Chronic Illness Therapists in Louisburg, NC

Photo of At-Home Counseling Services, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisburg, NC
At-Home Counseling Services, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MAC, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Louisburg, NC 27549
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
(252) 302-2419 View (252) 302-2419
Photo of Betty A Brandon in Louisburg, NC
Betty A Brandon
MA, MACert, CCMA
Verified Verified
Louisburg, NC 27549
If your ready to be empowered, I offer comprehensive psychoeducational services that provide help to children, adolescents, parents & families on their journeys.I enjoy working with children & families who desire growth in any area, including academics, behavioral &/or those on the autism spectrum. I am an enthusiastic, compassionate clinician who believes that individuals can excel & reach their goals. Using proven methods as well as innovative & creative techniques, together we can progress & learn to overcome obstacles. Everyone is a unique individual & I take a tailor made approach with each client. Using strengths to overcome weaknesses...
If your ready to be empowered, I offer comprehensive psychoeducational services that provide help to children, adolescents, parents & families on their journeys.I enjoy working with children & families who desire growth in any area, including academics, behavioral &/or those on the autism spectrum. I am an enthusiastic, compassionate clinician who believes that individuals can excel & reach their goals. Using proven methods as well as innovative & creative techniques, together we can progress & learn to overcome obstacles. Everyone is a unique individual & I take a tailor made approach with each client. Using strengths to overcome weaknesses...
(919) 728-5767 View (919) 728-5767

Online Therapists

Photo of DeBlaker Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisburg, NC
DeBlaker Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527  (Online Only)
Accepting clients for video appointments only. Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain can cause you to be stressed or anxious.
Accepting clients for video appointments only. Is everyone telling you its ok to be a little blue? Do you feel depressed, disappointed in the way life is going? Infertility, becoming a mom, being a mom of young children, even approaching an empty nest all can cause stress and anxiety. Or is your relationship or marriage troubled and you don't know how to fix it? Even life transitions such as a career change, loss of a job, diagnosis of a chronic illness or chronic pain can cause you to be stressed or anxious.
(919) 629-9045 View (919) 629-9045
Photo of Tia Hunter, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Louisburg, NC
Tia Hunter
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
(336) 606-1652 View (336) 606-1652
Photo of Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Louisburg, NC
Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC-A, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I treat stress, chronic illness/pain management and caregiver burnout.
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
I treat stress, chronic illness/pain management and caregiver burnout.
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
(919) 888-4531 View (919) 888-4531
Photo of Monica Raynor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors in Louisburg, NC
Monica Raynor
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Dunn, NC 28334
I work with clients who are experiencing the emotional side of acute and chronic illness and loved ones walking with them as they battle illness.
I provide a safe, welcoming space in an effort to help clients feel at home. I provide continuous support for an array of issues pertaining to adults. I believe the counseling relationship is the most important component to clients meeting their therapy goals.
I work with clients who are experiencing the emotional side of acute and chronic illness and loved ones walking with them as they battle illness.
I provide a safe, welcoming space in an effort to help clients feel at home. I provide continuous support for an array of issues pertaining to adults. I believe the counseling relationship is the most important component to clients meeting their therapy goals.
(984) 205-9225 View (984) 205-9225
Photo of Shivani L. Chudasama, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisburg, NC
Shivani L. Chudasama
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, RYT-500
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
I currently have a waitlist. I am a clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher who empowers people using the guiding principles of empathy, curiosity, cultural humility, and collaboration. I take an integrative, somatic, and highly relational approach and work to understand how the intersection of your unique experiences impact today. I remain committed to working with people as they face a range of experiences, including multicultural concerns, oppression, identity exploration, trauma, anxiety, depression, queer/LGB+ concerns, trans and gender identity related concerns, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and grief.
(919) 759-5711 View (919) 759-5711
Photo of Samantha Quiel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisburg, NC
Samantha Quiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, chronic illness, and survivors of interpersonal violence.
Accepting New Clients-I believe that we all face unique challenges throughout our lives. I provide a space for you to authentically be yourself, without judgment. I aim to forge a trusting relationship to help you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. I provide support as we process through tough times, ask questions, and work with you to find solutions to your challenges. There are no quick fixes, but developing life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting with loved ones can be key in building a positive path for your future. We will create a custom treatment plan that works best for you.
(919) 289-4023 View (919) 289-4023
Photo of Kerrie Walters, Pre-Licensed Professional in Louisburg, NC
Kerrie Walters
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA, CEAP
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in chronic illness, pain and autoimmune, as well as woman's issues.
My goal as an integrated clinician is to treat the whole person. When you feel like nobody knows what you’re going through, sharing your feelings with someone who truly gets it can make all the difference. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and feel more optimistic about the future.
I specialize in chronic illness, pain and autoimmune, as well as woman's issues.
My goal as an integrated clinician is to treat the whole person. When you feel like nobody knows what you’re going through, sharing your feelings with someone who truly gets it can make all the difference. I’ll help you make sense of your experiences and feel more optimistic about the future.
(984) 249-3156 View (984) 249-3156
Photo of Madalina Ochenatu, Counselor in Louisburg, NC
Madalina Ochenatu
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
Given my training in medicine, psychology, clinical rehabilitation & mental health, I espouse a holistic approach to help you best manage stress and chronic illness, process past trauma, and improve your QOL.
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
Given my training in medicine, psychology, clinical rehabilitation & mental health, I espouse a holistic approach to help you best manage stress and chronic illness, process past trauma, and improve your QOL.
It is frustrating to have tried everything, yet continue to feel in pain, sad, hopeless, stuck in the past, and worrying about the future, yourself, and your relationships. Stress, past trauma, chronic physical & mental illness can make you feel that way, affecting your quality of life (QOL). Imagine though a life where you get a boost of energy and motivation, quiet negative self-talk, cope better with stress, manage physical and emotional pain, build confidence, feel less worried, self-conscious and withdrawn, regain hope and pleasure in things you used to enjoy, live a healthier life style, and accomplish meaningful life goals.
(984) 205-4877 View (984) 205-4877
Photo of Shay Alderman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Louisburg, NC
Shay Alderman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsboro, NC 27312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Humans are emotional beings. And our emotions affect our thinking, our sense of what is going on, and our actions. It is not a sign of disease to feel overwhelmed or angry, or to feel anxious and down at times. Or to feel numb, flat or blank. Or to have thoughts that seem “crazy." It is human. But it can be confusing, and lead to behaviors that aren’t helpful. I will collaborate with you to understand what you are feeling and how you might bring things into a more comfortable balance. I have a special interest and expertise working with anxiety disorders, with cardiac and chronic illness patients and people with thought disorders.
Humans are emotional beings. And our emotions affect our thinking, our sense of what is going on, and our actions. It is not a sign of disease to feel overwhelmed or angry, or to feel anxious and down at times. Or to feel numb, flat or blank. Or to have thoughts that seem “crazy." It is human. But it can be confusing, and lead to behaviors that aren’t helpful. I will collaborate with you to understand what you are feeling and how you might bring things into a more comfortable balance. I have a special interest and expertise working with anxiety disorders, with cardiac and chronic illness patients and people with thought disorders.
(984) 646-0697 View (984) 646-0697
Photo of Mary Cottam Keever, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisburg, NC
Mary Cottam Keever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
I find that trauma and chronic illness often go hand in hand.
Glad you found me here! I come from the medical system and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Health Coach. As a social worker, I see you as the expert of yourself and am determined to help you get what you want. I would like to help you with whatever is getting in your way and nurture your connection to yourself-increasing awareness, trust in yourself and love for yourself so that you might feel more capable. I am passionate about working with graduate/college students, young adults and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am typically useful to parents, caregivers and partners of folks with substance use disorders.
(336) 916-9181 View (336) 916-9181
Photo of Stephanie M. Turner, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Louisburg, NC
Stephanie M. Turner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
I help adults who feel overwhelmed and unable to live life fully due to anxiety, fear, worry, and depression. My specialty is the treatment of anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, and interpersonal/relational issues in quarter-life adults (ages 18 - early 40s). Specifically, I treat generalized anxiety, social anxiety, complex/relational trauma, and anxiety caused by circumstances such as acute or chronic illness, life transition, loss, relationship difficulties, and social isolation. I help clients understand the ways that anxiety limits their lives. Since chronic anxiety often leads to depressive symptoms, I treat that as well.
I help adults who feel overwhelmed and unable to live life fully due to anxiety, fear, worry, and depression. My specialty is the treatment of anxiety disorders, adjustment disorder, and interpersonal/relational issues in quarter-life adults (ages 18 - early 40s). Specifically, I treat generalized anxiety, social anxiety, complex/relational trauma, and anxiety caused by circumstances such as acute or chronic illness, life transition, loss, relationship difficulties, and social isolation. I help clients understand the ways that anxiety limits their lives. Since chronic anxiety often leads to depressive symptoms, I treat that as well.
(919) 726-3423 View (919) 726-3423
Photo of Christine L Jeffreys, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Louisburg, NC
Christine L Jeffreys
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616  (Online Only)
I have a heart for serving adults, adolescents, couples and families dealing with significant life issues such as the death of a loved one, chronic illness or pain, issues stemming from past trauma, parenting children with special needs, or managing chronic mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression. I believe that it is helpful when a therapist has a personal understanding of the areas in which they specialize. I have personal experience with all of these circumstances, allowing me a level of empathy and insight that may not be possible otherwise.
I have a heart for serving adults, adolescents, couples and families dealing with significant life issues such as the death of a loved one, chronic illness or pain, issues stemming from past trauma, parenting children with special needs, or managing chronic mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression. I believe that it is helpful when a therapist has a personal understanding of the areas in which they specialize. I have personal experience with all of these circumstances, allowing me a level of empathy and insight that may not be possible otherwise.
(984) 203-6996 View (984) 203-6996
Photo of Nancy K Holliman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Louisburg, NC
Nancy K Holliman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701
Waitlist for new clients
Personal issues such as anxiety, difficulties with food, a new medical diagnosis, depression, or dealing with a chronic illness or condition may be making you feel like life is one big struggle. Whether you have these sorts of problems or other concerns that are making your life hard or even unbearable, change is always possible if you are willing to work and you have the support you need. I offer that support. I have 4 years of experience serving adolescents and adults with eating disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I would be honored to work with you around whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will discover new perspectives and skills that will enable you to develop deeper awareness so that you can handle whatever life brings you and thrive.
Personal issues such as anxiety, difficulties with food, a new medical diagnosis, depression, or dealing with a chronic illness or condition may be making you feel like life is one big struggle. Whether you have these sorts of problems or other concerns that are making your life hard or even unbearable, change is always possible if you are willing to work and you have the support you need. I offer that support. I have 4 years of experience serving adolescents and adults with eating disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, depression, trauma, PTSD, and mood disorders. I would be honored to work with you around whatever difficulties you may be facing. Together we will discover new perspectives and skills that will enable you to develop deeper awareness so that you can handle whatever life brings you and thrive.
(984) 205-4658 View (984) 205-4658
Photo of Grace L Finkle, Psychologist in Louisburg, NC
Grace L Finkle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients. I welcome women who would like to grow in ways productive and satisfying for their emotional and personal wellness. I am a clinical psychologist with over 40 years of experience with helping people with a wide range of issues, including issues of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, work and life stress, and family of origin stresses, including ACOA (adult children of alcoholic) issues. I have experience with helping women to cope better with a chronic illness, such as of the autoimmune type. I counsel women on Saturdays, Sundays, and some Mondays and Fridays.
I am accepting new clients. I welcome women who would like to grow in ways productive and satisfying for their emotional and personal wellness. I am a clinical psychologist with over 40 years of experience with helping people with a wide range of issues, including issues of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, work and life stress, and family of origin stresses, including ACOA (adult children of alcoholic) issues. I have experience with helping women to cope better with a chronic illness, such as of the autoimmune type. I counsel women on Saturdays, Sundays, and some Mondays and Fridays.
(919) 324-3020 View (919) 324-3020
Photo of Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Louisburg, NC
Anderson Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
Grief, trauma and systemic oppression have increasingly become visible and universal experiences affecting individuals, couples, families and communities. I began my career working with the survivors of intimate partner violence and individuals/families grappling with cancer and death. These experiences have informed my practice working with individuals, couples and families dealing with loss, grief, trauma, anxiety/depression, major life changes, chronic illness, abuse and relational distress.
(919) 823-6654 View (919) 823-6654
Photo of Emily Ann Dew-Adorno, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Louisburg, NC
Emily Ann Dew-Adorno
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am passionate about creating a supportive and empowering space for folx come and be their most authentic selves. I am skilled in conducting therapy with clients who have depression, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma relating to immigration, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and chronic illness/chronic pain. I have worked very closely with the LGBTQIA+ community, Latinx community, and the disabled community. I am knowledgeable regarding trans healthcare, including medical and social transition.
I am passionate about creating a supportive and empowering space for folx come and be their most authentic selves. I am skilled in conducting therapy with clients who have depression, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma relating to immigration, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and chronic illness/chronic pain. I have worked very closely with the LGBTQIA+ community, Latinx community, and the disabled community. I am knowledgeable regarding trans healthcare, including medical and social transition.
(919) 568-5095 View (919) 568-5095
Photo of Marcy Arnold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Louisburg, 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 Heather Ingram, Counselor in Louisburg, NC
Heather Ingram
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Waitlist for new clients
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
(919) 343-5649 View (919) 343-5649

See more therapy options for Louisburg

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.