Chronic Illness Therapists in 80302

Photo of Susan C. Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Susan C. Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Know Thyself was the ancient prescription for a meaningful life, and I believe it still holds true today. To understand our needs, potentials, and limitations gives us the courage to confront our challenges and the wisdom to learn and grow from them. I offer a compassionate and down-to-earth approach to therapy, partnering with clients to discover unconscious patterns that interfere with satisfaction in work, health, relationships, and creativity. I believe that symptoms arise when vital parts of our personalities have been denied; thus depression, anxiety, addiction, and chronic illness may be voices of the deeper self trying to be heard.
Know Thyself was the ancient prescription for a meaningful life, and I believe it still holds true today. To understand our needs, potentials, and limitations gives us the courage to confront our challenges and the wisdom to learn and grow from them. I offer a compassionate and down-to-earth approach to therapy, partnering with clients to discover unconscious patterns that interfere with satisfaction in work, health, relationships, and creativity. I believe that symptoms arise when vital parts of our personalities have been denied; thus depression, anxiety, addiction, and chronic illness may be voices of the deeper self trying to be heard.
(202) 873-8558 View (202) 873-8558
Photo of Meghan Stetson, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
Meghan Stetson
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, MA, MEd, RYT-500
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Living with chronic illness and/or chronic pain can be an invisible, isolating, and scary experience. On top of that, the way that our society is structured has all but left these areas out of the realm of psychotherapy and leaves these experiences to the field of medicine alone. If you live with chronic illness or chronic pain, you know firsthand how lacking this model is. In my therapy practice I strive to create space for all aspects of your human experience, while working with you towards the ability to feel safe in your body, access hope and a healthy sense of self, and to transform your suffering into meaning.
Living with chronic illness and/or chronic pain can be an invisible, isolating, and scary experience. On top of that, the way that our society is structured has all but left these areas out of the realm of psychotherapy and leaves these experiences to the field of medicine alone. If you live with chronic illness or chronic pain, you know firsthand how lacking this model is. In my therapy practice I strive to create space for all aspects of your human experience, while working with you towards the ability to feel safe in your body, access hope and a healthy sense of self, and to transform your suffering into meaning.
(720) 677-6947 View (720) 677-6947
Photo of Elissa Berlinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Elissa Berlinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Areas of Interest: psychodynamic psychotherapy, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, chronic illness, food/eating concerns, substance use, family and relational issues, identity concerns, and training and supervision.
I received my Master of Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work. I completed a two year post-graduate training program in psychodynamic psychotherapy and in the treatment of eating disorders and substance abuse at Wardenbrug Health Center at CU-Boulder. I have additional specialized training in the treatment of chronic neurological illnesses-MS in particular-through my work with the Rocky Mountain MS Center. I coordinated the eating disorder program at CU-Boulder and I have undergone additional trainings in DBT, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic therapy.
Areas of Interest: psychodynamic psychotherapy, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, chronic illness, food/eating concerns, substance use, family and relational issues, identity concerns, and training and supervision.
I received my Master of Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work. I completed a two year post-graduate training program in psychodynamic psychotherapy and in the treatment of eating disorders and substance abuse at Wardenbrug Health Center at CU-Boulder. I have additional specialized training in the treatment of chronic neurological illnesses-MS in particular-through my work with the Rocky Mountain MS Center. I coordinated the eating disorder program at CU-Boulder and I have undergone additional trainings in DBT, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic therapy.
(720) 309-7779 View (720) 309-7779
Photo of Christin P Bellian, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80302, CO
Christin P Bellian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I am especially interested in working with clients and families living with chronic illness.
I will help you gain a more profound understanding of your experience, a deeper connection with self and others, and a recognition of your individual and relational values and beliefs. I will guide you toward greater self-worth so you can ask for and have the rich life and meaningful relationships you want and deserve. I work with all kinds of clients in all kinds of configurations. I meet with individuals, couples, and families, and I like to work with clients across time. I will offer you support as your life unfolds.
I am especially interested in working with clients and families living with chronic illness.
I will help you gain a more profound understanding of your experience, a deeper connection with self and others, and a recognition of your individual and relational values and beliefs. I will guide you toward greater self-worth so you can ask for and have the rich life and meaningful relationships you want and deserve. I work with all kinds of clients in all kinds of configurations. I meet with individuals, couples, and families, and I like to work with clients across time. I will offer you support as your life unfolds.
(720) 702-1549 View (720) 702-1549
Photo of Healing Connections: Therapy Collective, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Healing Connections: Therapy Collective
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
We are a Colorado-based collective of therapists bringing our rich backgrounds together to help clients integrate and move through challenges. We provide diverse approaches to meet our clients needs and support them where they are. Our therapists support clients of all ages working with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, chronic illness, recovery, grief, as well as other challenges that can arise in everyday life. Each therapist brings their own unique perspective and experience to the therapeutic relationship, and all of our providers are dedicated to client-centered, trauma-informed care.
We are a Colorado-based collective of therapists bringing our rich backgrounds together to help clients integrate and move through challenges. We provide diverse approaches to meet our clients needs and support them where they are. Our therapists support clients of all ages working with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, chronic illness, recovery, grief, as well as other challenges that can arise in everyday life. Each therapist brings their own unique perspective and experience to the therapeutic relationship, and all of our providers are dedicated to client-centered, trauma-informed care.
(970) 715-8506 View (970) 715-8506
Photo of Amanda A. Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Amanda A. Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Intimacy with the dying process, alongside the inextricable link between chronic illness and trauma, led me to seek new tools derived from EMDR and IFS for assisting clients while living.
I'm Amanda, providing in person and telemental health services to Colorado residents from emergent adulthood into seniority. I seek to provide a comfortable, welcoming space for clients to work through life’s challenges both large and small. Together, we’ll devote our time to cultivating growth and self-awareness while building upon existing strengths. We all have the ability to change, grow, and self-heal. Although my goal is to help clients discover and recover authentic solutions for their unique challenges; during our work together you may find that the solutions are already there, I just encourage bringing them to light!
Intimacy with the dying process, alongside the inextricable link between chronic illness and trauma, led me to seek new tools derived from EMDR and IFS for assisting clients while living.
I'm Amanda, providing in person and telemental health services to Colorado residents from emergent adulthood into seniority. I seek to provide a comfortable, welcoming space for clients to work through life’s challenges both large and small. Together, we’ll devote our time to cultivating growth and self-awareness while building upon existing strengths. We all have the ability to change, grow, and self-heal. Although my goal is to help clients discover and recover authentic solutions for their unique challenges; during our work together you may find that the solutions are already there, I just encourage bringing them to light!
(970) 645-3818 View (970) 645-3818
Photo of Mo Bankey, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Mo Bankey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize training in Buddhist psychology, mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), DBT, IFS, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy when working with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, identity development, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
There is a way through this. We will find it together. I believe in the power of authentic expression and deep relationships. I incorporate contemplative, somatic, and social justice approaches in my counseling. I work with adults focusing on identity, gender, and relationships. I provide a collaborative approach utilizing mind-body and present moment awareness to support you in connecting with your intrinsic health and inherent wisdom. As meditator, dancer, and gardener I value time to reflect, slow down, be with nature, and developing our capacity to move from the heart with courage and gentleness.
I utilize training in Buddhist psychology, mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), DBT, IFS, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy when working with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, identity development, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
There is a way through this. We will find it together. I believe in the power of authentic expression and deep relationships. I incorporate contemplative, somatic, and social justice approaches in my counseling. I work with adults focusing on identity, gender, and relationships. I provide a collaborative approach utilizing mind-body and present moment awareness to support you in connecting with your intrinsic health and inherent wisdom. As meditator, dancer, and gardener I value time to reflect, slow down, be with nature, and developing our capacity to move from the heart with courage and gentleness.
(970) 410-3517 View (970) 410-3517
Photo of Sarah Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Sarah Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I provide Telehealth services to individuals in Washington and Colorado. Are you struggling to cope with a mental health condition, difficult life circumstance, or (gestures broadly at the state of the world)? Do you feel like you “should” know what to do… but you don’t? Are you burning out? I help teens and adults struggling to cope with mental health symptoms, traumatic experiences, life stressors, chronic illness, LGBTQ+ issues, body image, and religious trauma. I believe every person has intrinsic worth, deserves to express their authentic self, and can participate in their own healing.
I provide Telehealth services to individuals in Washington and Colorado. Are you struggling to cope with a mental health condition, difficult life circumstance, or (gestures broadly at the state of the world)? Do you feel like you “should” know what to do… but you don’t? Are you burning out? I help teens and adults struggling to cope with mental health symptoms, traumatic experiences, life stressors, chronic illness, LGBTQ+ issues, body image, and religious trauma. I believe every person has intrinsic worth, deserves to express their authentic self, and can participate in their own healing.
(720) 597-7960 View (720) 597-7960
Photo of Ben Keating, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
Ben Keating
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, CPRP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Ben, and I work with adults of all backgrounds, mental states, and social locations, using techniques, philosophies, and practices from around the world. I have extensive experience working with severe mental illness, addiction, trauma, social challenges, chronic illness & pain, and depression and anxiety. If you struggle to feel connected, to feel purposeful, to feel good most of the time, these are all issues I'd like to help with.
Hello, my name is Ben, and I work with adults of all backgrounds, mental states, and social locations, using techniques, philosophies, and practices from around the world. I have extensive experience working with severe mental illness, addiction, trauma, social challenges, chronic illness & pain, and depression and anxiety. If you struggle to feel connected, to feel purposeful, to feel good most of the time, these are all issues I'd like to help with.
(303) 951-3786 View (303) 951-3786
Photo of Carolyn Fulton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Carolyn Fulton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I am an Ackerman trained family therapist and graduate of NYU, practicing individual, family, couple, and support group psychotherapy. I specialize in relationships, intimacy, illness, trauma, and loss. My therapeutic work w/clients focuses on exploring how family, religion, and cultures of origin influence how one learns to adapt in the world, both independently and when exploring new areas of intimacy and connection. I believe in the importance of my own self-awareness, acknowledging that the work in understanding one’s relationship to privilege regarding ethnicity, color, and other intersectional identities are a lifelong study.
I am an Ackerman trained family therapist and graduate of NYU, practicing individual, family, couple, and support group psychotherapy. I specialize in relationships, intimacy, illness, trauma, and loss. My therapeutic work w/clients focuses on exploring how family, religion, and cultures of origin influence how one learns to adapt in the world, both independently and when exploring new areas of intimacy and connection. I believe in the importance of my own self-awareness, acknowledging that the work in understanding one’s relationship to privilege regarding ethnicity, color, and other intersectional identities are a lifelong study.
(720) 770-4084 View (720) 770-4084
Photo of Bria Vogt, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
Bria Vogt
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I am an LPCC (Licensed Professional Counselor Credentialing) in the State of Colorado.  My goal for providing counseling is to help my clients through some of life's most difficult times.  Working together and exploring these hardships allows for the client to be able to cultivate and find some of life's most meaningful connections. Having trained in both somatic therapy and EMDR, I help move my clients through some of the most difficult traumas or bereavement as they journey to a greater understanding of self by fostering a more profound connection with the body, mind and spirit.  I enjoy working with a wide range of ages.
I am an LPCC (Licensed Professional Counselor Credentialing) in the State of Colorado.  My goal for providing counseling is to help my clients through some of life's most difficult times.  Working together and exploring these hardships allows for the client to be able to cultivate and find some of life's most meaningful connections. Having trained in both somatic therapy and EMDR, I help move my clients through some of the most difficult traumas or bereavement as they journey to a greater understanding of self by fostering a more profound connection with the body, mind and spirit.  I enjoy working with a wide range of ages.
(720) 608-5898 View (720) 608-5898
Photo of Meg Kies, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
Meg Kies
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I approach therapy with a client-centered framework to let you determine what path your journey is taking. We will create a relationship together where I can be your mirror and reflect your innate wisdom that life's stress and trauma have obscured. Lasting change is created through this empowerment that gives you the strength and awareness to deepen personal resilience. I blend a model of evidence-based therapeutic techniques with non-traditional spiritual knowledge and practices like mindfulness. Through compassion, present-moment focus, and somatic guidance, I offer support unique to what you need for your individual situation.
I approach therapy with a client-centered framework to let you determine what path your journey is taking. We will create a relationship together where I can be your mirror and reflect your innate wisdom that life's stress and trauma have obscured. Lasting change is created through this empowerment that gives you the strength and awareness to deepen personal resilience. I blend a model of evidence-based therapeutic techniques with non-traditional spiritual knowledge and practices like mindfulness. Through compassion, present-moment focus, and somatic guidance, I offer support unique to what you need for your individual situation.
(303) 276-9939 View (303) 276-9939
Photo of Eliza Gilmore, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Eliza Gilmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I am a mindfulness-inspired, somatic psychotherapist. At the core of my work, I value bringing deep respect for your unique lived experiences, curiosity to understand your individual system – in its wounding and in its wellness, and kindness to study together how these lived experiences impact your current life and relationships. I feel honored to travel into the unknown together, guiding and supporting you as we explore & deepen into important themes to assist the unfolding of new insights. I attend to opportunities to find and feel new experiences which support you in your goals to live life in more fulfilling, satisfying ways.
I am a mindfulness-inspired, somatic psychotherapist. At the core of my work, I value bringing deep respect for your unique lived experiences, curiosity to understand your individual system – in its wounding and in its wellness, and kindness to study together how these lived experiences impact your current life and relationships. I feel honored to travel into the unknown together, guiding and supporting you as we explore & deepen into important themes to assist the unfolding of new insights. I attend to opportunities to find and feel new experiences which support you in your goals to live life in more fulfilling, satisfying ways.
(720) 637-1395 View (720) 637-1395
Photo of Amanda Roberts, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Amanda Roberts
Psychologist, PhD, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I am committed to obtaining excellent results and my patients will attest to this. I am an EMDR clinician, consultant and trainer nationally & internationally. I am Harvard, Berkeley and Stanford educated and am a practitioner-grounded in the research and literature. My practice brings the best of EMDR, hypnosis, biofeedback and mind/body medicine and marries it with 37 yrs of deep knowledge of the healing arts. As a former dancer and performer, a staunch scientist and a student pilot, I am conversant in both the world of artistic expression and the vast domain of science.
I am committed to obtaining excellent results and my patients will attest to this. I am an EMDR clinician, consultant and trainer nationally & internationally. I am Harvard, Berkeley and Stanford educated and am a practitioner-grounded in the research and literature. My practice brings the best of EMDR, hypnosis, biofeedback and mind/body medicine and marries it with 37 yrs of deep knowledge of the healing arts. As a former dancer and performer, a staunch scientist and a student pilot, I am conversant in both the world of artistic expression and the vast domain of science.
(505) 871-3657 View (505) 871-3657
Photo of Richard Sanderson, Registered Psychotherapist in 80302, CO
Richard Sanderson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
In this age of narcissism and self-discovery, many are feeling isolated and alienated from others, causing us to reassess our relationships and personal choices. Many are disillusioned, anxious and depressed due to unwanted life experiences that threaten our sense of security and block our path to happiness. During this time of cultural and personal insecurity, some seek a space for guided reflection, discovery and contemplation of possibilities previously unconsidered. I provide services that promote healthy outcomes and empower clients to make authentic, self-directed changes that align with personal needs, values and aspirations.
In this age of narcissism and self-discovery, many are feeling isolated and alienated from others, causing us to reassess our relationships and personal choices. Many are disillusioned, anxious and depressed due to unwanted life experiences that threaten our sense of security and block our path to happiness. During this time of cultural and personal insecurity, some seek a space for guided reflection, discovery and contemplation of possibilities previously unconsidered. I provide services that promote healthy outcomes and empower clients to make authentic, self-directed changes that align with personal needs, values and aspirations.
(719) 212-2065 View (719) 212-2065
Photo of Patrick Ross Vann, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Patrick Ross Vann
Psychologist, Ed, D
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I assume serious intent to address whatever brought the patient to my office in the first place. It is my hope to form the most positive therapeutic alliance possible. The first step is to acknowledge the courage it took to make the call. I have been practicing as a licensed Clinical Psychologist for thirty years. I have also served as a faculty member at the University of Colorado Boulder for over twenty years. I mostly see chronic depressed and anxious patients I .have worked across the spectrum from imminently suicidial to the broader existential issues concerning a more meaningful life.
I assume serious intent to address whatever brought the patient to my office in the first place. It is my hope to form the most positive therapeutic alliance possible. The first step is to acknowledge the courage it took to make the call. I have been practicing as a licensed Clinical Psychologist for thirty years. I have also served as a faculty member at the University of Colorado Boulder for over twenty years. I mostly see chronic depressed and anxious patients I .have worked across the spectrum from imminently suicidial to the broader existential issues concerning a more meaningful life.
(303) 835-6786 View (303) 835-6786
Photo of Nicol Pate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Nicol Pate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I specialize in EFT and trauma therapy for couples, families and individuals. I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT) and Supervisor. I also work with Janina Fisher's model of trauma treatment which is a blend of modalities including IFS and sensorimotor psychotherapy. I have been certified in EMDR and Brainspotting and use them for emotionally charged issues, stuck patterns and trauma. I love working with couples to create lasting change that touches the heart of the person and the relationship. See my website for more information: nicolpate.com
I specialize in EFT and trauma therapy for couples, families and individuals. I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT) and Supervisor. I also work with Janina Fisher's model of trauma treatment which is a blend of modalities including IFS and sensorimotor psychotherapy. I have been certified in EMDR and Brainspotting and use them for emotionally charged issues, stuck patterns and trauma. I love working with couples to create lasting change that touches the heart of the person and the relationship. See my website for more information: nicolpate.com
(303) 647-5597 View (303) 647-5597
Photo of Somatic Wilderness Therapy Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Somatic Wilderness Therapy Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BMP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Whether you are an individual or couple looking for personal support, or a therapeutic practitioner looking to take your practice to another level of potency, the Somatic Wilderness Therapy Institute guides you in taking your ongoing growth and evolution to the next level. Our goal is to provide you with powerful, cutting-edge information and practices that support you in deeply listening to and trusting your own inner guidance. Each of our therapists draws on the support, wisdom, and interconnectedness of the body-mind-spirit along with that of the natural world in the growth and healing process as they work with you.
Whether you are an individual or couple looking for personal support, or a therapeutic practitioner looking to take your practice to another level of potency, the Somatic Wilderness Therapy Institute guides you in taking your ongoing growth and evolution to the next level. Our goal is to provide you with powerful, cutting-edge information and practices that support you in deeply listening to and trusting your own inner guidance. Each of our therapists draws on the support, wisdom, and interconnectedness of the body-mind-spirit along with that of the natural world in the growth and healing process as they work with you.
(720) 664-2710 View (720) 664-2710
Photo of Piper Murray, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Piper Murray
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I believe that much of our suffering begins with a lost connection. When we're depressed, we've lost touch with our own vitality, even our own reasons for living. When we're grieving, we've lost an essential part of our world--and, with it, a part of ourselves. When we're operating from a place of shame or fear, we've lost the internal sense of security and belonging that reminds us we're okay. I believe that psychotherapy works by restoring these vital connections--to ourselves, and to the people and pursuits that give our lives meaning--so that we can live our lives more authentically, creatively, and fully.
I believe that much of our suffering begins with a lost connection. When we're depressed, we've lost touch with our own vitality, even our own reasons for living. When we're grieving, we've lost an essential part of our world--and, with it, a part of ourselves. When we're operating from a place of shame or fear, we've lost the internal sense of security and belonging that reminds us we're okay. I believe that psychotherapy works by restoring these vital connections--to ourselves, and to the people and pursuits that give our lives meaning--so that we can live our lives more authentically, creatively, and fully.
(720) 924-4606 View (720) 924-4606
Photo of Trisha Wolfe, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Trisha Wolfe
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Accepting new clients! Stop putting yourself last, break free of self-sabotaging habits, and start uncovering your authentic self to move toward the future you're dreaming of. Many of the patterns we experience in our lives are the result of things we have learned in our past environments. This can show up in our lives as anxiety, stress, depression, feelings of disconnection, sadness, and more. Maybe you find yourself agreeing with those around you just to keep the peace, unsure of your own needs, acting like a chameleon to fit in with those around you, or anxious just trying to handle the stressors of your daily life.
Accepting new clients! Stop putting yourself last, break free of self-sabotaging habits, and start uncovering your authentic self to move toward the future you're dreaming of. Many of the patterns we experience in our lives are the result of things we have learned in our past environments. This can show up in our lives as anxiety, stress, depression, feelings of disconnection, sadness, and more. Maybe you find yourself agreeing with those around you just to keep the peace, unsure of your own needs, acting like a chameleon to fit in with those around you, or anxious just trying to handle the stressors of your daily life.
(720) 821-5512 View (720) 821-5512

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.