Chronic Illness Therapists in Lowndes County, GA
I enjoy working with life transitions, anxiety, depression, first responders and spouses/partners, chronic illness/pain, and the LGBTQIA2S+ population.
Therapy can be beneficial at many points in your life, whether you're struggling with stressors, experiencing mental health symptoms, going through life changes, or just wanting to explore who you are. I aim to offer a helping hand and safe environment for you to be heard and accepted.
I enjoy working with life transitions, anxiety, depression, first responders and spouses/partners, chronic illness/pain, and the LGBTQIA2S+ population.
Therapy can be beneficial at many points in your life, whether you're struggling with stressors, experiencing mental health symptoms, going through life changes, or just wanting to explore who you are. I aim to offer a helping hand and safe environment for you to be heard and accepted.
I have spent many years helping people with chronic illness find ways to create meaning and satisfaction in their life.
With my background in Oncology and Palliative Care, I am comfortable with navigating difficult conversations and life choices. Grief, loss, anxiety, depression are all difficult emotions. I want to create a safe space for you to be able to talk openly so that together we can help you learn the best ways to cope and find relief.
I have spent many years helping people with chronic illness find ways to create meaning and satisfaction in their life.
With my background in Oncology and Palliative Care, I am comfortable with navigating difficult conversations and life choices. Grief, loss, anxiety, depression are all difficult emotions. I want to create a safe space for you to be able to talk openly so that together we can help you learn the best ways to cope and find relief.
The Counseling Zebra, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you’re exploring your identity, unlearning body shame, processing trauma, or living with chronic illness, this is a space where you don’t have to explain or defend your experience.
I show up authentically: curious, compassionate, and present. My approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, autonomy and consent-based, blending ACT, EFIT, DBT, art therapy, and mindfulness with care that meets you where you are. This isn’t about fixing you—it’s about creating space for you to be fully seen, heard, and supported.
Whether you’re exploring your identity, unlearning body shame, processing trauma, or living with chronic illness, this is a space where you don’t have to explain or defend your experience.
I show up authentically: curious, compassionate, and present. My approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, autonomy and consent-based, blending ACT, EFIT, DBT, art therapy, and mindfulness with care that meets you where you are. This isn’t about fixing you—it’s about creating space for you to be fully seen, heard, and supported.
Bethany Ellen Dollar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
With over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds navigate life’s challenges and achieve emotional well-being. My passion lies in providing compassionate, evidence-based support to those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, and other mental health concerns. Through a person-centered approach, I work to empower individuals, helping them build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and foster personal growth.
With over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds navigate life’s challenges and achieve emotional well-being. My passion lies in providing compassionate, evidence-based support to those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, and other mental health concerns. Through a person-centered approach, I work to empower individuals, helping them build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and foster personal growth.
Justin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and has been actively working in the Valdosta community for over five years. Justin is experienced in working with individuals, couples and families, helping them navigate many of life's obstacles, from individual needs to helping the entire family. While Justin works with all family structures, his primary specialty is helping families reach their teenager as they prepare to enter adulthood. Whether you or your family is in need of change, needs help adjusting to the ups and downs of life, or if it is time to begin unpacking those experiences from long ago.
Justin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and has been actively working in the Valdosta community for over five years. Justin is experienced in working with individuals, couples and families, helping them navigate many of life's obstacles, from individual needs to helping the entire family. While Justin works with all family structures, his primary specialty is helping families reach their teenager as they prepare to enter adulthood. Whether you or your family is in need of change, needs help adjusting to the ups and downs of life, or if it is time to begin unpacking those experiences from long ago.
Cassie Avellaneda is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC. Cassie’s professional career began in the public education system. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Warner University. She taught in the public-school system for several years. Cassie then received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Webster University. Cassie has been a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years in the state of Florida. In relocating to Georgia, she is now dually licensed in both Florida and Georgia.
Cassie Avellaneda is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC. Cassie’s professional career began in the public education system. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Warner University. She taught in the public-school system for several years. Cassie then received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Webster University. Cassie has been a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years in the state of Florida. In relocating to Georgia, she is now dually licensed in both Florida and Georgia.
Evans Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences without judgment. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, meaning I prioritize your unique needs, goals, and pace throughout our work together.
I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences without judgment. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, meaning I prioritize your unique needs, goals, and pace throughout our work together.
Dr. Aunjuli Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Coach
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31601
Having worked in the mental health profession for over 25 years, I am a licensed mental health professional and owner of the Hicks Group Wellness Center. My primary work is with individuals suffering from domestic violence, traumas, anxiety, and depression. I am particular about whom I take as a client; my ideal client is ready for transformative change and motivated to do the therapeutic work that comes with counseling.
Having worked in the mental health profession for over 25 years, I am a licensed mental health professional and owner of the Hicks Group Wellness Center. My primary work is with individuals suffering from domestic violence, traumas, anxiety, and depression. I am particular about whom I take as a client; my ideal client is ready for transformative change and motivated to do the therapeutic work that comes with counseling.
Do you find it difficult to form meaningful connections or trust others? Or perhaps have fear of disappointing others for living the life you desire? “You’ve mastered survival mode. Now it’s time to live.” -Unknown- Imagine waking up to a life you designed. Putting yourself first takes an incredible amount of courage. You deserve the life you’ve longed for. My specialties encompass matters related to complex trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, and relationship issues. I also offer support to individuals who may be navigating relationships characterized by narcissistic behaviors.
Do you find it difficult to form meaningful connections or trust others? Or perhaps have fear of disappointing others for living the life you desire? “You’ve mastered survival mode. Now it’s time to live.” -Unknown- Imagine waking up to a life you designed. Putting yourself first takes an incredible amount of courage. You deserve the life you’ve longed for. My specialties encompass matters related to complex trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, and relationship issues. I also offer support to individuals who may be navigating relationships characterized by narcissistic behaviors.
The Decision Tree, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am a native New Yorker with over 23 yrs experience in health & human services, working with people from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and age groups. Deciding what to do about: a troubled child, aging/ailing loved one, workplace challenges, relationship issues, or personal struggles can be draining, complicated, and discouraging. My emergency room/crisis work history has given me special skills to help with sudden life changes as well as long-standing problems. One thing is sure, a healthy mindset is the foundation for strong relationships and successful living. I am eager to help you get to your best self!
I am a native New Yorker with over 23 yrs experience in health & human services, working with people from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and age groups. Deciding what to do about: a troubled child, aging/ailing loved one, workplace challenges, relationship issues, or personal struggles can be draining, complicated, and discouraging. My emergency room/crisis work history has given me special skills to help with sudden life changes as well as long-standing problems. One thing is sure, a healthy mindset is the foundation for strong relationships and successful living. I am eager to help you get to your best self!
Greetings! Secular psychotherapist here. Is taking care of everyone but yourself breaking you down? Tired of being called “co-dependent”? Do you have beliefs that are different from others and feel a little “off”? Are you becoming more and more anxious or depressed? You're not alone. I help those looking for a professional confidant and can help with processing difficult transitions and even traumas. Maybe the transition you are going through is attempting to take care of aging parents while raising a family of your own. Or perhaps you are having difficulty setting boundaries with a toxic person in your life.
Greetings! Secular psychotherapist here. Is taking care of everyone but yourself breaking you down? Tired of being called “co-dependent”? Do you have beliefs that are different from others and feel a little “off”? Are you becoming more and more anxious or depressed? You're not alone. I help those looking for a professional confidant and can help with processing difficult transitions and even traumas. Maybe the transition you are going through is attempting to take care of aging parents while raising a family of your own. Or perhaps you are having difficulty setting boundaries with a toxic person in your life.
" I see it as a privilege to walk beside my clients in their journeys. My clients inspire me through their dedication and drive to be the best version of themselves ." ~ Jessie VanDeVelde Moreno, LMFT
" I see it as a privilege to walk beside my clients in their journeys. My clients inspire me through their dedication and drive to be the best version of themselves ." ~ Jessie VanDeVelde Moreno, LMFT
Have you ever found yourself not sure about anything? You're struggling to make decisions, get to work, enjoy the little things? It can be an unsettling feeling to think "I need help", but it doesn't have to be. Sometimes just taking that first step of reaching out can make all the difference. Whether you have a problem needing solving or you need a sounding board, therapy can be the place for you to expand your thoughts, development mentally, and grow into a new you.
Have you ever found yourself not sure about anything? You're struggling to make decisions, get to work, enjoy the little things? It can be an unsettling feeling to think "I need help", but it doesn't have to be. Sometimes just taking that first step of reaching out can make all the difference. Whether you have a problem needing solving or you need a sounding board, therapy can be the place for you to expand your thoughts, development mentally, and grow into a new you.
Online Therapists
Our focus is to promote emotional wellness. We provide therapeutic services in a quiet and peaceful environment that is located just far enough outside of Thomasville, Georgia, to encourage a sense of removing oneself from the stress of daily life. We have Therapy Dogs in the office to assist with our patient's level of comfort. We also provide Equine Assisted Psychotherapy on our small farm when weather is permitting. This form of therapy is solution-focused and does not require any experiences with horses. It is all "on the ground" and takes place in a safe location.
Our focus is to promote emotional wellness. We provide therapeutic services in a quiet and peaceful environment that is located just far enough outside of Thomasville, Georgia, to encourage a sense of removing oneself from the stress of daily life. We have Therapy Dogs in the office to assist with our patient's level of comfort. We also provide Equine Assisted Psychotherapy on our small farm when weather is permitting. This form of therapy is solution-focused and does not require any experiences with horses. It is all "on the ground" and takes place in a safe location.
Thrive Mode Counseling and Well-being Enhancement
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Congratulations on prioritizing your health and well-being during these challenging times. Are you struggling with stress, or finding meaning and purpose in life? You are likely seeking a therapist who respects your unique journey and who can help you to build upon the resilience you already possess. I started Thrive Mode Counseling to offer you a nonjudgmental space to reflect, heal and build self-awareness. My holistic therapeutic approach addresses both the mind and body so that you can reach new levels of happiness and satisfaction that will affect your work, play, relationships, and health well into the future.
Congratulations on prioritizing your health and well-being during these challenging times. Are you struggling with stress, or finding meaning and purpose in life? You are likely seeking a therapist who respects your unique journey and who can help you to build upon the resilience you already possess. I started Thrive Mode Counseling to offer you a nonjudgmental space to reflect, heal and build self-awareness. My holistic therapeutic approach addresses both the mind and body so that you can reach new levels of happiness and satisfaction that will affect your work, play, relationships, and health well into the future.
Whether you find yourself struggling with your mental health, have a difficult relationship that you need help navigating, or are experiencing grief and loss, therapy can help support you. Often times, reaching out and taking that first step is the hardest part. I understand how overwhelming life can be and how hard it is to prioritize yourself. I welcome all individuals, couples, and families to therapy and provide confidential, inclusive services. Therapy is a safe, peaceful environment to share your truth vulnerably and be met with respect and compassion.
Whether you find yourself struggling with your mental health, have a difficult relationship that you need help navigating, or are experiencing grief and loss, therapy can help support you. Often times, reaching out and taking that first step is the hardest part. I understand how overwhelming life can be and how hard it is to prioritize yourself. I welcome all individuals, couples, and families to therapy and provide confidential, inclusive services. Therapy is a safe, peaceful environment to share your truth vulnerably and be met with respect and compassion.
Hi! My name is Ariel Scherer, LCSW. I am so glad that you are here. That first step is always the hardest, but you will soon find out how needed it was. With over seven years of experience, I specialize in empowering individuals of all ages in navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, child trauma, and life adjustments.
Hi! My name is Ariel Scherer, LCSW. I am so glad that you are here. That first step is always the hardest, but you will soon find out how needed it was. With over seven years of experience, I specialize in empowering individuals of all ages in navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, child trauma, and life adjustments.
Hello, I'm so glad you're taking these first steps towards support, healing, and relief. Whether you're struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, big decisions, the long-lasting impact of trauma, or any human challenge - therapy can be a place to gain tools, learn about yourself, make impactful changes, and above all to be seen, heard, and accepted. Therapy can also be hard work - facing uncomfortable feelings and truths. My work is infused with compassion and humor to make the hard parts a little softer. And my most favorite part of our work together will be the celebrations of your successes along the way.
Hello, I'm so glad you're taking these first steps towards support, healing, and relief. Whether you're struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, big decisions, the long-lasting impact of trauma, or any human challenge - therapy can be a place to gain tools, learn about yourself, make impactful changes, and above all to be seen, heard, and accepted. Therapy can also be hard work - facing uncomfortable feelings and truths. My work is infused with compassion and humor to make the hard parts a little softer. And my most favorite part of our work together will be the celebrations of your successes along the way.
As a virtual therapist, I offer clients the convenience of flexible scheduling in a private setting of their choice. I provide a confidential environment for clients to talk, and my purpose is to help clients make decisions and changes that are consistent with their value system and treatments goals.
As a virtual therapist, I offer clients the convenience of flexible scheduling in a private setting of their choice. I provide a confidential environment for clients to talk, and my purpose is to help clients make decisions and changes that are consistent with their value system and treatments goals.
Empower your healing, embrace your journey! As a therapist, I believe in your ability to overcome life's challenges and rediscover your strengths. I specialize in creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment where individuals, couples, and families can explore their mental health needs and work towards healing. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, my tailored therapeutic approach fosters resilience and empowers you to make meaningful changes. I am dedicated to helping you take those next steps toward emotional well-being, offering a space where you can truly thrive.
Empower your healing, embrace your journey! As a therapist, I believe in your ability to overcome life's challenges and rediscover your strengths. I specialize in creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment where individuals, couples, and families can explore their mental health needs and work towards healing. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, my tailored therapeutic approach fosters resilience and empowers you to make meaningful changes. I am dedicated to helping you take those next steps toward emotional well-being, offering a space where you can truly thrive.
See more therapy options for Lowndes 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.