Chronic Illness Therapists in Monroe County, NY

Photo of Luba Fingerut RN/LMHC, Counselor in Monroe County, NY
Luba Fingerut RN/LMHC
Counselor, RN, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14642  (Online Only)
I specialize in healing Mind/Body Syndrome, Chronic Pain, Chronic Illness, Organ Transplant, and helping with anxiety and depression after significant life events or normal life crises.
I’m a licensed mental health counselor with 25 years of Critical Care nursing experience, mostly cardiac, nursing leadership, and nursing wellness experience. Through my work with critically ill patients and their families, I have met many people during their worst, hardest days. Through helping my patients’ progress and, listening to their stories, I have realized that in many cases the individual’s mind set and emotional intelligence played the most important role in their recovery. Seeing people’s resilience across difficult situations made me believe in the “mind over matter” concept.
I specialize in healing Mind/Body Syndrome, Chronic Pain, Chronic Illness, Organ Transplant, and helping with anxiety and depression after significant life events or normal life crises.
I’m a licensed mental health counselor with 25 years of Critical Care nursing experience, mostly cardiac, nursing leadership, and nursing wellness experience. Through my work with critically ill patients and their families, I have met many people during their worst, hardest days. Through helping my patients’ progress and, listening to their stories, I have realized that in many cases the individual’s mind set and emotional intelligence played the most important role in their recovery. Seeing people’s resilience across difficult situations made me believe in the “mind over matter” concept.
(585) 476-3376 View (585) 476-3376
Photo of Audrey Berger, Psychologist in Monroe County, NY
Audrey Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14620  (Online Only)
Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult, and finding a therapist that's right for you is an important step. My therapy style involves, first and foremost, working to help you feel safe and supported as you go through the therapy process. We will work together to identify, understand and then address the issues that are causing you trouble in your life. I specialize in a number of patient concerns including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness and other medical concerns, coping with major life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, women's issues and stress management.
Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult, and finding a therapist that's right for you is an important step. My therapy style involves, first and foremost, working to help you feel safe and supported as you go through the therapy process. We will work together to identify, understand and then address the issues that are causing you trouble in your life. I specialize in a number of patient concerns including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness and other medical concerns, coping with major life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, women's issues and stress management.
(585) 270-7213 View (585) 270-7213
Photo of Sue E Ouellette, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Sue E Ouellette
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618  (Online Only)
I am particularly interested in working with individuals with disability and/or chronic illness and their families as well as those dealing with chronic pain.
I enjoy working with individuals , families, and couples. I see individual clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety and depression. Many of my clients are experiencing very normal and understandable reactions to painful life circumstances. The couples that I work with may be attempting to recover from affairs, considering divorce, or experiencing challenges in their relationship that they want to work through. I've worked with both gay and straight couples.as well as those who are married and single. The families that I see are dealing with issues related to child raising, divorce, illness or disability, and major life transitions.
I am particularly interested in working with individuals with disability and/or chronic illness and their families as well as those dealing with chronic pain.
I enjoy working with individuals , families, and couples. I see individual clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety and depression. Many of my clients are experiencing very normal and understandable reactions to painful life circumstances. The couples that I work with may be attempting to recover from affairs, considering divorce, or experiencing challenges in their relationship that they want to work through. I've worked with both gay and straight couples.as well as those who are married and single. The families that I see are dealing with issues related to child raising, divorce, illness or disability, and major life transitions.
(815) 357-4053 View (815) 357-4053
Photo of Rebecca A Housel in Monroe County, NY
Rebecca A Housel
M A, Ph D
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14623  (Online Only)
My coaching practice is compassion-based & uses tools like positive psychology, meditation & hypnotherapy to build confidence & resiliency. Clients include Millennials 20-45, Gen Xers 45-55, & Baby Boomers 56-74 dealing with relationships, career, concerns surrounding parenting, health issues/chronic illness (cancer, diabetes, thyroid disorders, COVID-19), LGBTQIA, disability, and grief from loss (job, parent/family member/friend, partner, child, home, bankruptcy, divorce/separation). My areas of expertise include life coaching, life transitions, love-relationships/dating, & confidence/self-esteem building.
My coaching practice is compassion-based & uses tools like positive psychology, meditation & hypnotherapy to build confidence & resiliency. Clients include Millennials 20-45, Gen Xers 45-55, & Baby Boomers 56-74 dealing with relationships, career, concerns surrounding parenting, health issues/chronic illness (cancer, diabetes, thyroid disorders, COVID-19), LGBTQIA, disability, and grief from loss (job, parent/family member/friend, partner, child, home, bankruptcy, divorce/separation). My areas of expertise include life coaching, life transitions, love-relationships/dating, & confidence/self-esteem building.
(978) 307-8221 View (978) 307-8221
Photo of Audrey Amir, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Audrey Amir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
Other areas of focus include chronic illness, medical trauma, and managing grief and isolation.
Being a person can be hard. Living a life that best suits you as an individual is a work in progress. Along the way, there are undoubtedly challenges. Sometimes, our experiences leave us confused, overwhelmed, and in need of some support. As a therapist, my role is to help understand where you’ve been, where you’d like to go, and help you get there. It’s possible to move from getting by to feeling you have agency over your own life and choices. I specialize in working with challenging life events such as trauma, major life changes, relationship distress, and chronic illnesses. I also work with C-PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse recovery.
Other areas of focus include chronic illness, medical trauma, and managing grief and isolation.
Being a person can be hard. Living a life that best suits you as an individual is a work in progress. Along the way, there are undoubtedly challenges. Sometimes, our experiences leave us confused, overwhelmed, and in need of some support. As a therapist, my role is to help understand where you’ve been, where you’d like to go, and help you get there. It’s possible to move from getting by to feeling you have agency over your own life and choices. I specialize in working with challenging life events such as trauma, major life changes, relationship distress, and chronic illnesses. I also work with C-PTSD and Narcissistic Abuse recovery.
(828) 373-8290 View (828) 373-8290
Photo of Melanie Keem, Licensed Master Social Worker in Monroe County, NY
Melanie Keem
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14600
I offer a compassionate, highly supportive, solution-focused style of therapy. I am a Solution-Focused Brief Therapist (SFBT), who helps individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness and caregiver fatigue. You can expect to feel safe, heard and understood as you work together to seek growth and positive change. I’m happy to work with adults, ages 18 and over. I’m LGBTQIA+ friendly and affirming and I am open to working with all races/ethnicities. I prefer to take a Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) approach. SFBT incorporates positive psychology principles and practices.
I offer a compassionate, highly supportive, solution-focused style of therapy. I am a Solution-Focused Brief Therapist (SFBT), who helps individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness and caregiver fatigue. You can expect to feel safe, heard and understood as you work together to seek growth and positive change. I’m happy to work with adults, ages 18 and over. I’m LGBTQIA+ friendly and affirming and I am open to working with all races/ethnicities. I prefer to take a Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) approach. SFBT incorporates positive psychology principles and practices.
(518) 808-3301 View (518) 808-3301
Photo of Maria Rosario, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Maria Rosario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14623
Waitlist for new clients
My experience lies in working with adults, children, families and the geriatric population for almost 20 years in a variety of settings that include developmental disabilities, autism, traumatic brain injury, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma and abuse.
I am passionate about helping in the healing process using a strength-based therapeutic approach within the safety of a caring environment. It is with great empathy and understanding that I recognize the struggles and hardships one experiences when traveling down life’s many paths, despite at times it feeling that you are at a dead end or crossroad. It would be an honor to assist you in your journey to healing as you make the valiant step to engage in therapy. My nonjudgmental approach is supportive yet honest in helping you find acceptance, resolve and inner peace.
My experience lies in working with adults, children, families and the geriatric population for almost 20 years in a variety of settings that include developmental disabilities, autism, traumatic brain injury, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma and abuse.
I am passionate about helping in the healing process using a strength-based therapeutic approach within the safety of a caring environment. It is with great empathy and understanding that I recognize the struggles and hardships one experiences when traveling down life’s many paths, despite at times it feeling that you are at a dead end or crossroad. It would be an honor to assist you in your journey to healing as you make the valiant step to engage in therapy. My nonjudgmental approach is supportive yet honest in helping you find acceptance, resolve and inner peace.
(585) 367-4836 View (585) 367-4836
Photo of Nicole Nabors, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Nicole Nabors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14623  (Online Only)
I believe we cannot control what happens to us. However, we can choose to change things that prevent us from being the people we want to be. I am honored to support you and help you navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, chronic illness, problems with self-esteem, and relationship difficulties.
I believe we cannot control what happens to us. However, we can choose to change things that prevent us from being the people we want to be. I am honored to support you and help you navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, chronic illness, problems with self-esteem, and relationship difficulties.
(585) 454-8923 View (585) 454-8923
Photo of Whitney Read, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Whitney Read
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed with an unwanted change, unmet expectations, or a significant health diagnosis such as cancer or a chronic illness? These experiences impact how we cope and live our lives. Healing is not always linear, but it is possible; finding a therapist that you connect well with and where you feel comfortable is a vital part of that healing. People can sometimes struggle to find a space that is just theirs to be able to process the good, the bad and the in between... but our sessions together can be just that. Your space and time to have a moment to focus on your needs.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed with an unwanted change, unmet expectations, or a significant health diagnosis such as cancer or a chronic illness? These experiences impact how we cope and live our lives. Healing is not always linear, but it is possible; finding a therapist that you connect well with and where you feel comfortable is a vital part of that healing. People can sometimes struggle to find a space that is just theirs to be able to process the good, the bad and the in between... but our sessions together can be just that. Your space and time to have a moment to focus on your needs.
(585) 207-3276 View (585) 207-3276
Photo of Kaylen Furr, Pre-Licensed Professional in Monroe County, NY
Kaylen Furr
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
I come with passions for working with the neurodivergent population (specifically with ADHD and Autism and unpacking a late realization), providing gender-affirming care, sex-positive counseling, disordered eating, and body image, managing and processing chronic illness, and identity work through a trauma-informed and all-inclusive perspective.
I understand counseling to be a place in which with collaboration, relationships, and trust, an individual can begin to craft the life they want to live by meeting themselves where they are at. Through an intersectional lens, it is my priority to co-create a space in which clients can connect with their whole experience and identities in creating the foundation for an abundance of growth. I understand clients to be the expert of their experience and the work we do to be inherently collaborative.
I come with passions for working with the neurodivergent population (specifically with ADHD and Autism and unpacking a late realization), providing gender-affirming care, sex-positive counseling, disordered eating, and body image, managing and processing chronic illness, and identity work through a trauma-informed and all-inclusive perspective.
I understand counseling to be a place in which with collaboration, relationships, and trust, an individual can begin to craft the life they want to live by meeting themselves where they are at. Through an intersectional lens, it is my priority to co-create a space in which clients can connect with their whole experience and identities in creating the foundation for an abundance of growth. I understand clients to be the expert of their experience and the work we do to be inherently collaborative.
(315) 961-8472 View (315) 961-8472
Photo of Allison Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Allison Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
Healing and growth happen when you feel safe and supported. In our therapeutic space, you can expect to feel heard, respected, and understood. I will partner with you and draw upon your strengths in a warm, nonjudgmental, and curious way to achieve lasting, meaningful change. Being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist helps me appreciate that relationships matter and impact your well-being. I will use the context of your family and other important relational systems such as school, work, and your community to get to know you better and help you reach your goals.
Healing and growth happen when you feel safe and supported. In our therapeutic space, you can expect to feel heard, respected, and understood. I will partner with you and draw upon your strengths in a warm, nonjudgmental, and curious way to achieve lasting, meaningful change. Being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist helps me appreciate that relationships matter and impact your well-being. I will use the context of your family and other important relational systems such as school, work, and your community to get to know you better and help you reach your goals.
(585) 728-1748 View (585) 728-1748
Photo of Shannon Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Shannon Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
FYI: Limited daytime availability for new clients (April, 2024). Welcome! Therapy can offer you support when life presents challenges such as relationship concerns, illness, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and other stressors. You are the expert in your life, and I will collaborate with you to help you identify what you want to change and gain insights about how to make progress toward your goals.
FYI: Limited daytime availability for new clients (April, 2024). Welcome! Therapy can offer you support when life presents challenges such as relationship concerns, illness, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and other stressors. You are the expert in your life, and I will collaborate with you to help you identify what you want to change and gain insights about how to make progress toward your goals.
(585) 449-6894 View (585) 449-6894
Photo of Christian Rawls in Monroe County, NY
Christian Rawls
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14625
As a therapist, I empathize with the courage it takes to seek help, and I'm dedicated to guiding you towards a brighter path. I prioritize tailoring healing to your individual needs and goals, whether it involves gaining new perspectives, overcoming trauma, or honing effective coping strategies.
As a therapist, I empathize with the courage it takes to seek help, and I'm dedicated to guiding you towards a brighter path. I prioritize tailoring healing to your individual needs and goals, whether it involves gaining new perspectives, overcoming trauma, or honing effective coping strategies.
(585) 501-2356 View (585) 501-2356
Photo of Thomas Zastowny, Psychologist in Monroe County, NY
Thomas Zastowny
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Penfield, NY 14526  (Online Only)
Hello-I want to introduce myself to you. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Therapist in Rochester, NY. I have provided therapy for over 25 years to individuals, couples and families; I offer a variety of therapies based on the problems, issues and needs of my clients. These include supportive, behavioral, expressive, marriage and family and group treatment. Strategically, I favor shorter term solutions-based interventions but remain flexible for longer term work-I have helped individuals in a single day and have treated others for 20+ years.
Hello-I want to introduce myself to you. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Therapist in Rochester, NY. I have provided therapy for over 25 years to individuals, couples and families; I offer a variety of therapies based on the problems, issues and needs of my clients. These include supportive, behavioral, expressive, marriage and family and group treatment. Strategically, I favor shorter term solutions-based interventions but remain flexible for longer term work-I have helped individuals in a single day and have treated others for 20+ years.
(585) 628-8750 x1 View (585) 628-8750 x1
Photo of Erin K Brazill, LCSW, PLLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Erin K Brazill, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534
A cancer diagnosis is life-changing. It disrupts so many things about our everyday lives. And the stress can be overwhelming for even the most resilient among us. People coping with cancer often experience heightened levels of fear, worry, pain and uncertainty. As the founder of River Birch Therapy, I help children, teens, adults and families coping with cancer to build a life and thrive beyond cancer. During sessions, I work from a whole-person, strengths-based, relational and embodied approach to health.
A cancer diagnosis is life-changing. It disrupts so many things about our everyday lives. And the stress can be overwhelming for even the most resilient among us. People coping with cancer often experience heightened levels of fear, worry, pain and uncertainty. As the founder of River Birch Therapy, I help children, teens, adults and families coping with cancer to build a life and thrive beyond cancer. During sessions, I work from a whole-person, strengths-based, relational and embodied approach to health.
(585) 382-1125 View (585) 382-1125
Photo of Emily Lalka, Licensed Master Social Worker in Monroe County, NY
Emily Lalka
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14625  (Online Only)
My therapy practice focuses on helping you discover your inner strength, confidence, and knowledge so you can live a life that’s more joyful, peaceful, and fun! Whether you want to show up more fully in your relationship, advocate for yourself at work, or learn to trust your innate inner wisdom, we’ll work collaboratively to nourish your sense of independence and self determination. Conquering negative self talk, overcoming old patterns, and setting boundaries that support your mental health are all areas we’ll explore together.
My therapy practice focuses on helping you discover your inner strength, confidence, and knowledge so you can live a life that’s more joyful, peaceful, and fun! Whether you want to show up more fully in your relationship, advocate for yourself at work, or learn to trust your innate inner wisdom, we’ll work collaboratively to nourish your sense of independence and self determination. Conquering negative self talk, overcoming old patterns, and setting boundaries that support your mental health are all areas we’ll explore together.
(332) 529-3770 View (332) 529-3770
Photo of Earon Lehning, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Earon Lehning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14606  (Online Only)
Life can bring many unexpected changes. Whether its the loss of a loved one, diagnosis of a chronic or significant illness or simply working through life changes its my goal to walk with you through it.
Life can bring many unexpected changes. Whether its the loss of a loved one, diagnosis of a chronic or significant illness or simply working through life changes its my goal to walk with you through it.
(585) 577-5218 View (585) 577-5218
Photo of Mercy R Austen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Mercy R Austen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14642  (Online Only)
I am licensed in NYS & IN. I have dedicated 17 years of my career to working w/individuals who are experiencing life concerns; relationship issues, career, living situations. I specialize in supporting people managing health concerns; Reproductive, cancers, geriatric, caregiver, diabetes, cancer, heart, respiratory. Additionally, developmental (MS, MD) & acquired (head, spinal cord). I focus on helping individuals and their caregivers manage anxiety, depression & other mental health concerns which are triggered/caused by health concerns. I enjoy working w/people of faith or philosophy & those searching.
I am licensed in NYS & IN. I have dedicated 17 years of my career to working w/individuals who are experiencing life concerns; relationship issues, career, living situations. I specialize in supporting people managing health concerns; Reproductive, cancers, geriatric, caregiver, diabetes, cancer, heart, respiratory. Additionally, developmental (MS, MD) & acquired (head, spinal cord). I focus on helping individuals and their caregivers manage anxiety, depression & other mental health concerns which are triggered/caused by health concerns. I enjoy working w/people of faith or philosophy & those searching.
(585) 476-3523 View (585) 476-3523
Photo of Spotted Rabbit Creative Arts Therapy, Art Therapist in Monroe County, NY
Spotted Rabbit Creative Arts Therapy
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Spotted Rabbit therapists aren’t here to “fix” you. We live for empowering neurodivergents, LGBTQ+ folx, and adults who’ve experienced emotional neglect (trauma) to be their true selves and live a life aligned with their own personal values. We specialize in helping teens and adults relax their nervous systems, better regulate their emotions, and develop healthier relationships with others. We are also experienced in treating related conditions such as anxiety, eating disorders, and dissociative identity disorder (DID). We use trauma informed and culturally sensitive practices and believe in an intuitive eating/HAES approach.
Spotted Rabbit therapists aren’t here to “fix” you. We live for empowering neurodivergents, LGBTQ+ folx, and adults who’ve experienced emotional neglect (trauma) to be their true selves and live a life aligned with their own personal values. We specialize in helping teens and adults relax their nervous systems, better regulate their emotions, and develop healthier relationships with others. We are also experienced in treating related conditions such as anxiety, eating disorders, and dissociative identity disorder (DID). We use trauma informed and culturally sensitive practices and believe in an intuitive eating/HAES approach.
(585) 684-3970 View (585) 684-3970
Photo of Patrice Marie Ristuccia, Counselor in Monroe County, NY
Patrice Marie Ristuccia
Counselor, MS, CAS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14626
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is an opportunity to share with an unbiased person the sorting through of life-issues that a person is experiencing. Together, the therapist and the client create manageable and realistic solutions, whether in an individual, couple or family setting, honoring confidentiality and building trust.
Therapy is an opportunity to share with an unbiased person the sorting through of life-issues that a person is experiencing. Together, the therapist and the client create manageable and realistic solutions, whether in an individual, couple or family setting, honoring confidentiality and building trust.
(585) 312-0229 View (585) 312-0229

See more therapy options for Monroe County

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.