Chronic Illness Therapists in Hamilton, MI
I enjoy encouraging clients to take an active role in their own therapeutic journey. I believe that each client is the author of their story; and I have the honor and privilege to hear that story from the author. I am a compassionate and empathetic psychotherapist, passionate about diverse genders, sexual orientations, and relationship structures. I am committed to creating a warm environment where clients feel safe to be vulnerable.
I enjoy encouraging clients to take an active role in their own therapeutic journey. I believe that each client is the author of their story; and I have the honor and privilege to hear that story from the author. I am a compassionate and empathetic psychotherapist, passionate about diverse genders, sexual orientations, and relationship structures. I am committed to creating a warm environment where clients feel safe to be vulnerable.
Have you ever wished for a way to feel better and learn to manage your emotions or a way to a better future? I work with children and adolescents, and those who care for them. I have experience in the areas of stress reduction/coping, post-partum depression, anxiety, and grief and loss. With children, I treat trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, and behavioral disorders such as ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I have also worked with PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) with children who have autism and are nonverbal.
Have you ever wished for a way to feel better and learn to manage your emotions or a way to a better future? I work with children and adolescents, and those who care for them. I have experience in the areas of stress reduction/coping, post-partum depression, anxiety, and grief and loss. With children, I treat trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, and behavioral disorders such as ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I have also worked with PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) with children who have autism and are nonverbal.
More Therapists Nearby
Hi there! My name is Heather, and I am a doctoral-level licensed marriage & family therapist licensed in CA & MI. As a relationship-focused therapist, I am committed to helping couples, individuals, and families create strong, secure, and lasting connections in their relationships. Whether you are feeling stuck in relationship patterns that leave you feeling disconnected from your partner, have experienced a relationship injury like an affair or addiction, or are facing a new or ongoing medical diagnosis that you are unsure how to navigate mentally, emotionally, or relationally, I would love to help.
Hi there! My name is Heather, and I am a doctoral-level licensed marriage & family therapist licensed in CA & MI. As a relationship-focused therapist, I am committed to helping couples, individuals, and families create strong, secure, and lasting connections in their relationships. Whether you are feeling stuck in relationship patterns that leave you feeling disconnected from your partner, have experienced a relationship injury like an affair or addiction, or are facing a new or ongoing medical diagnosis that you are unsure how to navigate mentally, emotionally, or relationally, I would love to help.
I look forward to working together to identify and address your concerns in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. Whether you are seeking short-term or long-term therapy, I will collaborate with you to process your feelings, find solutions, or identify helpful coping skills. I have experience providing a wide range of psychological services for adults in outpatient therapy and medical rehabilitation settings. Areas I specialize in include anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma, coping with major life transitions, adjustment to disability, and working with caretakers.
I look forward to working together to identify and address your concerns in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. Whether you are seeking short-term or long-term therapy, I will collaborate with you to process your feelings, find solutions, or identify helpful coping skills. I have experience providing a wide range of psychological services for adults in outpatient therapy and medical rehabilitation settings. Areas I specialize in include anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma, coping with major life transitions, adjustment to disability, and working with caretakers.
Hello! If you’ve come to my page you are probably seeking someone to walk with you through a potentially painful journey. Whether you’ve been to see a therapist before or this is your first time, this can be a scary decision to make. People will choose to come to see me if they are struggling with past or current abuse, complex trauma (including childhood abuse and domestic violence), Binge Eating Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, self worth issues, grief and loss, difficulty with boundaries and attachment in relationships, and many more life issues.
Hello! If you’ve come to my page you are probably seeking someone to walk with you through a potentially painful journey. Whether you’ve been to see a therapist before or this is your first time, this can be a scary decision to make. People will choose to come to see me if they are struggling with past or current abuse, complex trauma (including childhood abuse and domestic violence), Binge Eating Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, self worth issues, grief and loss, difficulty with boundaries and attachment in relationships, and many more life issues.
I understand the nuances of the medical and insurance systems, and I have some lived experience that can help you navigate a cancer or chronic illness diagnosis.
Are you adjusting to health changes or navigating a new diagnosis? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress reactions trying to manage everything? I understand that work life balance, career issues, and adjustment to health concerns can be overwhelming. I also understand the frustrations of navigating the medical and insurance systems while trying to cope with and manage a new diagnosis.
I understand the nuances of the medical and insurance systems, and I have some lived experience that can help you navigate a cancer or chronic illness diagnosis.
Are you adjusting to health changes or navigating a new diagnosis? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress reactions trying to manage everything? I understand that work life balance, career issues, and adjustment to health concerns can be overwhelming. I also understand the frustrations of navigating the medical and insurance systems while trying to cope with and manage a new diagnosis.
No matter how old we are, the mental health struggles are very real. Choosing to seek and accept help can be daunting, frustrating, and even scary, but it can also be empowering, encouraging, and motivating. Growth and change are possible even in the midst of crushing situations and agonizing feelings. You will receive non-judgmental support as you reflect on your life, hurts, and ways you decide to embrace change. Attaining stability, clarity, and peace will help build the bridge for your long-term health in all ways – soul, mind, and body. I will walk with you as you achieve your desire for focus, strength, and healing.
No matter how old we are, the mental health struggles are very real. Choosing to seek and accept help can be daunting, frustrating, and even scary, but it can also be empowering, encouraging, and motivating. Growth and change are possible even in the midst of crushing situations and agonizing feelings. You will receive non-judgmental support as you reflect on your life, hurts, and ways you decide to embrace change. Attaining stability, clarity, and peace will help build the bridge for your long-term health in all ways – soul, mind, and body. I will walk with you as you achieve your desire for focus, strength, and healing.
Navigating life's challenges becomes more complex when managing chronic illness.
Kristi is a certified diabetes care and education specialist with specialized training in somatic work and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. She has years of experience supporting individuals in strengthening coping skills and improving overall wellbeing, particularly those managing chronic illness, trauma, and life transitions.
Navigating life's challenges becomes more complex when managing chronic illness.
Kristi is a certified diabetes care and education specialist with specialized training in somatic work and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. She has years of experience supporting individuals in strengthening coping skills and improving overall wellbeing, particularly those managing chronic illness, trauma, and life transitions.
I have been in practice in Kalamazoo for over 15 years. I am certified in Trauma Informed Assessment and Intervention, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, and have expertise in several parenting approaches. In addition to clinical practice, I am a school social worker, and proud father of 8 children. I use a person-centered approach, allowing clients to set their goals, providing a safe space and supportive environment to move them in the direction of their goals.
I have been in practice in Kalamazoo for over 15 years. I am certified in Trauma Informed Assessment and Intervention, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, and have expertise in several parenting approaches. In addition to clinical practice, I am a school social worker, and proud father of 8 children. I use a person-centered approach, allowing clients to set their goals, providing a safe space and supportive environment to move them in the direction of their goals.
Counseling is a personal and unique process for each person. I facilitate each client’s unique process, and walk alongside the client, shoring up their strengths and making use of our relationship to bring about positive change. The therapeutic process can be challenging at times, and I work with the client to fully experience the joys and sorrows that are part of life, striving to feel a wide range of emotions. I enjoy working with people of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
Counseling is a personal and unique process for each person. I facilitate each client’s unique process, and walk alongside the client, shoring up their strengths and making use of our relationship to bring about positive change. The therapeutic process can be challenging at times, and I work with the client to fully experience the joys and sorrows that are part of life, striving to feel a wide range of emotions. I enjoy working with people of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
I offer early evening appointments and work with both individuals and couples. I believe the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of meaningful change. When you feel safe, understood, and respected, real insight and healing can happen. Therapy with me is a space where you can slow down and show up as you are, even if you feel unsure, guarded, or worn down. We move at your pace, paying attention to patterns, emotions, and relationships that keep showing up in your life. My role is to walk alongside you as things begin to make sense, helping you build clarity, deeper connection, and a steadier relationship with yourself and others
I offer early evening appointments and work with both individuals and couples. I believe the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of meaningful change. When you feel safe, understood, and respected, real insight and healing can happen. Therapy with me is a space where you can slow down and show up as you are, even if you feel unsure, guarded, or worn down. We move at your pace, paying attention to patterns, emotions, and relationships that keep showing up in your life. My role is to walk alongside you as things begin to make sense, helping you build clarity, deeper connection, and a steadier relationship with yourself and others
I specialize in supporting clients navigating chronic pain and chronic illness.
Living with chronic pain and/or illness can take so much out of you. Especially when navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, it can feel like a never ending battle. It’s exhausting to keep pushing forward, managing relationships, a career, and/or education, when your body just feels "broken". You might wonder if anyone truly understands what it’s like to carry this weight everyday. You're so tired of just "getting by”. You want relief. These struggles are real, and you don’t have to face them alone.
I specialize in supporting clients navigating chronic pain and chronic illness.
Living with chronic pain and/or illness can take so much out of you. Especially when navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, it can feel like a never ending battle. It’s exhausting to keep pushing forward, managing relationships, a career, and/or education, when your body just feels "broken". You might wonder if anyone truly understands what it’s like to carry this weight everyday. You're so tired of just "getting by”. You want relief. These struggles are real, and you don’t have to face them alone.
(Please note, I ONLY accept clients with chronic illness concerns)
The roller coaster of doctor visits, medication changes, lifestyle changes and emotions is becoming too much and you’re ready to get off the roller coaster and feel grounded again. You want to feel like you can better manage the emotions and overwhelming stress that you're experiencing and take steps to start living your life again.
(Please note, I ONLY accept clients with chronic illness concerns)
The roller coaster of doctor visits, medication changes, lifestyle changes and emotions is becoming too much and you’re ready to get off the roller coaster and feel grounded again. You want to feel like you can better manage the emotions and overwhelming stress that you're experiencing and take steps to start living your life again.
Clients appreciate that I'm easy to talk to, that we set therapy goals together, and that I keep sessions focused on their needs. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and from a wide age range. Trained as a clinical psychologist, I provide research-based treatment of anxiety, social challenges, depression, and difficulty adapting to major adjustments in life. I am also a health psychologist, very experienced working with people who have chronic and/or severe medical challenges. I am a proud ally and enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Clients appreciate that I'm easy to talk to, that we set therapy goals together, and that I keep sessions focused on their needs. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and from a wide age range. Trained as a clinical psychologist, I provide research-based treatment of anxiety, social challenges, depression, and difficulty adapting to major adjustments in life. I am also a health psychologist, very experienced working with people who have chronic and/or severe medical challenges. I am a proud ally and enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Are you wrestling with how your life is impacted by your own disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity? These are questions and anxieties that are difficult to navigate on your own. It can be helpful to have an unbiased person to turn to so you can process and understand how your intersectional identities can impact your life and the lives of your loved ones.
Are you wrestling with how your life is impacted by your own disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity? These are questions and anxieties that are difficult to navigate on your own. It can be helpful to have an unbiased person to turn to so you can process and understand how your intersectional identities can impact your life and the lives of your loved ones.
I work with people who experience chronic illness, anxiety, and trauma.
Your life is a beautiful story. It includes trials and tribulations, but also many joys, and much to be grateful for. In my practice, I aim to support you as you navigate the emotional, mental, spiritual, physical, and social ups and downs that your life story involves. I bring a client-centered, anti-oppressive, and holistic approach to sessions. I aim to build a trusting relationship, to foster self-love, healing, and transformation, and to provide a multidimensional framework in treating your presenting problem. We will consider the ways that you can develop a variety of tools in your emotional coping skills toolbox.
I work with people who experience chronic illness, anxiety, and trauma.
Your life is a beautiful story. It includes trials and tribulations, but also many joys, and much to be grateful for. In my practice, I aim to support you as you navigate the emotional, mental, spiritual, physical, and social ups and downs that your life story involves. I bring a client-centered, anti-oppressive, and holistic approach to sessions. I aim to build a trusting relationship, to foster self-love, healing, and transformation, and to provide a multidimensional framework in treating your presenting problem. We will consider the ways that you can develop a variety of tools in your emotional coping skills toolbox.
Joanne Assarsson Cancer & Medical Illness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, OSW-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in supporting adults navigating cancer, acute and chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship stressors, work–life balance, and major life transitions.
The key to achieving positive change begins with finding a therapist who is a good fit for YOU. Our work will involve identifying and building upon existing strengths while exploring ways to modify and/or change behaviors that are not fully supporting your goals. Together we will collaborate and uncover what’s limiting your quality of life.
I specialize in supporting adults navigating cancer, acute and chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship stressors, work–life balance, and major life transitions.
The key to achieving positive change begins with finding a therapist who is a good fit for YOU. Our work will involve identifying and building upon existing strengths while exploring ways to modify and/or change behaviors that are not fully supporting your goals. Together we will collaborate and uncover what’s limiting your quality of life.
Holly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW(s), LMSW-C, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I help clients reclaim their lives from chronic illness.
In our sessions, we identify how your history impacts your current reality. We then find your triggers and facilitators that lead you toward a flare or improved functioning. We look at the whole picture: your body, your home, your work, and your world.
I help clients reclaim their lives from chronic illness.
In our sessions, we identify how your history impacts your current reality. We then find your triggers and facilitators that lead you toward a flare or improved functioning. We look at the whole picture: your body, your home, your work, and your world.
Currently accepting new clients as of 2/26/26!
Hi, I'm Katie! I am so glad you’re here. From experience, I know reaching out for help can be hard. That may seem cliche, but one of my favorite things to do is see people grow and change the course of their life. Whether you are working through a life change, anxiety, depression, self esteem, or gender identify issues, I am here for you. If you are seeking a therapist whom you can be real with, open up to, connect to, be heard by (and even called out by!), and laugh with at times - I'm your person! If you feel ready to tackle the issues that are holding you back, please reach out!
Currently accepting new clients as of 2/26/26!
Hi, I'm Katie! I am so glad you’re here. From experience, I know reaching out for help can be hard. That may seem cliche, but one of my favorite things to do is see people grow and change the course of their life. Whether you are working through a life change, anxiety, depression, self esteem, or gender identify issues, I am here for you. If you are seeking a therapist whom you can be real with, open up to, connect to, be heard by (and even called out by!), and laugh with at times - I'm your person! If you feel ready to tackle the issues that are holding you back, please reach out!
Hello! I am a (LCSW) Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Michigan. I received my Masters from Wayne State University and have been a practicing social worker for 20 years. I work with many clients that may experience anxiety, depression, grief , medical adjustment, and/or trauma. Sometimes we just need some assistance to manage life situations and all our life stressors.
Hello! I am a (LCSW) Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Michigan. I received my Masters from Wayne State University and have been a practicing social worker for 20 years. I work with many clients that may experience anxiety, depression, grief , medical adjustment, and/or trauma. Sometimes we just need some assistance to manage life situations and all our life stressors.
See more therapy options for Hamilton
Nearby Chronic Illness Therapists Searches for Hamilton
- Allegan
- Allendale
- Byron Center
- Caledonia
- Grandville
- Holland
- Hudsonville
- Jenison
- Kentwood
- Saugatuck
- Wyoming
- Zeeland
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.