Chronic Illness Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Kimberly A. Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kimberly A. Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you are adjusting to chronic illness or adapting to the many transitions that life gives us, we can figure out the routines you need.
I believe health and wellbeing are essential to a quality life. When we don't feel well it's hard to meet our goals. Counseling can help restore harmony to your routine. I am grateful that I can share this space with my clients and hope you get that experience, too.
Whether you are adjusting to chronic illness or adapting to the many transitions that life gives us, we can figure out the routines you need.
I believe health and wellbeing are essential to a quality life. When we don't feel well it's hard to meet our goals. Counseling can help restore harmony to your routine. I am grateful that I can share this space with my clients and hope you get that experience, too.
(317) 699-8225 View (317) 699-8225
Photo of Ellen Mail, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Ellen Mail
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Hi, I'm Ellen and I'm so glad you're here. Whether you are coping with heavy emotions or facing challenging circumstances brought about by pregnancy, new parenthood, illness, caregiving, or the death of a loved one, you need not do so alone. Therapy can offer a soft place to land during difficult times.
Hi, I'm Ellen and I'm so glad you're here. Whether you are coping with heavy emotions or facing challenging circumstances brought about by pregnancy, new parenthood, illness, caregiving, or the death of a loved one, you need not do so alone. Therapy can offer a soft place to land during difficult times.
(317) 699-4873 View (317) 699-4873
Photo of Joy L. Dyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Joy L. Dyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Indianapolis, IN 46205
When we lose someone or something precious to us, it is normal and very healthy to grieve. Grief is uncomfortable and raw, but part of the human condition as we experience both the small and profound losses in life. Our hearts feel broken, and they are broken open, but not destroyed. Confronting the painful feelings of grief, whether caused by death or an anticipated death of a loved one or pet, loss of a job, a new medical diagnosis with loss of good health, breakup of a significant relationship, or any life-altering situation, can make us feel vulnerable, lonely, and empty. But it's facing the grief that promotes healing.
When we lose someone or something precious to us, it is normal and very healthy to grieve. Grief is uncomfortable and raw, but part of the human condition as we experience both the small and profound losses in life. Our hearts feel broken, and they are broken open, but not destroyed. Confronting the painful feelings of grief, whether caused by death or an anticipated death of a loved one or pet, loss of a job, a new medical diagnosis with loss of good health, breakup of a significant relationship, or any life-altering situation, can make us feel vulnerable, lonely, and empty. But it's facing the grief that promotes healing.
(317) 527-4534 View (317) 527-4534
Photo of Morgan Girtman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Morgan Girtman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am Morgan Girtman, MSW, LCSW, and I specialize in walking alongside individuals of all ages as they navigate anxiety, grief, depression, life transitions, and chronic illnesses. Through compassionate, client-centered care, I provide a supportive space for healing and growth, where trust, validation, and empathy are at the heart of my work with clients. I work with children, teens, and adults facing emotional challenges, loss, and significant life changes. My goal is to be a steady, encouraging presence - helping you find clarity and strength in the midst of hardship.
I am Morgan Girtman, MSW, LCSW, and I specialize in walking alongside individuals of all ages as they navigate anxiety, grief, depression, life transitions, and chronic illnesses. Through compassionate, client-centered care, I provide a supportive space for healing and growth, where trust, validation, and empathy are at the heart of my work with clients. I work with children, teens, and adults facing emotional challenges, loss, and significant life changes. My goal is to be a steady, encouraging presence - helping you find clarity and strength in the midst of hardship.
(317) 893-3779 View (317) 893-3779
Photo of Hillary Blake, Psychologist, PsyD , HSPP
Hillary Blake
Psychologist, PsyD , HSPP
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am a clinical psychologist who provides assessment and treatment for individuals with a wide range of emotional and physical conditions. In psychotherapy I utilize evidence based interventions and have extensive training in biofeedback, SPACE, DBT, CBT, and parent training. I was previously an Assistant Professor in Clinical Psychology at Riley Hospital. I continue to remain involved at Riley as a Visiting Professor at the IU School of Medicine. I have been featured in regional and national news as a mental health expert.
I am a clinical psychologist who provides assessment and treatment for individuals with a wide range of emotional and physical conditions. In psychotherapy I utilize evidence based interventions and have extensive training in biofeedback, SPACE, DBT, CBT, and parent training. I was previously an Assistant Professor in Clinical Psychology at Riley Hospital. I continue to remain involved at Riley as a Visiting Professor at the IU School of Medicine. I have been featured in regional and national news as a mental health expert.
(317) 854-4694 View (317) 854-4694
Photo of Mitchell D Brauchla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Mitchell D Brauchla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults navigating complex anxiety disorders, chronic illness and life transitions—especially those who feel stuck or disconnected in their current phase of life.
My background in behavioral health and a medical diagnostic setting allows me to support clients facing complex anxiety, depression, and stress. I am passionate about this work because I find meaning in helping clients reclaim a sense of direction and strength in their lives.
I specialize in working with adults navigating complex anxiety disorders, chronic illness and life transitions—especially those who feel stuck or disconnected in their current phase of life.
My background in behavioral health and a medical diagnostic setting allows me to support clients facing complex anxiety, depression, and stress. I am passionate about this work because I find meaning in helping clients reclaim a sense of direction and strength in their lives.
(317) 961-6387 View (317) 961-6387
Photo of Ríana Golder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CSAYC
Ríana Golder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CSAYC
Indianapolis, IN 46256
I specialize in helping people through life’s stressors including relationship problems, anxiety, stress, depression, burnout, exhaustion, & chronic illness.
Life and relationships can be stressful and overwhelming. My experiences as a mother and professional fueled my passion for helping individuals and families of all populations work through trauma and life’s everyday stressors.
I specialize in helping people through life’s stressors including relationship problems, anxiety, stress, depression, burnout, exhaustion, & chronic illness.
Life and relationships can be stressful and overwhelming. My experiences as a mother and professional fueled my passion for helping individuals and families of all populations work through trauma and life’s everyday stressors.
(463) 283-7328 View (463) 283-7328
Photo of Dodie M Stein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Dodie M Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with two decades of clinical experience, primarily in specialty medical settings. I also have worked both professionally and as a volunteer in hospice, where caregiver and family support/counseling was a key focus. I worked for many years with those with kidney and other diseases. My clinical interests, experience, and expertise include working with clients with chronic medical conditions, depression and/or anxiety, grief and loss issues, crisis intervention, communication disorders, life transitions, adjustment issues, and aging concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with two decades of clinical experience, primarily in specialty medical settings. I also have worked both professionally and as a volunteer in hospice, where caregiver and family support/counseling was a key focus. I worked for many years with those with kidney and other diseases. My clinical interests, experience, and expertise include working with clients with chronic medical conditions, depression and/or anxiety, grief and loss issues, crisis intervention, communication disorders, life transitions, adjustment issues, and aging concerns.
(463) 293-2770 View (463) 293-2770
Photo of Cynthia Drouin, Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Cynthia Drouin
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
For all of us, change, loss, and challenge are inevitable parts of life, yet sometimes they seem to prevent our happiness and satisfaction. Coping and maintaining our well-being can become difficult or overwhelming, or our emotions seem too hard to handle alone. We wonder how we arrived where we find ourselves, and how we can move forward with confidence that things can get better. Perhaps anxiety, depression, struggling to communicate or connect are more familiar to us than contentment, feeling hopeful, and valued for who we are. Does this sound like what you are experiencing? At times like these, therapy can be a source of help.
For all of us, change, loss, and challenge are inevitable parts of life, yet sometimes they seem to prevent our happiness and satisfaction. Coping and maintaining our well-being can become difficult or overwhelming, or our emotions seem too hard to handle alone. We wonder how we arrived where we find ourselves, and how we can move forward with confidence that things can get better. Perhaps anxiety, depression, struggling to communicate or connect are more familiar to us than contentment, feeling hopeful, and valued for who we are. Does this sound like what you are experiencing? At times like these, therapy can be a source of help.
(317) 406-0972 View (317) 406-0972
Photo of Stephanie A. Hayden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Stephanie A. Hayden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268
Life definitely has a way of bringing about big feelings, whether it's with undergoing difficult life transitions, like a death, divorce, or chronic illness, or positive ones like getting a new job or finding a new love.
In working with me, you will get a supportive, non-judgmental space in which to process your thoughts and feelings about your circumstances and also to teach you coping skills to make room for the wide variety of thoughts and emotions in order to make steps toward valued living.
Life definitely has a way of bringing about big feelings, whether it's with undergoing difficult life transitions, like a death, divorce, or chronic illness, or positive ones like getting a new job or finding a new love.
In working with me, you will get a supportive, non-judgmental space in which to process your thoughts and feelings about your circumstances and also to teach you coping skills to make room for the wide variety of thoughts and emotions in order to make steps toward valued living.
(317) 406-4649 View (317) 406-4649
Photo of Emily L Courtney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Emily L Courtney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46203
I understand the challenges of severe anxiety and the journey to overcome personal obstacles—whether it’s managing chronic illness, navigating life with ADHD, or recovering from trauma.
I tailor each session to meet your needs—some may focus on processing thoughts and emotions, while others emphasize problem-solving. I’m also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), which provides rapid relief not only for trauma but for a variety of challenges. My goal is to support you in making meaningful progress, whatever you're facing.
I understand the challenges of severe anxiety and the journey to overcome personal obstacles—whether it’s managing chronic illness, navigating life with ADHD, or recovering from trauma.
I tailor each session to meet your needs—some may focus on processing thoughts and emotions, while others emphasize problem-solving. I’m also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), which provides rapid relief not only for trauma but for a variety of challenges. My goal is to support you in making meaningful progress, whatever you're facing.
(317) 961-8160 View (317) 961-8160
Photo of LaVreen Hall I - Just Words, Counselor, MAMHC, MDiv
Just Words
Counselor, MAMHC, MDiv
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I work with those who have experienced /experiencing grief or loss, chronic illness, pain, marriage issues, divorce, anger, anxiety, depression, insomnia, post traumatic stress, or sexual abuse
I use a blend of evidence based treatment models tailored to meet your need. In addition I specialize in Word Therapy a process that assists in identifying the words and or phrases that you speak, or that were spoken to you which reflects and identifies your core belief operating positively or negatively in your life.
I work with those who have experienced /experiencing grief or loss, chronic illness, pain, marriage issues, divorce, anger, anxiety, depression, insomnia, post traumatic stress, or sexual abuse
I use a blend of evidence based treatment models tailored to meet your need. In addition I specialize in Word Therapy a process that assists in identifying the words and or phrases that you speak, or that were spoken to you which reflects and identifies your core belief operating positively or negatively in your life.
(317) 942-3322 View (317) 942-3322
Photo of Kayla Epplin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
Kayla Epplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Navigating life with cancer, chronic illness, and other medical challenges can feel isolating and overwhelming.
In addition, I work with grief and loss. While loss is universal, each grief experience is deeply personal. Whether mourning the loss of a loved one or processing the impact of illness, I provide a safe place to grieve and heal. Together, we will work through and hold space for your emotions and explore ways to move forward with courage.
Navigating life with cancer, chronic illness, and other medical challenges can feel isolating and overwhelming.
In addition, I work with grief and loss. While loss is universal, each grief experience is deeply personal. Whether mourning the loss of a loved one or processing the impact of illness, I provide a safe place to grieve and heal. Together, we will work through and hold space for your emotions and explore ways to move forward with courage.
(463) 263-7154 View (463) 263-7154
Photo of Cat Salladin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Cat Salladin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of my clients come to me navigating anxiety, depression, loneliness, identity questions, or trauma-related experiences—and they’re looking for a space where they don’t have to explain or shrink who they are. I support adolescents and adults, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent individuals, the COVID-conscious community, ex-evangelicals and others healing from religious trauma, disabled individuals, and athletes or former athletes.
Many of my clients come to me navigating anxiety, depression, loneliness, identity questions, or trauma-related experiences—and they’re looking for a space where they don’t have to explain or shrink who they are. I support adolescents and adults, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergent individuals, the COVID-conscious community, ex-evangelicals and others healing from religious trauma, disabled individuals, and athletes or former athletes.
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Photo of Carlin Henderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Carlin Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46201
The mission of this practice is to work together to help best understand yourself, as well as the deconstruction of the systems around you that may be impacting you. I work specifically with the LGBTQIA+ population on navigating life changes and managing the stress of living in our late-stage capitalistic society. I also enjoy helping clients navigate past traumas and understand how these experiences continue to show up today.
The mission of this practice is to work together to help best understand yourself, as well as the deconstruction of the systems around you that may be impacting you. I work specifically with the LGBTQIA+ population on navigating life changes and managing the stress of living in our late-stage capitalistic society. I also enjoy helping clients navigate past traumas and understand how these experiences continue to show up today.
(317) 751-9529 View (317) 751-9529
Photo of Anna Ellis, Counselor, LMHCA, NCC
Anna Ellis
Counselor, LMHCA, NCC
Online Only
Hi, my name is Anna, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Indiana. Taking that first step to acknowledging that you need help is the hardest one, so finding a counselor you are able to connect with shouldn't be. If you're looking for a counselor who is laid back and open to working with you on any areas of need you may have, we may be a good fit. I believe being able to talk things out with someone who is open to hearing anything you may have to say and not passing judgment is often needed when working on healing.
Hi, my name is Anna, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Indiana. Taking that first step to acknowledging that you need help is the hardest one, so finding a counselor you are able to connect with shouldn't be. If you're looking for a counselor who is laid back and open to working with you on any areas of need you may have, we may be a good fit. I believe being able to talk things out with someone who is open to hearing anything you may have to say and not passing judgment is often needed when working on healing.
(812) 605-5700 View (812) 605-5700
Photo of Creagh Boone, Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Creagh Boone
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Creagh has been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana with over thirteen years experience helping adult individuals navigate life’s challenges. While Creagh can work with most people in the therapy setting, she specializes in working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression and chronic health issues/illnesses and has a passion for working with women. Her approach is grounded in person centered therapy where a collaborative, compassionate space in which you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgement is fostered and honored.
Creagh has been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana with over thirteen years experience helping adult individuals navigate life’s challenges. While Creagh can work with most people in the therapy setting, she specializes in working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression and chronic health issues/illnesses and has a passion for working with women. Her approach is grounded in person centered therapy where a collaborative, compassionate space in which you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgement is fostered and honored.
(812) 612-8816 View (812) 612-8816
Photo of Courtney Terrell, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Courtney Terrell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Serves Area
Please note that I am only accepting new clients for EMDR intensives or KAP. I provide therapy that works. My holistic approach helps clients overcome anxiety, insecurity, and trauma. I specialize in EMDR intensives for rapid, focused healing, integrating EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to deepen self-exploration and create lasting change. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy(KAP). My self-empowerment model helps clients recognize patterns, break free from what’s holding them back, and cultivate authentic relationships. Our work together is collaborative and individualized, to help you live with intention and joy.
Please note that I am only accepting new clients for EMDR intensives or KAP. I provide therapy that works. My holistic approach helps clients overcome anxiety, insecurity, and trauma. I specialize in EMDR intensives for rapid, focused healing, integrating EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to deepen self-exploration and create lasting change. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy(KAP). My self-empowerment model helps clients recognize patterns, break free from what’s holding them back, and cultivate authentic relationships. Our work together is collaborative and individualized, to help you live with intention and joy.
(317) 458-9320 View (317) 458-9320
Photo of Megan Stevenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFSW
Megan Stevenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Chronic illness can be overwhelming.
I’m here to help you navigate the emotional weight of chronic illness. Together, we’ll explore working with uncertainty, dealing with financial stress, and walk alongside grief. Using values-based exploration or EMDR, we’ll build coping tools that support you in reconnecting with what brings meaning and joy to your life, even amidst the challenges.
Chronic illness can be overwhelming.
I’m here to help you navigate the emotional weight of chronic illness. Together, we’ll explore working with uncertainty, dealing with financial stress, and walk alongside grief. Using values-based exploration or EMDR, we’ll build coping tools that support you in reconnecting with what brings meaning and joy to your life, even amidst the challenges.
(812) 515-5189 View (812) 515-5189
Photo of Kellen Alexandra Fox, Counselor, MS, EdS, LMHC
Kellen Alexandra Fox
Counselor, MS, EdS, LMHC
Online Only
Listen, life is a lot sometimes! I think one of the main issues people struggle with today is cultivating resiliency, and therefore my focus in therapy has always been toward empowerment and strengthening clients from a multi-systems approach. I believe positive mental health and a strong self-care routine are a valuable asset to individual growth, and that therapy isn't meant to just be a reactive form of treatment, but one that is a regular part of all our routines.
Listen, life is a lot sometimes! I think one of the main issues people struggle with today is cultivating resiliency, and therefore my focus in therapy has always been toward empowerment and strengthening clients from a multi-systems approach. I believe positive mental health and a strong self-care routine are a valuable asset to individual growth, and that therapy isn't meant to just be a reactive form of treatment, but one that is a regular part of all our routines.
(812) 641-8473 View (812) 641-8473

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

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.