Chronic Illness Therapists in Johnson County, IA
I also have experience working within the chronic illness and chronic pain communities.
Trauma happens when stressful experiences deplete our physical, mental, or emotional resources. Unresolved traumas can persist as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, physical pain or illness, and other distressing symptoms that wreak havoc on our daily lives. I do not believe that we "get over" our traumas, but rather that we find a way through them. As your therapist, I will walk beside you as you navigate your trauma journey and regain ownership over your personal story.
I also have experience working within the chronic illness and chronic pain communities.
Trauma happens when stressful experiences deplete our physical, mental, or emotional resources. Unresolved traumas can persist as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, physical pain or illness, and other distressing symptoms that wreak havoc on our daily lives. I do not believe that we "get over" our traumas, but rather that we find a way through them. As your therapist, I will walk beside you as you navigate your trauma journey and regain ownership over your personal story.
Maria de Los Angeles Vargas - Cancel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, APHSW-C, ACM-SW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Over a decade of combined experience, research and training focused in working with adult and elderly participants overwhelmed by: grief, chronic illness and mood disorders.
Change is one of the few constants in life... but we all have been in a place where a "change" on how we relate, reason and think ... has been easier said than done. When was the last time that you looked into you?
As a fellow human being, I know that feeling vulnerable can be unbearable. I believe that we all deserve to be seen and heard, without judgements. I truly enjoy listening to people and empower them to find in therapy a safe space and meaning of their life "story".
Find in me an ally, I also strive on accompanying people to find a personal growth and make informed decisions about their mental health.
Over a decade of combined experience, research and training focused in working with adult and elderly participants overwhelmed by: grief, chronic illness and mood disorders.
Change is one of the few constants in life... but we all have been in a place where a "change" on how we relate, reason and think ... has been easier said than done. When was the last time that you looked into you?
As a fellow human being, I know that feeling vulnerable can be unbearable. I believe that we all deserve to be seen and heard, without judgements. I truly enjoy listening to people and empower them to find in therapy a safe space and meaning of their life "story".
Find in me an ally, I also strive on accompanying people to find a personal growth and make informed decisions about their mental health.
Perhaps you’re further along in your journey, providing care for a spouse or loved one living with chronic illness or dementia.
Regardless of where you find yourself, life’s transitions can stir up stress, anxiety, depression, and even past trauma. Whether you are experiencing chronic pain or dealing with grief or ambiguous loss, I am here to offer support. I take a multicultural, person-centered approach to counseling, tailoring my methods to meet your unique needs.
Perhaps you’re further along in your journey, providing care for a spouse or loved one living with chronic illness or dementia.
Regardless of where you find yourself, life’s transitions can stir up stress, anxiety, depression, and even past trauma. Whether you are experiencing chronic pain or dealing with grief or ambiguous loss, I am here to offer support. I take a multicultural, person-centered approach to counseling, tailoring my methods to meet your unique needs.
I provide individual counseling to adults, and specialize in anxiety/depression, ADHD, eating disorders and chronic illness.
I use a strengths-based approach, consider the social contexts and environments surrounding the client, and seek to provide a safe and nurturing space to explore life’s challenges. I believe counseling is not 'one size fits all', and combine my eating disorder training with a special interest in counseling adults who also have a diabetes diagnosis.
I provide individual counseling to adults, and specialize in anxiety/depression, ADHD, eating disorders and chronic illness.
I use a strengths-based approach, consider the social contexts and environments surrounding the client, and seek to provide a safe and nurturing space to explore life’s challenges. I believe counseling is not 'one size fits all', and combine my eating disorder training with a special interest in counseling adults who also have a diabetes diagnosis.
I have experiencing working with neurodiversity, grief and loss, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, the LBGTQ community, and trauma.
I offer a safe space where you will be seen as an individual with unique needs. Together we will build a relationship that is focused on your healing.
I have experiencing working with neurodiversity, grief and loss, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, the LBGTQ community, and trauma.
I offer a safe space where you will be seen as an individual with unique needs. Together we will build a relationship that is focused on your healing.
His research and writing on the impact of chronic illness and chronic pain on individual, couple, and family functioning have received national recognition.
David specializes in: Depression; Anxiety; Stress Management; and Relationship Issues (premarital & marital problems, communication, co-parenting, financial stress, affairs, infidelity, divorce, sexual health)
His research and writing on the impact of chronic illness and chronic pain on individual, couple, and family functioning have received national recognition.
David specializes in: Depression; Anxiety; Stress Management; and Relationship Issues (premarital & marital problems, communication, co-parenting, financial stress, affairs, infidelity, divorce, sexual health)
Additionally, I have experience providing counseling services to caregivers of person's navigating the complexity of a physical health/ chronic illness diagnosis.
Accepting New Clients! Finding a counselor that is a good fit for you is vitally important to the counseling process. With this in mind, I work hard to develop a strong therapeutic relationship that is collaborative and supportive for my clients. Here is a bit about me to help you decide if I would be a good fit to help with your concerns! I provide individual and group counseling to adult clients. I have experience working with clients of all ages! I have training in working with people who identify as transgender and have experience writing letters of support. I also have experiences working with college students navigating
Additionally, I have experience providing counseling services to caregivers of person's navigating the complexity of a physical health/ chronic illness diagnosis.
Accepting New Clients! Finding a counselor that is a good fit for you is vitally important to the counseling process. With this in mind, I work hard to develop a strong therapeutic relationship that is collaborative and supportive for my clients. Here is a bit about me to help you decide if I would be a good fit to help with your concerns! I provide individual and group counseling to adult clients. I have experience working with clients of all ages! I have training in working with people who identify as transgender and have experience writing letters of support. I also have experiences working with college students navigating
I specialize in seeing clients with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, trauma/PTSD, ADHD/ADD, ASD, individuals adjusting to chronic illness or disability, persons with disabilities, sexual abuse, Bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, attachment concerns, athletes, and grief.
Ideally, my clients are individuals who are looking for someone to support them on their path to healing and flourishing. Simply put, they want to feel better. My clients want to rid themselves of their racing thoughts, nightmares, sleeplessness, sadness, and overall dysfunction. They want better relationships with their loved ones. They want coping skills and techniques that will help them battle their symptoms. They also want someone who is ready to listen to them.
I specialize in seeing clients with Depression, Anxiety, OCD, trauma/PTSD, ADHD/ADD, ASD, individuals adjusting to chronic illness or disability, persons with disabilities, sexual abuse, Bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, attachment concerns, athletes, and grief.
Ideally, my clients are individuals who are looking for someone to support them on their path to healing and flourishing. Simply put, they want to feel better. My clients want to rid themselves of their racing thoughts, nightmares, sleeplessness, sadness, and overall dysfunction. They want better relationships with their loved ones. They want coping skills and techniques that will help them battle their symptoms. They also want someone who is ready to listen to them.
I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating grief and healing from trauma, as well as those in the queer and trans community and those living with chronic illness.
Finding a therapist who truly sees you and meets you where you are can make all the difference. I strive to create a space where you can show up as your authentic self—without judgment, without pretense. Whether you're navigating personal challenges or feeling the weight of societal pressures, you don’t have to do it alone. Together, we can explore your unique experiences, build coping strategies, and work toward a sense of healing and empowerment.
I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating grief and healing from trauma, as well as those in the queer and trans community and those living with chronic illness.
Finding a therapist who truly sees you and meets you where you are can make all the difference. I strive to create a space where you can show up as your authentic self—without judgment, without pretense. Whether you're navigating personal challenges or feeling the weight of societal pressures, you don’t have to do it alone. Together, we can explore your unique experiences, build coping strategies, and work toward a sense of healing and empowerment.
She also works with individuals and caregivers adapting to living with chronic illness and/or disabilities.
Dr. Lukse holds a bachelor’s degree from the Princeton University, master’s degree from Yale University and PhD in Clinical Psychology from Illinois Institute of Technology.
She also works with individuals and caregivers adapting to living with chronic illness and/or disabilities.
Dr. Lukse holds a bachelor’s degree from the Princeton University, master’s degree from Yale University and PhD in Clinical Psychology from Illinois Institute of Technology.
Rochelle Renee Honey-Arcement
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
Waitlist for new clients
My belief in every person’s inherent worth, dignity, and ability to heal and grow have been a driving force in what has led me to become a therapist. As human beings, we crave connection from our earliest moments, yet sometimes we experience pain that prompts us to protect ourselves or creates suffering. I work with people of all ages; children, teens and adults; witnessing the growth that can come from this collaborative relationship. In our work together we will help you connect with your compassionate, courageous self; paving the way for greater connections with others and with yourself.
My belief in every person’s inherent worth, dignity, and ability to heal and grow have been a driving force in what has led me to become a therapist. As human beings, we crave connection from our earliest moments, yet sometimes we experience pain that prompts us to protect ourselves or creates suffering. I work with people of all ages; children, teens and adults; witnessing the growth that can come from this collaborative relationship. In our work together we will help you connect with your compassionate, courageous self; paving the way for greater connections with others and with yourself.
Meet Our Chronic Illness Therapists
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma that affects your day-to-day life? In my practice, I start by understanding where you are now and the unique challenges you are facing. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you move forward in the direction you want to go. I am committed to offering a safe and supportive environment, with both in-person and virtual appointments available on a confidential platform. Whether you're seeking to overcome obstacles, build coping skills, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma that affects your day-to-day life? In my practice, I start by understanding where you are now and the unique challenges you are facing. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you move forward in the direction you want to go. I am committed to offering a safe and supportive environment, with both in-person and virtual appointments available on a confidential platform. Whether you're seeking to overcome obstacles, build coping skills, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Matt Cohen, Ph.D, LISW, Counseling And Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
Matt Cohen, Ph.D. is an LISW (Licensed independent Social Worker, The University of Kansas '94) and is the EAP onsite counselor for Raytheon Technology's (RTX) Rockwell-Collins site in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He also counsels couples and individuals 18 years and older in his private counseling practice in Iowa City. He has given national seminars about working with difficult people in the workplace, and is a licensed workplace mediator and trains others in mediation. He has traveled nationally and internationally to present and conduct workshops using movement, storytelling, and play as a technique to build community and spontaneity.
Matt Cohen, Ph.D. is an LISW (Licensed independent Social Worker, The University of Kansas '94) and is the EAP onsite counselor for Raytheon Technology's (RTX) Rockwell-Collins site in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He also counsels couples and individuals 18 years and older in his private counseling practice in Iowa City. He has given national seminars about working with difficult people in the workplace, and is a licensed workplace mediator and trains others in mediation. He has traveled nationally and internationally to present and conduct workshops using movement, storytelling, and play as a technique to build community and spontaneity.
Natalie Berto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Now accepting new daytime clients!
Natalie knows that every individual, family, and community has strengths. There’s no magic wand to solve all of your problems, but Natalie will walk alongside you as you work towards your goals. She especially enjoys helping those with anxiety, family life cycle issues, boundaries, life transitions, career stress, school-related issues, and teens transitioning to adulthood.
Now accepting new daytime clients!
Natalie knows that every individual, family, and community has strengths. There’s no magic wand to solve all of your problems, but Natalie will walk alongside you as you work towards your goals. She especially enjoys helping those with anxiety, family life cycle issues, boundaries, life transitions, career stress, school-related issues, and teens transitioning to adulthood.
A Graceful Space, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Are you struggling with depression and anxiety? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with emotions, like the weight of the world is on top of your shoulders? You don't have to carry these burdens alone. At A Graceful Space, I thrive on giving grace and holding space in a peaceful, nonjudgmental environment. By utilizing evidence-based, trauma-informed care, my goal is to walk alongside you while you process through past and present stressors, in order to reach your life worth living goals.
Are you struggling with depression and anxiety? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with emotions, like the weight of the world is on top of your shoulders? You don't have to carry these burdens alone. At A Graceful Space, I thrive on giving grace and holding space in a peaceful, nonjudgmental environment. By utilizing evidence-based, trauma-informed care, my goal is to walk alongside you while you process through past and present stressors, in order to reach your life worth living goals.
Jennifer Theurer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
Waitlist for new clients
I have always been passionate about helping others which is what originally inspired me to become a Licensed Independent Social Worker. I enjoy providing therapy services to children, adolescents, or adults who struggle with mental health or behavioral challenges. I use a holistic, evidence-based, and trauma-informed approach to address the unique needs, barriers, and strengths of the client I am working with. I complete a comprehensive psycho-social assessment, and use the skills and training I have earned over the years, to tailor the therapy process to each individual and where they are at in the healing process.
I have always been passionate about helping others which is what originally inspired me to become a Licensed Independent Social Worker. I enjoy providing therapy services to children, adolescents, or adults who struggle with mental health or behavioral challenges. I use a holistic, evidence-based, and trauma-informed approach to address the unique needs, barriers, and strengths of the client I am working with. I complete a comprehensive psycho-social assessment, and use the skills and training I have earned over the years, to tailor the therapy process to each individual and where they are at in the healing process.
Whatever you're currently struggling with: interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, an existential or spiritual crisis, or simply work or school stress, I’m here to meet you where you’re at with compassion, patience, gentleness, and zero judgment as we collaborate on your therapeutic goals. My practice is primarily psychodynamic, while incorporating elements of cognitive and behavioral therapies as needed to assist in restructuring self-defeating patterns. An emphasis on the value of cultivating self-awareness and self-compassion is at the core of my philosophy.
Whatever you're currently struggling with: interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, an existential or spiritual crisis, or simply work or school stress, I’m here to meet you where you’re at with compassion, patience, gentleness, and zero judgment as we collaborate on your therapeutic goals. My practice is primarily psychodynamic, while incorporating elements of cognitive and behavioral therapies as needed to assist in restructuring self-defeating patterns. An emphasis on the value of cultivating self-awareness and self-compassion is at the core of my philosophy.
B.P.R. Therapy, Mediation & Coaching Svcs PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CCPT, CFTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Families, couples and individuals impacted by trauma can find it difficulty to get the help they need. Trauma can impact a families basic ability to communicate and get along, fuel a couples difficulty to feel safe and heard by one another and erode an individuals ability to self regulate. It is common to feel stuck and more often than not, unaddressed or unresolved trauma is the culprit. If you suspect there is trauma at play, holding you and your loved one back from real progress and change, real long lasting change is here. Follow me on IG b.p.r. services. I will be starting a segment called Ask Dr. B for the underserved.
Families, couples and individuals impacted by trauma can find it difficulty to get the help they need. Trauma can impact a families basic ability to communicate and get along, fuel a couples difficulty to feel safe and heard by one another and erode an individuals ability to self regulate. It is common to feel stuck and more often than not, unaddressed or unresolved trauma is the culprit. If you suspect there is trauma at play, holding you and your loved one back from real progress and change, real long lasting change is here. Follow me on IG b.p.r. services. I will be starting a segment called Ask Dr. B for the underserved.
Farrah is accepting new patients and has worked in mental health for over 25 years. Her clinical expertise includes working with teens, adults, couples, and families with a wide range of emotional, relationship, and professional challenges. Farrah has extensive experience helping clients work through trauma, perfectionism, grief, divorce, life transitions, work stress, anxiety and depression. Farrah creates a safe space for her clients to be open, learn new skills and work through difficult issues while supported.
Farrah is accepting new patients and has worked in mental health for over 25 years. Her clinical expertise includes working with teens, adults, couples, and families with a wide range of emotional, relationship, and professional challenges. Farrah has extensive experience helping clients work through trauma, perfectionism, grief, divorce, life transitions, work stress, anxiety and depression. Farrah creates a safe space for her clients to be open, learn new skills and work through difficult issues while supported.
Feeling Lost, Alone, or Misunderstood?
Life and relationships may not be turning out as you expected. You feel like you never quite fit in or figured things out the way others did. If you’re experiencing any of the following, you're not alone:
Facing conflict, reckoning, or disconnection from self, others, or spirituality; Re-examining relationships, intimacy, or roles; Exploring your identity and impact of trauma and hiding true self; A late neurodivergent diagnosis (e.g., autism, ADHD); Realizing unhelpful or harmful coping strategies; Navigating grief or loss; Burnout or distress affecting your work or mental and physical health
Feeling Lost, Alone, or Misunderstood?
Life and relationships may not be turning out as you expected. You feel like you never quite fit in or figured things out the way others did. If you’re experiencing any of the following, you're not alone:
Facing conflict, reckoning, or disconnection from self, others, or spirituality; Re-examining relationships, intimacy, or roles; Exploring your identity and impact of trauma and hiding true self; A late neurodivergent diagnosis (e.g., autism, ADHD); Realizing unhelpful or harmful coping strategies; Navigating grief or loss; Burnout or distress affecting your work or mental and physical health
See more therapy options for Johnson 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.