Chronic Illness Therapists in Chicago, IL
Dr. Amelia Swanson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
I specialize in infertility, pregnancy loss, third-party reproduction, postpartum depression and anxiety,
chronic illness
, stress in medical professionals, ADHD and anxiety.
Do you feel stuck on a roller coaster of hope and disappointment? Are you exhausted trying to stay positive while struggling to cope day to day? Are you devastated when you find out a friend had a second (or third) child while you have been desperately trying to have one? Do you avoid friends and family because you feel heartbroken and jealous of their pregnancies? Do you worry that stress is the reason you aren’t pregnant? Stress doesn't cause infertility - but infertility does cause stress. You can learn ways to cope with the stress of infertility and you deserve to enjoy your life!
I specialize in infertility, pregnancy loss, third-party reproduction, postpartum depression and anxiety,
chronic illness
, stress in medical professionals, ADHD and anxiety.
Do you feel stuck on a roller coaster of hope and disappointment? Are you exhausted trying to stay positive while struggling to cope day to day? Are you devastated when you find out a friend had a second (or third) child while you have been desperately trying to have one? Do you avoid friends and family because you feel heartbroken and jealous of their pregnancies? Do you worry that stress is the reason you aren’t pregnant? Stress doesn't cause infertility - but infertility does cause stress. You can learn ways to cope with the stress of infertility and you deserve to enjoy your life!
Robin B Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
I specialize in depression and anxiety, working with cancer patients and/or their care partners, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues, as well as
chronic illness
.
The therapeutic experience is as unique as one’s thumb print. I strive to help you achieve your goals in navigating life’s transitions and challenges by creating a safe place for you to process your feelings and concerns. It takes courage and strength to reach out and ask for help. I work collaboratively with each client to establish the best treatment plan based on their needs at the time we meet. I am supportive, non-judgmental and warm - with a calm style… and some humor.
I specialize in depression and anxiety, working with cancer patients and/or their care partners, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues, as well as
chronic illness
.
The therapeutic experience is as unique as one’s thumb print. I strive to help you achieve your goals in navigating life’s transitions and challenges by creating a safe place for you to process your feelings and concerns. It takes courage and strength to reach out and ask for help. I work collaboratively with each client to establish the best treatment plan based on their needs at the time we meet. I am supportive, non-judgmental and warm - with a calm style… and some humor.
Jeanelle Kline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
Are you tired of spending all your time in therapy educating your therapist instead of working on what you need? Looking for a therapist who specializes in struggles with identity, sexual orientation, diverse sexual groups, such as kink/BDSM; relationship orientation such as polyamory, relationship anarchy, or swinging; anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, and other
chronic illness
; secular or alternative faiths such as paganism; and are seeking patient-centered, compassionate, and affirming care?
Are you tired of spending all your time in therapy educating your therapist instead of working on what you need? Looking for a therapist who specializes in struggles with identity, sexual orientation, diverse sexual groups, such as kink/BDSM; relationship orientation such as polyamory, relationship anarchy, or swinging; anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, and other
chronic illness
; secular or alternative faiths such as paganism; and are seeking patient-centered, compassionate, and affirming care?
Stacey J. Feuer
Psychologist, PsyD, MLD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with
chronic illness
.
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with
chronic illness
.
Amy Weider
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a
chronic illness
, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a
chronic illness
, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
Abbey Storey
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
My areas of expertise include working with individuals navigating
chronic illness
, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, and vocational rehabilitation.
Each of us are navigating our own personal journeys, with challenges along the way. We make connections each day through our successes and struggles, where it is important to remember that we are not alone. You can overcome barriers, feel a true sense of belonging, relieve worry and stress, increase joy, and know yourself on a deeper level as you achieve more than you thought possible. I am passionate about helping you make lasting improvements using your unique talents to create the life that you desire as we uncover your personal definition of success.
My areas of expertise include working with individuals navigating
chronic illness
, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, and vocational rehabilitation.
Each of us are navigating our own personal journeys, with challenges along the way. We make connections each day through our successes and struggles, where it is important to remember that we are not alone. You can overcome barriers, feel a true sense of belonging, relieve worry and stress, increase joy, and know yourself on a deeper level as you achieve more than you thought possible. I am passionate about helping you make lasting improvements using your unique talents to create the life that you desire as we uncover your personal definition of success.
Cassandra Kandah
Psychologist, MS, PhD, LP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Your heart drops into your stomach and you are at a loss for words. Maybe you feel numb. Maybe you can't stop crying. No matter what your reaction is, your life as you know it has changed in one instance. You've been diagnosed with a terminal or
chronic illness
. A flood of questions comes to your mind: is this the beginning of the end, how will this effect my career, how do I tell my family? I have dedicated my life to guiding people through the emotional difficulties related to managing conditions such as: mild cognitive impairment, dementia, TBI, stroke, cancer, transplant, and pregnancy/fertility concerns.
Your heart drops into your stomach and you are at a loss for words. Maybe you feel numb. Maybe you can't stop crying. No matter what your reaction is, your life as you know it has changed in one instance. You've been diagnosed with a terminal or
chronic illness
. A flood of questions comes to your mind: is this the beginning of the end, how will this effect my career, how do I tell my family? I have dedicated my life to guiding people through the emotional difficulties related to managing conditions such as: mild cognitive impairment, dementia, TBI, stroke, cancer, transplant, and pregnancy/fertility concerns.
Tova Gottlieb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I'm a big fan of being human and in my office, I try to empower you to embrace all the messy yet beautiful emotions and experiences that come with being human. Many of life's events such as the diagnosis of a
chronic illness
, divorce, work or school issues, relationship issues, and life transitions can feel overwhelming with a roller-coaster of emotions. I can offer you a safe, engaging, and non-judgmental space to help you through all the challenges that life brings. I specialize in working with individuals (adolescents ages 5+, young adults, adults) to better manage daily stressors and any expected & unexpected life transitions.
I'm a big fan of being human and in my office, I try to empower you to embrace all the messy yet beautiful emotions and experiences that come with being human. Many of life's events such as the diagnosis of a
chronic illness
, divorce, work or school issues, relationship issues, and life transitions can feel overwhelming with a roller-coaster of emotions. I can offer you a safe, engaging, and non-judgmental space to help you through all the challenges that life brings. I specialize in working with individuals (adolescents ages 5+, young adults, adults) to better manage daily stressors and any expected & unexpected life transitions.
Sarah Razo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Chicago, IL 60630
I am a licensed clinical social worker and earned Masters in School Work from Loyola University of Chicago. I have over ten years of experience working with adults in all stages of life in non-profit and hospital settings. I specialize in working with people dealing with trauma,
chronic illness
, grief, and people who care for others. I work with a person centered trauma informed approach and know that our minds and bodies both affect how we move in the world.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and earned Masters in School Work from Loyola University of Chicago. I have over ten years of experience working with adults in all stages of life in non-profit and hospital settings. I specialize in working with people dealing with trauma,
chronic illness
, grief, and people who care for others. I work with a person centered trauma informed approach and know that our minds and bodies both affect how we move in the world.
Niki T Colon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you a chronically ill or disabled person who is feeling unheard or dismissed? Are you struggling with navigating life as a Queer, TGNC, poly, or kinky person? Or with painful AFAB-specific reproductive health conditions (Endometriosis, etc.)? My work centers marginalized identities, particularly chronically ill-disabled, queer, gender, poly, and kink-affirming care. My lived experiences navigating
chronic illness
, ableism, survivorship, and Bi+ invisibility & erasure have instilled compassion and understanding. I believe that developing self-advocacy skills and making time for rest is crucial in the face of oppressive systems.
Are you a chronically ill or disabled person who is feeling unheard or dismissed? Are you struggling with navigating life as a Queer, TGNC, poly, or kinky person? Or with painful AFAB-specific reproductive health conditions (Endometriosis, etc.)? My work centers marginalized identities, particularly chronically ill-disabled, queer, gender, poly, and kink-affirming care. My lived experiences navigating
chronic illness
, ableism, survivorship, and Bi+ invisibility & erasure have instilled compassion and understanding. I believe that developing self-advocacy skills and making time for rest is crucial in the face of oppressive systems.
Mindy Elizabeth Levin-Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I work with adults who are suffering from a multitude of mental health issues,
chronic illness
, Loss, PTSD, and transitions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
I work with adults who are suffering from a multitude of mental health issues,
chronic illness
, Loss, PTSD, and transitions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
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Jennifer Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is dedicated to working with adults living with stress related to complex
chronic illness
(including COVID and post acute COVID syndrome, POTS, dysautonomia, vestibular disorders, migraine, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, MCAS, IBD, a) as well as with the caregivers, medical providers, and allied professionals who serve this population.
Asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do, but it can also be one of the hardest because of past experience of not being heard, believed, or supported. Extreme stressors and traumatic events - including new or ongoing health conditions - affect every aspect of our lives and can make relationships - with family, friends, colleagues, and even healthcare providers - very challenging. The impact of these events can make us feel isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported (even by the well-intentioned). They can lead us to make choices we aren't proud of and limit our enjoyment of life in general.
My practice is dedicated to working with adults living with stress related to complex
chronic illness
(including COVID and post acute COVID syndrome, POTS, dysautonomia, vestibular disorders, migraine, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, MCAS, IBD, a) as well as with the caregivers, medical providers, and allied professionals who serve this population.
Asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do, but it can also be one of the hardest because of past experience of not being heard, believed, or supported. Extreme stressors and traumatic events - including new or ongoing health conditions - affect every aspect of our lives and can make relationships - with family, friends, colleagues, and even healthcare providers - very challenging. The impact of these events can make us feel isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported (even by the well-intentioned). They can lead us to make choices we aren't proud of and limit our enjoyment of life in general.
Tara Reen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Chicago, IL 60642 (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. I have offered trauma informed care and I am knowledgeable of somatic tools used to assist in coping and promote healing. I strive to offer a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment so you can create the change you are seeking.
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. I have offered trauma informed care and I am knowledgeable of somatic tools used to assist in coping and promote healing. I strive to offer a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment so you can create the change you are seeking.
Maddy Seabrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults to address trauma, mood disorders,
chronic illness
/disability, and LGBTQIA/2S+ identity development.
As a therapist, my goal is to affirm my clients’ unique experiences and to support them in living more empowered lives. Everyone has the tools within themselves to flourish, but life experiences can make it challenging to connect with those strengths and abilities. The impact of trauma and oppression can move us into places of isolation and self-doubt. I respect how people adapt in order to survive, and I deeply honor their resiliency. I also believe that people deserve more than mere survival. We all deserve joy, connection, and safety.
I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults to address trauma, mood disorders,
chronic illness
/disability, and LGBTQIA/2S+ identity development.
As a therapist, my goal is to affirm my clients’ unique experiences and to support them in living more empowered lives. Everyone has the tools within themselves to flourish, but life experiences can make it challenging to connect with those strengths and abilities. The impact of trauma and oppression can move us into places of isolation and self-doubt. I respect how people adapt in order to survive, and I deeply honor their resiliency. I also believe that people deserve more than mere survival. We all deserve joy, connection, and safety.
Caroline Srbeny
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults on issues related to neurodivergence and
chronic illness
/disability.
If you're here, I'm guessing you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or straight up exhausted. Maybe you've always felt different from other people without really knowing why, and you want a therapist who actually understands. You've come to the right place! As an autistic therapist, I strive to provide a safe and comfortable space in which you can explore the thoughts and feelings weighing you down without judgment. My approach is authentic - I want you to feel like you're talking to a real person. In turn, I won't ever ask you to change who you are, but instead, to live fully as the person you want to be.
I work with adults on issues related to neurodivergence and
chronic illness
/disability.
If you're here, I'm guessing you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or straight up exhausted. Maybe you've always felt different from other people without really knowing why, and you want a therapist who actually understands. You've come to the right place! As an autistic therapist, I strive to provide a safe and comfortable space in which you can explore the thoughts and feelings weighing you down without judgment. My approach is authentic - I want you to feel like you're talking to a real person. In turn, I won't ever ask you to change who you are, but instead, to live fully as the person you want to be.
Julia Rubinshteyn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
I take a compassionate, warm, and collaborative approach to connect with my clients and understand their goals for improving their quality of life. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can help you to feel empowered to face challenges in your life. I work with clients who have issues related to anxiety, stress, and depression. I also have specialized training in treating insomnia, chronic pain, coping with
chronic illness
, and coping with the stress of caring for a loved one with
chronic illness
.
I take a compassionate, warm, and collaborative approach to connect with my clients and understand their goals for improving their quality of life. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can help you to feel empowered to face challenges in your life. I work with clients who have issues related to anxiety, stress, and depression. I also have specialized training in treating insomnia, chronic pain, coping with
chronic illness
, and coping with the stress of caring for a loved one with
chronic illness
.
Samantha Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
You already know the areas of your life that are holding you back, but you don't know where to start - which has led you here. Maybe anxiety is causing you to avoid the people, places, and activities you used to enjoy. Maybe work stress or
chronic illness
makes you disconnect from the things you value due to exhaustion and overwhelm. Maybe you're unsure how to communicate your needs to your romantic partner and you keep having the same conversations. You worry that things will never feel "normal" again. You'd like to be able to work through the anxiety and frustration these things cause, and start living your life again.
You already know the areas of your life that are holding you back, but you don't know where to start - which has led you here. Maybe anxiety is causing you to avoid the people, places, and activities you used to enjoy. Maybe work stress or
chronic illness
makes you disconnect from the things you value due to exhaustion and overwhelm. Maybe you're unsure how to communicate your needs to your romantic partner and you keep having the same conversations. You worry that things will never feel "normal" again. You'd like to be able to work through the anxiety and frustration these things cause, and start living your life again.
Susan Zeigler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma,
chronic illness
, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma,
chronic illness
, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
Peggy Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
My background and experience draws on over 36 years of experience woking in a large teaching medical center overseeing cancer support programs,
chronic illness
, bereavement, couples therapy, anxiety and depression.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
My background and experience draws on over 36 years of experience woking in a large teaching medical center overseeing cancer support programs,
chronic illness
, bereavement, couples therapy, anxiety and depression.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
Fenna Semken
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW, BSW
Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Fenna provides a holistic approach to care, incorporating the physiological aspects of human anatomy into treatment for mental health disorders and concerns. She focuses on the intersection between
chronic illness
and eating disorders, as well as other crosses between physical and psychological health within individuals, families, and couples. By utilizing a strengths-based approach in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, Fenna provides a full-spectrum level of care that focuses on healing from the inside out.
Fenna provides a holistic approach to care, incorporating the physiological aspects of human anatomy into treatment for mental health disorders and concerns. She focuses on the intersection between
chronic illness
and eating disorders, as well as other crosses between physical and psychological health within individuals, families, and couples. By utilizing a strengths-based approach in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, Fenna provides a full-spectrum level of care that focuses on healing from the inside out.
See more therapy options for Chicago
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.