Chronic Illness Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Andrew J Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I also work with people navigating chronic illness, medical trauma, grief, addiction, and deep questions of meaning and spirituality.
I draw on psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, REBT, mindfulness, and Stoic philosophy — adapting to what each person needs. As a cancer survivor and former hospital chaplain, I bring lived experience to this work. Therapy, in my view, is not designed to make you feel good. It's designed to give you more agency over your own life.
I also work with people navigating chronic illness, medical trauma, grief, addiction, and deep questions of meaning and spirituality.
I draw on psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, REBT, mindfulness, and Stoic philosophy — adapting to what each person needs. As a cancer survivor and former hospital chaplain, I bring lived experience to this work. Therapy, in my view, is not designed to make you feel good. It's designed to give you more agency over your own life.
(718) 682-7509 View (718) 682-7509
Emma Uribe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Life doesn't always unfold the way we imagined. Whether you're navigating a cancer diagnosis, grieving a significant loss, managing anxiety, or adjusting to a major life transition, you don't have to face it alone. I specialize in working with individuals and couples during some of life's most difficult chapters. My approach is collaborative and exploratory — I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you as you find clarity, make meaning of your experiences, and forge a path forward.
Life doesn't always unfold the way we imagined. Whether you're navigating a cancer diagnosis, grieving a significant loss, managing anxiety, or adjusting to a major life transition, you don't have to face it alone. I specialize in working with individuals and couples during some of life's most difficult chapters. My approach is collaborative and exploratory — I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you as you find clarity, make meaning of your experiences, and forge a path forward.
(646) 759-0266 View (646) 759-0266
Emma Novick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
You may feel like something has happened to your body, whether through medical trauma, sexual harm, or physical abuse, and that impact has not fully settled. It can show up as disconnection, hyper awareness, difficulty trusting your body, or feeling like you are constantly negotiating between safety and vulnerability. You might find yourself overthinking, bracing for the worst, or struggling to feel at ease in your own skin.
You may feel like something has happened to your body, whether through medical trauma, sexual harm, or physical abuse, and that impact has not fully settled. It can show up as disconnection, hyper awareness, difficulty trusting your body, or feeling like you are constantly negotiating between safety and vulnerability. You might find yourself overthinking, bracing for the worst, or struggling to feel at ease in your own skin.
(646) 762-5348 View (646) 762-5348
Tina Lo Proto
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I provide treatment for general mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, as well as interventions for health behavior change for concerns such as insomnia, pain, smoking cessation and chronic illness.
Each person brings to therapy a unique life story that deserves to be heard in a trusting and respectful environment. We will spend the first sessions gaining an understanding of who you are and what brings you to therapy. Together, we will develop a tailored plan with realistic goals that address your specific needs and desires. We will move through the sessions at a pace that feels safe and meaningful and we will build a therapeutic collaboration that enables us to explore your thoughts and feelings with nonjudgmental curiosity and kind openness to your life experiences.
I provide treatment for general mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, as well as interventions for health behavior change for concerns such as insomnia, pain, smoking cessation and chronic illness.
Each person brings to therapy a unique life story that deserves to be heard in a trusting and respectful environment. We will spend the first sessions gaining an understanding of who you are and what brings you to therapy. Together, we will develop a tailored plan with realistic goals that address your specific needs and desires. We will move through the sessions at a pace that feels safe and meaningful and we will build a therapeutic collaboration that enables us to explore your thoughts and feelings with nonjudgmental curiosity and kind openness to your life experiences.
(646) 718-3291 View (646) 718-3291
Hadley Rose
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
If things appear good on the outside but inside you feel on edge, self-critical, or overwhelmed, you’re not alone. I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, OCD, trauma, low self-esteem, and who are overwhelmed by emotions, often during times of transition or uncertainty. I also have a particular interest in anxiety related to health, food allergies, and food intolerances. Having lived experience in this area, I understand how safety concerns can shape daily life. In therapy, we work to identify what’s protective versus exhausting and build trust in your ability to cope without staying on high alert.
If things appear good on the outside but inside you feel on edge, self-critical, or overwhelmed, you’re not alone. I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, OCD, trauma, low self-esteem, and who are overwhelmed by emotions, often during times of transition or uncertainty. I also have a particular interest in anxiety related to health, food allergies, and food intolerances. Having lived experience in this area, I understand how safety concerns can shape daily life. In therapy, we work to identify what’s protective versus exhausting and build trust in your ability to cope without staying on high alert.
(914) 730-5776 View (914) 730-5776
Samine Charles
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
With more than twenty years of experience working with individuals, couples, children, and adolescents, I bring a seasoned, compassionate approach to therapy. My background spans both clinical and educational settings, allowing me to offer well-rounded, thoughtful care that is customized to each client’s unique needs and goals. I hold a doctorate in Behavioral Health and am trained in a range of evidence-based practices for clients across the lifespan. My style is supportive, strengths-based, and collaborative—meeting you exactly where you are while helping you move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.
With more than twenty years of experience working with individuals, couples, children, and adolescents, I bring a seasoned, compassionate approach to therapy. My background spans both clinical and educational settings, allowing me to offer well-rounded, thoughtful care that is customized to each client’s unique needs and goals. I hold a doctorate in Behavioral Health and am trained in a range of evidence-based practices for clients across the lifespan. My style is supportive, strengths-based, and collaborative—meeting you exactly where you are while helping you move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.
(929) 528-5465 View (929) 528-5465
Nicole Ryan Carroll
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in depression, anxiety, addiction, and life transitions, but my deepest passion is supporting those with chronic pain, chronic illness, and disability.
I understand the challenge of staying authentic in a world that often makes it feel impossible. My passion lies in helping clients discover their inherent worth and value as I guide them through struggles with self-love, addiction, and trauma on a journey toward self-discovery and compassion.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, addiction, and life transitions, but my deepest passion is supporting those with chronic pain, chronic illness, and disability.
I understand the challenge of staying authentic in a world that often makes it feel impossible. My passion lies in helping clients discover their inherent worth and value as I guide them through struggles with self-love, addiction, and trauma on a journey toward self-discovery and compassion.
(323) 940-5341 View (323) 940-5341
Kate Herts
Psychologist, PhD
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Acknowledging the need for support is an incredibly brave step — I’m so happy that you are here. I work with adults in individual and group psychotherapy, and specialize in treating adults with chronic medical conditions such as cancer, Lupus, Crohn’s disease, and Cystic Fibrosis. My additional areas of expertise include helping adults navigate the LGBTQ experience and women’s health concerns, as well as depression, anxiety and trauma. Although you may not yet be able to fully appreciate your strength and resilience, I am here to hold this vision for you as we work together to guide you towards a life of deep fulfillment.
Acknowledging the need for support is an incredibly brave step — I’m so happy that you are here. I work with adults in individual and group psychotherapy, and specialize in treating adults with chronic medical conditions such as cancer, Lupus, Crohn’s disease, and Cystic Fibrosis. My additional areas of expertise include helping adults navigate the LGBTQ experience and women’s health concerns, as well as depression, anxiety and trauma. Although you may not yet be able to fully appreciate your strength and resilience, I am here to hold this vision for you as we work together to guide you towards a life of deep fulfillment.
(646) 970-1798 View (646) 970-1798
Jennifer Katz
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
I believe therapy works best when clients feel truly seen, heard, and supported. I strive to create a trusting, nonjudgmental space where we can explore the thoughts, emotions, and patterns that shape daily life and relationships. Together, we focus on building awareness, strengthening communication, and developing healthier ways to cope with difficult emotions and life stressors. My work often centers on supporting clients as they move from self-doubt and self-criticism toward greater self-acceptance, confidence, and emotional balance, while working toward both short-term goals and deeper, long-term growth.
I believe therapy works best when clients feel truly seen, heard, and supported. I strive to create a trusting, nonjudgmental space where we can explore the thoughts, emotions, and patterns that shape daily life and relationships. Together, we focus on building awareness, strengthening communication, and developing healthier ways to cope with difficult emotions and life stressors. My work often centers on supporting clients as they move from self-doubt and self-criticism toward greater self-acceptance, confidence, and emotional balance, while working toward both short-term goals and deeper, long-term growth.
(929) 565-6005 View (929) 565-6005
Meghan Bernhardt
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I treat adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, questioning their careers, having relationship issues, or just feeling like something isn't right and craving change. I work with people - students, artists, musicians, freelancers, and working professionals - who want to know and understand themselves better.
I treat adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, questioning their careers, having relationship issues, or just feeling like something isn't right and craving change. I work with people - students, artists, musicians, freelancers, and working professionals - who want to know and understand themselves better.
(516) 246-2279 View (516) 246-2279
Kate Laux
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Art. Can. Heal. Looking for a supportive, meaningful, and freeing space to explore your thoughts, challenges, and emotions using creative expression? Are you interested in connecting with others in a supportive group space using the healing arts? I am a trauma informed, holistic Creative Arts Therapist who uses a range of psychological theory and modalities to meet individual, family and group needs. Please note psychotherapy is always an option.
Art. Can. Heal. Looking for a supportive, meaningful, and freeing space to explore your thoughts, challenges, and emotions using creative expression? Are you interested in connecting with others in a supportive group space using the healing arts? I am a trauma informed, holistic Creative Arts Therapist who uses a range of psychological theory and modalities to meet individual, family and group needs. Please note psychotherapy is always an option.
(607) 536-3801 View (607) 536-3801
Natalie Zeif
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11205
I maintain a focus on acute and chronic illness (including caregivers/family) and medical trauma and stress.
I work with individuals and couples facing a variety of issues including grief, trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, and life transitions. As a psychodynamic therapist, I help to uncover the beliefs, fears, and patterns that are quietly keeping you stuck, distressed, or unfulfilled. I believe that good therapy goes beyond learning coping skills and making behavior changes to get at the underlying causes of distress, facilitating self-awareness, stronger relationships, and renewed purpose.
I maintain a focus on acute and chronic illness (including caregivers/family) and medical trauma and stress.
I work with individuals and couples facing a variety of issues including grief, trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, and life transitions. As a psychodynamic therapist, I help to uncover the beliefs, fears, and patterns that are quietly keeping you stuck, distressed, or unfulfilled. I believe that good therapy goes beyond learning coping skills and making behavior changes to get at the underlying causes of distress, facilitating self-awareness, stronger relationships, and renewed purpose.
(844) 793-2860 View (844) 793-2860
Jane Kownacki
Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy is a complex process. The components of time and commitment are vital for clients in diving into their mental wellbeing. If you feel ready, I invite you with the assisted guidance from myself, to cultivate a deepened relationship with your SELF. Many of my clients have been supported through periods of depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationships, complex trauma and addiction. There is no judgement in our work together, as every person is different and full of their own unique experiences that has led them to where they are now. I also proudly identify as and work with the chronically ill community.
Therapy is a complex process. The components of time and commitment are vital for clients in diving into their mental wellbeing. If you feel ready, I invite you with the assisted guidance from myself, to cultivate a deepened relationship with your SELF. Many of my clients have been supported through periods of depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationships, complex trauma and addiction. There is no judgement in our work together, as every person is different and full of their own unique experiences that has led them to where they are now. I also proudly identify as and work with the chronically ill community.
(845) 720-4231 View (845) 720-4231
The Center for Integrated Grief
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, FT
Online Only
Living with chronic illness yourself?
We offer IFS.
Living with chronic illness yourself?
We offer IFS.
(646) 846-9332 View (646) 846-9332
Michelle Schwab
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, relationship challenges, life transitions, chronic illness, disability, and the impact of systemic and cultural stressors.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. Grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed care, including CBT, ACT, Narrative, and Adlerian Therapy, we'll explore your experiences with curiosity and compassion while building practical skills, resilience, and insight that support meaningful, lasting change.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, relationship challenges, life transitions, chronic illness, disability, and the impact of systemic and cultural stressors.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. Grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed care, including CBT, ACT, Narrative, and Adlerian Therapy, we'll explore your experiences with curiosity and compassion while building practical skills, resilience, and insight that support meaningful, lasting change.
(646) 787-1429 View (646) 787-1429
Michelle Pinel
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211
I support individuals and couples with physical and mental health concerns including anxiety, OCD, relationship challenges, sexual trauma, chronic illness (special focus on GI diseases), and life transitions.
Clients often describe me as warm, approachable, and humorous. I aim to create a safe, accepting space where you feel respected, understood, and supported at your own pace. My goal is to meet you where you are, personalize therapy to your needs, and help you feel more grounded and empowered in your life and relationships.
I support individuals and couples with physical and mental health concerns including anxiety, OCD, relationship challenges, sexual trauma, chronic illness (special focus on GI diseases), and life transitions.
Clients often describe me as warm, approachable, and humorous. I aim to create a safe, accepting space where you feel respected, understood, and supported at your own pace. My goal is to meet you where you are, personalize therapy to your needs, and help you feel more grounded and empowered in your life and relationships.
(646) 212-0897 View (646) 212-0897
Raquel Orejuela
Counselor, LMHC-D
Online Only
I am a licensed psychotherapist with diagnostic privilege, providing a holistic person first approach. I deeply care about humans and particularly serving the under served, and BI-POC communities. As an Afro-Indigenous / West Indian woman, I understand vitality of intersectionality and connection to culture in mental health settings. My specific area of expertise is Forensic Mental Health Counseling with an Advanced Certificate in Victimology Studies. I specialize in supporting those with PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use, and other dysregulated / self destructive behaviors.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with diagnostic privilege, providing a holistic person first approach. I deeply care about humans and particularly serving the under served, and BI-POC communities. As an Afro-Indigenous / West Indian woman, I understand vitality of intersectionality and connection to culture in mental health settings. My specific area of expertise is Forensic Mental Health Counseling with an Advanced Certificate in Victimology Studies. I specialize in supporting those with PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use, and other dysregulated / self destructive behaviors.
(929) 600-6158 View (929) 600-6158
Elizabeth Ezra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. My approach is to help you identify your strengths and help you utilize them to achieve greater harmony in your day to day interactions. I have over 20 years of experience, working side by side with clients, dealing with a multitude of issues that create challenges and obstacles that can be avoidable or reduced.
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. My approach is to help you identify your strengths and help you utilize them to achieve greater harmony in your day to day interactions. I have over 20 years of experience, working side by side with clients, dealing with a multitude of issues that create challenges and obstacles that can be avoidable or reduced.
(917) 909-5913 View (917) 909-5913
Meredith Korsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
10 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
While I work with people seeking therapy for a variety of reasons, my specialties include mood disorders, relationship issues, alcohol use, and chronic illness/pain disorders.
With a focus on self-empowerment, I can help you increase your attention to the present moment, and accept thoughts and feelings without judgment. This mindfulness practice allows you to become more connected to yourself and your environment, often resulting in gaining new confidence and identifying new solutions.
While I work with people seeking therapy for a variety of reasons, my specialties include mood disorders, relationship issues, alcohol use, and chronic illness/pain disorders.
With a focus on self-empowerment, I can help you increase your attention to the present moment, and accept thoughts and feelings without judgment. This mindfulness practice allows you to become more connected to yourself and your environment, often resulting in gaining new confidence and identifying new solutions.
(646) 791-3089 View (646) 791-3089
Bella Kirschenbaum
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I also have a special focus on chronic illness, which is its own emotional landscape.
Hello! I offer trauma-focused psychotherapy and EMDR for adults. My approach is warm and flexible with a sense of humor. I believe you should be able to bring your whole, imperfect self to therapy, and that there's space here for both depth and silliness, and for all the parts of you. You don't have to be serious all the time. My work centers on helping people understand their inner world and the impact it has on themselves and their relationships. I want to help you understand why you feel what you feel and how emotional patterns operate behind the scenes.
I also have a special focus on chronic illness, which is its own emotional landscape.
Hello! I offer trauma-focused psychotherapy and EMDR for adults. My approach is warm and flexible with a sense of humor. I believe you should be able to bring your whole, imperfect self to therapy, and that there's space here for both depth and silliness, and for all the parts of you. You don't have to be serious all the time. My work centers on helping people understand their inner world and the impact it has on themselves and their relationships. I want to help you understand why you feel what you feel and how emotional patterns operate behind the scenes.
(347) 394-2405 View (347) 394-2405

See more therapy options for Brooklyn

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.