Chronic Illness Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL

Photo of Paige Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, PMH-C
Paige Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
While I commonly see people struggling with change in their life, anxiety, and navigating their 20's-30s, some other common themes include grief, self-acceptance, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and perinatal mental health concerns.
As a therapist, I work with all my clients, individuals or couples, in a collaborative manner, centered around you and your needs. I strive to always be empathetic, warm, inviting, and non-judgmental. I am diverse in my modalities and specialties and combine various therapeutic techniques to suit you and your goals.
While I commonly see people struggling with change in their life, anxiety, and navigating their 20's-30s, some other common themes include grief, self-acceptance, relationship concerns, chronic illness, and perinatal mental health concerns.
As a therapist, I work with all my clients, individuals or couples, in a collaborative manner, centered around you and your needs. I strive to always be empathetic, warm, inviting, and non-judgmental. I am diverse in my modalities and specialties and combine various therapeutic techniques to suit you and your goals.
(872) 328-5127 View (872) 328-5127
Photo of Dr. Austin Aibel, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Austin Aibel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have also done a lot of work with folks struggling with trauma, OCD, chronic illness/complex medical conditions, and identity concerns.
Here’s the low-down on my training: I worked at Eating Recovery Center at the IOP and PHP levels of care. I completed my predoctoral internship at Wake Forest University, working on the Eating Disorders Assessment and Treatment Team. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship at an outpatient group practice focused on eating disorders and body image issues.
I have also done a lot of work with folks struggling with trauma, OCD, chronic illness/complex medical conditions, and identity concerns.
Here’s the low-down on my training: I worked at Eating Recovery Center at the IOP and PHP levels of care. I completed my predoctoral internship at Wake Forest University, working on the Eating Disorders Assessment and Treatment Team. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship at an outpatient group practice focused on eating disorders and body image issues.
(312) 626-5114 View (312) 626-5114
Photo of Tara Reen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tara Reen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive clinical experience working with diverse populations struggling with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and difficulty adjusting to a myriad of life stressors.
My approach incorporates third wave behavioral therapies and mindfulness-based practices in order to guide clients in becoming more accepting of their thoughts. With a focus on how behavioral patterns evolve over time, my aim is to help you take effective action in areas you can control and make improvements in the domains of life you value.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive clinical experience working with diverse populations struggling with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and difficulty adjusting to a myriad of life stressors.
My approach incorporates third wave behavioral therapies and mindfulness-based practices in order to guide clients in becoming more accepting of their thoughts. With a focus on how behavioral patterns evolve over time, my aim is to help you take effective action in areas you can control and make improvements in the domains of life you value.
(872) 231-3185 View (872) 231-3185
Photo of Andrea McCurdy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Andrea McCurdy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Whatever has led you to seek therapy—be it depression, anxiety, chronic illness, or simply feeling stuck—I'm here to support you in your journey toward self-discovery and personal growth.
I incorporate a blend of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and strengths-based therapy to create a supportive environment for growth. In our initial sessions, we will dive into your reasons for seeking therapy, any specific concerns you may have, personal history, and identify goals for treatment.
Whatever has led you to seek therapy—be it depression, anxiety, chronic illness, or simply feeling stuck—I'm here to support you in your journey toward self-discovery and personal growth.
I incorporate a blend of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and strengths-based therapy to create a supportive environment for growth. In our initial sessions, we will dive into your reasons for seeking therapy, any specific concerns you may have, personal history, and identify goals for treatment.
(872) 302-2131 View (872) 302-2131
Photo of Alexandra Kutnick, Psychologist, MA, PhD
Alexandra Kutnick
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Ar Morningside Counseling and Assessment, I provide therapy that is collaborative and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
Ar Morningside Counseling and Assessment, I provide therapy that is collaborative and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
(872) 228-2144 View (872) 228-2144
Photo of Elizabeth Perri, Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Elizabeth Perri
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Many people feel distressed, confused, lost, or overwhelmed long before they enter therapy. It takes courage to reach out to a stranger for support, and I'm here to help guide you on your journey to uncovering your inner strengths, and identify goals based on your wants and needs. I help people who want to make positive changes in their lives, but are held back by fear, stress, indecision, or old habits. I can help you not only gain awareness and insight, but learn concrete strategies for managing uncomfortable thoughts, emotions, and harmful behaviors.
Many people feel distressed, confused, lost, or overwhelmed long before they enter therapy. It takes courage to reach out to a stranger for support, and I'm here to help guide you on your journey to uncovering your inner strengths, and identify goals based on your wants and needs. I help people who want to make positive changes in their lives, but are held back by fear, stress, indecision, or old habits. I can help you not only gain awareness and insight, but learn concrete strategies for managing uncomfortable thoughts, emotions, and harmful behaviors.
(847) 737-4962 View (847) 737-4962
Photo of Belva A Miles, Psychologist, PsyD
Belva A Miles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Perhaps you have been having difficulty trying to manage your symptoms. Maybe you struggle with depressed or anxious feelings and troubling thoughts. You may at times feel overwhelmed or paralyzed by what you are experiencing. You might even have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep because your mind has once again been hijacked by troubling thoughts. Try as you might, you have not been able to obtain much relief from these symptoms and feel it is time to call a professional to help.
Perhaps you have been having difficulty trying to manage your symptoms. Maybe you struggle with depressed or anxious feelings and troubling thoughts. You may at times feel overwhelmed or paralyzed by what you are experiencing. You might even have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep because your mind has once again been hijacked by troubling thoughts. Try as you might, you have not been able to obtain much relief from these symptoms and feel it is time to call a professional to help.
(872) 204-2137 View (872) 204-2137
Photo of Lisa Goodson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lisa Goodson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
My name is Lisa Goodson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working with individuals throughout the entire state of Illinois. I am available for telehealth appointments. I provide support to empower individuals to support themselves differently in life. Your Space, Your Time, Your Life I use evidence-based practice and have been working in the mental health industry for over 5 years. I am offering individual counseling services, family counseling services, as well as couple counseling services. I can be contacted directly at (630) 216-4315 or by email
My name is Lisa Goodson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working with individuals throughout the entire state of Illinois. I am available for telehealth appointments. I provide support to empower individuals to support themselves differently in life. Your Space, Your Time, Your Life I use evidence-based practice and have been working in the mental health industry for over 5 years. I am offering individual counseling services, family counseling services, as well as couple counseling services. I can be contacted directly at (630) 216-4315 or by email
(872) 250-7387 View (872) 250-7387
Photo of DeKhari J L Dixon, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
DeKhari J L Dixon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited Black man, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to heal and celebrate yourself on your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited Black man, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to heal and celebrate yourself on your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
(773) 900-7154 View (773) 900-7154
Photo of Dr. Julia Hongying Chen, Psychologist, PhD, MS
Dr. Julia Hongying Chen
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Having lived in different countries (China, England, and the U.S.) and the life of both a “majority” and a “minority”, from marketing to mental health, I am able to connect with people in their diverse life experiences. I see therapy as a relationship between two people committed to face the deeper truths of our lives. I am here to understand your unique personal story, and support you in sorting out complex emotional and relational concerns. The goal is for you to set yourself free from limiting barriers, build emotional resilience, and develop more fulfilling relationships with others.
Having lived in different countries (China, England, and the U.S.) and the life of both a “majority” and a “minority”, from marketing to mental health, I am able to connect with people in their diverse life experiences. I see therapy as a relationship between two people committed to face the deeper truths of our lives. I am here to understand your unique personal story, and support you in sorting out complex emotional and relational concerns. The goal is for you to set yourself free from limiting barriers, build emotional resilience, and develop more fulfilling relationships with others.
(312) 604-5979 View (312) 604-5979
Photo of Adam Hellebrand, Psychologist, PsyD
Adam Hellebrand
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Dr. Hellebrand has vast experience in a variety of settings, including intensive outpatient, primary care settings, community mental health, college counseling and private practice. He holds a Doctorate from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Masters degree in Evaluation and Organizational Behavior from Claremont Graduate University.
Dr. Hellebrand has vast experience in a variety of settings, including intensive outpatient, primary care settings, community mental health, college counseling and private practice. He holds a Doctorate from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Masters degree in Evaluation and Organizational Behavior from Claremont Graduate University.
(872) 204-2517 View (872) 204-2517
Photo of Emily Sherrill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Emily Sherrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60601
I am a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 24 years of experience in the mental health field, having worked in various settings, including outpatient, inpatient, and residential environments. I specialize in trauma and complex trauma, and I bring extensive experience in addressing mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, eating disorders, and suicidal or parasuicidal behaviors. My commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate, and ethical mental health therapy reflects my aim to empower individuals to navigate challenges with resilience and strength.
I am a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 24 years of experience in the mental health field, having worked in various settings, including outpatient, inpatient, and residential environments. I specialize in trauma and complex trauma, and I bring extensive experience in addressing mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, eating disorders, and suicidal or parasuicidal behaviors. My commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate, and ethical mental health therapy reflects my aim to empower individuals to navigate challenges with resilience and strength.
(872) 278-3539 View (872) 278-3539
Photo of Lisa M. Demos, Counselor, LCPC, MA
Lisa M. Demos
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
With over 20 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
With over 20 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
(773) 451-8172 View (773) 451-8172
Photo of Bea Cleveland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bea Cleveland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling disconnected from your body, your sexuality and relationships? My clients come to me struggling with pain, shame, guilt and/or the pressure to perform. In every first session I reassure my clients, as I will reassure you now, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in reproductive and sexual medicine, I support individuals and partnership/s cultivate authenticity within themselves, their sexuality and within their relationships.
Are you feeling disconnected from your body, your sexuality and relationships? My clients come to me struggling with pain, shame, guilt and/or the pressure to perform. In every first session I reassure my clients, as I will reassure you now, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in reproductive and sexual medicine, I support individuals and partnership/s cultivate authenticity within themselves, their sexuality and within their relationships.
(708) 832-6308 View (708) 832-6308
Photo of Laura Kanaplue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Laura Kanaplue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I provide treatment to individuals, specializing in working with emerging adults and family members supporting those navigating that developmental stage. My experience emphasizes the significance of tailoring interventions to meet the diverse needs of each client. I will help you explore how your past is showing up in your present, and work to heal what is keeping you from living more authentically. I specialize in helping clients figure out where they’d like to see improvements in their lives. This could be related to many things including gender, sexuality, relationships, anxiety and depression, or emotional regulation.
I provide treatment to individuals, specializing in working with emerging adults and family members supporting those navigating that developmental stage. My experience emphasizes the significance of tailoring interventions to meet the diverse needs of each client. I will help you explore how your past is showing up in your present, and work to heal what is keeping you from living more authentically. I specialize in helping clients figure out where they’d like to see improvements in their lives. This could be related to many things including gender, sexuality, relationships, anxiety and depression, or emotional regulation.
(217) 694-8070 View (217) 694-8070
Photo of Timothy Armon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Timothy Armon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
Are you looking for a non-judgmental therapist who will meet you where you're at? Do you want to live intentionally and feel more connected to your life? As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in addiction and helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together, we'll work towards intentional living, cultivating resilience, and creating a plan for positive change. I offer a safe, warm space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Let's find connection and purpose in your life. I work with diverse individuals and welcome anyone seeking support.
Are you looking for a non-judgmental therapist who will meet you where you're at? Do you want to live intentionally and feel more connected to your life? As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in addiction and helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together, we'll work towards intentional living, cultivating resilience, and creating a plan for positive change. I offer a safe, warm space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Let's find connection and purpose in your life. I work with diverse individuals and welcome anyone seeking support.
(708) 742-6466 View (708) 742-6466
Photo of Linda Carlson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Linda Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Patients via Telehealth. Saturday appointments available. Let's schedule a free phone consult to see if we are a good fit to work together. It can be difficult to navigate personal change, loss, life transitions or maintaining motivation... Looking at you: new college student, new parent, caregiver for aging family or person transitioning children out of the home. Are you feeling stressed or stretched thin? This can look like depression, anxiety, procrastination or feeling overwhelmed. We can work on that together! There are always strengths in each person's situation that we can build on and maximize.
Accepting New Patients via Telehealth. Saturday appointments available. Let's schedule a free phone consult to see if we are a good fit to work together. It can be difficult to navigate personal change, loss, life transitions or maintaining motivation... Looking at you: new college student, new parent, caregiver for aging family or person transitioning children out of the home. Are you feeling stressed or stretched thin? This can look like depression, anxiety, procrastination or feeling overwhelmed. We can work on that together! There are always strengths in each person's situation that we can build on and maximize.
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Photo of Rachael Miller, Counselor, LCPC, NCC, EMDR-C
Rachael Miller
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve worked hard to build the life you have - but lately, it’s not working for you. Whether you're an executive managing personnel, a professional feeling overwhelmed, or simply exhausted by everything you're juggling, I help high-functioning women recover from burnout and rediscover clarity, purpose, and energy. You’re used to being the one others count on. You lead, support, and deliver - but it’s a lonely position. When burnout creeps in, it can feel like you’re running on fumes but can’t slow down. Balance is hard to find while meeting everyone’s, including your own, expectations.
You’ve worked hard to build the life you have - but lately, it’s not working for you. Whether you're an executive managing personnel, a professional feeling overwhelmed, or simply exhausted by everything you're juggling, I help high-functioning women recover from burnout and rediscover clarity, purpose, and energy. You’re used to being the one others count on. You lead, support, and deliver - but it’s a lonely position. When burnout creeps in, it can feel like you’re running on fumes but can’t slow down. Balance is hard to find while meeting everyone’s, including your own, expectations.
(872) 985-0109 View (872) 985-0109
Photo of Karen Stickler, Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Karen Stickler
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in health psychology with 16 years of experience in weight management and bariatric. Many of my clients present with co-morbidities and are living with chronic medical illnesses. Some of the areas addressed in treatment include emotional eating, binge eating, body image issues, depression, anxiety, and other mood related disorders. I offer pre-surgical bariatric psychological evaluations, brief and long-term therapy using an eclectic approach incorporating cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, mindfulness, family systems and interpersonal therapy. I work closely with my client's medical providers in order to provide the most robust care.
I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in health psychology with 16 years of experience in weight management and bariatric. Many of my clients present with co-morbidities and are living with chronic medical illnesses. Some of the areas addressed in treatment include emotional eating, binge eating, body image issues, depression, anxiety, and other mood related disorders. I offer pre-surgical bariatric psychological evaluations, brief and long-term therapy using an eclectic approach incorporating cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, mindfulness, family systems and interpersonal therapy. I work closely with my client's medical providers in order to provide the most robust care.
(312) 789-5404 View (312) 789-5404
Photo of Leah Paskar, Psychologist, PhD
Leah Paskar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
Are you feeling sad, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you experiencing relationship problems or feeling lonely? Asking for help is a courageous thing to do. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I offer a thoughtful, compassionate, and collaborative approach to dealing with life's difficulties. Together we can find solutions that will make you feel better as soon as possible. I can help you develop new coping strategies and a deeper understanding of your needs. I am committed to helping you use your strengths to grow personally and in your relationships with others. **Unfortunately, I am not able to accept new clients at this time.*
Are you feeling sad, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you experiencing relationship problems or feeling lonely? Asking for help is a courageous thing to do. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I offer a thoughtful, compassionate, and collaborative approach to dealing with life's difficulties. Together we can find solutions that will make you feel better as soon as possible. I can help you develop new coping strategies and a deeper understanding of your needs. I am committed to helping you use your strengths to grow personally and in your relationships with others. **Unfortunately, I am not able to accept new clients at this time.*
(773) 757-5095 View (773) 757-5095
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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.