Chronic Illness Therapists in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Candice Tummillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
Candice Tummillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21202
As someone undergoing cancer treatment, you feel vulnerable, scared, anxious, and uncertain about your life. The constant worry and invasive treatments often ignite feelings of hopelessness, regret, powerlessness, guilt, and loss. Because of this tornado of emotions, you lose control over what you thought your life would be. Such chaos is encapsulated in the following poem; "Touching the surface and the depth of things, Instinctively responsive unto both, Tasting the sweets of being and the stings, Sensing the subtle spell of changing forms, Like a strong tree against a thousand storms."
As someone undergoing cancer treatment, you feel vulnerable, scared, anxious, and uncertain about your life. The constant worry and invasive treatments often ignite feelings of hopelessness, regret, powerlessness, guilt, and loss. Because of this tornado of emotions, you lose control over what you thought your life would be. Such chaos is encapsulated in the following poem; "Touching the surface and the depth of things, Instinctively responsive unto both, Tasting the sweets of being and the stings, Sensing the subtle spell of changing forms, Like a strong tree against a thousand storms."
(443) 596-6998 View (443) 596-6998
Photo of Katelyn Kulesa, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katelyn Kulesa
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21230
Navigating life transitions and difficult emotions can be scary, especially when you feel you don't have someone by your side. Having a cheerleader and a supporter can make such a difference in your healing journey! I'm the best fit for a client who is looking for someone who can encourage them to grow, reflect, and heal. I can help clients process experiences from an aerial view to provide perspective and support while also providing empathy and compassion so that the client feels seen and heard during the session. I lead each session with unconditional positive regard and help clients to become the best versions of themselves.
Navigating life transitions and difficult emotions can be scary, especially when you feel you don't have someone by your side. Having a cheerleader and a supporter can make such a difference in your healing journey! I'm the best fit for a client who is looking for someone who can encourage them to grow, reflect, and heal. I can help clients process experiences from an aerial view to provide perspective and support while also providing empathy and compassion so that the client feels seen and heard during the session. I lead each session with unconditional positive regard and help clients to become the best versions of themselves.
(410) 657-4246 View (410) 657-4246
Photo of Julia Perri, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Julia Perri
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I work with clients ages 18 and over, with a focus on depression, anxiety, chronic illness and injury, adapting to life's transitions and new life roles, and trauma.
I like to help people build self trust and resilience that allows them to succeed on their own outside of the therapy space. I use a mix of therapy modalities to tailor our sessions to be exactly what you need. I draw from ACT, CBT, and a person-centered approach to give you tools to not only shift how you think, but get more comfortable with how you feel.
I work with clients ages 18 and over, with a focus on depression, anxiety, chronic illness and injury, adapting to life's transitions and new life roles, and trauma.
I like to help people build self trust and resilience that allows them to succeed on their own outside of the therapy space. I use a mix of therapy modalities to tailor our sessions to be exactly what you need. I draw from ACT, CBT, and a person-centered approach to give you tools to not only shift how you think, but get more comfortable with how you feel.
(443) 242-9123 View (443) 242-9123
Photo of Yitzy Katz, Counselor, LCPC
Yitzy Katz
Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
I specialize in psychotherapy for chronic medical conditions, providing vital support for those dealing with the emotional impact of serious medical conditions like brain injuries, cancer, and chronic illness.
When faced with a medical challenge, whether for oneself or a loved one, life seems to stand still. In that moment, nothing matters more than getting a diagnosis. Yet even after the diagnosis, life shifts into a new normal filled with medical jargon, appointments, and constant health concerns. These thoughts occupy every conversation and waking moment. The emotional toll, compounded by the fear and anxiety of the illness, feels overwhelming, making the struggles seem insurmountable.
I specialize in psychotherapy for chronic medical conditions, providing vital support for those dealing with the emotional impact of serious medical conditions like brain injuries, cancer, and chronic illness.
When faced with a medical challenge, whether for oneself or a loved one, life seems to stand still. In that moment, nothing matters more than getting a diagnosis. Yet even after the diagnosis, life shifts into a new normal filled with medical jargon, appointments, and constant health concerns. These thoughts occupy every conversation and waking moment. The emotional toll, compounded by the fear and anxiety of the illness, feels overwhelming, making the struggles seem insurmountable.
(410) 929-0013 View (410) 929-0013
Photo of Anders North - From Broken, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
From Broken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
As my practice’s name implies, we can all feel broken at times. And to compound matters, we might face discrimination through no fault of our own—on the basis of race, sexual orientation, gender, finances, age, health or ability status, or neurocognitive differences. In my years of practice with the chronically ill and under-housed, I’ve seen and addressed the fallout from stigma and institutional barriers all day every day. So that’s the bad news, which you probably already know.
As my practice’s name implies, we can all feel broken at times. And to compound matters, we might face discrimination through no fault of our own—on the basis of race, sexual orientation, gender, finances, age, health or ability status, or neurocognitive differences. In my years of practice with the chronically ill and under-housed, I’ve seen and addressed the fallout from stigma and institutional barriers all day every day. So that’s the bad news, which you probably already know.
(410) 983-3923 View (410) 983-3923
Photo of Nila Morton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Nila Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
I work with individuals facing depression, anxiety, chronic illness, complex relationships, parenting stress, and unexpected grief while coping with the pressures of daily life.
Are you intrigued by what you see? Did you double back on my photo? Do you have questions or feel curious about my experience? If you answered yes to any of those, then you’ve stepped into the right healing space. Hey, I’m Nila, a proud disabled Black woman who shows up in this work with truth, transparency, and lived experience. I’m not here to pretend I have all the answers. I’m here to sit with you, walk with you, and help you figure out what healing looks like on your terms.
I work with individuals facing depression, anxiety, chronic illness, complex relationships, parenting stress, and unexpected grief while coping with the pressures of daily life.
Are you intrigued by what you see? Did you double back on my photo? Do you have questions or feel curious about my experience? If you answered yes to any of those, then you’ve stepped into the right healing space. Hey, I’m Nila, a proud disabled Black woman who shows up in this work with truth, transparency, and lived experience. I’m not here to pretend I have all the answers. I’m here to sit with you, walk with you, and help you figure out what healing looks like on your terms.
(240) 301-1589 View (240) 301-1589
Photo of Tyvangela Hopkins - Infinite Growth-Life & Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Infinite Growth-Life & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Baltimore, MD 21229
You are resilient! Making the decision to ask for support can be difficult and shows a great deal of courage. Are you ready to deal with the issues that seem to keep you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? It is time to make yourself a priority and connect with your inner strengths. You are not alone, let me take that journey with you in a safe, therapeutic, and nonjudgmental space. You can be your absolute authentic self as you strive for Infinite Growth-Life & Wellness.
You are resilient! Making the decision to ask for support can be difficult and shows a great deal of courage. Are you ready to deal with the issues that seem to keep you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? It is time to make yourself a priority and connect with your inner strengths. You are not alone, let me take that journey with you in a safe, therapeutic, and nonjudgmental space. You can be your absolute authentic self as you strive for Infinite Growth-Life & Wellness.
(410) 705-2309 View (410) 705-2309
Photo of Lorena Patricia Lues, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C , RYT-200
Lorena Patricia Lues
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C , RYT-200
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I value an open dialogue with my clients that incorporates feedback to ensure their needs are being met during our time together.  In my view, the client-therapist relationship should prioritize honesty and respect and while diagnosing is one aspect of psychotherapy, I am most interested in how your daily life is being impacted and what we can do in our work together to develop coping and awareness that will bring more harmony and help you lead a more fulfilled life.
I value an open dialogue with my clients that incorporates feedback to ensure their needs are being met during our time together.  In my view, the client-therapist relationship should prioritize honesty and respect and while diagnosing is one aspect of psychotherapy, I am most interested in how your daily life is being impacted and what we can do in our work together to develop coping and awareness that will bring more harmony and help you lead a more fulfilled life.
(410) 835-9351 View (410) 835-9351
Photo of Vanessa Pikler, Psychologist, PhD
Vanessa Pikler
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you defeat yourself with self-critical thinking? Does stress get in the way of accomplishing your goals in life? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please contact me. I can help you develop more self-compassion in order to tackle your problems. You'll feel understood, heard, respected, hopeful, and more confident in your ability to cope. I also work with people with medical illnesses and have special expertise in Health Psychology, such as coping with cancer diagnoses/treatments, caregiver stress, stress management and other mind/body issues.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you defeat yourself with self-critical thinking? Does stress get in the way of accomplishing your goals in life? If you answered yes to any of these questions, please contact me. I can help you develop more self-compassion in order to tackle your problems. You'll feel understood, heard, respected, hopeful, and more confident in your ability to cope. I also work with people with medical illnesses and have special expertise in Health Psychology, such as coping with cancer diagnoses/treatments, caregiver stress, stress management and other mind/body issues.
(410) 970-6500 View (410) 970-6500
Photo of Juli Buchanan, Psychologist, PsyD
Juli Buchanan
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
How are you coping w/these challenging & unprecedented times? Whatever our normal coping strategies were, particularly if not the healthiest to begin with, they are likely to be even more present than ever before. Fear, dread, loneliness, isolation, frustration, & anger...all ingredients for us to eat more, drink more, use more, check out more, fight more, etc.. Please-there is no shame in asking for help during this pandemic (or ever, really). There are many great clinicians on PT-literally, someone for everyone. I hope that you find someone who fits YOU during this troubling time, &, if you think that might be me, pls reach out!
How are you coping w/these challenging & unprecedented times? Whatever our normal coping strategies were, particularly if not the healthiest to begin with, they are likely to be even more present than ever before. Fear, dread, loneliness, isolation, frustration, & anger...all ingredients for us to eat more, drink more, use more, check out more, fight more, etc.. Please-there is no shame in asking for help during this pandemic (or ever, really). There are many great clinicians on PT-literally, someone for everyone. I hope that you find someone who fits YOU during this troubling time, &, if you think that might be me, pls reach out!
(410) 390-0750 View (410) 390-0750
Photo of Maria Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Maria Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
I have experience and work with those that have undergone traumatic encounters. I believe that healing comes from addressing the traumas and confronting the difficulties that come from them, such as unhealthy boundaries and maladaptive coping. I utilize a mindfulness and strengths-based approach in addition to creating a stabilizing and safe environment to be able to process and deal with the emotions that result from the extremes of the traumas that we experience. I tend to use action, coaching-oriented skills focused on behavioral aspects (eg stress management, emotional regulation) to mitigate the impact on life & relationships.
I have experience and work with those that have undergone traumatic encounters. I believe that healing comes from addressing the traumas and confronting the difficulties that come from them, such as unhealthy boundaries and maladaptive coping. I utilize a mindfulness and strengths-based approach in addition to creating a stabilizing and safe environment to be able to process and deal with the emotions that result from the extremes of the traumas that we experience. I tend to use action, coaching-oriented skills focused on behavioral aspects (eg stress management, emotional regulation) to mitigate the impact on life & relationships.
(410) 505-7532 View (410) 505-7532
Photo of Ella Edelman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Ella Edelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With extensive experience working both in hospital and community settings, I specialize in supporting individuals facing chronic and acute illnesses. I provide compassionate care to patients and families coping with the emotional and psychological impacts of health challenges. I have worked closely with medical professionals to support them in managing the emotional toll of their taxing roles as well. Additionally, I have experience working with those struggling with anxiety and adjustment to life transitions.
With extensive experience working both in hospital and community settings, I specialize in supporting individuals facing chronic and acute illnesses. I provide compassionate care to patients and families coping with the emotional and psychological impacts of health challenges. I have worked closely with medical professionals to support them in managing the emotional toll of their taxing roles as well. Additionally, I have experience working with those struggling with anxiety and adjustment to life transitions.
(410) 575-4228 View (410) 575-4228
Photo of Mayuri Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Mayuri Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Baltimore, MD 21211
I created HOPE Couple and Family Therapy to serve individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with illness. Whether physical (such as diabetes, cancer, stroke, etc.) or mental (such as anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, etc.), HOPE focuses on healing relationships that have been damaged by these illnesses. Goals of therapy can include decreasing stress, getting relief from trauma, and improving current and future wellness.
I created HOPE Couple and Family Therapy to serve individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with illness. Whether physical (such as diabetes, cancer, stroke, etc.) or mental (such as anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, etc.), HOPE focuses on healing relationships that have been damaged by these illnesses. Goals of therapy can include decreasing stress, getting relief from trauma, and improving current and future wellness.
(410) 267-3398 View (410) 267-3398
Photo of Elizabeth Allen, Art Therapist, LCPAT, LPC, LGPC, ATR-BC
Elizabeth Allen
Art Therapist, LCPAT, LPC, LGPC, ATR-BC
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
Maybe you're experiencing chronic illness or pain that feels like a never-ending list of questions with no answers.
I’m an art therapist for anxious chronic illness warriors and I'm here to help you repair, heal, & process your emotions. Through talking, creating art, journaling, mindfulness, or EMDR, I help clients feel empowered and purposeful. I understand how lonely it can be to be overwhelmed by pain, illness, and anxiety, and you don't have to manage this alone.
Maybe you're experiencing chronic illness or pain that feels like a never-ending list of questions with no answers.
I’m an art therapist for anxious chronic illness warriors and I'm here to help you repair, heal, & process your emotions. Through talking, creating art, journaling, mindfulness, or EMDR, I help clients feel empowered and purposeful. I understand how lonely it can be to be overwhelmed by pain, illness, and anxiety, and you don't have to manage this alone.
(443) 830-3447 View (443) 830-3447
Photo of Maggie Glass-Lane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Maggie Glass-Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
Are you someone motivated to work through difficult emotions, stories and traumas to move easier through life? Then you have found the right person for this process. Through my time as a mental health professional, I have learned that we may never fully get rid of our mental health difficulties, but we can learn how to live WITH them.
Are you someone motivated to work through difficult emotions, stories and traumas to move easier through life? Then you have found the right person for this process. Through my time as a mental health professional, I have learned that we may never fully get rid of our mental health difficulties, but we can learn how to live WITH them.
(410) 835-9955 View (410) 835-9955
Photo of Emily Margaret Haddad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Emily Margaret Haddad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I am a therapist with 15 years of experience. I am licensed in the states of Maryland and Texas. I have specialized my work in the medical setting with those with chronic illnesses and have also cared for many in the LGBTQI+ community. I enjoy providing counseling to pre-teens, teens and adults. The idea of therapy is challenging for some and can feel intimidating or uncomfortable at first. I normalize this experience and I focus on meeting my clients at their comfort level. After learning each person's goals and needs, I then tailor our sessions accordingly.
I am a therapist with 15 years of experience. I am licensed in the states of Maryland and Texas. I have specialized my work in the medical setting with those with chronic illnesses and have also cared for many in the LGBTQI+ community. I enjoy providing counseling to pre-teens, teens and adults. The idea of therapy is challenging for some and can feel intimidating or uncomfortable at first. I normalize this experience and I focus on meeting my clients at their comfort level. After learning each person's goals and needs, I then tailor our sessions accordingly.
(443) 363-0976 View (443) 363-0976
Photo of Haley Sheridan Sweet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Haley Sheridan Sweet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
You’ve been wearing a mask for so long, you feel like you don’t know yourself anymore. You deserve to be seen for who you really are - to be heard and listened to. You want to feel good in your own skin and feel free and safe to be yourself in the world. What would happen if you stopped hiding? How would life be different if you felt your experience mattered as much as everyone else's? I’m here to help you hold space for these questions.
You’ve been wearing a mask for so long, you feel like you don’t know yourself anymore. You deserve to be seen for who you really are - to be heard and listened to. You want to feel good in your own skin and feel free and safe to be yourself in the world. What would happen if you stopped hiding? How would life be different if you felt your experience mattered as much as everyone else's? I’m here to help you hold space for these questions.
(443) 390-7784 View (443) 390-7784
Photo of Danielle Foreman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Danielle Foreman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello and welcome! Sometimes seeking therapy can feel daunting and intimidating. I’m so glad you’re here and taking this initiative for yourself! I believe everyone has the right to feel heard and supported, especially while navigating the ups and downs that can occur throughout life. Whatever your current struggles may be, I work to meet you where you are and go at your pace.
Hello and welcome! Sometimes seeking therapy can feel daunting and intimidating. I’m so glad you’re here and taking this initiative for yourself! I believe everyone has the right to feel heard and supported, especially while navigating the ups and downs that can occur throughout life. Whatever your current struggles may be, I work to meet you where you are and go at your pace.
(410) 914-1223 View (410) 914-1223
Photo of Jennifer Yarbro, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Jennifer Yarbro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Baltimore, MD 21229
We can't always control what life brings our way, but we can choose how we respond to it. I enjoy helping people reconnect with their natural wisdom in the midst of life's challenges. My goal is to help my clients gain awareness of what is already working in their lives and what patterns and habits have become outdated or self-defeating. A situation, problem or symptom that appears unworkable or overwhelming can offer the key to its own healing when held with gentle, inquisitive attention.
We can't always control what life brings our way, but we can choose how we respond to it. I enjoy helping people reconnect with their natural wisdom in the midst of life's challenges. My goal is to help my clients gain awareness of what is already working in their lives and what patterns and habits have become outdated or self-defeating. A situation, problem or symptom that appears unworkable or overwhelming can offer the key to its own healing when held with gentle, inquisitive attention.
(720) 513-7344 View (720) 513-7344
Photo of Kelsey Weyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Kelsey Weyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and family conflict.
Based on my prior experience, I'm able to identify a large range of psychiatric symptoms and have a strong framework based in trauma informed care. I utilize therapies such as ACT, CBT and mindfulness in my practice to help one learn to cope with their specific struggles. I also offer Lyme literate therapy.
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and family conflict.
Based on my prior experience, I'm able to identify a large range of psychiatric symptoms and have a strong framework based in trauma informed care. I utilize therapies such as ACT, CBT and mindfulness in my practice to help one learn to cope with their specific struggles. I also offer Lyme literate therapy.
(720) 664-9223 View (720) 664-9223

See more therapy options for Baltimore

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.