Photo of Shannon Clark, Psychologist in Saint Louis, 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 Stephanie Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Stephanie Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63109
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 Suzanne Mullins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Suzanne Mullins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I have immediate openings for older adolescents, adults, and older adults. Do you find yourself asking why life turned out the way it did? Sometimes we all need someone to listen to us as we attempt to make sense of the world. I can help address perfectionism, disappointment in our life's path, and dealing with day to day struggles of chronic illness.
I have immediate openings for older adolescents, adults, and older adults. Do you find yourself asking why life turned out the way it did? Sometimes we all need someone to listen to us as we attempt to make sense of the world. I can help address perfectionism, disappointment in our life's path, and dealing with day to day struggles of chronic illness.
(618) 577-0951 View (618) 577-0951
Photo of Gerarda (Geri) Weis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Gerarda (Geri) Weis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63126
I work with clients challenged with chronic illness; clients living with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic stress and/or anger management issues; with domestic abuse and family members suffering because of a loved ones' addiction.
With my nursing and social work background I offer a unique understanding working with clients. Using both my counseling and medical knowledge and expertise, I teach clients how to care for themselves emotionally and physically, using their strengths and talents and letting go of habits that are no longer helpful for them. I work with individuals ages 14 and older and couples who are struggling through a difficult time or have been struggling their whole life. There are answers to your concerns. I can help you find those answers that will work for you.
I work with clients challenged with chronic illness; clients living with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic stress and/or anger management issues; with domestic abuse and family members suffering because of a loved ones' addiction.
With my nursing and social work background I offer a unique understanding working with clients. Using both my counseling and medical knowledge and expertise, I teach clients how to care for themselves emotionally and physically, using their strengths and talents and letting go of habits that are no longer helpful for them. I work with individuals ages 14 and older and couples who are struggling through a difficult time or have been struggling their whole life. There are answers to your concerns. I can help you find those answers that will work for you.
(314) 230-9394 x3 View (314) 230-9394 x3
Photo of Emily Hudson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Emily Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, ND, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
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 Lisa Mottola Ernst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Lisa Mottola Ernst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127
I have over 20 years of experience working with those navigating the challenges of life to include: cancer, chronic illness of child or adult, grief, loss, suicide, and divorce.
My goal is meet you in your struggle. Whether it’s grief, anxiety, loss, life transitions or relationship issues, we can work to navigate these difficult times together. The path can be windy often giving us unexpected challenges with little warning or preparation. Your thoughts, feelings, fears and hopes can be shared aloud in a safe space.
I have over 20 years of experience working with those navigating the challenges of life to include: cancer, chronic illness of child or adult, grief, loss, suicide, and divorce.
My goal is meet you in your struggle. Whether it’s grief, anxiety, loss, life transitions or relationship issues, we can work to navigate these difficult times together. The path can be windy often giving us unexpected challenges with little warning or preparation. Your thoughts, feelings, fears and hopes can be shared aloud in a safe space.
(314) 470-4503 View (314) 470-4503
Photo of Latonia Coates-Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Latonia Coates-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146
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 Sydney Pruett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Sydney Pruett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCP, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63104  (Online Only)
As an abuse survivor living with chronic illness & physical disabilities, I have a high level of empathy for marginalized communities & trauma clients.
I am passionate about helping clients with trauma, anxiety, & depression, & most enjoy working with clients aged 13-35. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, & compassion, regardless of background. Working with those who are from more marginalized populations & concerns related to these areas (2S-LGBTQIA+ populations, women's issues, religious trauma, racism, physical health concerns/ disabilities, teen/adult children of immigrant families, etc.) is a passion of mine, but I am happy to work with those who are not part of these populations as well. I will tailor our treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
As an abuse survivor living with chronic illness & physical disabilities, I have a high level of empathy for marginalized communities & trauma clients.
I am passionate about helping clients with trauma, anxiety, & depression, & most enjoy working with clients aged 13-35. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, & compassion, regardless of background. Working with those who are from more marginalized populations & concerns related to these areas (2S-LGBTQIA+ populations, women's issues, religious trauma, racism, physical health concerns/ disabilities, teen/adult children of immigrant families, etc.) is a passion of mine, but I am happy to work with those who are not part of these populations as well. I will tailor our treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
(385) 213-6411 View (385) 213-6411
Photo of Dr. Melissa Lukse, PhD, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Dr. Melissa Lukse, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63116  (Online Only)
Dr. Lukse is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She specializes in working with individuals with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and binge eating disorder. She also works with individuals and caregivers adapting to living with chronic illness and/or disabilities. She offers telehealth services in Illinois, New York, Missouri, and Iowa.
Dr. Lukse is a licensed clinical psychologist who practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). She specializes in working with individuals with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, insomnia, and binge eating disorder. She also works with individuals and caregivers adapting to living with chronic illness and/or disabilities. She offers telehealth services in Illinois, New York, Missouri, and Iowa.
(224) 208-1821 View (224) 208-1821
Photo of Morgan Van Nest, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, 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 Cherese M Alcorn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Cherese M Alcorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs, but you’re able to take care of everyone else’s? Are you exhausted but unable to rest peacefully? Do you doubt yourself and minimize your accomplishments? Mental health care is different for people of color and LGBTQIA+ individuals. You may face unique hardships, including discrimination, affecting your mental health. Traditional therapy can feel inadequate, but, as a black female therapist, Cherese M. Alcorn, MSW, LCSW, offers a profound understanding and empathetic approach. She aids high-achievers in balancing their mind, body, and spirit so they can lead effectively.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs, but you’re able to take care of everyone else’s? Are you exhausted but unable to rest peacefully? Do you doubt yourself and minimize your accomplishments? Mental health care is different for people of color and LGBTQIA+ individuals. You may face unique hardships, including discrimination, affecting your mental health. Traditional therapy can feel inadequate, but, as a black female therapist, Cherese M. Alcorn, MSW, LCSW, offers a profound understanding and empathetic approach. She aids high-achievers in balancing their mind, body, and spirit so they can lead effectively.
(314) 310-6458 View (314) 310-6458
Photo of Dr. Danielle Mosley, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Dr. Danielle Mosley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a parent with concerns about your child's development, behavior, or mood? Do you have a child with a chronic health condition who could benefit from learning skills to improve coping and adjustment, increase the likelihood of following medical recommendations, or decrease anxiety or pain related to an illness or injury? Do you have concerns about your child's feeding/eating habits, toileting, fears/phobias, or disruptive behavior?
Are you a parent with concerns about your child's development, behavior, or mood? Do you have a child with a chronic health condition who could benefit from learning skills to improve coping and adjustment, increase the likelihood of following medical recommendations, or decrease anxiety or pain related to an illness or injury? Do you have concerns about your child's feeding/eating habits, toileting, fears/phobias, or disruptive behavior?
(314) 310-5420 View (314) 310-5420
Photo of Dana Boyland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Dana Boyland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
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 M. Kathleen Blanchard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
M. Kathleen Blanchard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119
I specialize in mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, learning disabilities, physical disabilities (including sudden onset), hearing loss, stress management, divorce and employment-related issues, including career changes and job loss.
I specialize in mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, learning disabilities, physical disabilities (including sudden onset), hearing loss, stress management, divorce and employment-related issues, including career changes and job loss.
(314) 328-0216 View (314) 328-0216
Photo of Jennifer Nahm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Jennifer Nahm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Welcome. My approach to therapy revolves around insight, empowerment, and making meaningful changes in life. My areas of specialty include: navigating life transitions, overcoming traumatic experiences, processing grief, managing chronic illnesses, improving communication/relationship dynamics, strengthening the mind-body connection, enhancing self-esteem, and cultivating stress management practices. I also really enjoy working with other therapists and being a support/resource for a variety of wellness professionals.
Welcome. My approach to therapy revolves around insight, empowerment, and making meaningful changes in life. My areas of specialty include: navigating life transitions, overcoming traumatic experiences, processing grief, managing chronic illnesses, improving communication/relationship dynamics, strengthening the mind-body connection, enhancing self-esteem, and cultivating stress management practices. I also really enjoy working with other therapists and being a support/resource for a variety of wellness professionals.
(636) 442-1813 View (636) 442-1813
Photo of Kaitlin Keister, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Kaitlin Keister
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
Do you face a health issue that significantly affects your day-to-day activities, your relationships, and other vital aspects of your life? Are you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or frustrated in handling these health challenges? Do you aspire for a more fulfilling life? As a health psychologist, I acknowledge the psychological strain of coping with physical health challenges and am committed to helping individuals navigate these obstacles. My goal is support individuals in finding meaning and direction in their lives despite the challenges posed by their health conditions.
Do you face a health issue that significantly affects your day-to-day activities, your relationships, and other vital aspects of your life? Are you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or frustrated in handling these health challenges? Do you aspire for a more fulfilling life? As a health psychologist, I acknowledge the psychological strain of coping with physical health challenges and am committed to helping individuals navigate these obstacles. My goal is support individuals in finding meaning and direction in their lives despite the challenges posed by their health conditions.
(618) 602-2607 View (618) 602-2607
Photo of Beth Koritz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Beth Koritz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, CCTP, TFT-Dx
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
I am currently accepting new clients & supervisees! Welcome to a space designed exclusively for remarkable women navigating the intricate world of ADHD. Are you weary of the overwhelm of trying to fit into a world designed for a different rhythm? Are you tired of the constant mental gymnastics, attempting to wrangle your thoughts and emotions? Or perhaps you're seeking clarity and empowerment, eager to harness the incredible potential your ADHD brain holds. Whatever your story, know that you're not alone. As a member of the ADHD community, you're navigating a beautifully unique path.
I am currently accepting new clients & supervisees! Welcome to a space designed exclusively for remarkable women navigating the intricate world of ADHD. Are you weary of the overwhelm of trying to fit into a world designed for a different rhythm? Are you tired of the constant mental gymnastics, attempting to wrangle your thoughts and emotions? Or perhaps you're seeking clarity and empowerment, eager to harness the incredible potential your ADHD brain holds. Whatever your story, know that you're not alone. As a member of the ADHD community, you're navigating a beautifully unique path.
(314) 720-8802 View (314) 720-8802
Photo of Kelly Larkin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Kelly Larkin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127
I believe my clients deserve to be understood, valued, and given the opportunity to gain the tools for a more fulfilling life. When working as a team, we use our strengths to achieve the best outcome. I believe clients are the professionals on themselves and I offer the professional knowledge and therapeutic tools. Together we can identify the problem areas and find solutions for success and relief. My goal is to help my clients not feel alone with their struggles and to feel competent to deal with whatever life throws their way.
I believe my clients deserve to be understood, valued, and given the opportunity to gain the tools for a more fulfilling life. When working as a team, we use our strengths to achieve the best outcome. I believe clients are the professionals on themselves and I offer the professional knowledge and therapeutic tools. Together we can identify the problem areas and find solutions for success and relief. My goal is to help my clients not feel alone with their struggles and to feel competent to deal with whatever life throws their way.
(314) 762-6476 View (314) 762-6476
Photo of Edie Rasmussen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Edie Rasmussen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63122  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed? You may be standing at a crossroads, feeling in your heart that there's more out there for you, but the 'how' and 'where' seem a bit foggy. Guess what? You're not alone in this. Whether it's the weight of ADHD symptoms, being easily triggered or overwhelmed, fighting off anxiety, or dealing with tricky relationships that are weighing you down, I've got your back. Do you often find yourself putting everyone else first and feeling a bit lost in the shuffle? That's where I come in, helping you find your way back to your own path and your own power.
Feeling overwhelmed? You may be standing at a crossroads, feeling in your heart that there's more out there for you, but the 'how' and 'where' seem a bit foggy. Guess what? You're not alone in this. Whether it's the weight of ADHD symptoms, being easily triggered or overwhelmed, fighting off anxiety, or dealing with tricky relationships that are weighing you down, I've got your back. Do you often find yourself putting everyone else first and feeling a bit lost in the shuffle? That's where I come in, helping you find your way back to your own path and your own power.
(314) 794-5533 View (314) 794-5533
Photo of Dr. Annalise Millet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Dr. Annalise Millet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139  (Online Only)
Unresolved trauma affects us deeply. Are you feeling numb and shut down or agitated and on alert. Does that resonate for you? Most of us have experienced a traumatic event during the course of our lives; how you recover is directly impacted by the kind of support you have in your life. Experiencing trauma, abuse, or neglect could mean you have fewer internal resources to combat the impact. This can lead to unhealthy ways of dealing with the pain such as addictions, self-harm, destructive relationships, isolation. Through healthy connections and therapy, you can process traumatic experiences and find joy again. I’m eager to help.
Unresolved trauma affects us deeply. Are you feeling numb and shut down or agitated and on alert. Does that resonate for you? Most of us have experienced a traumatic event during the course of our lives; how you recover is directly impacted by the kind of support you have in your life. Experiencing trauma, abuse, or neglect could mean you have fewer internal resources to combat the impact. This can lead to unhealthy ways of dealing with the pain such as addictions, self-harm, destructive relationships, isolation. Through healthy connections and therapy, you can process traumatic experiences and find joy again. I’m eager to help.
(314) 948-3493 View (314) 948-3493

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.