For individuals experiencing chronic diseases, mental health issues may arise throughout their illness. Getting the diagnosis of a chronic illness can be devastating, confusing, and scary.
Available Treatment Options
Therapist interventions take many forms for patients dealing with chronic diseases. Counseling can include support groups, where people can interact with others going through the same thing. It also may include psychoeducation, where therapists help people learn more about anxiety, depression, or another mental health issue they may be experiencing. And traditional talk therapy is an option where counselors engage with patients and help them work through emotions.
People with chronic diseases may experience daily pain or discomfort, leading to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Counseling for chronic disease management addresses each person’s unique situation and considers the details of their experience. Techniques therapists could use include mindfulness practices to manage anxiety and pain, examining thought processes that may be unhelpful to mental health and physical recovery, or family therapy to help the family process the changes.
Therapists Who Specialize in Helping Those Who Struggle With Chronic Disease and Illness Management
Annie is a native of Northwest Iowa and has been serving children, adults, and families in the area for the past ten years. Annie holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa. She is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Iowa and a Registered Play Therapist. Annie specializes in working with obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, eating disorders,...
As a Psychologist and Founder of Rockville Therapy Center LLC and Confident Kids Camp-DC Metro for Selective Mutism, I work with ages 3+ whose lives are affected by Selective Mutism and other Anxiety Disorders, Tics and Tourette's, OCD, and habits, such as hair pulling and nail biting. Treatment sessions are held in individual, family, group, and intensive therapy formats. I engage in ongoing...
People are able to make positive changes in their lives. Do you find yourself unhappy, depressed or anxious? Does it feel that no matter what you have tried, nothing changes? I help clients in positively addressing unhelpful patterns and to become unstuck from negative emotions and life situations. Are you constantly feeling defeated, afraid, unfulfilled or ineffective at work or school? Do wor...
Being at war with yourself and your body is exhausting. Maybe it started with your first diet in your teens or maybe it didn't start until later in life dealing with chronic pain or illness, or something else. You are sick of suffering and feeling like your body is an endless problem to be solved. It is hard to feel hopeful. Psychotherapy with me can help you deepen self-trust, self-care and...
I provide counseling for individuals, couples and families in a supportive and accepting atmosphere. You will feel comfortable and safe sharing whatever challenges you are dealing with in your personal life, such as relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief & loss and adjustment to illness. In the process of addressing and working through theses issues, a path to healing and lasting chang...
I believe that therapy can be a place of tremendous growth and healing. Whether you are feeling stuck or sad, experiencing anxiety, recovering from a trauma or loss, or are looking to strengthen your relationship with others (or with yourself!), I will support you as you share your story. Together, we will build a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your emotions, shed light on your fears,...
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (#21952) and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (#303042). I work from a trauma-informed, harm reduction perspective. I am queer identified and use she, her and hers pronouns. I specialize in working with people with a history of trauma or adversity, people with substance use concerns, LGBTQIA + people and people living with or impacted by HIV...
In creating a supportive, clinical environment we can work together toward the goal of you transforming into a better version of yourself. My professional experience, personal journey of weight loss, and continued education has provided me with a strong foundation to help you overcome your personal barriers. We will work together to tackle those thoughts and behaviors that create negativity in...
Welcome! Are you a smart, loving, hard-working woman, but it seems like your self-care is not working anymore? In the dark? Peace is available. I care about your needs and concerns, and would like to help you find relief! Come and receive safe support, new perspective, and healing. Our time together is to renew. Recover more freedom, health, clarity, and energy. Together, we build empowerment...
Research has shown that the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between a therapist and client. I am honored to be considered as part of your journey toward a more satisfying life. I am highly invested in each person I treat, and I am very interactive in sessions. My aim is to help you gain new perspectives, manage your stressors more effectively, and achieve a sustainable sens...
During times of uncertainty, mental health issues such as bipolar, anxiety, depression, dual diagnosis of a mental health disorder and addiction, or chronic pain can escalate. Taking care of your mental health does not have to wait. Resolve or manage symptoms of mental health disorders, address anxiety, all via telehealth using your phone or computer. During the social distancing and quarantine...
Curve ahead. One day as I was driving, I saw a street sign: "curve ahead." It dawned on me that this can often be used as a metaphor for the twists and turns that make up the journey of our lives. I view the therapeutic process as akin to a drive on the road. You, the client, are like a driver, ultimately deciding which way to turn and at what speed to go. You decide the goal and destination. I...
Hello and congratulations on taking steps to a happier you. I hope you find your "perfect match" therapist ASAP. Sometimes it takes trying a few before you feel comfortable and that's okay. Don't give up. Your guide to living with your whole heart is out there. My own therapy style is relaxed and eclectic, meaning I utilize elements from a variety of therapeutic techniques with the goal of...
Psychotherapy is a collaborative task, where the patient takes an active role in working toward goals. A therapist helps with mental, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral difficulties. Psychotherapy is to help a person reach better understanding of problems and gain increased self-awareness. It's also intended to work toward improving identified difficulties, offer support in problem solving,...
We'll figure this out together! Get back to baseline and begin to build the life you want to live. I'll help you learn to use your body as a resource for your mind. Beginning with simple breathing techniques & physical movements to aid in emotional management & reduction of stress, anxiety, & depression. For those who are ready, we will do the deeper work of releasing unprocessed emotions & old...
