Chronic Illness Therapists in Emerald Isle, NC

Photo of Sagestone PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Emerald Isle, NC
Sagestone PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPCA, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
(252) 674-1971 View (252) 674-1971
Photo of Jennifer Tremblay Pettee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Jennifer Tremblay Pettee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Emerald Isle, NC 28594  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
(252) 542-2160 View (252) 542-2160
Photo of Colleen M. Kenny, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Colleen M. Kenny
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
Waitlist for new clients
*waitlist only* I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also an Integrated Therapist, which means I draw from traditional (evidence-based), nontraditional (i.e. somatic, psychobiology) and nonphysical (spiritual, not religious, nonmaterial) approaches as part of the counseling session. I work with adults, couples, and families facing various challenges. My approach is strengths-based, focused on what's right with you and will support you to reinforce the bridge between logic--"what I should do" and heart--"what I want to do".
*waitlist only* I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also an Integrated Therapist, which means I draw from traditional (evidence-based), nontraditional (i.e. somatic, psychobiology) and nonphysical (spiritual, not religious, nonmaterial) approaches as part of the counseling session. I work with adults, couples, and families facing various challenges. My approach is strengths-based, focused on what's right with you and will support you to reinforce the bridge between logic--"what I should do" and heart--"what I want to do".
(252) 499-0683 View (252) 499-0683
Photo of Michelle Richmond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Michelle Richmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
Waitlist for new clients
I look forward to working with you to identify areas of concern and develop goals to address those concerns. I will use various therapeutic techniques (CBT and Strength Focused Approach) as well as resources to assist in resolving issues to meet your goals. I am trained in the use of EMDR with adults and children to address trauma and anxiety, which I have observed to be effective and life changing for many. I am happy to incorporate Christian/Biblical principles in our work together if you so choose.
I look forward to working with you to identify areas of concern and develop goals to address those concerns. I will use various therapeutic techniques (CBT and Strength Focused Approach) as well as resources to assist in resolving issues to meet your goals. I am trained in the use of EMDR with adults and children to address trauma and anxiety, which I have observed to be effective and life changing for many. I am happy to incorporate Christian/Biblical principles in our work together if you so choose.
(252) 300-0362 View (252) 300-0362

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Deb Bragg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Deb Bragg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPN
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Making the decision to begin therapy is a healthy and courageous act that brings with it the potential for growth and healing. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I will work with you to provide confidential and caring services. I have a passion to help individuals, couples and families overcome challenges, grow in their relationships and find meaning and purpose in life. I feel it is important to "meet each client where they are" in their journey.
Making the decision to begin therapy is a healthy and courageous act that brings with it the potential for growth and healing. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I will work with you to provide confidential and caring services. I have a passion to help individuals, couples and families overcome challenges, grow in their relationships and find meaning and purpose in life. I feel it is important to "meet each client where they are" in their journey.
(910) 537-3143 View (910) 537-3143
Photo of Kim Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Kim Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
REEL therapy for REAL change. Would you like to transform the way you respond to life’s stress? Learn tactics that help you show up as the best REAL version of yourself at home and at work? It’s my mission to create a therapeutic space where you will leave feeling heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of your health, mental well-being, and achieve your goals. Let’s strengthen your capacity to manage stress, symptoms, or trauma that may be holding you back from pursuing a life that aligns with your REAL value, your core values.
REEL therapy for REAL change. Would you like to transform the way you respond to life’s stress? Learn tactics that help you show up as the best REAL version of yourself at home and at work? It’s my mission to create a therapeutic space where you will leave feeling heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of your health, mental well-being, and achieve your goals. Let’s strengthen your capacity to manage stress, symptoms, or trauma that may be holding you back from pursuing a life that aligns with your REAL value, your core values.
(252) 253-6105 View (252) 253-6105
Photo of Maria Donaty-Gurba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Maria Donaty-Gurba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
Reaching out & asking for help can be really hard. If you are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Medical issues, Relationship/Marital Issues, problem behaviors, maintaining sobriety, unwanted change or navigating & adjusting to difficult decisions it is important to seek help. Whether you're going through a painful transition like divorce, having difficulty in your relationships, self-medicating with substances, or have debilitating anxiety or depression- guidance from a qualified, objective person is necessary. I will help you gain insight into the root cause of what is keeping you stuck.
Reaching out & asking for help can be really hard. If you are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Medical issues, Relationship/Marital Issues, problem behaviors, maintaining sobriety, unwanted change or navigating & adjusting to difficult decisions it is important to seek help. Whether you're going through a painful transition like divorce, having difficulty in your relationships, self-medicating with substances, or have debilitating anxiety or depression- guidance from a qualified, objective person is necessary. I will help you gain insight into the root cause of what is keeping you stuck.
(910) 684-4626 View (910) 684-4626

Online Therapists

Photo of Shanna W Dickens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Shanna W Dickens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also passionate about helping to manage chronic illness, breaking codependence, recovering from narcissistic abuse and affirming neurodivergence.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
I am also passionate about helping to manage chronic illness, breaking codependence, recovering from narcissistic abuse and affirming neurodivergence.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
(910) 335-9101 View (910) 335-9101
Photo of Jen Johnson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Emerald Isle, NC
Jen Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, MFA, CRC, BCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include stress, grief, loss, transitions, anxiety, chronic illness, perfectionism, self-criticism, creativity, gifted adults, and medical trauma.
Are stress and ruminating thoughts about the past or future keeping you up at night? Do you wake up feeling anxious and worried? Are you struggling with stress related illness, such as autoimmune illness or high blood pressure? Have you lost your sense of aliveness, meaning, and purpose? I offer life coaching and counseling services to adults. I teach people how to develop inner peace, calm, and resilience so that you cope with the difficult times more skillfully and savor life's joy, beauty, and awe more fully.
My areas of specialty include stress, grief, loss, transitions, anxiety, chronic illness, perfectionism, self-criticism, creativity, gifted adults, and medical trauma.
Are stress and ruminating thoughts about the past or future keeping you up at night? Do you wake up feeling anxious and worried? Are you struggling with stress related illness, such as autoimmune illness or high blood pressure? Have you lost your sense of aliveness, meaning, and purpose? I offer life coaching and counseling services to adults. I teach people how to develop inner peace, calm, and resilience so that you cope with the difficult times more skillfully and savor life's joy, beauty, and awe more fully.
(910) 653-1690 View (910) 653-1690
Photo of Lauren Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Lauren Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
I offer individual therapy to address various mental health concerns including survivorship, grief, adjustment to change, chronic illness, PTSD, & anxiety/depression.
Have you found yourself lying in bed awake at 2am your thoughts spinning? Maybe you've just gotten news from your doctor and you feel flooded with overwhelm or fear. Perhaps you are feeling lost, fuzzy, and numb after losing someone (or something) that you really loved. If you've found yourself in these situations you likely find it difficult to relate to others who just don't "get it." You probably avoid situations that bring a sense of dread and battle with feelings of hopeless/helplessness. You may even struggle with trusting your body. I know how difficult it is to ask for help, but I am so glad you are here.
I offer individual therapy to address various mental health concerns including survivorship, grief, adjustment to change, chronic illness, PTSD, & anxiety/depression.
Have you found yourself lying in bed awake at 2am your thoughts spinning? Maybe you've just gotten news from your doctor and you feel flooded with overwhelm or fear. Perhaps you are feeling lost, fuzzy, and numb after losing someone (or something) that you really loved. If you've found yourself in these situations you likely find it difficult to relate to others who just don't "get it." You probably avoid situations that bring a sense of dread and battle with feelings of hopeless/helplessness. You may even struggle with trusting your body. I know how difficult it is to ask for help, but I am so glad you are here.
(910) 519-8262 View (910) 519-8262
Photo of Kelly D Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Kelly D Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
I do not have an ideal client, except to say I enjoy working with people who are willing and ready to take steps towards feeling better and more emotionally healthy. Sometimes, these steps include some hard work, inc. retraining their thought processes. Many of my current clientele are women or men experiencing depression, grief issues or anxiety in adjusting to life transitions. These life transitions may include death of a loved one, chronic illness, adjusting to marriage/divorce, and parenthood, etc. I find that most people are resilient and possess inner strength they may not always recognize.
I do not have an ideal client, except to say I enjoy working with people who are willing and ready to take steps towards feeling better and more emotionally healthy. Sometimes, these steps include some hard work, inc. retraining their thought processes. Many of my current clientele are women or men experiencing depression, grief issues or anxiety in adjusting to life transitions. These life transitions may include death of a loved one, chronic illness, adjusting to marriage/divorce, and parenthood, etc. I find that most people are resilient and possess inner strength they may not always recognize.
(252) 680-2220 View (252) 680-2220
Photo of Marcy Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Marcy Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and chronic illness.
Do you struggle with feeling that you're "too much" and "not enough" all at the same time. To the outside world, you look "fine," but inside, you feel downright exhausted, and pretending everything is okay is getting old. Your stress level is through the roof. You bury your feelings and prioritize putting others first, meaning you hardly ever find time for yourself. What's self-care?! Eventually, the stress and exhaustion catch up! You're tired of pretending and ready for change. The good news is, there is help. Whatever curveball life has thrown you, relief is possible.
(252) 772-9378 View (252) 772-9378
Photo of Dawn M Gesualdi, Counselor in Emerald Isle, NC
Dawn M Gesualdi
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hampstead, NC 28443
I am passionate about working with trauma and abuse survivors and helping clients with issues of self-worth and not feeling “enough”. I have experience working with many concerns including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families who are navigating challenges such as divorce, re-marriage, co-parenting, blending families, and understanding and treatment of diagnoses such as ADHD, ASD, anxiety, and utilizing behavior management strategies.
I am passionate about working with trauma and abuse survivors and helping clients with issues of self-worth and not feeling “enough”. I have experience working with many concerns including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families who are navigating challenges such as divorce, re-marriage, co-parenting, blending families, and understanding and treatment of diagnoses such as ADHD, ASD, anxiety, and utilizing behavior management strategies.
(910) 830-8548 View (910) 830-8548
Photo of Casey Berna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Casey Berna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
I have a special interest in helping those struggling with endometriosis, pelvic pain, chronic illness, and pregnancy loss.
In my clinical practice, I utilize a strengths-based approach to support clients and integrate different therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy and mindfulness. I work with teens and adults who come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Anxiety, depression, grief, burn out, and relationship challenges all can have a significant impact on daily life. I offers tools to manage these feelings, while also providing a space to process trauma, set boundaries, and help clients feel validated and unstuck.
I have a special interest in helping those struggling with endometriosis, pelvic pain, chronic illness, and pregnancy loss.
In my clinical practice, I utilize a strengths-based approach to support clients and integrate different therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy and mindfulness. I work with teens and adults who come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Anxiety, depression, grief, burn out, and relationship challenges all can have a significant impact on daily life. I offers tools to manage these feelings, while also providing a space to process trauma, set boundaries, and help clients feel validated and unstuck.
(910) 537-2920 View (910) 537-2920
Photo of Kelly Knapp McCray, Pre-Licensed Professional in Emerald Isle, NC
Kelly Knapp McCray
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
My goal is provide you with an inclusive, judgement-free space for self-exploration as you move toward positive changes. I focus on a client-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to meet the needs of individuals. My specialties include working with children, teens, and parents to learn coping skills, emotional co-regulation, and social skills. I also specialize in coping with chronic illness and anxiety for children, teens and adults. I will walk beside you as you gain insight to your authentic self and incorporate skills to help you reach your goals.
My goal is provide you with an inclusive, judgement-free space for self-exploration as you move toward positive changes. I focus on a client-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to meet the needs of individuals. My specialties include working with children, teens, and parents to learn coping skills, emotional co-regulation, and social skills. I also specialize in coping with chronic illness and anxiety for children, teens and adults. I will walk beside you as you gain insight to your authentic self and incorporate skills to help you reach your goals.
(910) 541-5734 View (910) 541-5734
Photo of Jessica Williford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Jessica Williford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with the stress of the caregiver role, life transitions, sexuality through the lifespan, and chronic illness.
Have you been avoiding others because nobody can understand what life is like for you? Do you notice there are parts of yourself you neglect? Life can be messy and sometimes we may need somebody to meet us exactly where we are. It can be difficult to take that initial step, but it can also be freeing and empowering. I am passionate about helping you create lasting changes you would like to see. I strive to provide a safe environment where you identify your personal goals, where connection is key, and your experiences are validated. You are worthy!
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with the stress of the caregiver role, life transitions, sexuality through the lifespan, and chronic illness.
Have you been avoiding others because nobody can understand what life is like for you? Do you notice there are parts of yourself you neglect? Life can be messy and sometimes we may need somebody to meet us exactly where we are. It can be difficult to take that initial step, but it can also be freeing and empowering. I am passionate about helping you create lasting changes you would like to see. I strive to provide a safe environment where you identify your personal goals, where connection is key, and your experiences are validated. You are worthy!
(252) 713-5198 View (252) 713-5198
Photo of Butterfly Wishes Therapy PLLC (Stacy Connor LCSW), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Butterfly Wishes Therapy PLLC (Stacy Connor LCSW)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560  (Online Only)
Whether working with our military, chronic illness, adult ADHD; or You, it's my honor.
Stacy Connor; Executive/Clinical Director employs 5 clinicians, ready to serve you; days, evenings & weekends. This is Stacy's profile: Everyone should know what it's like to feel Lovable, Capable, and Worthwhile. Instead of narrowing in on individual problems, psychotherapy considers overall patterns, chronic issues, and recurrent feelings. This requires an openness to exploring the past and its impact on the present. Psychotherapy resolves the underlying issues which fuel ongoing complaint/distress. I will work to get you on your way to wellness. Serving all of NC. I also offer clinical supervision for LCSW-A & LCAS-A & CSI.
Whether working with our military, chronic illness, adult ADHD; or You, it's my honor.
Stacy Connor; Executive/Clinical Director employs 5 clinicians, ready to serve you; days, evenings & weekends. This is Stacy's profile: Everyone should know what it's like to feel Lovable, Capable, and Worthwhile. Instead of narrowing in on individual problems, psychotherapy considers overall patterns, chronic issues, and recurrent feelings. This requires an openness to exploring the past and its impact on the present. Psychotherapy resolves the underlying issues which fuel ongoing complaint/distress. I will work to get you on your way to wellness. Serving all of NC. I also offer clinical supervision for LCSW-A & LCAS-A & CSI.
(252) 460-4511 View (252) 460-4511
Photo of Heather C Brewer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Heather C Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
I have 25 years of experience addressing health and mental health issues and am passionate about the mind/body connection. In addition to my mental health training, I have a Master's in Exercise Physiology. I assist clients in creating balance in their lives and helping them maximize their physical and emotional health. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, binge eating disorder, coping with chronic illness, healthy lifestyle modifications. I believe my clients have the answers they need, and my role is to help them access their inner wisdom while teaching them skills to better manage their emotions.
I have 25 years of experience addressing health and mental health issues and am passionate about the mind/body connection. In addition to my mental health training, I have a Master's in Exercise Physiology. I assist clients in creating balance in their lives and helping them maximize their physical and emotional health. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, binge eating disorder, coping with chronic illness, healthy lifestyle modifications. I believe my clients have the answers they need, and my role is to help them access their inner wisdom while teaching them skills to better manage their emotions.
(252) 377-4294 View (252) 377-4294
Photo of Rob Moser, Counselor in Emerald Isle, NC
Rob Moser
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
(910) 812-8310 View (910) 812-8310
Photo of Lynn C Bassett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emerald Isle, NC
Lynn C Bassett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, NC 27889  (Online Only)
Hello! I am glad you found your way here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist. I have extensive training in treating depression, anxiety, trauma and grief. I specialize in treating individuals with life stressors/transitions, loss/traumatic events, infidelity and relationship issues. I work with adults 18 and over.
Hello! I am glad you found your way here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist. I have extensive training in treating depression, anxiety, trauma and grief. I specialize in treating individuals with life stressors/transitions, loss/traumatic events, infidelity and relationship issues. I work with adults 18 and over.
(252) 651-5822 View (252) 651-5822

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Chronic Illness Therapists

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.