Photo of Nicole Cardarella-Gasper, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Nicole Cardarella-Gasper
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55412  (Online Only)
"I have found, through painful experience, that the most important step a person can take is always the next one.” -Brandon Sanderson Let me help you take the next step. I enjoy providing therapy for queer folx, chronic illness, nerds, adolescents, young adults, college students, and families. I have special interests in all things nerdy, sex, trauma, and exploring identities (gender, sexuality). I primarily work from a feminist, anti-capitalist, and strength-based perspective. My ideal client wants a strong therapeutic relationship with an affirming and relatable therapist.
"I have found, through painful experience, that the most important step a person can take is always the next one.” -Brandon Sanderson Let me help you take the next step. I enjoy providing therapy for queer folx, chronic illness, nerds, adolescents, young adults, college students, and families. I have special interests in all things nerdy, sex, trauma, and exploring identities (gender, sexuality). I primarily work from a feminist, anti-capitalist, and strength-based perspective. My ideal client wants a strong therapeutic relationship with an affirming and relatable therapist.
(612) 428-4945 View (612) 428-4945
Photo of Cara Snyder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Cara Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LIMHP, CMSW, LISW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
Change. Anxiety. Feeling stuck. Confusion. Loss. Chronic illness. Depression. Sleep. Relationships. Stress. Life feels like a struggle. Together we will develop a plan that uses evidence-based methods to help you identify and achieve your goals. I value your unique story and am dedicated to helping you stay motivated as you take steps toward improved mental wellness.
Change. Anxiety. Feeling stuck. Confusion. Loss. Chronic illness. Depression. Sleep. Relationships. Stress. Life feels like a struggle. Together we will develop a plan that uses evidence-based methods to help you identify and achieve your goals. I value your unique story and am dedicated to helping you stay motivated as you take steps toward improved mental wellness.
(531) 233-5007 View (531) 233-5007
Photo of Karin Lyon, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Karin Lyon
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
I frequently hear my clients say some version of “If people ever knew what I’m struggling with on the inside…” Maybe you're a "people-pleaser" or someone with invisible chronic illness or maybe you're a high functioning individual who manages to hold it all together while feeling like a mess on the inside. If you're searching for some space to be heard and understood and sift through the internal dynamics, I can help.
I frequently hear my clients say some version of “If people ever knew what I’m struggling with on the inside…” Maybe you're a "people-pleaser" or someone with invisible chronic illness or maybe you're a high functioning individual who manages to hold it all together while feeling like a mess on the inside. If you're searching for some space to be heard and understood and sift through the internal dynamics, I can help.
(651) 504-8540 View (651) 504-8540
Photo of Stacey M. Allen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Stacey M. Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCLS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55405
Stacey provides therapy services to health workers, individuals, families, couples, teens, and children who are living with cancer, chronic illness, medical issues, or grief, personally or in their close circle. Stacey has served families around medical concerns in many contexts including 10 years in group private practice, as a Child Life Specialist in local hospitals, 8 years of weekly support groups at Gilda's Club for adults living with cancer, grief support groups, and speaking engagements. Stacey assists clients during long and short term illness, through post-treatment, in the event of terminal diagnosis, and through grief.
Stacey provides therapy services to health workers, individuals, families, couples, teens, and children who are living with cancer, chronic illness, medical issues, or grief, personally or in their close circle. Stacey has served families around medical concerns in many contexts including 10 years in group private practice, as a Child Life Specialist in local hospitals, 8 years of weekly support groups at Gilda's Club for adults living with cancer, grief support groups, and speaking engagements. Stacey assists clients during long and short term illness, through post-treatment, in the event of terminal diagnosis, and through grief.
(763) 400-4952 View (763) 400-4952
Photo of Maureen Trefethren, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Maureen Trefethren
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55401  (Online Only)
I feel that understanding how health concerns and physical symptoms can show up hand in hand with mental health struggles is incredibly valuable. I believe that the better you understand how your body and mind interact, the more ability you will have to control symptoms. I have been trained to work with trauma, substance abuse, PTSD, chronic illness, family systems, couples, children, groups & individuals. My unique background in medicine also helps in working with individuals with chronic illness as well as individuals from the military, emergency services & medical personnel.
I feel that understanding how health concerns and physical symptoms can show up hand in hand with mental health struggles is incredibly valuable. I believe that the better you understand how your body and mind interact, the more ability you will have to control symptoms. I have been trained to work with trauma, substance abuse, PTSD, chronic illness, family systems, couples, children, groups & individuals. My unique background in medicine also helps in working with individuals with chronic illness as well as individuals from the military, emergency services & medical personnel.
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Photo of Michelle Johnson-Dupre, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Michelle Johnson-Dupre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
I enjoy supporting adults and adolescents as they discover their inherent health on a path of healing and transformation. I have worked with individuals and families experiencing the impact of new parenthood, chronic illness, professional or school-related stress, death and dying, and other life-changing events. I also have extensive experience teaching, coaching and assisting teens in identifying and meeting their goals.
I enjoy supporting adults and adolescents as they discover their inherent health on a path of healing and transformation. I have worked with individuals and families experiencing the impact of new parenthood, chronic illness, professional or school-related stress, death and dying, and other life-changing events. I also have extensive experience teaching, coaching and assisting teens in identifying and meeting their goals.
(651) 998-7022 View (651) 998-7022
Photo of Kaitlyn Valdez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Kaitlyn Valdez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55405  (Online Only)
Trauma, chronic illness(es), and eating disorders are intense, unique experiences that can change the way we think, respond, and prepare for day-to-day activities. It can also change the way our body functions on a basic level. My goal is to provide a comfortable environment where everyone can explore traumas, create coping skills, and gain self-confidence. It is within a safe, comforting environment that people have the potential to create meaningful change in their lives.
Trauma, chronic illness(es), and eating disorders are intense, unique experiences that can change the way we think, respond, and prepare for day-to-day activities. It can also change the way our body functions on a basic level. My goal is to provide a comfortable environment where everyone can explore traumas, create coping skills, and gain self-confidence. It is within a safe, comforting environment that people have the potential to create meaningful change in their lives.
(720) 961-2618 View (720) 961-2618
Photo of Xavier Schmitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Xavier Schmitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55417
Waitlist for new clients
Issues addressed may include: depression, anxiety, fear of exercising outdoors, trauma recovery, climate distress, gender identity, relationship concerns, sexuality, identity development, chronic illness, and life transitions.
Whether you’re a nature lover or nature avoider, love to move your body or can’t stand to break a sweat, this therapy is for you. With today’s stressors, we all need nature more than ever. Take your therapy outdoors and gain the benefits of moving your eyes off the screen, engaging your senses, and really feeling your body in nature...all while addressing your personal goals.
Issues addressed may include: depression, anxiety, fear of exercising outdoors, trauma recovery, climate distress, gender identity, relationship concerns, sexuality, identity development, chronic illness, and life transitions.
Whether you’re a nature lover or nature avoider, love to move your body or can’t stand to break a sweat, this therapy is for you. With today’s stressors, we all need nature more than ever. Take your therapy outdoors and gain the benefits of moving your eyes off the screen, engaging your senses, and really feeling your body in nature...all while addressing your personal goals.
(651) 333-8206 View (651) 333-8206
Photo of Emily (Emy) Horsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Emily (Emy) Horsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Sometimes in life we can feel like we have no control over what is happening, the paths our relationships are taking, or what the future might have in store for us. We can get to a place where we are stuck in a continuous cycle of negative thinking, gloomy feelings, and ineffective behaviors. I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship changes/separation, substance use issues, stress management, academic challenges, sports/performance concerns, chronic illness, sexuality/gender identity issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum, and life balance.
Sometimes in life we can feel like we have no control over what is happening, the paths our relationships are taking, or what the future might have in store for us. We can get to a place where we are stuck in a continuous cycle of negative thinking, gloomy feelings, and ineffective behaviors. I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship changes/separation, substance use issues, stress management, academic challenges, sports/performance concerns, chronic illness, sexuality/gender identity issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum, and life balance.
(651) 564-3597 View (651) 564-3597
Photo of Molly L Nicholson, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Molly L Nicholson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
I have the honor of working with people experiencing a wide variety of concerns including: depression; anxiety; grief/loss; life transitions; chronic illness; postpartum depression; sexual abuse; relationship problems; low self-esteem; family of origin; stress and more. My relational approach is based on the belief that within the framework of a trusting relationship with a therapist, clients can explore patterns of behavior and emotions which may relate back to earlier relationships. Once a better understanding of the origins of these patterns is developed, people often find lasting freedom from their hold over their lives.
(612) 204-2823 View (612) 204-2823
Photo of Amanda McGovern, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Amanda McGovern
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55426
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in evidence-based psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have an expertise in evaluating and treating anxiety, depression, trauma, current life stressors and transitions, grief, loss, and relationship difficulties. I also have specialized training and experience in working with mental health issues across the female lifecycle, chronic illness, and pain. Before moving to Minnesota, I served as faculty at Weill Cornell Medical Center and Columbia University Medical Center in New York and Case Western School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in evidence-based psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have an expertise in evaluating and treating anxiety, depression, trauma, current life stressors and transitions, grief, loss, and relationship difficulties. I also have specialized training and experience in working with mental health issues across the female lifecycle, chronic illness, and pain. Before moving to Minnesota, I served as faculty at Weill Cornell Medical Center and Columbia University Medical Center in New York and Case Western School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio.
(612) 255-9267 View (612) 255-9267
Photo of Center for Psychological Growth and Resilience, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Center for Psychological Growth and Resilience
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
Hello! We're Dennis, Maddy, Matt, and Korey. We believe that while life is hard, every human being has the potential to surmount stress and strain. Whether you're experiencing burnout, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, chronic illness, cancer, trauma, relationships issues, professional issues, or other concerns, our goal is to help you find meaning, self-respect, growth, and resilience. We're passionate about helping you increase your ability to weather and recover from difficult moments in the future. We'll do this by leveraging your strengths and building your coping skills to help you manage stress and create the life you want.
Hello! We're Dennis, Maddy, Matt, and Korey. We believe that while life is hard, every human being has the potential to surmount stress and strain. Whether you're experiencing burnout, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, chronic illness, cancer, trauma, relationships issues, professional issues, or other concerns, our goal is to help you find meaning, self-respect, growth, and resilience. We're passionate about helping you increase your ability to weather and recover from difficult moments in the future. We'll do this by leveraging your strengths and building your coping skills to help you manage stress and create the life you want.
(952) 295-4677 View (952) 295-4677
Photo of Jenny Arth, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Minneapolis, MN
Jenny Arth
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55409
I'm not able to take new clients at this time! My passion is relationships. I love to explore how systemic and societal power structures influence how we connect with our partners, family members, and friends. I work with couples, families, and individuals in areas such as polyamory, boundaries, personal power, queerness, gender identity, sex and sexuality, trauma, stress, life transitions, chronic illness, and anything else that affects our ability to be authentically and safely ourselves.
I'm not able to take new clients at this time! My passion is relationships. I love to explore how systemic and societal power structures influence how we connect with our partners, family members, and friends. I work with couples, families, and individuals in areas such as polyamory, boundaries, personal power, queerness, gender identity, sex and sexuality, trauma, stress, life transitions, chronic illness, and anything else that affects our ability to be authentically and safely ourselves.
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Photo of Rebecca Pihl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Rebecca Pihl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406
My areas of focus center around coping with change, chronic stress, and grief & loss--- anxiety & depression, aging, life transition, chronic illness , infertility, caregiving, and parenting are special interests.
Has life brought an overwhelming amount of changes and challenges? Are you seeking help to make peace with the past & find a path through your difficulties? Do you need to explore new ways of approaching life instead of the old patterns? Healing is possible, and as a compassionate and trained listener I will partner with you on your own unique journey toward growth & peace as you face your struggles. A warm & trusting therapy relationship helps you take the risk of exploring, understanding and accepting yourself so that you can open up to new tools for moving forward.
My areas of focus center around coping with change, chronic stress, and grief & loss--- anxiety & depression, aging, life transition, chronic illness , infertility, caregiving, and parenting are special interests.
Has life brought an overwhelming amount of changes and challenges? Are you seeking help to make peace with the past & find a path through your difficulties? Do you need to explore new ways of approaching life instead of the old patterns? Healing is possible, and as a compassionate and trained listener I will partner with you on your own unique journey toward growth & peace as you face your struggles. A warm & trusting therapy relationship helps you take the risk of exploring, understanding and accepting yourself so that you can open up to new tools for moving forward.
(651) 222-9835 View (651) 222-9835
Photo of Be. Counseling Partners, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Be. Counseling Partners
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419
Our specialties include addiction and compulsive behaviors (substance use and food), aging challenges, EMDR, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, chronic illness, mood/anxiety disorders, and perinatal mental health.
At Be. Counseling Partners we will support you throughout your therapy process. We will help you to identify your needs for support and your goals for change. Sometimes the desired change is internal; we want to think or feel differently about things, including ourselves. Sometimes the change we seek is about behavior; we want to react in different ways in relationships and situations in our lives. Sometimes the change is about acceptance; we seek acceptance of who we are or things we cannot control. It would be our privilege to accompany you in your change process.
Our specialties include addiction and compulsive behaviors (substance use and food), aging challenges, EMDR, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, chronic illness, mood/anxiety disorders, and perinatal mental health.
At Be. Counseling Partners we will support you throughout your therapy process. We will help you to identify your needs for support and your goals for change. Sometimes the desired change is internal; we want to think or feel differently about things, including ourselves. Sometimes the change we seek is about behavior; we want to react in different ways in relationships and situations in our lives. Sometimes the change is about acceptance; we seek acceptance of who we are or things we cannot control. It would be our privilege to accompany you in your change process.
(952) 388-2415 View (952) 388-2415
Photo of Madisen Dawn Schillo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Madisen Dawn Schillo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55400
I am a Clinical Trainee on track for a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Minnesota. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Therapy and specialize in attachment trauma, co-occurring disorders, coping skills, chronic illness, mood disorders, body-image, and eating disorders. A lot of my work is focused on anxiety, perfectionism, and concerns around self-worth and self-esteem.
I am a Clinical Trainee on track for a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Minnesota. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Therapy and specialize in attachment trauma, co-occurring disorders, coping skills, chronic illness, mood disorders, body-image, and eating disorders. A lot of my work is focused on anxiety, perfectionism, and concerns around self-worth and self-esteem.
(507) 639-8245 View (507) 639-8245
Photo of Tesni Sunne, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Tesni Sunne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419
I derive joy and meaning from helping people access their brilliant capacities for healing. My specialties are couples therapy, anxiety/OCD, chronic illness, recovery from relationship abuse, and adjustment through other changes. Each of these concerns involve journeys of re-becoming, and I help clients along these journeys with compassion, honesty, and intelligence. Even in the midst of distress and doubt, the possibilities for the journey hold so much hope.
I derive joy and meaning from helping people access their brilliant capacities for healing. My specialties are couples therapy, anxiety/OCD, chronic illness, recovery from relationship abuse, and adjustment through other changes. Each of these concerns involve journeys of re-becoming, and I help clients along these journeys with compassion, honesty, and intelligence. Even in the midst of distress and doubt, the possibilities for the journey hold so much hope.
(651) 661-2667 View (651) 661-2667
Photo of Branden Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Branden Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55422  (Online Only)
I've worked with people of all ages across the lifespan. Throughout my career I have worked with people of all ages managing experiences of depression, anxiety, addiction, technology, trauma, and abuse. I am "geek" and LBGTQ+ friendly and have experience with people from diverse cultural, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. I also have extensive experience working with people and families managing chronic illness, hospice and palliative care, and end of life decisions. With affirmation, practical education, and clinical guidance, I help individuals gain personal insights, nurture relationships, and manage difficulties in their lives.
I've worked with people of all ages across the lifespan. Throughout my career I have worked with people of all ages managing experiences of depression, anxiety, addiction, technology, trauma, and abuse. I am "geek" and LBGTQ+ friendly and have experience with people from diverse cultural, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. I also have extensive experience working with people and families managing chronic illness, hospice and palliative care, and end of life decisions. With affirmation, practical education, and clinical guidance, I help individuals gain personal insights, nurture relationships, and manage difficulties in their lives.
(612) 440-1899 View (612) 440-1899
Photo of Brittni Ingvaldson in Minneapolis, MN
Brittni Ingvaldson
MA, LADC, CTALC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I am passionate about working with adolescents & adults that identify as female, male & LGBTQIA+ who are struggling with eating disorders/body image(HAES informed), anxiety, depression, self-esteem,identity development, life-transitions, bullying, self-injurious behaviors, abuse, co-occurring disorders, addictions, chronic illness & medical traumas.
I provide individuals with a safe and non-judgmental space where feelings of all kinds are received and validated, a trusted therapeutic relationship can be shared, and healing and self-discovery can happen! I want to support individuals in rediscovering their true authentic self through empowering individuals to explore,challenge,and invest in their healing. My client-centered approaches use a variety of evidence based therapeutic modalities that support individualized healing on all levels.
I am passionate about working with adolescents & adults that identify as female, male & LGBTQIA+ who are struggling with eating disorders/body image(HAES informed), anxiety, depression, self-esteem,identity development, life-transitions, bullying, self-injurious behaviors, abuse, co-occurring disorders, addictions, chronic illness & medical traumas.
I provide individuals with a safe and non-judgmental space where feelings of all kinds are received and validated, a trusted therapeutic relationship can be shared, and healing and self-discovery can happen! I want to support individuals in rediscovering their true authentic self through empowering individuals to explore,challenge,and invest in their healing. My client-centered approaches use a variety of evidence based therapeutic modalities that support individualized healing on all levels.
(952) 214-0761 View (952) 214-0761
Photo of Carolyn Disch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Carolyn Disch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Waitlist for new clients
I have 20 years of experience working with concerns such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, ADHD, self-esteem, sexual and gender identity, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship changes/separation, chronic illness, academic challenges, family of origin issues, parenting stress and life balance.
My style as a therapist is authentic, compassionate, warm, non-judgmental and I appreciate the meaningful role of humor. I believe in the strengths of people and in looking for the positives even when they may be difficult to see. Change is inevitable and often stressful, and can be incredibly valuable to our growth. I will listen to you with an open mind and make sure you feel heard. I will partner with you to collaboratively identify goals important to you. I will share with you skills and life practices that will empower you to confidently face challenges as you evolve into the person you strive to be.
I have 20 years of experience working with concerns such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, ADHD, self-esteem, sexual and gender identity, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship changes/separation, chronic illness, academic challenges, family of origin issues, parenting stress and life balance.
My style as a therapist is authentic, compassionate, warm, non-judgmental and I appreciate the meaningful role of humor. I believe in the strengths of people and in looking for the positives even when they may be difficult to see. Change is inevitable and often stressful, and can be incredibly valuable to our growth. I will listen to you with an open mind and make sure you feel heard. I will partner with you to collaboratively identify goals important to you. I will share with you skills and life practices that will empower you to confidently face challenges as you evolve into the person you strive to be.
(612) 999-1527 View (612) 999-1527

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.