traumas and difficulties, leaning on strengths and natural resilience, creating personalized solutions to develop gifts, find meaning and live according to your values.
I believe knowledge of our nervous systems with its attachment and stress response functions is important. The relationship we form in therapy can help you to move toward relief, understanding and the change you are hoping for. Knowledge of the nervous system also informs how we will specifically work to heal difficult or even traumatic experiences. We will build awareness, gain skills and ultimately heal mind and body. We will work on past traumas and difficulties, leaning on strengths and natural resilience, creating personalized solutions to develop gifts, find meaning and live according to your values.
(848) 257-5222 View (848) 257-5222
Photo of Kim Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Kim Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Now accepting new clients for in person sessions. Sometimes life is challenging and difficult to manage. I believe everyone can benefit from talking to and working with an objective, non-judgemental therapist. My name is Kim Martinez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 22 years experience working with seniors (I am an approved medicare provider), couples, families, adolescents and adults, helping them cope with stress, depression, anxiety, grief issues and relationship struggles as well as learning new ways to communicate and control emotions.
Now accepting new clients for in person sessions. Sometimes life is challenging and difficult to manage. I believe everyone can benefit from talking to and working with an objective, non-judgemental therapist. My name is Kim Martinez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 22 years experience working with seniors (I am an approved medicare provider), couples, families, adolescents and adults, helping them cope with stress, depression, anxiety, grief issues and relationship struggles as well as learning new ways to communicate and control emotions.
(732) 853-0418 View (732) 853-0418
Photo of Kyle J Gilrain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Kyle J Gilrain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
My philosophy begins with a deep belief in the potential of every individual. I have a wide array of clinical experiences and have held leadership positions in large and complex healthcare systems. These settings include both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am a clinical supervisor and compassionate, strength-based , and trauma informed therapist. I provide compassionate, inclusive, and quality therapy to a wide range of patients from broad and diverse backgrounds. I presently hold active licenses and practice in New Jersey, New York, Florida, Louisiana, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
My philosophy begins with a deep belief in the potential of every individual. I have a wide array of clinical experiences and have held leadership positions in large and complex healthcare systems. These settings include both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am a clinical supervisor and compassionate, strength-based , and trauma informed therapist. I provide compassionate, inclusive, and quality therapy to a wide range of patients from broad and diverse backgrounds. I presently hold active licenses and practice in New Jersey, New York, Florida, Louisiana, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
(732) 487-3309 View (732) 487-3309
Photo of Cheryl Dahl-Monahan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Cheryl Dahl-Monahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Email is the best way to contact me. My philosophy is “My job is not to rescue you from drowning, my job is to teach you how to swim.” I teach my clients ways to survive and thrive, especially after a major life event. I understand the range of traumas and that each effects every individual differently so we find what works best for you.
Email is the best way to contact me. My philosophy is “My job is not to rescue you from drowning, my job is to teach you how to swim.” I teach my clients ways to survive and thrive, especially after a major life event. I understand the range of traumas and that each effects every individual differently so we find what works best for you.
(732) 564-7305 View (732) 564-7305
Photo of Arlene Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Arlene Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
If you are looking for help with stress, or anxiety and depression, for yourself or your pre-teens and teenagers, you are in good hands with me! I can help your panic and worry with my specialty in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as my training in neuroscience techniques. I can also teach you how to use EFT, (Emotional Freedom Technique) to better cope with traumatic memories. As a grief therapist I help you deal with your loss, and navigate what moving on will look like. I also have an expertise in helping those suffering from chronic illnesses, as well as their family's, to adjust to the changes in their lives,
If you are looking for help with stress, or anxiety and depression, for yourself or your pre-teens and teenagers, you are in good hands with me! I can help your panic and worry with my specialty in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as my training in neuroscience techniques. I can also teach you how to use EFT, (Emotional Freedom Technique) to better cope with traumatic memories. As a grief therapist I help you deal with your loss, and navigate what moving on will look like. I also have an expertise in helping those suffering from chronic illnesses, as well as their family's, to adjust to the changes in their lives,
(732) 851-1587 View (732) 851-1587
Photo of Carol Benevy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Carol Benevy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hi there! I'm Carol Benevy, an LCSW with over 6 years of experience as a therapist across various settings including outpatient, community, school, and telehealth. My mission is to assist individuals who feel stagnant in finding pathways to progress, those who feel disconnected in rediscovering connection, and those who feel adrift in redefining their direction. Beyond my role as a therapist, I've also contributed to healthcare, community mental health initiatives, domestic violence shelters, community drug and alcohol abuse prevention efforts, and disaster response for events such as Hurricane Sandy and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hi there! I'm Carol Benevy, an LCSW with over 6 years of experience as a therapist across various settings including outpatient, community, school, and telehealth. My mission is to assist individuals who feel stagnant in finding pathways to progress, those who feel disconnected in rediscovering connection, and those who feel adrift in redefining their direction. Beyond my role as a therapist, I've also contributed to healthcare, community mental health initiatives, domestic violence shelters, community drug and alcohol abuse prevention efforts, and disaster response for events such as Hurricane Sandy and the COVID-19 pandemic.
(848) 281-3710 View (848) 281-3710
Photo of Jessica Hart, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Jessica Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Maybe things didn't turn out exactly as planned. You had hopes and expectations about what life "should" look like. You might be feeling paralyzed by decisions, anxious, lost, or alone. Maybe you’re having second thoughts…What if this isn’t exactly the situation you wanted or the future you dreamed it would be? Change isn't easy, but with the right support, it is possible. I primarily work with female-identifying adults, as well as teens and adolescents who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, narcissistic abuse, grief, and codependency.
Maybe things didn't turn out exactly as planned. You had hopes and expectations about what life "should" look like. You might be feeling paralyzed by decisions, anxious, lost, or alone. Maybe you’re having second thoughts…What if this isn’t exactly the situation you wanted or the future you dreamed it would be? Change isn't easy, but with the right support, it is possible. I primarily work with female-identifying adults, as well as teens and adolescents who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, narcissistic abuse, grief, and codependency.
(732) 253-4641 View (732) 253-4641
Photo of Brittany Kieslor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Brittany Kieslor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Emotions can be overwhelming. Not understanding how to process and cope with them becomes exhausting. Negative thinking is a daily habit that you may have developed. Let me guide you a different way to help you regulate your emotions and make positive choices for yourself. I listen to what has happened and help guide you through the process of those events. We can figure out together the triggers that are causing issues. Therapy is a collaborative effort. It is built on trust, understanding , and compassion. Let's find ways to grow and find the balance that you are looking for in your life.
Emotions can be overwhelming. Not understanding how to process and cope with them becomes exhausting. Negative thinking is a daily habit that you may have developed. Let me guide you a different way to help you regulate your emotions and make positive choices for yourself. I listen to what has happened and help guide you through the process of those events. We can figure out together the triggers that are causing issues. Therapy is a collaborative effort. It is built on trust, understanding , and compassion. Let's find ways to grow and find the balance that you are looking for in your life.
(813) 576-2623 View (813) 576-2623
Photo of Jody Rodman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Jody Rodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
I have an eclectic approach to therapy. If you prefer a very clinical therapist, I’m not for you, unless particular clients would benefit from a more clinical approach. I love working with individuals who are navigating their life, including those with mental illnesses. (21 - 100yrs old), couples, including LGBTQ. I also coach and counsel those who have bipolar disorders, as well as educating them and their loved ones. I see adults with autistic spectrum disorders, depression, PTSD and anxiety. In addition, I also provide grief counseling and counseling to seriously Ill clients. I am the coach! You are the athlete!
I have an eclectic approach to therapy. If you prefer a very clinical therapist, I’m not for you, unless particular clients would benefit from a more clinical approach. I love working with individuals who are navigating their life, including those with mental illnesses. (21 - 100yrs old), couples, including LGBTQ. I also coach and counsel those who have bipolar disorders, as well as educating them and their loved ones. I see adults with autistic spectrum disorders, depression, PTSD and anxiety. In addition, I also provide grief counseling and counseling to seriously Ill clients. I am the coach! You are the athlete!
(732) 523-0889 View (732) 523-0889
Cara F. Paolillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with a wide variety of ages and populations. I have training from the Albert Ellis Institute in New York for Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, which is a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is an evidenced based model, meaning that their is research showing it really does work!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with a wide variety of ages and populations. I have training from the Albert Ellis Institute in New York for Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, which is a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is an evidenced based model, meaning that their is research showing it really does work!
(848) 235-7535 View (848) 235-7535
Photo of Ellen Sweeney, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Ellen Sweeney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , LCADC, CCTP-II, ACS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
I take a client-centered approach to counseling & work to provide a safe, non-judgmental, & validating environment to build trust with my client’s & to foster our therapeutic relationship. I believe that life is a balance of acceptance & change & I work with my clients to explore areas of their lives causing them difficulty & to find balance between the processes of acceptance & the change necessary to foster improvements in one’s life. I can help the client explore the complexities of this balance & teach & provide the skills necessary to enact changes. I have a therapy dog Milo in training that is in office with me for appts.
I take a client-centered approach to counseling & work to provide a safe, non-judgmental, & validating environment to build trust with my client’s & to foster our therapeutic relationship. I believe that life is a balance of acceptance & change & I work with my clients to explore areas of their lives causing them difficulty & to find balance between the processes of acceptance & the change necessary to foster improvements in one’s life. I can help the client explore the complexities of this balance & teach & provide the skills necessary to enact changes. I have a therapy dog Milo in training that is in office with me for appts.
(848) 229-9715 View (848) 229-9715
Photo of Mindful Healing & Trauma Recovery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Mindful Healing & Trauma Recovery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Welcome to Mindful Healing & Trauma Recovery, offering you Comprehensive & Quality Therapy & Wellness services in NJ. My name is Kristina Weaver, LCSW, CCTP, Certified Brainspotting Practitioner, & founder of MHTR. At MHTR, our trauma therapists are here to guide you every step of the way! Specializing in trauma, and treating a multitude of mental health challenges, our approach allows for a safe, holistic, and calming experience for our patients. We provide an understanding of how trauma affects all parts of our body & mind, normalizing the trauma responses, aiding in our clients healing.
Welcome to Mindful Healing & Trauma Recovery, offering you Comprehensive & Quality Therapy & Wellness services in NJ. My name is Kristina Weaver, LCSW, CCTP, Certified Brainspotting Practitioner, & founder of MHTR. At MHTR, our trauma therapists are here to guide you every step of the way! Specializing in trauma, and treating a multitude of mental health challenges, our approach allows for a safe, holistic, and calming experience for our patients. We provide an understanding of how trauma affects all parts of our body & mind, normalizing the trauma responses, aiding in our clients healing.
(848) 251-0733 View (848) 251-0733
Photo of Cecil Gauer: Adults and Couples, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Cecil Gauer: Adults and Couples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I work with couples and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, and LGBTQ+ identity and experiences. I approach therapy collaboratively, using strengths-based, social-justice-oriented, and solution-focused lenses. In my work with the Queer, I Therapy Center at RCC, I draw on my training in affirming care as well as my own experience as a bisexual, transgender man. With couples, I use Gottman Method relationship techniques to support traditional couples as well as polyamorous relationships. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I work with couples and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, and LGBTQ+ identity and experiences. I approach therapy collaboratively, using strengths-based, social-justice-oriented, and solution-focused lenses. In my work with the Queer, I Therapy Center at RCC, I draw on my training in affirming care as well as my own experience as a bisexual, transgender man. With couples, I use Gottman Method relationship techniques to support traditional couples as well as polyamorous relationships. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(862) 310-6750 View (862) 310-6750
Photo of Giovanna Badami, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Giovanna Badami
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am Giovanna Badami, MA, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, the founder of Blossom Healing NJ. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC), a Licensed Professional Art Therapist (LPAT), and a board certified, registered art therapist (ATR-BC). I am also a clinical supervisor for counseling and art therapy graduate students. I believe our true self is essentially good in nature and capable of growth and productivity. I like to allow space for discovery and recovery by combining clients’ imagination and wisdom to fulfill their own potential of wellness. Healing can start here. Blossom /ˈbläsəm/ (verb): to develop in a healthy way.
Hi there! I am Giovanna Badami, MA, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, the founder of Blossom Healing NJ. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC), a Licensed Professional Art Therapist (LPAT), and a board certified, registered art therapist (ATR-BC). I am also a clinical supervisor for counseling and art therapy graduate students. I believe our true self is essentially good in nature and capable of growth and productivity. I like to allow space for discovery and recovery by combining clients’ imagination and wisdom to fulfill their own potential of wellness. Healing can start here. Blossom /ˈbläsəm/ (verb): to develop in a healthy way.
(732) 641-8413 View (732) 641-8413
Photo of Elysian Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Elysian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Elysian Counseling believes it is essential to work through past traumas and to look at how community and family systems develop identity and, at times, may perpetuate behaviors that keep people in a cycle of self-defeat, poor choices, and a feeling of being stuck. We use an integrative approach with a look at the root causes of the issues you may be experiencing. Together we build a safe and strong therapeutic alliance, and explore techniques tailored to your needs and goals to achieve optimum wellness. See our counselor bios below or Visit: https://elysiancounseling.clientsecure.me/
Elysian Counseling believes it is essential to work through past traumas and to look at how community and family systems develop identity and, at times, may perpetuate behaviors that keep people in a cycle of self-defeat, poor choices, and a feeling of being stuck. We use an integrative approach with a look at the root causes of the issues you may be experiencing. Together we build a safe and strong therapeutic alliance, and explore techniques tailored to your needs and goals to achieve optimum wellness. See our counselor bios below or Visit: https://elysiancounseling.clientsecure.me/
(640) 344-6696 View (640) 344-6696
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.