Chronic Illness Therapists in Putnam Valley, NY
You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself or your future. You might be living with anxiety, chronic stress, chronic pain, or psychosomatic symptoms, and feel worn down by pressure, uncertainty, or self-criticism. I work with individuals navigating life transitions, complex trauma (CPTSD), and mind–body conditions using a somatic approach informed by Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and Hakomi. Together, we focus on building safety, reducing reactivity, and supporting a more grounded, connected relationship with your body and inner experience.
You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself or your future. You might be living with anxiety, chronic stress, chronic pain, or psychosomatic symptoms, and feel worn down by pressure, uncertainty, or self-criticism. I work with individuals navigating life transitions, complex trauma (CPTSD), and mind–body conditions using a somatic approach informed by Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and Hakomi. Together, we focus on building safety, reducing reactivity, and supporting a more grounded, connected relationship with your body and inner experience.
Valerie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IFS, EMDR, IADC, DBT
4 Endorsed
Putnam Valley, NY 10579
Waitlist for new clients
Full/waitlist-only for weekly therapy. IADC and EMDR intensives still accepted.
You're tired, emotionally and physically. I support new mothers who are up at 3 a.m. wondering why they feel so sad when they thought this was supposed to be the happiest time of their life. I work with people who are grieving and are so tired of being told to “move on” when all they really want is to still feel connected to the person they lost (and yes, we can find ways to do that together). I work with young adults who have lost a parent and feel like no one else understands, and the thought of a college commencement is depressing, not exciting.
Full/waitlist-only for weekly therapy. IADC and EMDR intensives still accepted.
You're tired, emotionally and physically. I support new mothers who are up at 3 a.m. wondering why they feel so sad when they thought this was supposed to be the happiest time of their life. I work with people who are grieving and are so tired of being told to “move on” when all they really want is to still feel connected to the person they lost (and yes, we can find ways to do that together). I work with young adults who have lost a parent and feel like no one else understands, and the thought of a college commencement is depressing, not exciting.
Claudia Rivas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Putnam Valley, NY 10579
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is a brave choice—and you don’t have to face it alone. I work with adults who feel anxious, stuck, or weighed down by old patterns and relationship struggles. Using a warm, psychodynamic approach, we’ll explore the deeper ‘why’ behind your feelings so you can break free from cycles that no longer serve you. With advanced training in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, I help clients heal from past wounds, strengthen relationships, and create lasting emotional change. Together, we’ll build insight, self-compassion, and the confidence to live more fully and authentically.
Therapy is a brave choice—and you don’t have to face it alone. I work with adults who feel anxious, stuck, or weighed down by old patterns and relationship struggles. Using a warm, psychodynamic approach, we’ll explore the deeper ‘why’ behind your feelings so you can break free from cycles that no longer serve you. With advanced training in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, I help clients heal from past wounds, strengthen relationships, and create lasting emotional change. Together, we’ll build insight, self-compassion, and the confidence to live more fully and authentically.
More Therapists Nearby
I work with clients navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, identity exploration, family and relationship dynamics, and neurodivergence.
Art is a powerful tool for healing! It can help resolve conflict, improve relationships, manage behaviors, reduce stress, and foster insight. It also offers the joy of creative expression. I strive to create a space that feels safe, affirming, and gently challenging. We might talk, make art, or blend approaches. You don’t need to be an artist; just open to exploring.
My ideal clients are curious + open to growth. They are navigating family conflict, identity, immigration, queerness, anxiety, depression, or life transitions, & are seeking creative, supportive healing. Therapy can be tender and hard, but it can also be fun & playful!
I work with clients navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, identity exploration, family and relationship dynamics, and neurodivergence.
Art is a powerful tool for healing! It can help resolve conflict, improve relationships, manage behaviors, reduce stress, and foster insight. It also offers the joy of creative expression. I strive to create a space that feels safe, affirming, and gently challenging. We might talk, make art, or blend approaches. You don’t need to be an artist; just open to exploring.
My ideal clients are curious + open to growth. They are navigating family conflict, identity, immigration, queerness, anxiety, depression, or life transitions, & are seeking creative, supportive healing. Therapy can be tender and hard, but it can also be fun & playful!
I help people navigate anxiety, parenting stress, trauma, chronic illness, and life transitions.
We focus on what matters most to you, uncover what's beneath the surface, and build new ways of coping. Our work together is relational, human, and flexible. My approach blends DBT, CBT, and psychodynamic tools, but it's the trust between us that makes therapy work. You don’t have to explain everything perfectly to begin.
I help people navigate anxiety, parenting stress, trauma, chronic illness, and life transitions.
We focus on what matters most to you, uncover what's beneath the surface, and build new ways of coping. Our work together is relational, human, and flexible. My approach blends DBT, CBT, and psychodynamic tools, but it's the trust between us that makes therapy work. You don’t have to explain everything perfectly to begin.
I have extensive experience working with those facing chronic illness, end-of-life- challenges, and bereavement and have completed advanced clinical training in family therapy at the Ackerman Institute for the Family.
Our work together will encourage insight and self-reflection, expand your recognition of options, and help you learn to identify and manage emotional challenges with an increased sense of calm and assurance.
I have extensive experience working with those facing chronic illness, end-of-life- challenges, and bereavement and have completed advanced clinical training in family therapy at the Ackerman Institute for the Family.
Our work together will encourage insight and self-reflection, expand your recognition of options, and help you learn to identify and manage emotional challenges with an increased sense of calm and assurance.
Are you tired of getting caught in the same old fights with your partner/spouse, kids, ex-husband or wife, parent(s), siblings, boss? Suffering from a serious illness in yourself or someone in your family?
Dissatisfied with the quality of your life and relationships? Are you struggling with parenting issues? Dealing with loss?
In a comfortable, non judgmental environment, you will discover the tools to navigate the sometimes stormy waters of life and make your relationships more fulfilling. I will be an active participant in the therapeutic process by giving you feedback and out of session assignments.
Are you tired of getting caught in the same old fights with your partner/spouse, kids, ex-husband or wife, parent(s), siblings, boss? Suffering from a serious illness in yourself or someone in your family?
Dissatisfied with the quality of your life and relationships? Are you struggling with parenting issues? Dealing with loss?
In a comfortable, non judgmental environment, you will discover the tools to navigate the sometimes stormy waters of life and make your relationships more fulfilling. I will be an active participant in the therapeutic process by giving you feedback and out of session assignments.
I am a bilingual Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families, particularly within the Hispanic community. Grounded in a Humanistic framework, I bring a compassionate and empathetic approach to foster a nurturing, healing environment for my clients, including those living with chronic illnesses and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I deeply respect each person’s unique journey, creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to share at their own pace. Through nonjudgmental feedback, I help clients embrace their lives with acceptance, self-compassion, and hope.
I am a bilingual Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families, particularly within the Hispanic community. Grounded in a Humanistic framework, I bring a compassionate and empathetic approach to foster a nurturing, healing environment for my clients, including those living with chronic illnesses and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I deeply respect each person’s unique journey, creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to share at their own pace. Through nonjudgmental feedback, I help clients embrace their lives with acceptance, self-compassion, and hope.
I work with those dealing with anxiety, grief, adjusting to unexpected life events, or chronic illness.
I use a client-centered, culturally sensitive approach. Our sessions are tailored to you and I pull from modalities like Psychodynamic, Family Systems Theory, Brief Therapy, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to name a few. I conduct immigration evaluations for asylum, U Visa, T Visa, VAWA, and Hardship Waiver not covered by insurance; call for pricing.
I work with those dealing with anxiety, grief, adjusting to unexpected life events, or chronic illness.
I use a client-centered, culturally sensitive approach. Our sessions are tailored to you and I pull from modalities like Psychodynamic, Family Systems Theory, Brief Therapy, & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to name a few. I conduct immigration evaluations for asylum, U Visa, T Visa, VAWA, and Hardship Waiver not covered by insurance; call for pricing.
I support adults navigating concerns such as trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, overwhelming emotions, hopelessness, relational challenges, cancer-related distress, and the emotional impact of chronic illness.
My approach brings together supportive therapy, cognitive-behavioral strategies, mindfulness-based interventions, and meaning-centered work. I have extensive training in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and mindfulness, including MBSR. As a BIPOC and LGBTQ+ ally, I am committed to fostering equity and inclusivity in healthcare.
I support adults navigating concerns such as trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, overwhelming emotions, hopelessness, relational challenges, cancer-related distress, and the emotional impact of chronic illness.
My approach brings together supportive therapy, cognitive-behavioral strategies, mindfulness-based interventions, and meaning-centered work. I have extensive training in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and mindfulness, including MBSR. As a BIPOC and LGBTQ+ ally, I am committed to fostering equity and inclusivity in healthcare.
I have 30 years of experience in private practice and I work with adults navigating trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief, and major life transitions.
My approach is psychodynamic and relational at its core. We'll look together at the emotional patterns and inner conflicts shaping your current struggles. When it's useful, I draw on more focused, evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD and complex trauma.
I have 30 years of experience in private practice and I work with adults navigating trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief, and major life transitions.
My approach is psychodynamic and relational at its core. We'll look together at the emotional patterns and inner conflicts shaping your current struggles. When it's useful, I draw on more focused, evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD and complex trauma.
At times, life can seem overwhelming leaving you feeling anxious, stressed, or unsure of how to move forward. As a clinical psychologist, I offer a supportive space where we will build practical tools for coping, deepen your self-awareness, and help you break free from patterns that no longer serve you. Drawing from my background in clinical psychology, health psychology and neuropsychology, I personalize treatment to help you achieve symptom relief leaving you free to pursue your life goals with a greater sense of purpose and wellbeing.
At times, life can seem overwhelming leaving you feeling anxious, stressed, or unsure of how to move forward. As a clinical psychologist, I offer a supportive space where we will build practical tools for coping, deepen your self-awareness, and help you break free from patterns that no longer serve you. Drawing from my background in clinical psychology, health psychology and neuropsychology, I personalize treatment to help you achieve symptom relief leaving you free to pursue your life goals with a greater sense of purpose and wellbeing.
With over 45 years of experience, Scott brings warmth and deep clinical expertise to every session. As a recognized leader in the field, he helps clients navigate challenges ranging from everyday stress to complex conditions. Known for his engaging, collaborative, and at times humorous approach, Scott’s blend of kindness, curiosity, and evidence-based skill, makes therapy both meaningful and effective. When working with Scott, clients achieve real change and lasting growth, regardless of the complexity of the case. Scott is especially committed to helping people cope with the many challenges we all face in current turbulent times.
With over 45 years of experience, Scott brings warmth and deep clinical expertise to every session. As a recognized leader in the field, he helps clients navigate challenges ranging from everyday stress to complex conditions. Known for his engaging, collaborative, and at times humorous approach, Scott’s blend of kindness, curiosity, and evidence-based skill, makes therapy both meaningful and effective. When working with Scott, clients achieve real change and lasting growth, regardless of the complexity of the case. Scott is especially committed to helping people cope with the many challenges we all face in current turbulent times.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Westchester County, New York and have extensive training and experience in the area of separation and divorce, including as a child specialist and parenting coordinator, helping parents to reduce conflict and develop the coparenting skills that will help their children thrive. Along with a general psychotherapy practice, my additional areas of specialty include infertility and coping with illness and loss.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Westchester County, New York and have extensive training and experience in the area of separation and divorce, including as a child specialist and parenting coordinator, helping parents to reduce conflict and develop the coparenting skills that will help their children thrive. Along with a general psychotherapy practice, my additional areas of specialty include infertility and coping with illness and loss.
If you or your child are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, behavior issues, ADHD, or the emotional toll of a medical condition, support can make a meaningful difference. Many individuals and families I work with feel stretched between health concerns, daily responsibilities, and emotional stress. Therapy can be a place to feel truly heard, gain clarity, and build tools that support both emotional wellbeing and everyday life—in English or Spanish.
If you or your child are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, behavior issues, ADHD, or the emotional toll of a medical condition, support can make a meaningful difference. Many individuals and families I work with feel stretched between health concerns, daily responsibilities, and emotional stress. Therapy can be a place to feel truly heard, gain clarity, and build tools that support both emotional wellbeing and everyday life—in English or Spanish.
My goal as an integrated heath care professional is to treat the whole body; so patients can experience changes in sensation, perception, thought or behavior corresponding to his or their mental or physical health needs. My success in treating chronic illness is founded in the idea that all therapeutic relationships are a partnership of patient and clinician in restoring the body to health. The use of Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy can address a variety of physical and mental health issues in a shorter time; with longer lasting effects.
My goal as an integrated heath care professional is to treat the whole body; so patients can experience changes in sensation, perception, thought or behavior corresponding to his or their mental or physical health needs. My success in treating chronic illness is founded in the idea that all therapeutic relationships are a partnership of patient and clinician in restoring the body to health. The use of Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy can address a variety of physical and mental health issues in a shorter time; with longer lasting effects.
I specialize in treating effects of stress and trauma, serious or chronic illness, and loss and bereavement.
Severe or chronic stress often feels more threatening than challenging. An illness can disrupt the course of your life, and cause fear, discouragement, and anger. Interpersonal loss can be life's most painful aspect, and grieving one of our most difficult life tasks. Prolonged grief refers to sustained feelings of emptiness and emotional pain.
I specialize in treating effects of stress and trauma, serious or chronic illness, and loss and bereavement.
Severe or chronic stress often feels more threatening than challenging. An illness can disrupt the course of your life, and cause fear, discouragement, and anger. Interpersonal loss can be life's most painful aspect, and grieving one of our most difficult life tasks. Prolonged grief refers to sustained feelings of emptiness and emotional pain.
We all face challenges that can make life feel overwhelming, painful, or stuck at times. Therapy offers a space for growth, healing, and support in a safe, confidential, and welcoming environment. I value the time and effort it takes to seek help, and I work collaboratively with clients to navigate challenges and create meaningful change. My practice is fully virtual, making care more accessible and convenient. I am based in New York and also licensed in California, Florida, and Arizona.
We all face challenges that can make life feel overwhelming, painful, or stuck at times. Therapy offers a space for growth, healing, and support in a safe, confidential, and welcoming environment. I value the time and effort it takes to seek help, and I work collaboratively with clients to navigate challenges and create meaningful change. My practice is fully virtual, making care more accessible and convenient. I am based in New York and also licensed in California, Florida, and Arizona.
How we manage and cope with stress can have a profound effect on both our medical health and mental health. In turn, our medical health can impact our mood, anxiety, and ability to cope. Stress management, body health, mood, and anxiety form an interactive loop that can affect not only our self-esteem, but also the sense of personal and professional success we experience in our lives. The connection between mental health, physical health and life satisfaction is the cornerstone of my work toward emotional well-being. Finding a balance among these aspects of self can be difficult and challenging.
How we manage and cope with stress can have a profound effect on both our medical health and mental health. In turn, our medical health can impact our mood, anxiety, and ability to cope. Stress management, body health, mood, and anxiety form an interactive loop that can affect not only our self-esteem, but also the sense of personal and professional success we experience in our lives. The connection between mental health, physical health and life satisfaction is the cornerstone of my work toward emotional well-being. Finding a balance among these aspects of self can be difficult and challenging.
My practice is dedicated to working with young adults-older adults who are living with stress related to life transitions, complex chronic illness (including Parkinson's, Movement Disorders, TBI, Stroke, Epilepsy, MS, ADHD, and other neurological conditions), as well as with caregivers, medical providers, and allied professionals who serve these populations.
Asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do, but it can also be one of the hardest because of past experience of not being heard, believed, or supported. Extreme stressors, life transitions, and traumatic events - including new or ongoing health conditions - affect every aspect of our lives and can make relationships - with family, friends, colleagues, and even healthcare providers - very challenging. The impact of these events can make us feel isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported (even by the well-intentioned). They can also lead us to make choices we aren't proud of and limit our enjoyment of life in general.
My practice is dedicated to working with young adults-older adults who are living with stress related to life transitions, complex chronic illness (including Parkinson's, Movement Disorders, TBI, Stroke, Epilepsy, MS, ADHD, and other neurological conditions), as well as with caregivers, medical providers, and allied professionals who serve these populations.
Asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do, but it can also be one of the hardest because of past experience of not being heard, believed, or supported. Extreme stressors, life transitions, and traumatic events - including new or ongoing health conditions - affect every aspect of our lives and can make relationships - with family, friends, colleagues, and even healthcare providers - very challenging. The impact of these events can make us feel isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported (even by the well-intentioned). They can also lead us to make choices we aren't proud of and limit our enjoyment of life in general.
See more therapy options for Putnam Valley
Nearby Chronic Illness Therapists Searches for Putnam Valley
- Beacon
- Carmel
- Cold Spring
- Cornwall
- Cortlandt Manor
- Croton On Hudson
- Garrison
- Katonah
- Mahopac
- Peekskill
- Somers
- Yorktown Heights
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.