Chronic Illness Therapists in Richmond Heights, MO

Photo of Becca Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Becca Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
I am passionate about helping clients navigate a variety of concerns including: anxiety, depression, body image issues, perinatal concerns and adjustment to motherhood, and chronic illness.
I embody a relatable and strengths-based approach in my sessions, and offer a nonjudgmental and safe space to process past experiences, current issues, or future stressors. My goal is to empower each client to overcome whatever obstacles they may be facing and reach their full potential in an empathetic therapy environment.
I am passionate about helping clients navigate a variety of concerns including: anxiety, depression, body image issues, perinatal concerns and adjustment to motherhood, and chronic illness.
I embody a relatable and strengths-based approach in my sessions, and offer a nonjudgmental and safe space to process past experiences, current issues, or future stressors. My goal is to empower each client to overcome whatever obstacles they may be facing and reach their full potential in an empathetic therapy environment.
(314) 501-6634 View (314) 501-6634
Photo of Emily Klamer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond Heights, MO
Emily Klamer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
I work with individuals who feel a full and meaningful life remains painfully out of reach despite all that may be otherwise going quite well for them. I work with those who are struggling with inhibition, self-sabotage, depression, and anxiety. I have worked with medical professionals, social workers, and other psychotherapists; artists and writers; professors, ministers, and community organizers. A common thread is a recognition that we each have an unconscious and could all use support in exploring what is occurring beyond our awareness, especially when our own efforts to shift painful patterns have not been fruitful.
I work with individuals who feel a full and meaningful life remains painfully out of reach despite all that may be otherwise going quite well for them. I work with those who are struggling with inhibition, self-sabotage, depression, and anxiety. I have worked with medical professionals, social workers, and other psychotherapists; artists and writers; professors, ministers, and community organizers. A common thread is a recognition that we each have an unconscious and could all use support in exploring what is occurring beyond our awareness, especially when our own efforts to shift painful patterns have not been fruitful.
(314) 310-3840 View (314) 310-3840
Photo of Laura Ranalletta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Laura Ranalletta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Accepting New Clients Summer '22 - I believe that we're all doing the best we can, and also: we can all be doing better! Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a life circumstance which is difficult to navigate, I'm here to help. Chances are you are feeling alone, confused, or dissatisfied with your life at this moment. Maybe you're ready for deep healing from the past. Maybe you're looking for ways to cope with the present. Maybe you want to better understand yourself and your emotions. Maybe you're just looking to talk with a neutral third party about daily stressors. Wherever you're at, welcome!
Accepting New Clients Summer '22 - I believe that we're all doing the best we can, and also: we can all be doing better! Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a life circumstance which is difficult to navigate, I'm here to help. Chances are you are feeling alone, confused, or dissatisfied with your life at this moment. Maybe you're ready for deep healing from the past. Maybe you're looking for ways to cope with the present. Maybe you want to better understand yourself and your emotions. Maybe you're just looking to talk with a neutral third party about daily stressors. Wherever you're at, welcome!
(636) 278-9585 View (636) 278-9585
Photo of Ashley Menke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond Heights, MO
Ashley Menke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Do you ever feel like you are reliving the same script but with a different cast? Often, we play out the same dynamics across relationships without noticing how the same conflicts and chaos show up time and time again. I enjoy working with clients to recognize these patterns and collaborate towards striking a balance between empathy and boundaries. As a counselor, I aim to be with you in that discomfort and offer guidance in the process of letting go.
Do you ever feel like you are reliving the same script but with a different cast? Often, we play out the same dynamics across relationships without noticing how the same conflicts and chaos show up time and time again. I enjoy working with clients to recognize these patterns and collaborate towards striking a balance between empathy and boundaries. As a counselor, I aim to be with you in that discomfort and offer guidance in the process of letting go.
(314) 626-8997 View (314) 626-8997
Photo of Austin E Wilmot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Austin E Wilmot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
(314) 907-3197 View (314) 907-3197
Photo of Abigail Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond Heights, MO
Abigail Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
I have 20 years of experience helping people of diverse backgrounds to navigate through difficult times in their lives. I listen carefully and work hard to understand how you feel. I have hope that people can overcome depression, calm anxiety, be transformed through grief, and find their peaceful center in the midst of over-stimulation and busyness. I have extensive experience in working with couples, individuals with chronic pain and autoimmune disorders, and PTSD/complex trauma. My goal is to create space for you to explore yourself, your relationship with others, and work towards living a life of greater pleasure and meaning.
I have 20 years of experience helping people of diverse backgrounds to navigate through difficult times in their lives. I listen carefully and work hard to understand how you feel. I have hope that people can overcome depression, calm anxiety, be transformed through grief, and find their peaceful center in the midst of over-stimulation and busyness. I have extensive experience in working with couples, individuals with chronic pain and autoimmune disorders, and PTSD/complex trauma. My goal is to create space for you to explore yourself, your relationship with others, and work towards living a life of greater pleasure and meaning.
(314) 730-9777 View (314) 730-9777
Photo of Cindy Haller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Cindy Haller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Not accepting new clients
Have you noticed yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed, as if some days it’s just too hard to face it all? If you feel stuck in place, it can often be difficult to reach out for help, but you’re here so you’ve made that all important first step. Maybe something new is going on, or something that’s been in the background for a while is making itself known. Whatever it might be, together we will work towards a resolution.
Have you noticed yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed, as if some days it’s just too hard to face it all? If you feel stuck in place, it can often be difficult to reach out for help, but you’re here so you’ve made that all important first step. Maybe something new is going on, or something that’s been in the background for a while is making itself known. Whatever it might be, together we will work towards a resolution.
(314) 470-9197 View (314) 470-9197

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Stephanie Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
Thank you for taking the initial step to begin taking charge of your life. I mean, you are the expert in it. As a clinician, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic space for intentional heart healing. Here you are safe and supported. Here is especially where you matter! I specialize in working with individuals who are challenged with anxiety, perinatal and postpartum challenges, depression, complex and chronic illness, compassion fatigue, and grief and loss. I welcome any opportunity to provide you with the tools you need to heal from the past in order to thrive in the narrative you are writing for yourself now.
Thank you for taking the initial step to begin taking charge of your life. I mean, you are the expert in it. As a clinician, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic space for intentional heart healing. Here you are safe and supported. Here is especially where you matter! I specialize in working with individuals who are challenged with anxiety, perinatal and postpartum challenges, depression, complex and chronic illness, compassion fatigue, and grief and loss. I welcome any opportunity to provide you with the tools you need to heal from the past in order to thrive in the narrative you are writing for yourself now.
(314) 668-1298 View (314) 668-1298
Photo of Valentina Penalba, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Valentina Penalba
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117  (Online Only)
My focus is also on helping patients and their families who are impacted by a chronic illness such as cancer, cardiac conditions, diabetes, and dementia.
Sometimes, even when we know that something is wrong, we still need guidance in order to disentangle the problems that cause us suffering. Every problem has a solution and every difficult period can have a peaceful resolution. My therapeutic approach primarily stems from Family Systems Theory. I focus on emotional independence through individuation and help individuals, couples and families gain additional growth, strengths, and insights into their lives. I work on reducing negative communication patterns and installing love as an attachment bond.
My focus is also on helping patients and their families who are impacted by a chronic illness such as cancer, cardiac conditions, diabetes, and dementia.
Sometimes, even when we know that something is wrong, we still need guidance in order to disentangle the problems that cause us suffering. Every problem has a solution and every difficult period can have a peaceful resolution. My therapeutic approach primarily stems from Family Systems Theory. I focus on emotional independence through individuation and help individuals, couples and families gain additional growth, strengths, and insights into their lives. I work on reducing negative communication patterns and installing love as an attachment bond.
(314) 310-6923 View (314) 310-6923
Photo of Stephanie Malzahn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Stephanie Malzahn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63124
I specialize in medical issues and trauma such as chronic illness/pain, TBI, reproductive health, and athletic injuries.
Welcome! Do you feel misunderstood and undervalued? Are you looking for more meaningful connection? Anxiety, pain and relationship stress can show up in our bodies, our work ethic, our social interactions, sleep habits and so much more. What happens to us early in life influences our ability to cope with the stress and setbacks that life can throw at us. Whether it's a chronic health issue, recent or past trauma, grief, or an ongoing stressor, you don't have to experience it alone. I have an integrative and person-centered approach that uses the therapeutic relationship to build your sense of agency to get yourself unstuck.
I specialize in medical issues and trauma such as chronic illness/pain, TBI, reproductive health, and athletic injuries.
Welcome! Do you feel misunderstood and undervalued? Are you looking for more meaningful connection? Anxiety, pain and relationship stress can show up in our bodies, our work ethic, our social interactions, sleep habits and so much more. What happens to us early in life influences our ability to cope with the stress and setbacks that life can throw at us. Whether it's a chronic health issue, recent or past trauma, grief, or an ongoing stressor, you don't have to experience it alone. I have an integrative and person-centered approach that uses the therapeutic relationship to build your sense of agency to get yourself unstuck.
(314) 886-5941 View (314) 886-5941
Photo of Shannon Clark, Psychologist in Richmond Heights, MO
Shannon Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Improving relationships and facing emotions helps you better manage stress and chronic illness.
What's not working with your health and life goals? Do you suffer from pain and can't get a clear answer why? Do you find the motivation to stay healthy an impossible task with your busy schedule? Do difficult relationships or trauma make it hard to manage stress? It's time to do the deeper work.
Improving relationships and facing emotions helps you better manage stress and chronic illness.
What's not working with your health and life goals? Do you suffer from pain and can't get a clear answer why? Do you find the motivation to stay healthy an impossible task with your busy schedule? Do difficult relationships or trauma make it hard to manage stress? It's time to do the deeper work.
(314) 866-3957 View (314) 866-3957
Photo of Katie Kirby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Katie Kirby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119
The majority of my practice focuses on supporting individuals who are feeling overwhelmed by chronic illness or relationship challenges.
Welcome! I’m passionate about helping individuals find a sense of groundedness and connection while learning to navigate an overwhelming part of life. Feeling overwhelmed can cause us to question ourselves and feel untethered. I am here to hold space and walk with you as you reconnect to your innate ability to regulate, explore your experiences with greater curiosity and compassion, and find deeper connection with yourself and others.
The majority of my practice focuses on supporting individuals who are feeling overwhelmed by chronic illness or relationship challenges.
Welcome! I’m passionate about helping individuals find a sense of groundedness and connection while learning to navigate an overwhelming part of life. Feeling overwhelmed can cause us to question ourselves and feel untethered. I am here to hold space and walk with you as you reconnect to your innate ability to regulate, explore your experiences with greater curiosity and compassion, and find deeper connection with yourself and others.
(314) 528-9943 View (314) 528-9943
Photo of Latonia Coates-Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Latonia Coates-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, MO 63144
Other experiences include helping individuals address work related issues and overcoming barriers involving chronic illness, civilian adjustment from the military, and caregiver fatigue.
Embracing healing and wellness is key to maximizing your potential. Serving as a therapist and educator, I help clients understand the underlying factor(s) contributing to unresolved issues within their personal & professional lives. My goal is to provide a holistic approach to treatment by assessing the individual's environment as well as their mental, physical, and spiritual well being. The whelm of my practice has been demonstrated in both psychiatric and medical settings offering crisis intervention, intensive case management, and counseling to a diverse population.
Other experiences include helping individuals address work related issues and overcoming barriers involving chronic illness, civilian adjustment from the military, and caregiver fatigue.
Embracing healing and wellness is key to maximizing your potential. Serving as a therapist and educator, I help clients understand the underlying factor(s) contributing to unresolved issues within their personal & professional lives. My goal is to provide a holistic approach to treatment by assessing the individual's environment as well as their mental, physical, and spiritual well being. The whelm of my practice has been demonstrated in both psychiatric and medical settings offering crisis intervention, intensive case management, and counseling to a diverse population.
(636) 238-5944 View (636) 238-5944
Photo of Emily Hudson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond Heights, MO
Emily Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, ND, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the state of Missouri. I received a Masters in Counseling Psychology as well as a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in 2017. During my studies, I was a staff counselor at Bastyr University. In addition, I offered low cost therapy to the community at a year long internship at Seattle Therapy Alliance. I spent 4 years as a clinical fellow at Roots Renewal Counseling in St. Louis, MO. I enjoy working with adults experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss, chronic illness, identity development, career, body image and self confidence.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the state of Missouri. I received a Masters in Counseling Psychology as well as a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in 2017. During my studies, I was a staff counselor at Bastyr University. In addition, I offered low cost therapy to the community at a year long internship at Seattle Therapy Alliance. I spent 4 years as a clinical fellow at Roots Renewal Counseling in St. Louis, MO. I enjoy working with adults experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss, chronic illness, identity development, career, body image and self confidence.
(314) 626-8862 View (314) 626-8862
Photo of Katie Willard Virant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Katie Willard Virant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I lecture and teach in the community about chronic illness, adolescent development, and the creative process.
We thrive as humans when we understand ourselves. I work creatively and compassionately with children, adolescents and adults of all ages to deepen and broaden self-understanding. Emotional pain - like physical pain - is a signal that help is needed and that something must change. Psychotherapy can be that powerful catalyst for healing. I believe in meeting people where they are, listening intently, and co-creating a safe and brave space where my clients can grow.
I lecture and teach in the community about chronic illness, adolescent development, and the creative process.
We thrive as humans when we understand ourselves. I work creatively and compassionately with children, adolescents and adults of all ages to deepen and broaden self-understanding. Emotional pain - like physical pain - is a signal that help is needed and that something must change. Psychotherapy can be that powerful catalyst for healing. I believe in meeting people where they are, listening intently, and co-creating a safe and brave space where my clients can grow.
(314) 667-4811 View (314) 667-4811
Photo of Dr. Fatima La'Juan Muse, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Dr. Fatima La'Juan Muse
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MedFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63112  (Online Only)
Have you found yourself struggling with life stressors such as fertility problems, chronic illness, marital discord, relationship infidelity, or even difficulty making major decisions? If so, therapy is right for you. Are you blissfully happy and seeking pre-marital counseling with a future spouse? If so, therapy is right for you too! These incentives for counseling have one common thread, a desire to pinpoint areas where you are "stuck", guard against potential threats to your relationship harmony, improve your life, improve your relationship, and become the best version of yourself.
Have you found yourself struggling with life stressors such as fertility problems, chronic illness, marital discord, relationship infidelity, or even difficulty making major decisions? If so, therapy is right for you. Are you blissfully happy and seeking pre-marital counseling with a future spouse? If so, therapy is right for you too! These incentives for counseling have one common thread, a desire to pinpoint areas where you are "stuck", guard against potential threats to your relationship harmony, improve your life, improve your relationship, and become the best version of yourself.
(314) 916-3448 View (314) 916-3448
Photo of Morgan Van Nest, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Morgan Van Nest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BFA, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119
I understand that life’s challenges can have a profound effect on one’s mental health. I am committed to helping my clients meet these challenges. My treatment approach is rooted in empathy, respect and cultural humility, and recognizes the unique backgrounds and experiences of each person I work with. My areas of specialization are anxiety, depression, grief, coping with chronic illness, and navigating adverse life events.
I understand that life’s challenges can have a profound effect on one’s mental health. I am committed to helping my clients meet these challenges. My treatment approach is rooted in empathy, respect and cultural humility, and recognizes the unique backgrounds and experiences of each person I work with. My areas of specialization are anxiety, depression, grief, coping with chronic illness, and navigating adverse life events.
(314) 916-1739 x3 View (314) 916-1739 x3
Photo of Lukas M Presley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond Heights, MO
Lukas M Presley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
I have experience working with teenagers, college students, and adults in outpatient and residential settings. I have counseled adopted individuals and their families, those struggling with substance use, and those combating the symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, and feelings of isolation. I also have a deep connection to counseling members of the LGBTQ+ community and addressing the unique lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals.
I have experience working with teenagers, college students, and adults in outpatient and residential settings. I have counseled adopted individuals and their families, those struggling with substance use, and those combating the symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, and feelings of isolation. I also have a deep connection to counseling members of the LGBTQ+ community and addressing the unique lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals.
(314) 820-0839 View (314) 820-0839
Photo of Dana Boyland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond Heights, MO
Dana Boyland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Accepting New Clients! - As an older adult you know that life has a way of throwing you curve balls in way of events or circumstances that make you anxious and may weigh you down emotionally. Do you have a new medical diagnosis? A life-limiting disease or illness? Have physical challenges affected your most important relationships? Did retirement not turn out the way you'd expected? Are you experiencing loss of independence, even loss of control if others are making decisions for you and you're not ready. You may be thinking, “This is unfair, life was not supposed to turn out this way.” Aging is not for the faint of heart!
Accepting New Clients! - As an older adult you know that life has a way of throwing you curve balls in way of events or circumstances that make you anxious and may weigh you down emotionally. Do you have a new medical diagnosis? A life-limiting disease or illness? Have physical challenges affected your most important relationships? Did retirement not turn out the way you'd expected? Are you experiencing loss of independence, even loss of control if others are making decisions for you and you're not ready. You may be thinking, “This is unfair, life was not supposed to turn out this way.” Aging is not for the faint of heart!
(314) 701-7496 View (314) 701-7496
Photo of Chester Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond Heights, MO
Chester Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
With over 30 years in practice I have experience working with people of all ages with a range of concerns. People come to me to learn more about themselves and the source of their symptoms. It is through better understanding that we are able to heal and grow. My work with children/adolescents includes those dealing anxiety, adoption issues, depression, family issues, and behavioral problems. My work with adults includes those challenged with anxiety, depression, loss/grief, and relationship issues, and chronic medical conditions.
With over 30 years in practice I have experience working with people of all ages with a range of concerns. People come to me to learn more about themselves and the source of their symptoms. It is through better understanding that we are able to heal and grow. My work with children/adolescents includes those dealing anxiety, adoption issues, depression, family issues, and behavioral problems. My work with adults includes those challenged with anxiety, depression, loss/grief, and relationship issues, and chronic medical conditions.
(314) 207-8599 View (314) 207-8599

See more therapy options for Richmond Heights

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.