Therapists in 60560
I have worked in the mental health field for over a decade, from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient, finally setting down in private practice, which I believe is my calling. I feel comfortable working with all manner of individuals, from those experiencing significant life changes and looking to find a direction to those struggling with various DSM-5 diagnoses and their related symptoms. I want to help my clients find what works for them and what makes them feel happy, safe, and fulfilled. I believe we all can change and grow if given the right skills.
I have worked in the mental health field for over a decade, from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient, finally setting down in private practice, which I believe is my calling. I feel comfortable working with all manner of individuals, from those experiencing significant life changes and looking to find a direction to those struggling with various DSM-5 diagnoses and their related symptoms. I want to help my clients find what works for them and what makes them feel happy, safe, and fulfilled. I believe we all can change and grow if given the right skills.
Are you an adult, in any stage of life, who would like to 'just hit the pause button’ and have an emotionally safe space to be seen and heard? A dedicated supportive place to ’check-in with yourself’ in a non-judgmental way about your challenges, behaviors, reactions and relationships? A place to learn how to become unstuck from choices that are no longer helping you? If so, let me validate your courage and willingness to begin the therapeutic process that will be uniquely yours. We will begin your therapy journey exploring what is and is not working for you in your life; and together we will identify reasonable goals.
Are you an adult, in any stage of life, who would like to 'just hit the pause button’ and have an emotionally safe space to be seen and heard? A dedicated supportive place to ’check-in with yourself’ in a non-judgmental way about your challenges, behaviors, reactions and relationships? A place to learn how to become unstuck from choices that are no longer helping you? If so, let me validate your courage and willingness to begin the therapeutic process that will be uniquely yours. We will begin your therapy journey exploring what is and is not working for you in your life; and together we will identify reasonable goals.
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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.