Chronic Illness Therapists in Colorado Springs, CO

Photo of Dr. Karen Hoving, Registered Psychotherapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Dr. Karen Hoving
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping Women with Chronic Illness and/or PTSD.
Right now everyone's world has turned upside down. Most people in your life don't know what you've really been dealing with. Some days you can barely get off the couch, much less shower. You are exhausted, but can't sleep. From the outside your life might look great, but you feel you are slowly disappearing, unsure who you used to be. Many women with Chronic Illness or PTSD feel this way most the time. Often we are afraid of being disbelieved by not only friends and family, but by our Health Care Team as well. It can take years before women are correctly diagnosed. In pain, with complicated symptoms it's easy to feel invisible.
I specialize in helping Women with Chronic Illness and/or PTSD.
Right now everyone's world has turned upside down. Most people in your life don't know what you've really been dealing with. Some days you can barely get off the couch, much less shower. You are exhausted, but can't sleep. From the outside your life might look great, but you feel you are slowly disappearing, unsure who you used to be. Many women with Chronic Illness or PTSD feel this way most the time. Often we are afraid of being disbelieved by not only friends and family, but by our Health Care Team as well. It can take years before women are correctly diagnosed. In pain, with complicated symptoms it's easy to feel invisible.
(719) 416-5614 View (719) 416-5614
Photo of Sara Velez, Psychologist in Colorado Springs, CO
Sara Velez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Top Specialty Areas ● Chronic Illness & Other Medical Issues ● Physical Injuries ● Chronic Pain ● Trauma ● Depression & Bipolar Disorder ● Anxiety ● Adjustment To Life Changes ● Grief & Loss ● Pre-surgical evaluations ● Active-Duty Military & Veterans ● Coping skills related to/affected by your Spiritual or Religious background.
The path to wellness includes many approaches to healing. You may need an open space for your frustrations to be heard or a neutral place to share your news and discuss treatment options. Perhaps these issues even lead you to question the meaning of life, your Spirituality, or your Religious background. My office is a peaceful place to address those concerns, to connect within, and to guide you on your journey to make meaning, no matter what your background is.
Top Specialty Areas ● Chronic Illness & Other Medical Issues ● Physical Injuries ● Chronic Pain ● Trauma ● Depression & Bipolar Disorder ● Anxiety ● Adjustment To Life Changes ● Grief & Loss ● Pre-surgical evaluations ● Active-Duty Military & Veterans ● Coping skills related to/affected by your Spiritual or Religious background.
The path to wellness includes many approaches to healing. You may need an open space for your frustrations to be heard or a neutral place to share your news and discuss treatment options. Perhaps these issues even lead you to question the meaning of life, your Spirituality, or your Religious background. My office is a peaceful place to address those concerns, to connect within, and to guide you on your journey to make meaning, no matter what your background is.
(719) 530-7557 View (719) 530-7557
Photo of Toni Nelson Huff Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Toni Nelson Huff Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80917  (Online Only)
I work with adults over age 40 and on into the later years of life. My goal is to help you heal and find peace. I specialize in chronic illness, grief and loss, and concerns related to aging.
I work with adults over age 40 and on into the later years of life. My goal is to help you heal and find peace. I specialize in chronic illness, grief and loss, and concerns related to aging.
(727) 788-5234 View (727) 788-5234
Photo of Tanya Portee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Tanya Portee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80922
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in helping individuals navigate through the difficulties of grief, boundary setting, chronic illness, and mood disorders. We often need someone to help identify and validate our needs, implement methods to prioritize change, and provide support during what may seem to be the most challenging times in life. If you are wanting to build a strong professional rapport with someone skilled in these areas, I would be honored to help.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in helping individuals navigate through the difficulties of grief, boundary setting, chronic illness, and mood disorders. We often need someone to help identify and validate our needs, implement methods to prioritize change, and provide support during what may seem to be the most challenging times in life. If you are wanting to build a strong professional rapport with someone skilled in these areas, I would be honored to help.
(719) 259-2084 View (719) 259-2084
Photo of Metanoia Counseling and Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Metanoia Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Are you struggling with a loss of abilities due to Chronic Illness or Medical Crisis? Do you feel Isolated, Anxious and/or Depressed? I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, Grief or Loss of independence, of abilities, depression, Stress or caregiver burnout, it is important that you know you are not alone in this journey.
Are you struggling with a loss of abilities due to Chronic Illness or Medical Crisis? Do you feel Isolated, Anxious and/or Depressed? I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, Grief or Loss of independence, of abilities, depression, Stress or caregiver burnout, it is important that you know you are not alone in this journey.
(719) 428-0447 View (719) 428-0447
Photo of Antlers Creek Counseling Center, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Antlers Creek Counseling Center, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAC II, CPATP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
At Antlers Creek Counseling Center PLLC, we support those facing chronic illness, caregiving challenges and various mental health issues. Our holistic approach focuses on emotional well-being, self-care strategies, and celebrating abilities. Let us guide you to overall mental and emotional health.
At Antlers Creek Counseling Center PLLC, we support those facing chronic illness, caregiving challenges and various mental health issues. Our holistic approach focuses on emotional well-being, self-care strategies, and celebrating abilities. Let us guide you to overall mental and emotional health.
(719) 356-1828 View (719) 356-1828
Photo of Patty Bullick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Patty Bullick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80901  (Online Only)
Are you ready to ease suffering and pain caused by symptoms of chronic illness, depression, anxiety, stress, or PTSD? Are you seeking a solution-focused, goal-oriented approach to your mental health care? Are you looking for judgment-free, compassionate, and committed guidance for your healing journey?
Are you ready to ease suffering and pain caused by symptoms of chronic illness, depression, anxiety, stress, or PTSD? Are you seeking a solution-focused, goal-oriented approach to your mental health care? Are you looking for judgment-free, compassionate, and committed guidance for your healing journey?
(866) 517-8630 View (866) 517-8630
Photo of Jennifer Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Jennifer Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80917
Hi, I am Jennifer. My work with clients is transparent and holistic. My ideal client is looking to make positive changes in their and committed to personal growth and healing. I support and empower clients struggling with a history of trauma; grief/loss; perinatal; chronic illness/pain; those experiencing high anxiety; clients that are highly sensitive and empathic; or those who are simply feeling the weight of life stressors and transitions. I have a deep understanding of various religious backgrounds and offer Christian perspective if requested. Additionally, I am compassionate with military, spouses, and Gold Star families.
Hi, I am Jennifer. My work with clients is transparent and holistic. My ideal client is looking to make positive changes in their and committed to personal growth and healing. I support and empower clients struggling with a history of trauma; grief/loss; perinatal; chronic illness/pain; those experiencing high anxiety; clients that are highly sensitive and empathic; or those who are simply feeling the weight of life stressors and transitions. I have a deep understanding of various religious backgrounds and offer Christian perspective if requested. Additionally, I am compassionate with military, spouses, and Gold Star families.
(719) 417-5790 View (719) 417-5790
Photo of Ann Hagerty, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colorado Springs, CO
Ann Hagerty
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFA, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
I am experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ youth, and with people who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual assault, grief and loss, chronic illness, and various traumas.
“Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.” – bell hooks The healing journey can be an intimidating path, and you don’t have to travel it alone. I believe that the role of a therapist is to walk beside you on your healing path. My top priority is to create a safe, accepting space where you can explore your inner landscape and develop skills to navigate your outer world. I am a trauma-informed, intersectional feminist who cares deeply about helping clients reclaim their power and reconnect to their voice.
I am experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ youth, and with people who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual assault, grief and loss, chronic illness, and various traumas.
“Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.” – bell hooks The healing journey can be an intimidating path, and you don’t have to travel it alone. I believe that the role of a therapist is to walk beside you on your healing path. My top priority is to create a safe, accepting space where you can explore your inner landscape and develop skills to navigate your outer world. I am a trauma-informed, intersectional feminist who cares deeply about helping clients reclaim their power and reconnect to their voice.
(719) 938-1750 View (719) 938-1750
Photo of Jenny Davenport, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Jenny Davenport
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
My passion is working with teens who have chronic illness, and/or who are neurodivergent.
Are you or your teen feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or stuck in life's challenges? Do you long for guidance and relief from the burdens weighing you down? You're not alone, and I'm here to offer you compassionate support on your path towards healing and growth.
My passion is working with teens who have chronic illness, and/or who are neurodivergent.
Are you or your teen feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or stuck in life's challenges? Do you long for guidance and relief from the burdens weighing you down? You're not alone, and I'm here to offer you compassionate support on your path towards healing and growth.
View
Photo of Kris Godfryt, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Kris Godfryt
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
For the past 20 years I've been an educator and school counselor working with adolescents from ages 6-18. This experience ignited a passion to merge my therapeutic skills with my educational background in order to make a positive impact on young lives in the community. My diverse expertise includes dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, suicide loss, divorce, pet loss, school issues, ADHD, parenting and caregiving, life transitions, self-discovery, and chronic illness to wellness. I have extensive work with students on 504 plans, at-risk assessments, behavior plans, and issues with bullying and self-harm.
For the past 20 years I've been an educator and school counselor working with adolescents from ages 6-18. This experience ignited a passion to merge my therapeutic skills with my educational background in order to make a positive impact on young lives in the community. My diverse expertise includes dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, suicide loss, divorce, pet loss, school issues, ADHD, parenting and caregiving, life transitions, self-discovery, and chronic illness to wellness. I have extensive work with students on 504 plans, at-risk assessments, behavior plans, and issues with bullying and self-harm.
(719) 822-2635 View (719) 822-2635
Photo of Kimberly Callen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Kimberly Callen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCW, CSAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80920  (Online Only)
I also specialize in treating women living with chronic illness.
I provide EMDR and psychotherapy services to adults, adolescents, and couples working on a variety of issues. I've been a certified EMDR clinician for 12 years and trained by experts from throughout the country to ensure I have the tools necessary to treat each individual. I have treated hundreds of patients that have experienced severe trauma with outstanding success. I use the HIPPA-compliant RemotEMDR platform to conduct online trauma sessions. Previous in-person patients are using this approach and are extremely satisfied with their results. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and Virginia.
I also specialize in treating women living with chronic illness.
I provide EMDR and psychotherapy services to adults, adolescents, and couples working on a variety of issues. I've been a certified EMDR clinician for 12 years and trained by experts from throughout the country to ensure I have the tools necessary to treat each individual. I have treated hundreds of patients that have experienced severe trauma with outstanding success. I use the HIPPA-compliant RemotEMDR platform to conduct online trauma sessions. Previous in-person patients are using this approach and are extremely satisfied with their results. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and Virginia.
(719) 451-7627 View (719) 451-7627
Photo of James C (Jay) Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
James C (Jay) Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT, CT, CFS, AAMFT-S
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Other specialties include working with military couples & families; persons dealing with trauma, loss (recent or past) &/or chronic illness (e.
For over thirty-five years, I have worked with persons dealing with trauma, divorce, remarriage, co-parenting issues, and partner and family issues. I work with adults, couples, & families. I enjoy working with persons from diverse cultural, ethnic, racial, national, religious, socioeconomic backgrounds, as well as sexual orientations.
Other specialties include working with military couples & families; persons dealing with trauma, loss (recent or past) &/or chronic illness (e.
For over thirty-five years, I have worked with persons dealing with trauma, divorce, remarriage, co-parenting issues, and partner and family issues. I work with adults, couples, & families. I enjoy working with persons from diverse cultural, ethnic, racial, national, religious, socioeconomic backgrounds, as well as sexual orientations.
(719) 482-6978 View (719) 482-6978
Photo of Ashley E Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Ashley E Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Waitlist for new clients
), adults born and/or raised in closed, authoritarian groups/cultic groups, and chronic illness.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individual and group therapy. Therapy is not about identifying what you're doing "wrong" and "fixing" it. Therapy is a process through which we curiously learn about who you are and what you want for your life. Then, we look at what you're doing now that is working for you (moving you toward what is meaningful) and what you're doing that's not working for you (moving you away from what is meaningful).
), adults born and/or raised in closed, authoritarian groups/cultic groups, and chronic illness.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individual and group therapy. Therapy is not about identifying what you're doing "wrong" and "fixing" it. Therapy is a process through which we curiously learn about who you are and what you want for your life. Then, we look at what you're doing now that is working for you (moving you toward what is meaningful) and what you're doing that's not working for you (moving you away from what is meaningful).
(719) 212-1155 View (719) 212-1155
Photo of Chris Crockett, Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Chris Crockett
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Thank you for considering me as your counselor! I offer individual counseling to adults who feel stuck where they are. This includes struggles with trauma, anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, stress and life transitions, low self-esteem, suppression of self, dealing with chronic illness, and the struggles associated with being a highly sensitive person (HSP). As a Christian, I know how integral one’s beliefs can be. If you come from a faith tradition, we can discuss how best to integrate your beliefs in the counseling experience.
Thank you for considering me as your counselor! I offer individual counseling to adults who feel stuck where they are. This includes struggles with trauma, anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, stress and life transitions, low self-esteem, suppression of self, dealing with chronic illness, and the struggles associated with being a highly sensitive person (HSP). As a Christian, I know how integral one’s beliefs can be. If you come from a faith tradition, we can discuss how best to integrate your beliefs in the counseling experience.
(719) 212-4678 View (719) 212-4678
Photo of Center for Valued Living, PLLC in Colorado Springs, CO
Center for Valued Living, PLLC
PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
com for more): Polyamory, Sexual Issues, Addictions/Substance Abuse, OCD, ERP, Parenting/Family, Postpartum, Chronic Illness/Pain, Disordered Eating, Sexual issues, ADHD, Dom.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien! Email us with this info: In-person or telehealth, Insurance, Age, describe needs to be addressed.
com for more): Polyamory, Sexual Issues, Addictions/Substance Abuse, OCD, ERP, Parenting/Family, Postpartum, Chronic Illness/Pain, Disordered Eating, Sexual issues, ADHD, Dom.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien! Email us with this info: In-person or telehealth, Insurance, Age, describe needs to be addressed.
(970) 715-8004 View (970) 715-8004
Photo of Abby Simon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Abby Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Extensive experience working closely with adults & teens who need support with: Gender identity exploration + LGBTQAI+ community + WPATH evaluations + Drug and alcohol addiction+ Neurodiversity (ADHD) + Trauma & PTSD + Sexual abuse/ assault + Suicidality & self harm +Chronic illness, disability, & pain + Medical trauma + Severe & persistent mental illness.
You’re human. Your therapist should be, too. Welcome to Mind Health Counseling – where therapy is as real as it gets. This is a place where you’re safe to show up exactly as you are. Quirkiness is celebrated here. I’m here for the underdogs; the black sheep; the othered. I’m Abby Simon, the founder of Mind Health Counseling. I’m also a licensed therapist (LCSW), licensed addictions counselor (LAC), certified ADHD coach, and neurodivergent, imperfect human. I’ve been in the game for over a decade, and I use neuroscience and innovative evidence-based practices to help adults and teens with even the most severe mental health concerns
Extensive experience working closely with adults & teens who need support with: Gender identity exploration + LGBTQAI+ community + WPATH evaluations + Drug and alcohol addiction+ Neurodiversity (ADHD) + Trauma & PTSD + Sexual abuse/ assault + Suicidality & self harm +Chronic illness, disability, & pain + Medical trauma + Severe & persistent mental illness.
You’re human. Your therapist should be, too. Welcome to Mind Health Counseling – where therapy is as real as it gets. This is a place where you’re safe to show up exactly as you are. Quirkiness is celebrated here. I’m here for the underdogs; the black sheep; the othered. I’m Abby Simon, the founder of Mind Health Counseling. I’m also a licensed therapist (LCSW), licensed addictions counselor (LAC), certified ADHD coach, and neurodivergent, imperfect human. I’ve been in the game for over a decade, and I use neuroscience and innovative evidence-based practices to help adults and teens with even the most severe mental health concerns
(720) 507-3833 View (720) 507-3833
Photo of Corinne Elaine McLellan, Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Corinne Elaine McLellan
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
My clients are seeking a different relationship with their pain and fears that will simply lead to feeling better. They are seeking gentle guidance in a non-judgmental space on their journey to connection and healing. If you are facing challenges in your life that include recovering from trauma, moving through a recent loss and/or coping with anxiety, depression or chronic illness, you are not alone.
My clients are seeking a different relationship with their pain and fears that will simply lead to feeling better. They are seeking gentle guidance in a non-judgmental space on their journey to connection and healing. If you are facing challenges in your life that include recovering from trauma, moving through a recent loss and/or coping with anxiety, depression or chronic illness, you are not alone.
(720) 926-6766 x803 View (720) 926-6766 x803
Photo of Jenny Goldstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Jenny Goldstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80918  (Online Only)
I specialize in fostering healthy relationships and communication, young adulthood, parenting, self-esteem, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, adoption and foster care, educational advocacy and accommodations, immigration, and LGBTQIA+.
Over the course of my career, I have worked with various populations of teen and adult clients in the mental health field. I can honestly say that I love what I do and have always found a unique way to connect with each client. I believe it is important to view each person who I meet with an intersectional and unbiased lens and to construct a treatment plan and therapy style for each client that is in line with not just their specific mental health needs, but their personality, sense of humor, and values.
I specialize in fostering healthy relationships and communication, young adulthood, parenting, self-esteem, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, adoption and foster care, educational advocacy and accommodations, immigration, and LGBTQIA+.
Over the course of my career, I have worked with various populations of teen and adult clients in the mental health field. I can honestly say that I love what I do and have always found a unique way to connect with each client. I believe it is important to view each person who I meet with an intersectional and unbiased lens and to construct a treatment plan and therapy style for each client that is in line with not just their specific mental health needs, but their personality, sense of humor, and values.
(720) 640-6989 View (720) 640-6989
Photo of Whitney Cavanah, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Whitney Cavanah
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80901
Hi, I’m Whitney Cavanah (she/her), a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate and Mental Health Clinical Associate at Spectrum Connections Therapy. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I have worked with a number of populations including couples (premarital, conflict, and divorce), families, children and teens, mood disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, developmental disorders, neurodivergence, elderly and end-of-life stages, trauma survivors, addiction, chronic illness and autoimmunity, LGBTQIA+, and persons experiencing grief or loss.
Hi, I’m Whitney Cavanah (she/her), a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate and Mental Health Clinical Associate at Spectrum Connections Therapy. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. I have worked with a number of populations including couples (premarital, conflict, and divorce), families, children and teens, mood disorders, anxiety and panic disorders, developmental disorders, neurodivergence, elderly and end-of-life stages, trauma survivors, addiction, chronic illness and autoimmunity, LGBTQIA+, and persons experiencing grief or loss.
(303) 974-4358 View (303) 974-4358

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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.