Photo of Monica P Raznahan, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica P Raznahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056
Asking for help is not easy. By now, you've tried doing it on your own, and it's been harder than expected. You may be here because you're searching for answers and a greater understanding of yourself and your life. So many everyday factors can influence how we feel, such as not having enough time for yourself, being the caretaker of others or having your own health issues, as well as job or relationship dissatisfaction, to name a few.
Asking for help is not easy. By now, you've tried doing it on your own, and it's been harder than expected. You may be here because you're searching for answers and a greater understanding of yourself and your life. So many everyday factors can influence how we feel, such as not having enough time for yourself, being the caretaker of others or having your own health issues, as well as job or relationship dissatisfaction, to name a few.
(346) 818-3377 View (346) 818-3377
Photo of Shyra Jones, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Shyra Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Shyra Jones and have been fully licensed in the state of Texas since 2011. My license number is 66025. I have worked with individuals between the ages of 5 to 80 and inn a variety of settings. I like to work to develop a treatment plan that may include techniques to manage negative self-talk, limit habits that no longer work, identify strengths, and help process trauma in order to put it appropriately behind my clients. This may do through the use of expressive arts, getting in touch with the body, and “talk therapy.”
I am Dr. Shyra Jones and have been fully licensed in the state of Texas since 2011. My license number is 66025. I have worked with individuals between the ages of 5 to 80 and inn a variety of settings. I like to work to develop a treatment plan that may include techniques to manage negative self-talk, limit habits that no longer work, identify strengths, and help process trauma in order to put it appropriately behind my clients. This may do through the use of expressive arts, getting in touch with the body, and “talk therapy.”
(346) 550-9902 View (346) 550-9902
Photo of Belinda Lopez, LCSW-S, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77056  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families and specialize in women's issues/health and wellness, depression, anxiety, major life transitions, stress management, relationship issues, as well as grief and loss. I also have extensive experience working in the medical community. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and am passionate about working with the Latino/Hispanic community. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Approved Clinical Supervisor. In addition, I am also a member of the National Association of Social Workers and the Academy of Certified Social Workers.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families and specialize in women's issues/health and wellness, depression, anxiety, major life transitions, stress management, relationship issues, as well as grief and loss. I also have extensive experience working in the medical community. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and am passionate about working with the Latino/Hispanic community. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Approved Clinical Supervisor. In addition, I am also a member of the National Association of Social Workers and the Academy of Certified Social Workers.
(832) 501-9182 View (832) 501-9182
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.