Photo of Dr. Ruth N. Faucette, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Dr. Ruth N. Faucette
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Has life become so challenging that you ask yourself, “Will it ever get easier?” As we journey down the road of life, we will run into bumps, make wrong turns, and even get into wrecks. When that happens, we need guidance to get back to being our happiest, healthiest selves. Whether you are facing the stress from common life-cycle transitions (e.g., beginning a new career, facing a big move, etc.), experiencing a loss of “spark” in your relationship, noticing a breakdown in communication with family members, or facing the psychological and biological comorbidity of chronic illness, I am here to help you navigate the road ahead.
Has life become so challenging that you ask yourself, “Will it ever get easier?” As we journey down the road of life, we will run into bumps, make wrong turns, and even get into wrecks. When that happens, we need guidance to get back to being our happiest, healthiest selves. Whether you are facing the stress from common life-cycle transitions (e.g., beginning a new career, facing a big move, etc.), experiencing a loss of “spark” in your relationship, noticing a breakdown in communication with family members, or facing the psychological and biological comorbidity of chronic illness, I am here to help you navigate the road ahead.
(623) 624-9225 View (623) 624-9225
Photo of Robin San George, Counselor in Arizona
Robin San George
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
I also enjoy helping people struggling with chronic illness.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have been working in behavioral health since 2013. I love making genuine connections with my clients while providing individualized guidance throughout the healing process. I strongly believe that helping people to realize and trust that they are not alone in their struggles or trauma is always such a beneficial first step in establishing a solid foundation in our work together.
I also enjoy helping people struggling with chronic illness.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have been working in behavioral health since 2013. I love making genuine connections with my clients while providing individualized guidance throughout the healing process. I strongly believe that helping people to realize and trust that they are not alone in their struggles or trauma is always such a beneficial first step in establishing a solid foundation in our work together.
(602) 663-9122 View (602) 663-9122
Photo of Claudia Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Claudia Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85286
Struggling with a chronic illness? Feeling overwhelmed by a cancer diagnosis or a cardiac event? Experiencing anxiety from life changes? Fear, sadness, uncertainty and a mix of other challenging emotions are natural but they can make getting through the day or even the next moment seem impossible. Priorities may shift. Life as you knew it no longer exists. You may feel alone. For some, the relationship with your body may change and that can decrease body confidence. While you may sometimes feel powerless, regardless of your life situation, you can chose to get support to cope.
Struggling with a chronic illness? Feeling overwhelmed by a cancer diagnosis or a cardiac event? Experiencing anxiety from life changes? Fear, sadness, uncertainty and a mix of other challenging emotions are natural but they can make getting through the day or even the next moment seem impossible. Priorities may shift. Life as you knew it no longer exists. You may feel alone. For some, the relationship with your body may change and that can decrease body confidence. While you may sometimes feel powerless, regardless of your life situation, you can chose to get support to cope.
(623) 244-7423 View (623) 244-7423
Photo of Dr. Heather A. Okvat, Psychologist in Arizona
Dr. Heather A. Okvat
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85274  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults with a variety of problems in living and believe in intermittent therapy throughout the life course. If you're looking to enhance your self-esteem and self-kindness, learning to be assertive, or wanting to be seen for who you really are - and knowing yourself who this is, I am here to support you. My private practice is small and focused on people coping with anxiety, chronic illness including chronic pain, and depression. It's not easy being a human, and you don't have to go it alone. If you are motivated to better manage life's challenges, I look forward to hearing from you.
I work with individual adults with a variety of problems in living and believe in intermittent therapy throughout the life course. If you're looking to enhance your self-esteem and self-kindness, learning to be assertive, or wanting to be seen for who you really are - and knowing yourself who this is, I am here to support you. My private practice is small and focused on people coping with anxiety, chronic illness including chronic pain, and depression. It's not easy being a human, and you don't have to go it alone. If you are motivated to better manage life's challenges, I look forward to hearing from you.
(480) 531-9809 View (480) 531-9809
Photo of Katie Lespron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Katie Lespron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I have a special interest in working with those with chronic illness/cancer.
Life is filled with challenges. It is not uncommon those hurdles you once were able to jump over, now seem unattainable to tackle. These challenges can leave us anxious, depressed or with a sense of loss. Grief and loss can feel heavy and isolating. Life transitions and change can be difficult to adapt to. Seeking support in someone who can truly listen and provide neutral guidance can make a large difference in how you navigate the crazy ride we call life.
I have a special interest in working with those with chronic illness/cancer.
Life is filled with challenges. It is not uncommon those hurdles you once were able to jump over, now seem unattainable to tackle. These challenges can leave us anxious, depressed or with a sense of loss. Grief and loss can feel heavy and isolating. Life transitions and change can be difficult to adapt to. Seeking support in someone who can truly listen and provide neutral guidance can make a large difference in how you navigate the crazy ride we call life.
(480) 660-4779 View (480) 660-4779
Photo of Christopher Trotman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Christopher Trotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284  (Online Only)
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
(301) 851-0601 View (301) 851-0601
Photo of Sherrie Kaelin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Sherrie Kaelin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LCPC, CMNCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85001  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist (CMNCS) and enjoy working with all clients but have a specific interest in working with people who want are struggling with anxiety, chronic illness and weight loss and want to align their physical and mental health through nutrition, proper sleep and self care. I also have experience working with people who have suffered from narcisstic abuse and are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma and the daily stresses of life. I also enjoy working with seniors and people with disabilities,
I am a Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist (CMNCS) and enjoy working with all clients but have a specific interest in working with people who want are struggling with anxiety, chronic illness and weight loss and want to align their physical and mental health through nutrition, proper sleep and self care. I also have experience working with people who have suffered from narcisstic abuse and are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma and the daily stresses of life. I also enjoy working with seniors and people with disabilities,
(520) 436-7673 View (520) 436-7673
Photo of Colleen DiBella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Colleen DiBella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in treating patients with cancer, new medical diagnosis, chronic illness, grief and loss. I can help navigate complicated health care systems and provide supportive intervention to patients and their families. A good therapeutic relationship, one that allows us to be fully ourselves while recognizing our unique potential, creates the optimal conditions for healing. I provide a place where you can feel safe to explore your most difficult feelings, to resolve grief and loss, heal childhood wounds, improve communication, increase self-esteem and develop more satisfying relationships.
With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in treating patients with cancer, new medical diagnosis, chronic illness, grief and loss. I can help navigate complicated health care systems and provide supportive intervention to patients and their families. A good therapeutic relationship, one that allows us to be fully ourselves while recognizing our unique potential, creates the optimal conditions for healing. I provide a place where you can feel safe to explore your most difficult feelings, to resolve grief and loss, heal childhood wounds, improve communication, increase self-esteem and develop more satisfying relationships.
(480) 418-9249 View (480) 418-9249
Photo of Barrette Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Barrette Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children/adolescents presenting with a variety of challenges: excessive worry/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, chronic illness/pain, self-harm behaviors, life transitional stress, and stresses related to the Military.
Sometimes our lives become so complicated and stressful that we all need an outside, non-judgmental person to help guide us back to our inner source and wisdom. My therapeutic strengths lie in my ability to create a safe and non-judgmental relationship with my clients to help them quickly identify their strengths and utilize them to problem solve and feel better. I approach all my clients with kindness and compassion, understanding that many are entering counseling for the first time or are searching for relief from stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic pain or illness, or many of life's difficult transitions.
I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children/adolescents presenting with a variety of challenges: excessive worry/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, chronic illness/pain, self-harm behaviors, life transitional stress, and stresses related to the Military.
Sometimes our lives become so complicated and stressful that we all need an outside, non-judgmental person to help guide us back to our inner source and wisdom. My therapeutic strengths lie in my ability to create a safe and non-judgmental relationship with my clients to help them quickly identify their strengths and utilize them to problem solve and feel better. I approach all my clients with kindness and compassion, understanding that many are entering counseling for the first time or are searching for relief from stress, depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, chronic pain or illness, or many of life's difficult transitions.
(520) 441-8823 View (520) 441-8823
Photo of Nai (Audrey-Paige) Smiddy, Counselor in Arizona
Nai (Audrey-Paige) Smiddy
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712  (Online Only)
 I have worked with a diverse population of people, including but not limited to, people who have endured trauma(s), people who endure racial injustice, and people who endure the injustice of ableism/ persons with disability or chronic illness.
I am a non-binary Licensed Associate Counselor in Arizona, license number LAC-20028.  I am currently working towards the Sex Therapist Certification and Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.  My personal and professional knowledge of gender identity, transgender treatment, and human sexuality allows me the tools to help transgender and non-binary folx live authentically with self-love and acceptance.  Working with the transgender and gender nonconforming community is my passion.  I also provide family therapy to help partners through transitions of gender identity and build connection with true acceptance of
 I have worked with a diverse population of people, including but not limited to, people who have endured trauma(s), people who endure racial injustice, and people who endure the injustice of ableism/ persons with disability or chronic illness.
I am a non-binary Licensed Associate Counselor in Arizona, license number LAC-20028.  I am currently working towards the Sex Therapist Certification and Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology at Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.  My personal and professional knowledge of gender identity, transgender treatment, and human sexuality allows me the tools to help transgender and non-binary folx live authentically with self-love and acceptance.  Working with the transgender and gender nonconforming community is my passion.  I also provide family therapy to help partners through transitions of gender identity and build connection with true acceptance of
(520) 210-4087 View (520) 210-4087
Photo of Valerie Gold-Neil, Psychologist in Arizona
Valerie Gold-Neil
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Green Valley, AZ 85614  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years of experience as a therapist working with individuals facing age-related changes, grief, stress, trauma, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety.
Hello, I’m Dr. Val, I offer you a safe and compassionate place where I listen deeply to you and together we can heal the pain you are experiencing. I will guide you in increasing your self-awareness, self-compassion, acceptance and learning new ways to be in this ever changing body and world. I believe through work in therapy you can make lasting and personally empowering changes that will serve you and those you love.
I have over 30 years of experience as a therapist working with individuals facing age-related changes, grief, stress, trauma, chronic illness and pain, depression and anxiety.
Hello, I’m Dr. Val, I offer you a safe and compassionate place where I listen deeply to you and together we can heal the pain you are experiencing. I will guide you in increasing your self-awareness, self-compassion, acceptance and learning new ways to be in this ever changing body and world. I believe through work in therapy you can make lasting and personally empowering changes that will serve you and those you love.
(520) 582-9794 View (520) 582-9794
Photo of Jeffrey M Troutman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Jeffrey M Troutman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
I have successfully helped individuals, couples, and families find happiness in life. I believe everyone has the power to change. However, we often get stuck. Over the years I have participated in peoples amazing transformations as they become unstuck and regained their satisfaction and fulfillment, have healthy relationships, and overcome trials and other problems. I've found that everyone I've met with in therapy can change and be happier. I work with anxiety, depression, couples, and management of living with a chronic illness. I help people develop skills to cope well with life's problems.
I have successfully helped individuals, couples, and families find happiness in life. I believe everyone has the power to change. However, we often get stuck. Over the years I have participated in peoples amazing transformations as they become unstuck and regained their satisfaction and fulfillment, have healthy relationships, and overcome trials and other problems. I've found that everyone I've met with in therapy can change and be happier. I work with anxiety, depression, couples, and management of living with a chronic illness. I help people develop skills to cope well with life's problems.
(480) 526-9725 View (480) 526-9725
Photo of Marlo Whitson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Marlo Whitson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
We all experience trauma and severe life stressors' that leave us feeling stuck and hopeless. Your crisis may be depression, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic illness, sport performance or something that is so overwhelming you are struggling with life. Often time we hold ourselves in bondage to the choices we have made. I believe some of life's most difficult experiences leads us to our greatest growth. I will give you the tools to move forward from past attachments that seem to keep you stagnate in your life.
We all experience trauma and severe life stressors' that leave us feeling stuck and hopeless. Your crisis may be depression, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic illness, sport performance or something that is so overwhelming you are struggling with life. Often time we hold ourselves in bondage to the choices we have made. I believe some of life's most difficult experiences leads us to our greatest growth. I will give you the tools to move forward from past attachments that seem to keep you stagnate in your life.
(602) 362-6683 View (602) 362-6683
Photo of Shane Noel Canitz Cultivate Counseling, Counselor in Arizona
Shane Noel Canitz Cultivate Counseling
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Some of my other specialties are anxiety, trauma, codependency, chronic illness/pain, and depression.
As a writer and counselor, I believe in the power of words and stories for healing. We are exposed to many messages as we journey through life, both from others and ourselves. These messages have a profound impact, influencing our thoughts, emotions and behaviors, and can become detrimental to our mental health. Thus, my goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, affirming atmosphere for you to explore these personal messages, and to walk beside you as you create a more hopeful and meaningful narrative. I believe you already contain the seeds of hope and recovery within you; I would be honored to help you discover and cultivate them.
Some of my other specialties are anxiety, trauma, codependency, chronic illness/pain, and depression.
As a writer and counselor, I believe in the power of words and stories for healing. We are exposed to many messages as we journey through life, both from others and ourselves. These messages have a profound impact, influencing our thoughts, emotions and behaviors, and can become detrimental to our mental health. Thus, my goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, affirming atmosphere for you to explore these personal messages, and to walk beside you as you create a more hopeful and meaningful narrative. I believe you already contain the seeds of hope and recovery within you; I would be honored to help you discover and cultivate them.
(928) 585-6487 View (928) 585-6487
Photo of Amy Sharp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Amy Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
I enjoy working with teens and adults from all backgrounds! I usually connect well with people who had developmental or complex trauma in childhood, as well as young adults struggling with the transition to "adulting." I have experience helping with low self-esteem, general anxiety, social anxiety, chronic illness, codependency, trauma, and depression. I believe we all go through challenges in life and need to work on our mental health to reach our full potential. You can do it, even when it's scary! You are the expert on your own life and have more strengths than you realize! I would be honored to meet with you.
I enjoy working with teens and adults from all backgrounds! I usually connect well with people who had developmental or complex trauma in childhood, as well as young adults struggling with the transition to "adulting." I have experience helping with low self-esteem, general anxiety, social anxiety, chronic illness, codependency, trauma, and depression. I believe we all go through challenges in life and need to work on our mental health to reach our full potential. You can do it, even when it's scary! You are the expert on your own life and have more strengths than you realize! I would be honored to meet with you.
(520) 523-2942 View (520) 523-2942
Photo of Judy Dryer, Counselor in Arizona
Judy Dryer
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
Welcome! I specialize in working with teenagers and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, stress, burnout, grief, anger, work and school challenges, ADHD, substance abuse/addiction, racial identity and chronic illness. With my background in school counseling and education, I am equipped to help parents navigate the 504 and IEP processes. I use a Person-Centered approach in my work, in addition to Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy, and a Strengths-Based approach.
Welcome! I specialize in working with teenagers and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, stress, burnout, grief, anger, work and school challenges, ADHD, substance abuse/addiction, racial identity and chronic illness. With my background in school counseling and education, I am equipped to help parents navigate the 504 and IEP processes. I use a Person-Centered approach in my work, in addition to Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy, and a Strengths-Based approach.
(520) 442-6621 View (520) 442-6621
Photo of Laura Elena, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Laura Elena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
Sometimes life throws you challenges that tax your ability to cope and thrive in healthy ways, leaving you in a state of survival, lacking connection with yourself, others and the world around you. My belief is that your innate strengths can be rediscovered to find the joy and peace you long for in your world – this begins with the relationship with yourself and sets the foundation for all other relationships & goal-achievement in your life. I work with teens and adults of all ages in areas including life changes, parenting challenges, chronic illness, substance abuse, and assistance navigating outside resources to attain your goals
Sometimes life throws you challenges that tax your ability to cope and thrive in healthy ways, leaving you in a state of survival, lacking connection with yourself, others and the world around you. My belief is that your innate strengths can be rediscovered to find the joy and peace you long for in your world – this begins with the relationship with yourself and sets the foundation for all other relationships & goal-achievement in your life. I work with teens and adults of all ages in areas including life changes, parenting challenges, chronic illness, substance abuse, and assistance navigating outside resources to attain your goals
(480) 470-7654 View (480) 470-7654
Photo of Gila Lesky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Gila Lesky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Within all people there is a compelling force to move toward life and fulfillment. There are challenges along the way, and in the midst of COVID 19, there is extraordinary stress. Health, relationships and coping is of paramount importance. Is there hope for my marriage? What impact is marital conflict having on my children? I specialize in co parenting after divorce and those contemplating divorce. My background allows me to work with chronic illness, as well as with medical students, residents and fellows experiencing both acute and long term stress, particularly in their personal and professional lives.
Within all people there is a compelling force to move toward life and fulfillment. There are challenges along the way, and in the midst of COVID 19, there is extraordinary stress. Health, relationships and coping is of paramount importance. Is there hope for my marriage? What impact is marital conflict having on my children? I specialize in co parenting after divorce and those contemplating divorce. My background allows me to work with chronic illness, as well as with medical students, residents and fellows experiencing both acute and long term stress, particularly in their personal and professional lives.
(412) 520-3674 View (412) 520-3674
Photo of Azure Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Azure Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Katie Golbeck, LCSW is a responsive mental health practitioner, serving all ages and focusing on positive wellness solutions to stimulate progress towards change. Her interventions are centered in positive psychology methods and apply practical approaches for promoting stability and recovery. If you are experiencing phase of life issues, low motivation, or poor relationship/life satisfaction, Azure Counseling has solutions.
Katie Golbeck, LCSW is a responsive mental health practitioner, serving all ages and focusing on positive wellness solutions to stimulate progress towards change. Her interventions are centered in positive psychology methods and apply practical approaches for promoting stability and recovery. If you are experiencing phase of life issues, low motivation, or poor relationship/life satisfaction, Azure Counseling has solutions.
(480) 405-5159 View (480) 405-5159
Photo of Rachelle Friedman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Rachelle Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234  (Online Only)
Do you think about times in the past when you wish that you felt different, or had done something differently? It can be hard to not get stuck in the "should" of everything. When you are in this place it can be hard to pick yourself up when you trip or fall. I specialize in working with people who are struggling with chronic pain/illness, anxiety, neurodivergence, and trauma. I want to help you feel grounded and present in your life. I want you to know that by seeing you authentically and individualizing therapeutic treatment, and treating you as a whole person, I know that I can help you heal.
Do you think about times in the past when you wish that you felt different, or had done something differently? It can be hard to not get stuck in the "should" of everything. When you are in this place it can be hard to pick yourself up when you trip or fall. I specialize in working with people who are struggling with chronic pain/illness, anxiety, neurodivergence, and trauma. I want to help you feel grounded and present in your life. I want you to know that by seeing you authentically and individualizing therapeutic treatment, and treating you as a whole person, I know that I can help you heal.
(480) 372-9890 View (480) 372-9890
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.