Photo of Amanda Eannarino, Counselor in McHenry, IL
Amanda Eannarino
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McHenry, IL 60050
I have been providing psychological services to Mchenry county for the last 17 years. My experience is diverse and my approach to therapy is evidenced-based. I comprehend mental health issues from not only a psychological, but also from a social and neurological perspective. With this being stated I have developed a unique and comprehensive understanding of my clients. I have worked with several challenging clients and pride myself in my ability to modify treatment interventions for each client's unique needs. Essentially treatment is a team approach and I am here to walk with the client on the path to recovery.
I have been providing psychological services to Mchenry county for the last 17 years. My experience is diverse and my approach to therapy is evidenced-based. I comprehend mental health issues from not only a psychological, but also from a social and neurological perspective. With this being stated I have developed a unique and comprehensive understanding of my clients. I have worked with several challenging clients and pride myself in my ability to modify treatment interventions for each client's unique needs. Essentially treatment is a team approach and I am here to walk with the client on the path to recovery.
(815) 390-4835 View (815) 390-4835
Photo of Kimberly J Malczynski, Counselor in McHenry, IL
Kimberly J Malczynski
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
McHenry, IL 60050
I want to assist you in uncovering your true potential that allows you to lead a life that is worth celebrating. We cannot change difficult situations in the past, but we can work together to better understand and resolve these obstacles. We can work together to help you change relationships, behavior patterns, or negative outlook that may hold you back from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful life. If you are looking for support and guidance or you are ready to make changes in your life, I can help you work toward achieving your goals.
I want to assist you in uncovering your true potential that allows you to lead a life that is worth celebrating. We cannot change difficult situations in the past, but we can work together to better understand and resolve these obstacles. We can work together to help you change relationships, behavior patterns, or negative outlook that may hold you back from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful life. If you are looking for support and guidance or you are ready to make changes in your life, I can help you work toward achieving your goals.
(815) 673-7431 View (815) 673-7431

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in McHenry, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in McHenry, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Jennifer J Johnston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McHenry, IL
Jennifer J Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
(847) 865-9448 View (847) 865-9448

Online Therapists

Photo of Rob Gellman, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in McHenry, IL
Rob Gellman, MS, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
-Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy. Trained at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Kansas State University's School of Family Studies, and The University of Chicago School of Medicine, Clinic Founder Rob Gellman has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 14 years, and was a professor at Adler University from 2008-2011. He is a regularly invited speaker with local mental health agencies and national conferences. A recognized expert on families coping with chronic illness, infidelity, and the training of therapists and physicians, Rob's clinical practice is diverse, helping adults, children, couples and families on the path to wellness. ***Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Distress, Infidelity, Sex Therapy, Young Couples, Depression, Chronic Illness, Grief and Loss, Family Conflict, and Lifecycle Transitions.
-Individual, Couple, & Family Therapy. Trained at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Kansas State University's School of Family Studies, and The University of Chicago School of Medicine, Clinic Founder Rob Gellman has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 14 years, and was a professor at Adler University from 2008-2011. He is a regularly invited speaker with local mental health agencies and national conferences. A recognized expert on families coping with chronic illness, infidelity, and the training of therapists and physicians, Rob's clinical practice is diverse, helping adults, children, couples and families on the path to wellness. ***Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Distress, Infidelity, Sex Therapy, Young Couples, Depression, Chronic Illness, Grief and Loss, Family Conflict, and Lifecycle Transitions.
(872) 206-3435 View (872) 206-3435
Photo of Amy N Druzik, Licensed Professional Counselor in McHenry, IL
Amy N Druzik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Homer Glen, IL 60491
Amy specializes in: anxiety, trauma/PTSD, depression, self-harm, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic illness, grief, and LGBTQ+ matters.
Amy Druzik is a Licensed Professional Therapist who brings with her 15+ years of experience in diverse therapeutic settings- in community social work and counseling experience. She has a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Women’s Studies. Her experience includes work in domestic violence shelters, a child/adolescent residential center, in local high schools with students, and in private practice counseling firms. Her therapeutic approach is centered around her ability to build a strong empathetic and trusting relationship with each individual client.
Amy specializes in: anxiety, trauma/PTSD, depression, self-harm, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, chronic illness, grief, and LGBTQ+ matters.
Amy Druzik is a Licensed Professional Therapist who brings with her 15+ years of experience in diverse therapeutic settings- in community social work and counseling experience. She has a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Women’s Studies. Her experience includes work in domestic violence shelters, a child/adolescent residential center, in local high schools with students, and in private practice counseling firms. Her therapeutic approach is centered around her ability to build a strong empathetic and trusting relationship with each individual client.
(708) 740-5791 View (708) 740-5791
Photo of Jake Stone, Pre-Licensed Professional in McHenry, IL
Jake Stone
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I work with many types of clients, but specialize in working with queer and trans people, couples, and other forms of relationships (triads, polycules, open, polygamous, etc.). I deal primarily with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief and loss, transitions, stress management, trauma, sex-related issues and traumas, kink and BDSM, behavioral and substance addictions, and chronic pain and chronic illness. I tend to work with adults. I love working with clients that bring their whole self to therapy as I do too. I always encourage feedback to ensure the therapeutic process feels affirming and healing.
I work with many types of clients, but specialize in working with queer and trans people, couples, and other forms of relationships (triads, polycules, open, polygamous, etc.). I deal primarily with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, grief and loss, transitions, stress management, trauma, sex-related issues and traumas, kink and BDSM, behavioral and substance addictions, and chronic pain and chronic illness. I tend to work with adults. I love working with clients that bring their whole self to therapy as I do too. I always encourage feedback to ensure the therapeutic process feels affirming and healing.
(312) 626-3082 View (312) 626-3082
Photo of Amy N Druzik, Counselor in McHenry, IL
Amy N Druzik
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Homer Glen, IL 60491
I have experience working with clientele who are dealing with chronic illness, as well as are cancer fighters, cancer survivors, and cancer caretakers.
I am committed to supporting my clients, responding to their therapeutic needs, and understanding the problems that are present in their daily lives. I value each client and work to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and transparency. While offering support, nurturance, and compassion, I will help you successfully cope with life's many challenges.
I have experience working with clientele who are dealing with chronic illness, as well as are cancer fighters, cancer survivors, and cancer caretakers.
I am committed to supporting my clients, responding to their therapeutic needs, and understanding the problems that are present in their daily lives. I value each client and work to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and transparency. While offering support, nurturance, and compassion, I will help you successfully cope with life's many challenges.
(708) 746-4086 View (708) 746-4086
Photo of Studio You Counseling, Counselor in McHenry, IL
Studio You Counseling
Counselor, LCPC, RN, CST
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
I bring a combined experience of over 30 years which began in the health field as an Intensive Care nurse. I have worked in gerontology, with youth and family services, addiction counseling and eating disorders recovery. Along with my husband of 33 years, we owned and operated a holistic pharmacy in Chicago. I have extensive experience working as a client advocate for persons dealing with chronic illness and pain as well as counsel and advocate for survivors of sexual assault. My focus and specialty turned toward couples counseling after seeking support for my own marriage utilizing the Gottman Method approach. I believe that
I bring a combined experience of over 30 years which began in the health field as an Intensive Care nurse. I have worked in gerontology, with youth and family services, addiction counseling and eating disorders recovery. Along with my husband of 33 years, we owned and operated a holistic pharmacy in Chicago. I have extensive experience working as a client advocate for persons dealing with chronic illness and pain as well as counsel and advocate for survivors of sexual assault. My focus and specialty turned toward couples counseling after seeking support for my own marriage utilizing the Gottman Method approach. I believe that
(224) 267-2383 View (224) 267-2383
Photo of Integrative Counseling and Psychology, Counselor in McHenry, IL
Integrative Counseling and Psychology
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
(331) 241-7436 View (331) 241-7436
Photo of Kelly Pastori, Licensed Professional Counselor in McHenry, IL
Kelly Pastori
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
Trauma and abuse: spiritual, emotional, sexual, physical, racial; Nervous system psychoeducation, anxiety/depression; Boundaries and codependency; Sexual identity development, Evangelical fundamentalist Purity culture recovery; White identity development; Chronic illness, unidentified physical pain and stress, psychosomatic stress.
At the heart of my work, I approach therapy from a relational, psychodynamic therapy model, which means I believe the relationship between the client and therapist can be a transformative component in the growth process. I am a LPC combining modern neurobiology with holistic somatic healing, the psychodynamic therapeutic relationship, and body-based practices to create an experiential awakening on a bodily, psychological and emotional level. I work from a somatic-centered therapeutic approach, meaning that I believe that the body tells the stories and narratives. For more information, my website is: www.kellypastori.com
(512) 598-5003 View (512) 598-5003
Photo of Niki T Colon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McHenry, IL
Niki T Colon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Are you a chronically ill person who feels unheard or dismissed? Are you struggling with navigating life as a Queer, TGNC, poly, or kinky person? Or with AFAB-specific health conditions (Endometriosis, etc.)? My work centers marginalized identities, including those who are chronically ill, disabled, queer, TGNC, poly, and/or kinky. My lived experiences navigating chronic illness, ableism, survivorship, and Bi+ invisibility have taught me compassion and the importance of rest as an act of resistance against oppressive systems. In the words of Audre Lorde, self-care “is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
Are you a chronically ill person who feels unheard or dismissed? Are you struggling with navigating life as a Queer, TGNC, poly, or kinky person? Or with AFAB-specific health conditions (Endometriosis, etc.)? My work centers marginalized identities, including those who are chronically ill, disabled, queer, TGNC, poly, and/or kinky. My lived experiences navigating chronic illness, ableism, survivorship, and Bi+ invisibility have taught me compassion and the importance of rest as an act of resistance against oppressive systems. In the words of Audre Lorde, self-care “is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
(773) 364-1571 View (773) 364-1571
Photo of Meg Kelleher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McHenry, IL
Meg Kelleher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645  (Online Only)
I provide individual counseling with specializations including creativity development, depression, anxiety, trauma, loss and grief recovery, pain management, LGBTQ issues, sexuality (from a sex-positive, kink-aware perspective), gender concerns, young adults, body image, disability and chronic illness, work/educational challenges, and life transitions.
As Oscar Wilde once said, "One's real life is so often the life that one does not lead." But, for you, today can be your first step on a path of authenticity, growth, interpersonal connection, and greater ease in your body. As a licensed clinical social worker and practicing artist, I am skilled in collaborating with you to first identify and then reimagine the themes, forms and narratives of your past and your everyday. My objective is to help you rediscover your potential and lead a more satisfying, self-aware, and generative existence—all while feeling at home somatically.
I provide individual counseling with specializations including creativity development, depression, anxiety, trauma, loss and grief recovery, pain management, LGBTQ issues, sexuality (from a sex-positive, kink-aware perspective), gender concerns, young adults, body image, disability and chronic illness, work/educational challenges, and life transitions.
As Oscar Wilde once said, "One's real life is so often the life that one does not lead." But, for you, today can be your first step on a path of authenticity, growth, interpersonal connection, and greater ease in your body. As a licensed clinical social worker and practicing artist, I am skilled in collaborating with you to first identify and then reimagine the themes, forms and narratives of your past and your everyday. My objective is to help you rediscover your potential and lead a more satisfying, self-aware, and generative existence—all while feeling at home somatically.
(773) 530-3754 View (773) 530-3754
Photo of Ren Grabert, Pre-Licensed Professional in McHenry, IL
Ren Grabert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
I am gender-affirming, sex positive, and believe in body liberation/health at every size (HAES). I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQIA+, non-monogamous, kinky, and neurodivergent folks. As a chronically ill person myself, I love helping folks to manage chronic illness/pain and self-advocate within healthcare systems. My areas of focus include helping people to build self-esteem and self-efficacy, to build tools to navigate neurodivergence in adulthood, and to identify core beliefs and needs so that they can live life more authentically.
I am gender-affirming, sex positive, and believe in body liberation/health at every size (HAES). I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQIA+, non-monogamous, kinky, and neurodivergent folks. As a chronically ill person myself, I love helping folks to manage chronic illness/pain and self-advocate within healthcare systems. My areas of focus include helping people to build self-esteem and self-efficacy, to build tools to navigate neurodivergence in adulthood, and to identify core beliefs and needs so that they can live life more authentically.
(773) 754-4965 View (773) 754-4965
Photo of Agnes Svinkunas, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in McHenry, IL
Agnes Svinkunas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Specialties: Immigration / Assimilation, Women’s Issues, Couples Sexuality, Chronic Illness, Anxiety, Depression, Children & Adolescents (behavior issues, attention issues, divorce), Life Transitions.
My ideal in therapy is to be able to set a comfortable environment in which growth can be achieved. I truly believe that a person can overcome and achieve anything that they set their mind to. I like to set an environment in which working together with the client goals can be turned into reality. I do not believe that there is a problem that is too big or small that cannot be tackled with the help of a supportive and motivating environment. Originally I am from Lithuanian that leads me to having a special interest in immigration/assimilation concerns. I have experience working with children, adolescence, and adults.
Specialties: Immigration / Assimilation, Women’s Issues, Couples Sexuality, Chronic Illness, Anxiety, Depression, Children & Adolescents (behavior issues, attention issues, divorce), Life Transitions.
My ideal in therapy is to be able to set a comfortable environment in which growth can be achieved. I truly believe that a person can overcome and achieve anything that they set their mind to. I like to set an environment in which working together with the client goals can be turned into reality. I do not believe that there is a problem that is too big or small that cannot be tackled with the help of a supportive and motivating environment. Originally I am from Lithuanian that leads me to having a special interest in immigration/assimilation concerns. I have experience working with children, adolescence, and adults.
(708) 249-3460 View (708) 249-3460
Photo of Analeise Parchen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McHenry, IL
Analeise Parchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
(773) 832-5650 View (773) 832-5650
Photo of Ericka Swanson, Psychologist in McHenry, IL
Ericka Swanson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423  (Online Only)
WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GET GOING You may not feel tough right now, but deep down you know you have the strength to tackle the problems you are facing. These problems may be extraordinary stressors, life transitions, combat fatigue, post-partum depression, unexpected/expected loss of close relationships, trauma, abuse, or relationship problems. I can be part of the team that assists you in strengthening the resources that you have inside. RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILIES CAN BE LIKE DOMINOS Families and couples are linked. If part of that link is broke or off balance, other members involved can be affected.
WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GET GOING You may not feel tough right now, but deep down you know you have the strength to tackle the problems you are facing. These problems may be extraordinary stressors, life transitions, combat fatigue, post-partum depression, unexpected/expected loss of close relationships, trauma, abuse, or relationship problems. I can be part of the team that assists you in strengthening the resources that you have inside. RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILIES CAN BE LIKE DOMINOS Families and couples are linked. If part of that link is broke or off balance, other members involved can be affected.
(708) 512-7179 View (708) 512-7179
Photo of Kathi M Marks, Psychologist in McHenry, IL
Kathi M Marks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glencoe, IL 60022
Anxiety and stress are pervasive in our society. Whether your challenges evolve from your career, personal, or familial life, I have many techniques and strategies that can help you manifest the life you want to live. If you are ready to release fear and embrace peace, identify and remove obstacles to living your full potential, and open to making a real shift in your life - I invite you to work with me.
Anxiety and stress are pervasive in our society. Whether your challenges evolve from your career, personal, or familial life, I have many techniques and strategies that can help you manifest the life you want to live. If you are ready to release fear and embrace peace, identify and remove obstacles to living your full potential, and open to making a real shift in your life - I invite you to work with me.
(847) 917-4305 View (847) 917-4305
Photo of Hannah Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in McHenry, IL
Hannah Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Whether you're navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or seeking personal growth and self-understanding, I'm here to walk alongside you. Each session is tailored to your unique needs and goals, empowering you to tap into your innate strengths and resources. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, honoring your journey every step of the way. I believe that everyone possesses the capacity for creativity and resilience, and I feel honored to support individuals as they embark on their path toward healing and growth.
Whether you're navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or seeking personal growth and self-understanding, I'm here to walk alongside you. Each session is tailored to your unique needs and goals, empowering you to tap into your innate strengths and resources. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, honoring your journey every step of the way. I believe that everyone possesses the capacity for creativity and resilience, and I feel honored to support individuals as they embark on their path toward healing and growth.
(872) 228-2189 View (872) 228-2189

See more therapy options for McHenry

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.