Chronic Illness Therapists in 45406

Photo of Angela M Lowe - Battle For Your Life Christian Counseling Service, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Battle For Your Life Christian Counseling Service
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45406
As a Christian, deciding to pursue counseling can be a difficult step. Many judge themselves, or fear judgment from others, for not “having enough faith” or “praying enough” to resolve the situation themselves. Others have sought counseling in the past without success, and worry that trying again will only disappoint. At Battle for Your Life Christian Counseling & Training Services (BFYL), we know that all believers –Yes, ALL believers – have seasons of struggle in their life when they need others to come alongside them. Whether you are struggling with marital problems, battling anxiety or depression, are a wounded believer, or are simply in need of fresh guidance and counsel for the direction of your life, we are here to help you. If you are tired of counsel that relies on the limited wisdom, knowledge and experience of yet another person, and if you do not simply want to learn “how to deal” but how to have victory in your life, we exist to help you.
As a Christian, deciding to pursue counseling can be a difficult step. Many judge themselves, or fear judgment from others, for not “having enough faith” or “praying enough” to resolve the situation themselves. Others have sought counseling in the past without success, and worry that trying again will only disappoint. At Battle for Your Life Christian Counseling & Training Services (BFYL), we know that all believers –Yes, ALL believers – have seasons of struggle in their life when they need others to come alongside them. Whether you are struggling with marital problems, battling anxiety or depression, are a wounded believer, or are simply in need of fresh guidance and counsel for the direction of your life, we are here to help you. If you are tired of counsel that relies on the limited wisdom, knowledge and experience of yet another person, and if you do not simply want to learn “how to deal” but how to have victory in your life, we exist to help you.
(937) 669-7912 View (937) 669-7912
Photo of Cleavon Matthews, RN, LPCC, DMin, Counselor
Cleavon Matthews
Counselor, RN, LPCC, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45406
I specialize in working with people who: Question their decisions and abilities. Feel regret about previous life choices. Feel unbalanced. Are looking for steps to get back on track. Feel unsatisfied with their relationships.
I specialize in working with people who: Question their decisions and abilities. Feel regret about previous life choices. Feel unbalanced. Are looking for steps to get back on track. Feel unsatisfied with their relationships.
(937) 932-1851 View (937) 932-1851

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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.