Chronic Illness Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
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Dr. Dina Karvounides
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Verified
I am a clinical psychologist who is passionate about my work in supporting youth, young adults and their families to address life’s challenges. Over the past 16 years, I have worked with diverse patients who are coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment to
chronic illness
-particularly chronic pain conditions, challenges related to gender and sexual identity, as well as difficulties faced with peer and family relationships.

Rebekah Coval
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified
Verified
Rebekah Coval is an individual and couples therapist with a broad range of interests, including spirituality, pregnancy/pregnancy loss, discernment,
chronic illness
, and sexual trauma. She is trained in dance movement therapy and seeks to foster a deeper integration of body, mind, and spirit in all of her clients.

Rachel Allender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I am highly skilled at helping clients with depression, anxiety, relationships,
chronic illness
, life transitions, and work/life balance. What brings individuals and couples to therapy is complicated and personal. I will meet you where you are, working with whatever you bring through the door and support you to become expert in shaping your own life.

Annie Strout
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Specializing in
Chronic Illness
& Trauma and the mind body connection. Our health is everything, and when it is taken from us we progressively lean on dysfunctional thoughts, beliefs and habits to survive. We often lose our sense of trust and personal power, and rely on doctors or healers to fix us. We develop more anxiety, depression and frustration with life, which takes us farther and farther from our innate truth and authentic selves- exactly the things which we need to heal and recover. I have suffered from Lyme Disease for 15 years during which time I have developed and healed many complex symptoms.

Dr. Lee Ann Thill
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPAT, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
If you’re seeking more than ‘just’ talk therapy or feel emotionally stuck, I offer art psychotherapy focused on engagement, expression & problem-solving. Specialties: eating disorders & body image distress (incl. ED-DM1/diabulimia, vegan-positive recovery); grief (incl. companion animal/pet loss, eco-anxiety); coping with
chronic illness
(expertise in diabetes); women with ADHD. I primarily work with teens, women & LGBTQ+ folks, building a collaborative relationship to support your healing process. My approach is rooted in care and building relationship, offering space to examine life experience through a sociopolitical lens.

Sherri McElfatric
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified
Verified
As you begin your journey to self healing I would like to be an empowering support person for you. I believe we all have personal strengths and the resilience to overcome life’s challenges. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing and working through issues and concerns that you are facing. I believe in listening to one’s story and validating feelings. I have several years experience working in grief and loss and
chronic illness
. Past losses if not dealt with will present itself throughout life when other losses occur.
Waitlist for new clients

Elizabeth McElroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
Grief can be related to the death of a loved one; a
chronic illness
; or as a part of getting older.
Finding a therapist (for the first time ever or just the first time in awhile) can be an overwhelming process. I can make it easier for you. If you are grieving a loss, managing a
chronic illness
, or having trouble adjusting to changes in your life, I can help. You are the expert in your own life; I want to empower you to tell your story without fear of judgment. My role in our work together is to listen to your struggles, remind you of your strengths, and find a way to honor your losses.

Elizabeth Paige Diamond
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified
Verified
I work with couples and adults. People I have had the pleasure to work with are often in a transitional period of their life and feel stuck working through it on their own. You may fit criteria for the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar,
chronic illness
, sexual dysfunctions (including painful sex, low desire, erectile disorder, achieving orgasm too quickly, or not at all, STI diagnoses, sexual identity and/or orientation exploration, difficulty communicating with partners, partners who have mental health disorders, self-esteem, and body image challenges. I am a good fit for folks who are open to doing exercises at home.

Jill M Ott
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified
Verified
I am a board certified telemedicine licensed mental health counselor (FL) and licensed professional counselor (PA) with over 30 years experience in both the medical and mental health fields. I specialize in depression, anxiety, family or relationship conflicts,
chronic illness
and medical issues as well as every day stresses.

Laurie Trefaller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified
Verified
Are anxiety, stress,
chronic illness
, grief, loss or depression overwhelming you? For most of us, life is challenging at times, and certain emotions and circumstances may be just too much to handle alone. I specialize in helping individuals get to the root cause of their dis-ease. Using a holistic approach, I recognize the importance of the mind-body-soul connection within us and how it influences our overall well- being – mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. I would be honored to walk gently with you to guide you on your healing journey.

Garden Path Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified
Verified
We offer individual and couples therapy for a variety of problems including : Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Coping with Traumatic Brain Injury, Grief, Adult, ADHD, Career Counseling, Coping with
Chronic Illness
, Anger Management, Self-Esteem, and Relationship Issues.
Garden Path Counseling's focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
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Arcline Associates Counsel Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified
Verified
Smile! Our specialties include GeriCare© (older adults with complicated grief/loss);
chronic illness
/pain; depression; relationships; coping; acceptance; D&A. Conflict Resolution: Adolescent behavioral & school conflict; bicultural, acculturation, assimilation, ethnicity socialization conflict; identity & intergenerational conflict. Stress/Anger Mgmt. Occupational Stress: Welcome Law Enforcement, First Responders, Hospital & Crisis Workers; Aviation Personnel. Parent Child Interaction. Marriage Family Couples Counseling. Emphasis on Family Systems, Relational, Interpersonal, Ecological Theory. Trauma Informed, DBT/CBT. PA Medicare & CHIP Welcome!

Lauren Scangarella
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, BA
Verified
Verified
I support people dealing with depression, anxiety, relational distress, life transitions,
chronic illness
, autism and/or ADHD. Healthy relationships with our family, friends, and support systems including therapy inform our ability to cope, process, and grow. I believe healing happens when we develop self-compassion for our most shamed parts and build support systems that meet us with care and understanding. My style is integrative, mindful and rooted in social justice.

A New Hue Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified
Verified
I specialize in treating the challenges of depression, anxiety, living with
chronic illness
, grief and loss, life transitions, neurodiversity, and identity.
Life can be challenging and we would hardly be human if we didn't have struggles. Sometimes we need help moving through our difficulties and finding our way. Therapy can be a great way to find the support and positive change you need. At A New Hue, I provide a unique approach to therapy for adolescents and adults. I strive to help the individuals I work with uncover the root causes of issues, gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences, overcome challenges, and live a happier, fuller life.

John Machalaba
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
4 Endorsed
Verified
4 Endorsed
I have expertise working with university/graduate students, medical professionals, and individuals with
chronic illness
.
My approach to therapy is one that prioritizes the creation of a relationship that is safe, mutual, and honest. I want my clients to feel empowered and free to explore themselves and grow into the person they wish to become. I am calm, warm, and active. I offer my clients feedback and challenge them in ways that encourage growth, often with some levity and humor. I value knowing my clients as a person and prioritize gaining an understanding and appreciation of their perspective. I work together with my clients to identify negative patterns in their life and provide the opportunity to create new, healthy experiences.

Suzy Bonn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified
Verified
Suzy is a marriage and family therapist who believes that therapy is a collaborative process. She is passionate about working with folks struggling with depression and anxiety, and those experiencing conflict or distance in their relationships. She strives to provide a supportive space in which clients feel supported and empowered. Suzy is LGBTQIA+ affirming and enjoys working with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. She has a particular interest in intergenerational trauma, identity development, grief & loss, coping with
chronic illness
, and ADHD management.

Alex Ochs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified
Verified
Many of us, at some point in our lives, experience stress, struggle with interpersonal relationships, and question our self-worth. I have extensive experience and enjoy working with individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, experience
chronic illness
, as well as emerging adults struggling with life transitions through a relational psychodynamic orientation. I believe therapy can provide tremendous relief, increase joy and spontaneity, and allow you to know and experience a deeper sense of yourself. It can be difficult to start therapy. That is why I approach our work together from a place of compassion, genuineness, and authenticity.

Leilei Duan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
I specialize in neurobiology-informed psychotherapy to address anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, attachment issues, etc.. My approach is integrative and whole person wellbeing focused. Psychological issues closely interact with physical health issues, such as
chronic illness
/pain, energy deficiency, sleeping, memory loss, eating/weight issues, etc. In therapy, I will work with you on the interdependent issues from psychological, biological, and environmental aspects and help you gain insights of your mind, body, and experiences, and use practical strategies to obtain healing and improve your quality of life.
Not accepting new clients

Wendy A Caplin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
My areas of specialty with individual/couples/ families include but are not limited to depressive disorders, couples, the elderly,
chronic illness
, problems of childhood, therapy with children, parent education, adoption issues, gays and lesbians, trauma and end of life issues.
I view therapy as a unique, shared journey and the therapeutic relationship as essential for healing and change. I am a Licensed Psychologist and Certfied Filial therapists/trainer. I have extensive training in family/couple therapy, Gestalt therapy, mindfulness and sandtray therapies. I have worked in a wide variety of settings with adults, children, and teens (group private practice, schools, medical setting, state mental hospital, community mental health). I have been in private practice since 1991.

Susan Karol Martel
EdM
With 40 years of experience, I work with individuals and couples, straight and gay, African Americans, Caucasians and other racial and ethnic groups as well as other therapists helping with their unique life challenges. I also work with those having
chronic illness
and cancer. Challenge and loss are inevitable-- whether they be associated with love, family, health or trust or over how we hoped our life would turn out. Living well means learning a repertoire to deal with challenges so we don't remain stuck, angry or depressed.
See more therapy options for
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.