Chronic Illness Therapists in Austin, TX

Heather Velasquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Online Only
They might be dealing with anxiety, trauma, grief, or chronic illness while also trying to be the steady, reliable one everyone counts on.
I use trauma-focused approaches like EMDR and IFS to help heal the beliefs and experiences that fuel anxiety, disconnection, or that nagging “I’m not enough” feeling. We'll also focus on equipping you to better handle stress and difficult emotions without feeling too overwhelmed or the need to shutdown or disconnect.
They might be dealing with anxiety, trauma, grief, or chronic illness while also trying to be the steady, reliable one everyone counts on.
I use trauma-focused approaches like EMDR and IFS to help heal the beliefs and experiences that fuel anxiety, disconnection, or that nagging “I’m not enough” feeling. We'll also focus on equipping you to better handle stress and difficult emotions without feeling too overwhelmed or the need to shutdown or disconnect.
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Michelle Luna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFTS, LCDC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in complex trauma, chronic illness, chronic pain, and medical trauma.
When you’re living with trauma, chronic pain, or illness, it can feel like your body and mind are locked in survival mode—holding tension, fear, and exhaustion you can’t seem to release. Maybe you feel disconnected from your body or stuck between wanting relief and not knowing where to find it. If parts of this resonate with you, our work can help you shift from coping to healing. I work from the inside out, honoring all dimensions of your experience—body, mind, energy, and emotion—to support lasting, integrated healing. Together, we’ll help your nervous system find safety by gently reconnecting with your body’s innate wisdom.
I specialize in complex trauma, chronic illness, chronic pain, and medical trauma.
When you’re living with trauma, chronic pain, or illness, it can feel like your body and mind are locked in survival mode—holding tension, fear, and exhaustion you can’t seem to release. Maybe you feel disconnected from your body or stuck between wanting relief and not knowing where to find it. If parts of this resonate with you, our work can help you shift from coping to healing. I work from the inside out, honoring all dimensions of your experience—body, mind, energy, and emotion—to support lasting, integrated healing. Together, we’ll help your nervous system find safety by gently reconnecting with your body’s innate wisdom.
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Kim Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Kim! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of clinical experience providing psychotherapy & counseling for highly-motivated adults and clients experiencing stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and grief & loss. I often use CBT, Mindfulness-Based CBT, Solution-Focused therapy, and Humanistic therapy in my work. I believe that it is my pleasure to support clients in overcoming obstacles to living happier and more satisfying lives.
Hi, I'm Kim! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of clinical experience providing psychotherapy & counseling for highly-motivated adults and clients experiencing stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, and grief & loss. I often use CBT, Mindfulness-Based CBT, Solution-Focused therapy, and Humanistic therapy in my work. I believe that it is my pleasure to support clients in overcoming obstacles to living happier and more satisfying lives.
(469) 772-5791 View (469) 772-5791
Morgynn Haner
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Are you yet to find a therapist you feel comfortable with and can relate to? Has previous therapy “only scratched the surface” of the real reasons you are seeking help? You’re not alone. My clients often need a deep sense of connection in order to feel safe in their most vulnerable moments. Most of my clients are looking for a highly-trained psychologist who is not afraid to show her humanity nor bear witness to theirs. I aim to make you feel seen, understood, and safe as you work through difficult emotions and/or painful past experiences.
Are you yet to find a therapist you feel comfortable with and can relate to? Has previous therapy “only scratched the surface” of the real reasons you are seeking help? You’re not alone. My clients often need a deep sense of connection in order to feel safe in their most vulnerable moments. Most of my clients are looking for a highly-trained psychologist who is not afraid to show her humanity nor bear witness to theirs. I aim to make you feel seen, understood, and safe as you work through difficult emotions and/or painful past experiences.
(281) 801-6941 View (281) 801-6941
Madeleine Brunk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
It is easy to feel overwhelmed navigating complex trauma, managing disability or chronic illness, learning to support your neurodivergent brain, or just being a person in the world.
You want to feel connected and happy, but you’re overwhelmed with the demands of everyday life and the needs of the people around you. The things that used to work for you don’t work anymore—you know you want change, but that change feels unsafe or out of reach. You’re ready to stop putting everyone and everything ahead of yourself, you just need support to start building a life that feels good.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed navigating complex trauma, managing disability or chronic illness, learning to support your neurodivergent brain, or just being a person in the world.
You want to feel connected and happy, but you’re overwhelmed with the demands of everyday life and the needs of the people around you. The things that used to work for you don’t work anymore—you know you want change, but that change feels unsafe or out of reach. You’re ready to stop putting everyone and everything ahead of yourself, you just need support to start building a life that feels good.
(737) 530-8897 View (737) 530-8897
Jenifer Cameron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of the older adults I work with are facing chronic illness, the emotional demands of caring for a spouse or loved one, grief, retirement, or other life changes that have left them feeling overwhelmed, isolated, uncertain about the future, or simply not like themselves anymore.
I specialize in therapy for older adults and have extensive experience with chronic illness, grief, caregiver stress, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. My approach is warm, practical, and tailored to your needs, helping you build coping skills, strengthen resilience, and move through life's changes with greater confidence.
Many of the older adults I work with are facing chronic illness, the emotional demands of caring for a spouse or loved one, grief, retirement, or other life changes that have left them feeling overwhelmed, isolated, uncertain about the future, or simply not like themselves anymore.
I specialize in therapy for older adults and have extensive experience with chronic illness, grief, caregiver stress, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. My approach is warm, practical, and tailored to your needs, helping you build coping skills, strengthen resilience, and move through life's changes with greater confidence.
(512) 890-3746 View (512) 890-3746
Jessica Buss
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Austin, TX 78738
My goal is to help you discover your true self and lead a life worth celebrating. While difficult situations or experiences are an inevitable part of life, you and I can work together to resolve and overcome your challenges. I am committed to creating a safe, welcoming, supportive place where you are treated with kindness, acceptance, and respect. You are given permission to be just as you are, while working toward the growth and happiness. I believe every human being is deserving and capable of self-confidence, inner peace, self-love, and healthy living.
My goal is to help you discover your true self and lead a life worth celebrating. While difficult situations or experiences are an inevitable part of life, you and I can work together to resolve and overcome your challenges. I am committed to creating a safe, welcoming, supportive place where you are treated with kindness, acceptance, and respect. You are given permission to be just as you are, while working toward the growth and happiness. I believe every human being is deserving and capable of self-confidence, inner peace, self-love, and healthy living.
(512) 994-2417 View (512) 994-2417
Mackenzie Edwards
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with parents, leaders, healthcare professionals, and individuals with chronic illness who are ready for change.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are ready and excited to grow! My style is collaborative and compassionate; I use an integrated approach, drawing from empirical evidence, holistic wisdom, and lived experience to support sustained change.
I specialize in working with parents, leaders, healthcare professionals, and individuals with chronic illness who are ready for change.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are ready and excited to grow! My style is collaborative and compassionate; I use an integrated approach, drawing from empirical evidence, holistic wisdom, and lived experience to support sustained change.
(512) 661-7553 View (512) 661-7553
Vivienne Forte
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Is your relationship navigating the complex challenges of neurodifferences, chronic illness, or trauma?
I specialize in supporting couples to enrich & repair their relationship while navigating complex challenges like chronic illness, neurodivergence, & trauma. Combining research-informed practices with revolutionary brain & relationship science, I work from an integrative “head & heart” approach to help you increase resilience & co-create a secure connection.
Is your relationship navigating the complex challenges of neurodifferences, chronic illness, or trauma?
I specialize in supporting couples to enrich & repair their relationship while navigating complex challenges like chronic illness, neurodivergence, & trauma. Combining research-informed practices with revolutionary brain & relationship science, I work from an integrative “head & heart” approach to help you increase resilience & co-create a secure connection.
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Jeanice Pantier-Mullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
I am also PACT and EMDR trained therapist; I have additional training in sexual issues, chronic illness and infertility.
PACT is an approach to relationship issues, where the therapist, with specialized training in the latest neuroscience, attachment, and arousal regulation, uses in-session experience to move toward secure functioning in relating. EMDR is a scientifically proven psychotherapy for helping bring negative or traumatic life events to an adaptive resolution.
I am also PACT and EMDR trained therapist; I have additional training in sexual issues, chronic illness and infertility.
PACT is an approach to relationship issues, where the therapist, with specialized training in the latest neuroscience, attachment, and arousal regulation, uses in-session experience to move toward secure functioning in relating. EMDR is a scientifically proven psychotherapy for helping bring negative or traumatic life events to an adaptive resolution.
(512) 412-3248 View (512) 412-3248
Zoey Dlott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adolescents and adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, medical stress, identity exploration, school or career changes, and relationship challenges.
I offer warm, collaborative, trauma-informed therapy focused on coping skills, self-compassion, emotional regulation, and support through change. My specialty is helping adolescents and young adults navigate life transitions and chronic illness while feeling heard, understood, and empowered.
I work with adolescents and adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, medical stress, identity exploration, school or career changes, and relationship challenges.
I offer warm, collaborative, trauma-informed therapy focused on coping skills, self-compassion, emotional regulation, and support through change. My specialty is helping adolescents and young adults navigate life transitions and chronic illness while feeling heard, understood, and empowered.
(314) 912-3162 View (314) 912-3162
Deborah Stokes Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CGP
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I use a cultural relational model of psychotherapy for adults, and a hold a certificate in Modern Analytic Group Leadership. LGBTQIA+ ally.
I use a cultural relational model of psychotherapy for adults, and a hold a certificate in Modern Analytic Group Leadership. LGBTQIA+ ally.
(512) 843-8581 View (512) 843-8581
Dr. Laura Summerhill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S
11 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78739
You’ve worked hard to build a good life, but anxiety keeps you on edge. Each morning starts with a knot in your stomach + racing thoughts about everything left undone. Even simple tasks feel overwhelming. The pressure to keep up never stops. You may also have ADHD or struggle with IBS, chronic pain, or the lingering effects of trauma. Some days, the tension lives in your body: headaches, fatigue, or a constant sense you’re failing at something. The world sees a capable person, but inside, it’s hard to keep it together. You’re tired of the guilt, burnout, and the “try harder” cycle. You just want calm, clarity, and a safe space.
You’ve worked hard to build a good life, but anxiety keeps you on edge. Each morning starts with a knot in your stomach + racing thoughts about everything left undone. Even simple tasks feel overwhelming. The pressure to keep up never stops. You may also have ADHD or struggle with IBS, chronic pain, or the lingering effects of trauma. Some days, the tension lives in your body: headaches, fatigue, or a constant sense you’re failing at something. The world sees a capable person, but inside, it’s hard to keep it together. You’re tired of the guilt, burnout, and the “try harder” cycle. You just want calm, clarity, and a safe space.
(737) 200-5280 View (737) 200-5280
Madalyn Ruble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you're grappling with anxiety, chronic illness, or navigating significant life changes like a recent diagnosis or a tough breakup, I am here to provide guidance & support every step of the way.
I am a firm believer in personalized therapy experiences because, let's face it, no two journeys are the same. This is why I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities to tailor our sessions to your unique needs & goals. Your well-being is my top priority, & I'm committed to finding the approach that resonates best with you.
Whether you're grappling with anxiety, chronic illness, or navigating significant life changes like a recent diagnosis or a tough breakup, I am here to provide guidance & support every step of the way.
I am a firm believer in personalized therapy experiences because, let's face it, no two journeys are the same. This is why I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities to tailor our sessions to your unique needs & goals. Your well-being is my top priority, & I'm committed to finding the approach that resonates best with you.
(346) 421-0666 View (346) 421-0666
Yazmina Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in supporting adults/older adults with trauma, grief/loss, chronic illness, life changes, depression, anxiety and navigating intersecting identities, including caregiving, immigrant/multicultural, queer, gender diverse, neurodivergent, and nontraditional experiences.
I draw from different therapy approaches to meet your individual needs. I view therapy as a partnership in a welcoming, non-judgmental space where your humanity is respected and celebrated. My interactive, conversational style and use of authenticity and humor helps clients feel at ease and open about their worries, fears, experiences, strengths and hopes.
I specialize in supporting adults/older adults with trauma, grief/loss, chronic illness, life changes, depression, anxiety and navigating intersecting identities, including caregiving, immigrant/multicultural, queer, gender diverse, neurodivergent, and nontraditional experiences.
I draw from different therapy approaches to meet your individual needs. I view therapy as a partnership in a welcoming, non-judgmental space where your humanity is respected and celebrated. My interactive, conversational style and use of authenticity and humor helps clients feel at ease and open about their worries, fears, experiences, strengths and hopes.
(512) 273-7137 View (512) 273-7137
Anna Lipkin
LPC-Associate, MA, LPC-A
4 Endorsed
Online Only
They may struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, chronic stress, or the emotional impact of chronic illness.
I offer a somatic, experiential approach that works with the body, nervous system, and inner emotional world. Rather than focusing only on thoughts, we pay attention to what is happening in the present moment through sensation, emotion, breath, and awareness. This creates opportunities for deeper understanding and healing.
They may struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, chronic stress, or the emotional impact of chronic illness.
I offer a somatic, experiential approach that works with the body, nervous system, and inner emotional world. Rather than focusing only on thoughts, we pay attention to what is happening in the present moment through sensation, emotion, breath, and awareness. This creates opportunities for deeper understanding and healing.
(737) 264-6740 View (737) 264-6740
Thom H Wilder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
Now offering remote online sessions via Telehealth. Attend sessions from your home or other private location. No one lives a life that is challenge free. For some those challenges become overwhelming and cause elevated stress, emotional arousal, and even dysfunction in normal life activities and relationships. Like the frog in the kettle, it is easy to remain in that state and allow it to rob you of the joy of life. For all of us, there are times we simply need someone to help us navigate those challenges, to get back on track and improve our quality of life. I would love to be that person for you.
Now offering remote online sessions via Telehealth. Attend sessions from your home or other private location. No one lives a life that is challenge free. For some those challenges become overwhelming and cause elevated stress, emotional arousal, and even dysfunction in normal life activities and relationships. Like the frog in the kettle, it is easy to remain in that state and allow it to rob you of the joy of life. For all of us, there are times we simply need someone to help us navigate those challenges, to get back on track and improve our quality of life. I would love to be that person for you.
(469) 751-5306 View (469) 751-5306
Janet Leese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
7 years of experience as a psychotherapist helping moms, caregivers, older adults, parents, & people with chronic illness as well as dementia & Alzheimer's.
Clients often come to me because they don't have anyone they can talk to or don't want to burden loved ones. Some seek support for how their or a loved one's health problems have impacted every aspect of their lives. I specialize in working with people with chronic illnesses (cancer, autoimmune illnesses), caregivers (for children, spouses, elderly parents), older adults, & people with cognitive challenges (dementia). I’ve worked with people who are dying and people grieving a loved one's death. I've supported moms (w/babies to adult children) through highs & lows of motherhood w/a compassionate ear & creative problem solving.
7 years of experience as a psychotherapist helping moms, caregivers, older adults, parents, & people with chronic illness as well as dementia & Alzheimer's.
Clients often come to me because they don't have anyone they can talk to or don't want to burden loved ones. Some seek support for how their or a loved one's health problems have impacted every aspect of their lives. I specialize in working with people with chronic illnesses (cancer, autoimmune illnesses), caregivers (for children, spouses, elderly parents), older adults, & people with cognitive challenges (dementia). I’ve worked with people who are dying and people grieving a loved one's death. I've supported moms (w/babies to adult children) through highs & lows of motherhood w/a compassionate ear & creative problem solving.
(817) 813-8987 View (817) 813-8987
Nora Mickowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life is f&$%ing exhausting. It keeps piling up like Tetris, and you know you can't afford a break, but sometimes your brain just switches off and you realize you’ve been staring blankly at a screen for an hour. You feel like you’re slowly drowning, but no one else sees it, and it's been... years. How is everyone else's house so tidy?!? I feel you. Whether you’re living with POTS, ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, hEDS, ADHD, Autistic burnout, or just the normal everyday stressors of late-stage capitalism, I can help! You're not lazy, irresponsible, "faking," or broken; you're just stuck.
Life is f&$%ing exhausting. It keeps piling up like Tetris, and you know you can't afford a break, but sometimes your brain just switches off and you realize you’ve been staring blankly at a screen for an hour. You feel like you’re slowly drowning, but no one else sees it, and it's been... years. How is everyone else's house so tidy?!? I feel you. Whether you’re living with POTS, ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, hEDS, ADHD, Autistic burnout, or just the normal everyday stressors of late-stage capitalism, I can help! You're not lazy, irresponsible, "faking," or broken; you're just stuck.
(512) 645-1030 View (512) 645-1030
Nathan Jay Galvan
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Online Only
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergent teens and young adults, and those managing chronic illness.
I use an eclectic approach, drawing from CBT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, and ACT to support personal growth and resilience. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergent teens and young adults, and those with chronic illness. I also offer a free chronic illness support group for connection and support.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergent teens and young adults, and those managing chronic illness.
I use an eclectic approach, drawing from CBT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, and ACT to support personal growth and resilience. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergent teens and young adults, and those with chronic illness. I also offer a free chronic illness support group for connection and support.
(737) 339-8997 View (737) 339-8997

See more therapy options for Austin

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.