Chronic Illness Therapists in 37830

Photo of Nicole A Perez, Psychologist in 37830, TN
Nicole A Perez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
My ideal client is one who is curious about his/her emotional life. My treatment philosophy is to engage a person in an exploration of their problems in ways that can lead to better relationships, feelings about themselves, and overall day-to-day functioning. My patients should find relief from their symptoms - whatever they may be - while making changes that will help them stay emotionally healthy and symptom-free in the long-term. It is my belief that therapy is a growth process that can only happen by collaboration and genuine trust between patient and therapist.
My ideal client is one who is curious about his/her emotional life. My treatment philosophy is to engage a person in an exploration of their problems in ways that can lead to better relationships, feelings about themselves, and overall day-to-day functioning. My patients should find relief from their symptoms - whatever they may be - while making changes that will help them stay emotionally healthy and symptom-free in the long-term. It is my belief that therapy is a growth process that can only happen by collaboration and genuine trust between patient and therapist.
(865) 325-9986 View (865) 325-9986
Photo of Fran Palin, Psychologist in 37830, TN
Fran Palin
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Waitlist for new clients
Life is now. We all experience inner and outer obstacles that interfere with living life to its fullest. Growth / progress usually stems from understanding who we are, what needs to change within ourselves and our relationships, learning new ways to heal, forgive, and communicate, and letting go of patterns that interfere. Therapy is unique for each of us. I integrate and tailor various approaches to address the mind, body, and spirit. We will partner together to address your goals. I will bring compassion, creativity, sensitivity, warmth, accountability, and insight to our work together.
Life is now. We all experience inner and outer obstacles that interfere with living life to its fullest. Growth / progress usually stems from understanding who we are, what needs to change within ourselves and our relationships, learning new ways to heal, forgive, and communicate, and letting go of patterns that interfere. Therapy is unique for each of us. I integrate and tailor various approaches to address the mind, body, and spirit. We will partner together to address your goals. I will bring compassion, creativity, sensitivity, warmth, accountability, and insight to our work together.
(865) 551-6913 View (865) 551-6913
Photo of Desiree Dawn Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 37830, TN
Desiree Dawn Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Immediate openings! Taking Out-of-network (private pay) and United Health Care (Optum, UMR). I want to help you compassionately change your relationship with your feelings, connect to your own values, recognize your own strengths, and live a rich and meaningful life. Your goals for emotional wellness are important, and I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal.
Immediate openings! Taking Out-of-network (private pay) and United Health Care (Optum, UMR). I want to help you compassionately change your relationship with your feelings, connect to your own values, recognize your own strengths, and live a rich and meaningful life. Your goals for emotional wellness are important, and I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal.
(865) 328-7945 View (865) 328-7945
Photo of Ken O’Hearn, Pre-Licensed Professional in 37830, TN
Ken O’Hearn
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP(t), MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
I am accepting new clients and taking in-network Cigna Insurance. As a former USAF Combat Medic and civilian paramedic with over two decades of experience, I have dedicated my life to serving others in times of crisis. Witnessing the toll that trauma takes on individuals firsthand, I made the profound decision to transition from the front lines of emergency response to the forefront of mental health care. Driven by the loss of my comrades and friends to the silent battles of PTSD, I embarked on a new journey to make a difference in a different capacity.
I am accepting new clients and taking in-network Cigna Insurance. As a former USAF Combat Medic and civilian paramedic with over two decades of experience, I have dedicated my life to serving others in times of crisis. Witnessing the toll that trauma takes on individuals firsthand, I made the profound decision to transition from the front lines of emergency response to the forefront of mental health care. Driven by the loss of my comrades and friends to the silent battles of PTSD, I embarked on a new journey to make a difference in a different capacity.
(865) 509-9338 View (865) 509-9338
Photo of Jessica Kahler, Pre-Licensed Professional in 37830, TN
Jessica Kahler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830  (Online Only)
I believe a person is the expert of their own experiences and I take a non-judgmental and person-centered approach to treatment and meet you where you are on your journey. With careful and respectful listening, sessions are structured in a way in which you feel respected and understood and are able to share your thoughts, feelings, and past experiences as we work together to reach your therapy goals. I help individuals with issues such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, trauma, codependency, relationship issues & others. I can also integrate your Christian faith if this is something you find helpful in therapy.
I believe a person is the expert of their own experiences and I take a non-judgmental and person-centered approach to treatment and meet you where you are on your journey. With careful and respectful listening, sessions are structured in a way in which you feel respected and understood and are able to share your thoughts, feelings, and past experiences as we work together to reach your therapy goals. I help individuals with issues such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, trauma, codependency, relationship issues & others. I can also integrate your Christian faith if this is something you find helpful in therapy.
(865) 518-8259 View (865) 518-8259
Photo of Dayle Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in 37830, TN
Dayle Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Not accepting new clients
A warm hello. I work with individuals and couples, helping them navigate life's challenges. I am person-centered and strengths-focused, meeting my clients with genuine, heart-centered quality care. Utilizing Person-Centered Therapy, DBT, CBT, and a variety of other modalities through a relational approach ensures individualized treatment for each person I see. As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I offer additional resources and treatment options for clients as well. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. Sitting with my clients is a journey I’m truly honored to be part of. Don't hesitate to reach out - looking forward to meeting you!
A warm hello. I work with individuals and couples, helping them navigate life's challenges. I am person-centered and strengths-focused, meeting my clients with genuine, heart-centered quality care. Utilizing Person-Centered Therapy, DBT, CBT, and a variety of other modalities through a relational approach ensures individualized treatment for each person I see. As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I offer additional resources and treatment options for clients as well. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. Sitting with my clients is a journey I’m truly honored to be part of. Don't hesitate to reach out - looking forward to meeting you!
(865) 426-1255 View (865) 426-1255
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.