Photo of Armine Manukian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Armine Manukian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hi there, I'm Armine! I have provided mental health services for 15 years helping clients with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic illness, postpartum, and life/career transitions in diverse populations of adults. Given my experience, I have developed a therapeutic approach that is based on the needs of clients. I combine evidence-based interventions with cognitive, and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a supportive environment where clients openly and safely express their experiences, emotions, and thoughts with acceptance and non-judgment.
Hi there, I'm Armine! I have provided mental health services for 15 years helping clients with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic illness, postpartum, and life/career transitions in diverse populations of adults. Given my experience, I have developed a therapeutic approach that is based on the needs of clients. I combine evidence-based interventions with cognitive, and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a supportive environment where clients openly and safely express their experiences, emotions, and thoughts with acceptance and non-judgment.
(916) 794-3439 View (916) 794-3439
Photo of Patricia Kantzavelos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Patricia Kantzavelos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Verne, CA 91750
As a chronic illness warrior/ spoonie, I completely understand what it feels like to sit on the other side of the couch (or, screen), and how important it is to chat with someone who 'gets it.
Patricia (Christina) Kantzavelos is a neurodivergent, and first-generation (third culture) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), life coach, writer and chronic illness warrior. She received both her BA and MSW from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and her MLIS from San Jose State University (SJSU).
As a chronic illness warrior/ spoonie, I completely understand what it feels like to sit on the other side of the couch (or, screen), and how important it is to chat with someone who 'gets it.
Patricia (Christina) Kantzavelos is a neurodivergent, and first-generation (third culture) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), life coach, writer and chronic illness warrior. She received both her BA and MSW from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and her MLIS from San Jose State University (SJSU).
(909) 361-3701 View (909) 361-3701
Photo of Kristen Johnson, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in California
Kristen Johnson
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92831
I work through a trauma-informed lens treating first responders, military, PTSD, individuals, couples, and families as well as specializing in chronic illness and pain management.
Life these days throws us some curves that all our best efforts just can't resolve. Pulling ourselves out of current life circumstances we are as we try to escape from issues we unable to face so we can move on and heal causes blame and resentment between partners, families, parents, and kids. Often our support systems are unable to help us through these struggles and trauma and we need extra guidance. We work together and uncover the core issues keeping you "stuck" in life and replace them with workable, usable coping strategies to provide you the life you deserve!
I work through a trauma-informed lens treating first responders, military, PTSD, individuals, couples, and families as well as specializing in chronic illness and pain management.
Life these days throws us some curves that all our best efforts just can't resolve. Pulling ourselves out of current life circumstances we are as we try to escape from issues we unable to face so we can move on and heal causes blame and resentment between partners, families, parents, and kids. Often our support systems are unable to help us through these struggles and trauma and we need extra guidance. We work together and uncover the core issues keeping you "stuck" in life and replace them with workable, usable coping strategies to provide you the life you deserve!
(714) 622-7394 View (714) 622-7394
Photo of Dr. Lori Sanderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Dr. Lori Sanderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH, PhD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
I have a lot of experience working w/those who have chronic illness, chronic pain, obesity, and body image issues and how these affects mental health.
Hello there, I'm Dr. Lori Sanderson. I enjoy looking at your thoughts and how they are contributing to your stress level, anxiety level, or overall feelings of sadness. How you think contributes to how you behave. How you behave also contributes to how you feel. I will meet you where you are but will also help you to develop a stronger and healthier version of you. We will do this together by helping you to get to the root of your struggles and giving you the tools to get through it. You deserve somewhere that you can share what is on your mind without fear of being judged negatively. You deserve a better life and a healthier you.
I have a lot of experience working w/those who have chronic illness, chronic pain, obesity, and body image issues and how these affects mental health.
Hello there, I'm Dr. Lori Sanderson. I enjoy looking at your thoughts and how they are contributing to your stress level, anxiety level, or overall feelings of sadness. How you think contributes to how you behave. How you behave also contributes to how you feel. I will meet you where you are but will also help you to develop a stronger and healthier version of you. We will do this together by helping you to get to the root of your struggles and giving you the tools to get through it. You deserve somewhere that you can share what is on your mind without fear of being judged negatively. You deserve a better life and a healthier you.
(657) 366-5417 View (657) 366-5417
Photo of Daniela Paolone, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Daniela Paolone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91362  (Online Only)
As a therapist with chronic pain and chronic illness, I have incorporated my experiences with my clinical training so that I can provide you with tools, resources, and education.
We will focus on your strengths and your current ways of coping and use that as a foundation to build upon and create an action plan. It is normal to experience those emotional ups and downs. It is my hope to have the opportunity to help you in this process in learning to manage and reduce those symptoms so that you feel more resilient and prepared to handle whatever stressors come your way.
As a therapist with chronic pain and chronic illness, I have incorporated my experiences with my clinical training so that I can provide you with tools, resources, and education.
We will focus on your strengths and your current ways of coping and use that as a foundation to build upon and create an action plan. It is normal to experience those emotional ups and downs. It is my hope to have the opportunity to help you in this process in learning to manage and reduce those symptoms so that you feel more resilient and prepared to handle whatever stressors come your way.
(310) 361-4584 View (310) 361-4584
Photo of Dr. Mollie Rothseid, Associate Clinical Social Worker in California
Dr. Mollie Rothseid
Associate Clinical Social Worker, PhD, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
We all have times in life where we find ourselves presented us with challenges that can feel overwhelming. As a gerontologist and clinical social worker, I specialize in working with dementia, Alzheimer's, grief, chronic illness, and the complexities of aging. I warmly welcome individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a parent with a child dealing with school-related stress, an adult navigating life's transitions, or an older adult coping with the intricacies of aging, I'm here to provide a safe and welcoming environment where your experiences are valued with compassion and acceptance.
We all have times in life where we find ourselves presented us with challenges that can feel overwhelming. As a gerontologist and clinical social worker, I specialize in working with dementia, Alzheimer's, grief, chronic illness, and the complexities of aging. I warmly welcome individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a parent with a child dealing with school-related stress, an adult navigating life's transitions, or an older adult coping with the intricacies of aging, I'm here to provide a safe and welcoming environment where your experiences are valued with compassion and acceptance.
(310) 504-6953 View (310) 504-6953
Photo of Shavontae Golden-McCants, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Shavontae Golden-McCants
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057
Welcome, my name is Shavontae and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with adolescents/teens, adults and their families. As someone who has gone through a life-changing event, I am passionate about supporting others and their families to overcome challenges related to coping with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other chronic illnesses and about bringing awareness of how a chronic illness can have a major impact on an individual and their families’ mental health. Chronic illnesses can causes depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief and I am here to support you through it.
Welcome, my name is Shavontae and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with adolescents/teens, adults and their families. As someone who has gone through a life-changing event, I am passionate about supporting others and their families to overcome challenges related to coping with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other chronic illnesses and about bringing awareness of how a chronic illness can have a major impact on an individual and their families’ mental health. Chronic illnesses can causes depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief and I am here to support you through it.
(760) 284-6734 View (760) 284-6734
Photo of Dona Clair, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Dona Clair
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
Hello, my name is Dona J. Clair and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My focus is working with individuals who are attempting to find inner peace and healing and who want to make positive changes in their lives. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, chronic illness (specifically autoimmune issues), grief, and life transitions. I use such modalities as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, Strength Based, and Mindfulness. I know how isolating and frustrating it can be when one attempts to manage illness and I want to be a support.
Hello, my name is Dona J. Clair and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My focus is working with individuals who are attempting to find inner peace and healing and who want to make positive changes in their lives. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, chronic illness (specifically autoimmune issues), grief, and life transitions. I use such modalities as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, Strength Based, and Mindfulness. I know how isolating and frustrating it can be when one attempts to manage illness and I want to be a support.
(626) 507-3758 View (626) 507-3758
Photo of Carrie G Rogers, Psychologist in California
Carrie G Rogers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing big changes in life? Such as transitioning into retirement, adjusting to a health-related changes, chronic illness, changes related to your work, or uncertainty around what path you you want to choose for yourself and your future? Are you looking for some support as a parent of a young kid or kids? I'm here to help and look forward to hearing from you! I work one on one (individual therapy) with adults of all ages utilizing an integrative, relational, strength-based approach - while tailoring treatment to each persons specific needs & goals. LGBTQ+ affirmative & allied.
Are you experiencing big changes in life? Such as transitioning into retirement, adjusting to a health-related changes, chronic illness, changes related to your work, or uncertainty around what path you you want to choose for yourself and your future? Are you looking for some support as a parent of a young kid or kids? I'm here to help and look forward to hearing from you! I work one on one (individual therapy) with adults of all ages utilizing an integrative, relational, strength-based approach - while tailoring treatment to each persons specific needs & goals. LGBTQ+ affirmative & allied.
(916) 461-1769 View (916) 461-1769
Photo of Whitney M. Keilman, Psychologist in California
Whitney M. Keilman
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with issues including but not limited to: Aging, Anxiety, Bereavement, Body image, Depression, Drug and Alcohol, Chronic illness, Chronic pain, Family conflicts, Interpersonal boundaries, Life transitions, Oppression, Parenting, PTSD, Relationships, Support for caregivers, Terminal illness, and Trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to teens and adults residing in California. I believe that every individual is unique and deserving of love, and I feel that this shines through in my work. Seeking therapy is not always easy, and I’m truly honored to be a part of my Patient’s healing and strengthening processes.
I have experience working with issues including but not limited to: Aging, Anxiety, Bereavement, Body image, Depression, Drug and Alcohol, Chronic illness, Chronic pain, Family conflicts, Interpersonal boundaries, Life transitions, Oppression, Parenting, PTSD, Relationships, Support for caregivers, Terminal illness, and Trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to teens and adults residing in California. I believe that every individual is unique and deserving of love, and I feel that this shines through in my work. Seeking therapy is not always easy, and I’m truly honored to be a part of my Patient’s healing and strengthening processes.
(415) 903-8664 View (415) 903-8664
Photo of Sarah Parnow, Psychologist in California
Sarah Parnow
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95150  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults facing medical diagnosis, chronic illness, and life change.
Does life feel unrecognizable right now? Maybe you are facing a new reality, one you did not expect to be facing now, or possibly ever. You heard what the doctors said, but it still doesn’t feel real, like tomorrow when you wake up you’ll realize this was all just a very bad dream. It feels terrifying, uncomfortable, and exhausting, and you are having a hard time focusing your attention on anything else. You may find your thoughts rapidly cycling between endless “what if” and “how did I get here?” spirals. You are definitely not alone in feeling this way.
I specialize in working with adults facing medical diagnosis, chronic illness, and life change.
Does life feel unrecognizable right now? Maybe you are facing a new reality, one you did not expect to be facing now, or possibly ever. You heard what the doctors said, but it still doesn’t feel real, like tomorrow when you wake up you’ll realize this was all just a very bad dream. It feels terrifying, uncomfortable, and exhausting, and you are having a hard time focusing your attention on anything else. You may find your thoughts rapidly cycling between endless “what if” and “how did I get here?” spirals. You are definitely not alone in feeling this way.
(408) 868-2663 View (408) 868-2663
Photo of Felipe Amaya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Felipe Amaya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95822
I have many years of working with clients with chronic illness, especially those who have kidney failure and are on long-term dialysis treatments.
My name is Felipe Amaya. I was born and raised in New Jersey from a family that immigrated to the U.S. from Colombia, South America. I was educated in Boston, but have spent the majority of my adult life in California. I am bilingual English/Spanish. In 2001, I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach with a specialization in working with Older Adults and Families.
I have many years of working with clients with chronic illness, especially those who have kidney failure and are on long-term dialysis treatments.
My name is Felipe Amaya. I was born and raised in New Jersey from a family that immigrated to the U.S. from Colombia, South America. I was educated in Boston, but have spent the majority of my adult life in California. I am bilingual English/Spanish. In 2001, I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach with a specialization in working with Older Adults and Families.
(530) 444-6953 View (530) 444-6953
Photo of Crystal Quarry, Psychologist in California
Crystal Quarry
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
A big part of my work is related to health psychology, working with patients with chronic illness, disability, and pain management.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
A big part of my work is related to health psychology, working with patients with chronic illness, disability, and pain management.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 347-1691 View (424) 347-1691
Photo of Kelleen Stainer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Kelleen Stainer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oxnard, CA 93030
Hello, I am Kelleen Stainer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I take a 'client-centered' approach to therapy and believe therapy is a partnership between the client and the therapist. I typically work with adult clients in need of additional support to cope with their current life challenges. I am most comfortable treating individuals with generalized anxiety disorder, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, chronic illness and relationship issues.
Hello, I am Kelleen Stainer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I take a 'client-centered' approach to therapy and believe therapy is a partnership between the client and the therapist. I typically work with adult clients in need of additional support to cope with their current life challenges. I am most comfortable treating individuals with generalized anxiety disorder, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, chronic illness and relationship issues.
(805) 317-7954 View (805) 317-7954
Photo of Alexxis Nankervis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Alexxis Nankervis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Feeling weighed down by anxiety, depression, or life's twists and turns? Navigating life with a chronic illness or other layers of complexity? You don't have to do it alone! Let's work together to find ways to cope, thrive, and live fully despite these challenges. Whether you're a parent of a child struggling and trying to make sense of it all, or a teen or adult feeling overwhelmed, I'm here for you. Together, we'll untangle those knots, finding new ways to manage emotions, gain focus and control, boost self-esteem, and build healthier relationships.
Feeling weighed down by anxiety, depression, or life's twists and turns? Navigating life with a chronic illness or other layers of complexity? You don't have to do it alone! Let's work together to find ways to cope, thrive, and live fully despite these challenges. Whether you're a parent of a child struggling and trying to make sense of it all, or a teen or adult feeling overwhelmed, I'm here for you. Together, we'll untangle those knots, finding new ways to manage emotions, gain focus and control, boost self-esteem, and build healthier relationships.
(562) 501-4977 View (562) 501-4977
Photo of Grace Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Grace Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
I provide therapy to help better manage anxiety, depression, mental wellness, adjustments to life changes, work-related stressors, chronic illness and grief by working towards balance and coping strategies.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. Here to help you navigate your through your journey of symptoms.
I provide therapy to help better manage anxiety, depression, mental wellness, adjustments to life changes, work-related stressors, chronic illness and grief by working towards balance and coping strategies.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. Here to help you navigate your through your journey of symptoms.
View
Photo of Maria Rangel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Maria Rangel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
I'm passionate about helping others learn how to heal within relationships by resolving conflicts, practice/implementing effective coping mechanisms, and navigating through life's challenges. I am bilingual in Spanish/English, specialize in complex trauma and PTSD, living with chronic illness and pain, grief and loss, and religious deconstruction. I am also passionate about working with BIPOC and offer sex-positive, LQGBTQ+ affirming care.
I'm passionate about helping others learn how to heal within relationships by resolving conflicts, practice/implementing effective coping mechanisms, and navigating through life's challenges. I am bilingual in Spanish/English, specialize in complex trauma and PTSD, living with chronic illness and pain, grief and loss, and religious deconstruction. I am also passionate about working with BIPOC and offer sex-positive, LQGBTQ+ affirming care.
(323) 417-2662 View (323) 417-2662
Photo of Miwa Emi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Miwa Emi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
I have seen a lot of clients with Chronic Illness also experience behavioral health challenges such as depression and anxiety.
My name is Miwa Emi. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Los Angeles. I am a Medical Social Worker and have worked with clients with Chronic Illnesses over the last 13 years. I have worked for a home health agency, a dialysis clinic, a University hospital, and a health insurance company. I have been in the Social Work field for 20 years. I interned at United Nations High Commissioner for Refuges in Tokyo and worked with asylum seekers coming to Japan. I also worked with homeless children through a non-profit organization in Belem, Brazil. These experience made me decide to pursue my career in Social Work.
I have seen a lot of clients with Chronic Illness also experience behavioral health challenges such as depression and anxiety.
My name is Miwa Emi. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Los Angeles. I am a Medical Social Worker and have worked with clients with Chronic Illnesses over the last 13 years. I have worked for a home health agency, a dialysis clinic, a University hospital, and a health insurance company. I have been in the Social Work field for 20 years. I interned at United Nations High Commissioner for Refuges in Tokyo and worked with asylum seekers coming to Japan. I also worked with homeless children through a non-profit organization in Belem, Brazil. These experience made me decide to pursue my career in Social Work.
(657) 837-2325 View (657) 837-2325
Photo of Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92114
I have extensive experience working with individuals from all walks of life suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, life transitions, loss, and grief, living with a chronic illness, and problems related to parenting.
I’m Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, a licensed clinical social worker with more than 9 years of experience. I have a bachelor’s degree in human services, a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Social Work and Gerontology, and a master’s degree in social work from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic selves, develop compassion toward themselves and others, and live meaningful life through transformation and healing.
I have extensive experience working with individuals from all walks of life suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, life transitions, loss, and grief, living with a chronic illness, and problems related to parenting.
I’m Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, a licensed clinical social worker with more than 9 years of experience. I have a bachelor’s degree in human services, a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Social Work and Gerontology, and a master’s degree in social work from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic selves, develop compassion toward themselves and others, and live meaningful life through transformation and healing.
(619) 391-2771 View (619) 391-2771
Photo of Michelle Gentle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Michelle Gentle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95122
Client’s experiencing grief (including divorce, chronic illness, infertility, or death), changes in life circumstances (including pregnancy, postpartum transition, identity/sexuality challenges), or relationship difficulties.
Hi, my name is Michelle Gentle. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and I’m passionate about supporting clients during whatever life challenges arise. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. My approach to therapy is holistic and varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I utilize a trauma-informed, developmental, and attachment-based lens. Common modalities I use include are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Client’s experiencing grief (including divorce, chronic illness, infertility, or death), changes in life circumstances (including pregnancy, postpartum transition, identity/sexuality challenges), or relationship difficulties.
Hi, my name is Michelle Gentle. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and I’m passionate about supporting clients during whatever life challenges arise. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. My approach to therapy is holistic and varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I utilize a trauma-informed, developmental, and attachment-based lens. Common modalities I use include are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
(650) 457-5816 View (650) 457-5816
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.