Chronic Illness Therapists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Valerie Rivas, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valerie Rivas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
It takes strength and courage to accept when one can't handle parts of life, and so, I commend you. As a therapist, I accompany clients exactly where they are while offering unconditional acceptance and respect without judgement to build a safe and inviting counseling environment. Each client brings a set of unique morals, values, beliefs, and strengths which makes each person who they are. I treat ALL issues from adolescent to elderly within individual, couple, family, or group settings. Chronic Illness, Infertility, Miscarriage, Child Loss, Adoption, First Responders, Trauma, Abuse, Neglect & Adolescents are some of my interests.
It takes strength and courage to accept when one can't handle parts of life, and so, I commend you. As a therapist, I accompany clients exactly where they are while offering unconditional acceptance and respect without judgement to build a safe and inviting counseling environment. Each client brings a set of unique morals, values, beliefs, and strengths which makes each person who they are. I treat ALL issues from adolescent to elderly within individual, couple, family, or group settings. Chronic Illness, Infertility, Miscarriage, Child Loss, Adoption, First Responders, Trauma, Abuse, Neglect & Adolescents are some of my interests.
(210) 787-4457 View (210) 787-4457
Photo of Catherine Clegg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Clegg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78238
Life Happens! La Vida Ocurre! Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, stressed, worried, anxious, sad or alone? You are taking a crucial step in regaining control by searching for help. You deserve and have the ability to feel better and together we can find that inner strength you had forgotten you have while experiencing Life! As a social worker in the healthcare system, I have worked with individuals from a diverse cultural background who were struggling with an array of issues: depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief/ loss, crisis, and life stressors.
Life Happens! La Vida Ocurre! Are you feeling tired, overwhelmed, stressed, worried, anxious, sad or alone? You are taking a crucial step in regaining control by searching for help. You deserve and have the ability to feel better and together we can find that inner strength you had forgotten you have while experiencing Life! As a social worker in the healthcare system, I have worked with individuals from a diverse cultural background who were struggling with an array of issues: depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief/ loss, crisis, and life stressors.
(210) 806-7718 View (210) 806-7718
Photo of Hava Khoury, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hava Khoury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249
I specialize in helping adults, families, and groups navigate the emotional toll of chronic illness and complex care systems.
You’ve probably heard a lot of talk about what therapy is or isn’t. People come to therapy to achieve mastery over their problems and to heal themselves. But there is so much noise out there in the way of your healing. I take an active role in therapy. I consider it my job to strengthen the parts of you that desire healing and weaken the parts of you that resist healing. I tend to be very candid with my clients, care deeply about their lives, and become their advocate.
I specialize in helping adults, families, and groups navigate the emotional toll of chronic illness and complex care systems.
You’ve probably heard a lot of talk about what therapy is or isn’t. People come to therapy to achieve mastery over their problems and to heal themselves. But there is so much noise out there in the way of your healing. I take an active role in therapy. I consider it my job to strengthen the parts of you that desire healing and weaken the parts of you that resist healing. I tend to be very candid with my clients, care deeply about their lives, and become their advocate.
(512) 277-6443 View (512) 277-6443
Photo of Dr. Tracy A Protti, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Tracy A Protti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can become overwhelming at the drop of a hat. Managing mood disorders (anxiety, depression), eating disorders, chronic pain (musculoskeletal, headache disorders, fibromyalgia), cancer, and chronic illness are just a few areas of life that bring about distress, discomfort, and overall malaise. Please access my website to schedule a free consultation.
Life can become overwhelming at the drop of a hat. Managing mood disorders (anxiety, depression), eating disorders, chronic pain (musculoskeletal, headache disorders, fibromyalgia), cancer, and chronic illness are just a few areas of life that bring about distress, discomfort, and overall malaise. Please access my website to schedule a free consultation.
(469) 972-7139 View (469) 972-7139
Photo of Cathy Carlisle Armstrong - Complex Trauma, Grief, Medical Trauma & Anxiety , MS, LPC-S, RNCoach, CIMHP, FMP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Complex Trauma, Grief, Medical Trauma & Anxiety
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RNCoach, CIMHP, FMP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78215
Chronic illness and emotional resilience.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from the person you want to be? I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, trauma, and emotional dysregulation using a holistic approach that integrates mindfulness, contemplative psychotherapy, and cutting-edge neuroscience. Together, we’ll explore strategies to help you reclaim clarity, balance, and confidence. What I Offer I combine modern psychology with ancient wisdom to help you: • Reduce stress and manage anxiety through mindfulness-based practices. • Heal from past trauma using trauma-informed techniques like hypnotherapy, EMDR, EFT/Tapping, and somatic therapy.
Chronic illness and emotional resilience.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from the person you want to be? I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, trauma, and emotional dysregulation using a holistic approach that integrates mindfulness, contemplative psychotherapy, and cutting-edge neuroscience. Together, we’ll explore strategies to help you reclaim clarity, balance, and confidence. What I Offer I combine modern psychology with ancient wisdom to help you: • Reduce stress and manage anxiety through mindfulness-based practices. • Heal from past trauma using trauma-informed techniques like hypnotherapy, EMDR, EFT/Tapping, and somatic therapy.
(361) 306-3437 View (361) 306-3437
Photo of Susan Y. Wegener - Susan Y Wegener, LCSW, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Y Wegener, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to my work with clients with chronic illness, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease in 2005.
Being diagnosed with a chronic illness can create a great deal of anxiety about the future. Will I be able to keep working? Will my family and friends truly understand? Will I be able to afford treatment? Will I be able to plan for my future? You may be experiencing feelings of sadness, anger, and anxiety. You may even feel a sense of loss in terms of the person you feel you once were. There may be new limitations and challenges regarding your physical or cognitive abilities. I am here to help!
In addition to my work with clients with chronic illness, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease in 2005.
Being diagnosed with a chronic illness can create a great deal of anxiety about the future. Will I be able to keep working? Will my family and friends truly understand? Will I be able to afford treatment? Will I be able to plan for my future? You may be experiencing feelings of sadness, anger, and anxiety. You may even feel a sense of loss in terms of the person you feel you once were. There may be new limitations and challenges regarding your physical or cognitive abilities. I am here to help!
(512) 515-3841 View (512) 515-3841
Photo of Dr. Erin Andrews, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Erin Andrews
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you trying to make sense of your life following the diagnosis of a disability or chronic illness? Are you looking for help managing emotional distress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you struggle with the aftermath of adoption trauma? Sometimes life throws unexpected obstacles at us. Therapy can help, whether you are dealing with a new onset disability, coping with the frustrations of living disabled in an ableist society, or navigating the complexities of international or transracial adoption.
Are you trying to make sense of your life following the diagnosis of a disability or chronic illness? Are you looking for help managing emotional distress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you struggle with the aftermath of adoption trauma? Sometimes life throws unexpected obstacles at us. Therapy can help, whether you are dealing with a new onset disability, coping with the frustrations of living disabled in an ableist society, or navigating the complexities of international or transracial adoption.
(512) 881-7201 View (512) 881-7201
Photo of Yazmina Lopez, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yazmina Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, juggling multiple roles/responsibilities, facing changes in your life, managing a chronic condition, or experienced traumatic events? Do you want to experience more balance in your life, feel heard and understood, and get relief from physical and emotional pain? I'd be honored to assist you. 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.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, juggling multiple roles/responsibilities, facing changes in your life, managing a chronic condition, or experienced traumatic events? Do you want to experience more balance in your life, feel heard and understood, and get relief from physical and emotional pain? I'd be honored to assist you. 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.
(512) 273-7137 View (512) 273-7137
Photo of Ashley Wilkens, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Wilkens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
Are you and your spouse or partner having a hard time communicating? Does your marriage or relationship need a tune up? Are you going through major life transitions that you need help sorting through? Have you been struggling with stress and anxiety that is affecting your daily life? Are you currently a caregiver and feeling overwhelmed? Have you had medical problems or a chronic illness that you are coping with? Are you grieving a loss such as the death of a loved one, empty nest, career change, or divorce? If you can relate to any of these questions, I would love to meet you!
Are you and your spouse or partner having a hard time communicating? Does your marriage or relationship need a tune up? Are you going through major life transitions that you need help sorting through? Have you been struggling with stress and anxiety that is affecting your daily life? Are you currently a caregiver and feeling overwhelmed? Have you had medical problems or a chronic illness that you are coping with? Are you grieving a loss such as the death of a loved one, empty nest, career change, or divorce? If you can relate to any of these questions, I would love to meet you!
(830) 452-0303 View (830) 452-0303
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Torres Rojas, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Torres Rojas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78253
Her focus includes anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, anger management, marital and family conflict, divorce, adjustment disorder, parenting skills, spirituality, coping skills, life transitions, acculturation, LGBTQ, existential concerns, bipolar disorders, racial minorities, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Telehealth only. Dr. Stephanie Torres is a bilingual (Spanish) licensed psychologist who provides individual, couple, family, and group therapy. Her approach is inclusive, synergetic, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental environment where everyone is treated with respect, uniqueness, egalitarianism, and anti-racism. She aims to help clients promote personal growth, overcome challenges, transitions, and difficulties in life, and facilitate the emotional and healing process.
Her focus includes anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, anger management, marital and family conflict, divorce, adjustment disorder, parenting skills, spirituality, coping skills, life transitions, acculturation, LGBTQ, existential concerns, bipolar disorders, racial minorities, chronic pain, and chronic illness.
Telehealth only. Dr. Stephanie Torres is a bilingual (Spanish) licensed psychologist who provides individual, couple, family, and group therapy. Her approach is inclusive, synergetic, and trauma-informed. She strives to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental environment where everyone is treated with respect, uniqueness, egalitarianism, and anti-racism. She aims to help clients promote personal growth, overcome challenges, transitions, and difficulties in life, and facilitate the emotional and healing process.
(210) 405-9356 View (210) 405-9356
Photo of Fay H Green, MAC, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fay H Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Life is a journey comprised of various relationships which are often challenged by change. Changes in relationships are often overwhelming and cause stress, anxiety, quilt, grief, or trauma. The diagnosis of a life-limiting illness, a death, being the caregiver for someone with a chronic illness, dealing with end-of-life issues, or divorce at times is overwhelming and frustrating. During these experiences, it is important to have someone who will listen to understand your experience. I have training and experience in companioning those who are navigating a stressful time in a relationship changed by loss or illness.
Life is a journey comprised of various relationships which are often challenged by change. Changes in relationships are often overwhelming and cause stress, anxiety, quilt, grief, or trauma. The diagnosis of a life-limiting illness, a death, being the caregiver for someone with a chronic illness, dealing with end-of-life issues, or divorce at times is overwhelming and frustrating. During these experiences, it is important to have someone who will listen to understand your experience. I have training and experience in companioning those who are navigating a stressful time in a relationship changed by loss or illness.
(210) 468-1309 View (210) 468-1309
Photo of Amanda Jones, LCSW-S, C-SWHC, CCTP, CTMH, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-SWHC, CCTP, CTMH, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I provide virtual psychotherapy in Texas to individuals, couples, and groups, specializing in women’s issues, trauma/PTSD, chronic illness, and more.
Are you a woman managing life’s demands, feeling stuck, or seeking appreciation? Embark on a transformative journey that honors your unique story and empowers your future. In our work together, you’ll find a safe space to explore challenges, unlock strengths, and cultivate lasting change. Experience renewed strength and clarity as you navigate complex emotions, heal from trauma, and find balance. Let’s connect for a complimentary 15-minute consultation to start your journey. Schedule at www.amandajoneslcsws.com.
I provide virtual psychotherapy in Texas to individuals, couples, and groups, specializing in women’s issues, trauma/PTSD, chronic illness, and more.
Are you a woman managing life’s demands, feeling stuck, or seeking appreciation? Embark on a transformative journey that honors your unique story and empowers your future. In our work together, you’ll find a safe space to explore challenges, unlock strengths, and cultivate lasting change. Experience renewed strength and clarity as you navigate complex emotions, heal from trauma, and find balance. Let’s connect for a complimentary 15-minute consultation to start your journey. Schedule at www.amandajoneslcsws.com.
(210) 633-8756 View (210) 633-8756
Photo of Eric D Powell, PhD, Psychologist
Eric D Powell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
I have always been amazed by nature’s resilience to revive itself when adversity creates setbacks and its capability to thrive even in harsh conditions. Nature possesses the critical balance of the many elements necessary for sustainability. As humans, we also have the capacity to overcome setbacks. I often work with individuals who suffer from various problems, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, or even adjustment to living with a chronic illness. They are often looking for a way to find balance and move forward in their lives.
I have always been amazed by nature’s resilience to revive itself when adversity creates setbacks and its capability to thrive even in harsh conditions. Nature possesses the critical balance of the many elements necessary for sustainability. As humans, we also have the capacity to overcome setbacks. I often work with individuals who suffer from various problems, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, or even adjustment to living with a chronic illness. They are often looking for a way to find balance and move forward in their lives.
(210) 972-6277 View (210) 972-6277
Photo of Jackie Hodges, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie Hodges
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a licensed counselor providing teletherapy to anyone looking for support from the comfort of their own home. We can work together to help make life feel a little better. I work with clients who may live in Texas. I have many years working with grief and loss, chronic pain, chronic illness. I like to get to know my clients and how they navigate their world so we can find practical skills to move through tough emotions. I look forward to meeting you!
I’m a licensed counselor providing teletherapy to anyone looking for support from the comfort of their own home. We can work together to help make life feel a little better. I work with clients who may live in Texas. I have many years working with grief and loss, chronic pain, chronic illness. I like to get to know my clients and how they navigate their world so we can find practical skills to move through tough emotions. I look forward to meeting you!
(210) 864-7577 View (210) 864-7577
Photo of Alan Nguyen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alan Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My background includes working with those who are experiencing relationship discord, family conflict, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, coping with a chronic illness, grief and loss of a loved one, and/or difficulty with life transitions.
Everyone is faced with obstacles at some point in their lives. Sometimes these challenges bring up different emotions or you feel “stuck” and you find yourself having a difficult time processing them. They may even be affecting your work/school, relationship, family, or day-to-day activities. I provide a safe space to work through these challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort where we work together to navigate through difficult emotions, patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to problems, and any obstacles in the way of change for the better.
My background includes working with those who are experiencing relationship discord, family conflict, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, coping with a chronic illness, grief and loss of a loved one, and/or difficulty with life transitions.
Everyone is faced with obstacles at some point in their lives. Sometimes these challenges bring up different emotions or you feel “stuck” and you find yourself having a difficult time processing them. They may even be affecting your work/school, relationship, family, or day-to-day activities. I provide a safe space to work through these challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort where we work together to navigate through difficult emotions, patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to problems, and any obstacles in the way of change for the better.
(346) 550-9121 View (346) 550-9121
Photo of Dena Willeford, MA, LPC, AAT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dena Willeford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, AAT, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, life circumstances, and other mental health issues.
Sometimes we can feel like we are struggling in life, not fulfilling our purpose, or are unhappy with current circumstances. Through our counseling journey, I will walk alongside of you to find what's impeding your happiness, gratification, purpose, and well-being. We will determine what is interfering with your goals and establish a practical strategy to attaining them. In a welcoming and judge-free environment, we will look at the challenges you face, your thoughts and ideas surrounding your circumstances, and the feelings that you are experiencing. We will use open and honest communication throughout our counseling journey.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, life circumstances, and other mental health issues.
Sometimes we can feel like we are struggling in life, not fulfilling our purpose, or are unhappy with current circumstances. Through our counseling journey, I will walk alongside of you to find what's impeding your happiness, gratification, purpose, and well-being. We will determine what is interfering with your goals and establish a practical strategy to attaining them. In a welcoming and judge-free environment, we will look at the challenges you face, your thoughts and ideas surrounding your circumstances, and the feelings that you are experiencing. We will use open and honest communication throughout our counseling journey.
(210) 405-2837 View (210) 405-2837
Photo of Charley (Rachel) Howard, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charley (Rachel) Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I love working with adults dealing with life's stressors, transitions, existential angst, as well as neurodiverse folx, those affected by chronic illness and cancer, as well as those needing psychedelic integration.
Our minds can be real asshats sometimes, and this often makes us sad, frustrated, even down right depressive. Using a mindful, relational, somatic and holistic perspective with psychoeducation, humor and sometimes silliness, I will work collaboratively with you to help you discover the strengths that will allow you to overcome self-sabotaging behavior or any other inner obstacle, and to regain a sense of wholeness and meaning, while trying to survive the regular shit we deal with on a daily basis. Only offering telehealth services for the state of Texas and I don't accept insurance.
I love working with adults dealing with life's stressors, transitions, existential angst, as well as neurodiverse folx, those affected by chronic illness and cancer, as well as those needing psychedelic integration.
Our minds can be real asshats sometimes, and this often makes us sad, frustrated, even down right depressive. Using a mindful, relational, somatic and holistic perspective with psychoeducation, humor and sometimes silliness, I will work collaboratively with you to help you discover the strengths that will allow you to overcome self-sabotaging behavior or any other inner obstacle, and to regain a sense of wholeness and meaning, while trying to survive the regular shit we deal with on a daily basis. Only offering telehealth services for the state of Texas and I don't accept insurance.
(512) 299-6282 View (512) 299-6282
Photo of Elizabeth Henry, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have a passion for working with individuals who are moving through trauma, grief, anxiety, perfectionist tendencies, burnout, stress, chronic illness, unpacking childhood experiences, postpartum depression/anxiety, parenting, chronic illness, & relationship issues.
I am a warm, down-to-earth, collaborative therapist dedicated to helping you heal and grow. I create a safe and genuine environment for my clients' healing journeys. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment that values connection & relationship as an essential part of the healing process. I’m here to help you reconnect with who you truly are, guiding you through a deeper understanding of yourself and your needs so that you can live as your most authentic self. I will be a compassionate, active participant in the sessions collaborating with you every step of the way.
I have a passion for working with individuals who are moving through trauma, grief, anxiety, perfectionist tendencies, burnout, stress, chronic illness, unpacking childhood experiences, postpartum depression/anxiety, parenting, chronic illness, & relationship issues.
I am a warm, down-to-earth, collaborative therapist dedicated to helping you heal and grow. I create a safe and genuine environment for my clients' healing journeys. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment that values connection & relationship as an essential part of the healing process. I’m here to help you reconnect with who you truly are, guiding you through a deeper understanding of yourself and your needs so that you can live as your most authentic self. I will be a compassionate, active participant in the sessions collaborating with you every step of the way.
(346) 485-6676 View (346) 485-6676
Photo of Jessica H. Smith, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica H. Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78202
Waitlist for new clients
The world can be a tough place for neurodivergent folks. ADHD, autism, chronic illness, trauma, disability and mental health struggles can sometimes make meeting your own basic, everyday needs feel exhausting. Keeping up with the responsibilities and demands of life might leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, ashamed, lonely or embarrassed. Other people don't seem to understand why it's so hard for you and sometimes neither do you! You have so many strengths, but it feels like they're buried under layers of self-doubt, frustration and burnout. You're not broken. Your needs are different. You deserve support. We SO get it.
The world can be a tough place for neurodivergent folks. ADHD, autism, chronic illness, trauma, disability and mental health struggles can sometimes make meeting your own basic, everyday needs feel exhausting. Keeping up with the responsibilities and demands of life might leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, ashamed, lonely or embarrassed. Other people don't seem to understand why it's so hard for you and sometimes neither do you! You have so many strengths, but it feels like they're buried under layers of self-doubt, frustration and burnout. You're not broken. Your needs are different. You deserve support. We SO get it.
(832) 400-5239 View (832) 400-5239
Photo of Lisa Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years experience specializing in crisis management, parenting issues, and chronic illness.
Are you dealing with crisis, parenting struggles, anxiety or chronic illness? I'm a bilingual Clinical Social Worker with a decade of experience. I'm currently pursuing a Ph.D in Health Science, specifically focused on Social Work. My approach is to meet you wherever you are in life's journey, guiding you towards wellness and wholeness.
I'm a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years experience specializing in crisis management, parenting issues, and chronic illness.
Are you dealing with crisis, parenting struggles, anxiety or chronic illness? I'm a bilingual Clinical Social Worker with a decade of experience. I'm currently pursuing a Ph.D in Health Science, specifically focused on Social Work. My approach is to meet you wherever you are in life's journey, guiding you towards wellness and wholeness.
(817) 646-7955 View (817) 646-7955
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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.