Chronic Illness Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT

Photo of Amber Margolis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Amber Margolis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, CAGCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84115  (Online Only)
One area I specialize in is grief from chronic illness or a terminal diagnosis.
Beginning therapy and meeting a new therapist takes courage and can be a bit scary at times. I want to acknowledge that you're here and taking the first step toward change and growth. Hi! My name is Amber and I’m a psychotherapist committed to helping individuals of all backgrounds learn to cope with stress from chronic illness, the death of a loved one, parenting, pregnancy, or any challenge life presents.
One area I specialize in is grief from chronic illness or a terminal diagnosis.
Beginning therapy and meeting a new therapist takes courage and can be a bit scary at times. I want to acknowledge that you're here and taking the first step toward change and growth. Hi! My name is Amber and I’m a psychotherapist committed to helping individuals of all backgrounds learn to cope with stress from chronic illness, the death of a loved one, parenting, pregnancy, or any challenge life presents.
(385) 526-3408 View (385) 526-3408
Photo of Paige Zuckerman, Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Paige Zuckerman
Counselor, MEd, CMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
I am experienced in trauma recovery especially from medical & health crisis trauma including ME/CFS, chronic illness & post-viral syndromes.
How would it feel to be certain of who you are-let's find out how you can be the expert of your own life! I focus from several evidence-based & trauma-informed therapy models with adult individuals, relationship systems & groups. I am experienced in attachment, chronic health Issues, disability & medical trauma, life & belief transitions, gender & LGBTQ+ & alternative partnerships. I'm passionate about working with individuals whose lives have been deeply altered by a major event including a medical trauma, disability or career loss. I have limited space for high-specialization-match clients
I am experienced in trauma recovery especially from medical & health crisis trauma including ME/CFS, chronic illness & post-viral syndromes.
How would it feel to be certain of who you are-let's find out how you can be the expert of your own life! I focus from several evidence-based & trauma-informed therapy models with adult individuals, relationship systems & groups. I am experienced in attachment, chronic health Issues, disability & medical trauma, life & belief transitions, gender & LGBTQ+ & alternative partnerships. I'm passionate about working with individuals whose lives have been deeply altered by a major event including a medical trauma, disability or career loss. I have limited space for high-specialization-match clients
(385) 245-2602 View (385) 245-2602
Photo of Spencer Richards, Psychologist in Salt Lake City, UT
Spencer Richards
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84106  (Online Only)
I hold several specialty trainings in these areas, especially in treatment of insomnia, chronic pain, managing chronic illness, weight management, and building a healthier life.
I specialize in the treatment of whole people - you are more than just your mental health. I am most helpful for individuals looking to build more meaning, joy, passion, and vitality in their lives. People working with me often arrive feeling stuck - my job is to help you get moving toward the things that matter most to you in your life. All of the services I provide are done virtually and I'm passionate about making every interaction personal, compassionate, and effective!
I hold several specialty trainings in these areas, especially in treatment of insomnia, chronic pain, managing chronic illness, weight management, and building a healthier life.
I specialize in the treatment of whole people - you are more than just your mental health. I am most helpful for individuals looking to build more meaning, joy, passion, and vitality in their lives. People working with me often arrive feeling stuck - my job is to help you get moving toward the things that matter most to you in your life. All of the services I provide are done virtually and I'm passionate about making every interaction personal, compassionate, and effective!
(385) 332-3394 View (385) 332-3394
Photo of Eric Stander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Eric Stander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BM, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
I both appreciate and deeply understand the complex rigors of aging and managing chronic illness.
I came to Woodhaven with a wealth of life experience in both the arts and human services. Working as a professional musician for many years connected me to some of the most vulnerable populations including the aging, chronically ill and those experiencing grief and sadness. I learned that creativity and healing are intimately linked and you invariably need one to pursue the other. My unique path has given me valuable insight into the human experience, which is something that we all share. I am particularly interested in the innate ability we all have to strive towards hope and healing.
I both appreciate and deeply understand the complex rigors of aging and managing chronic illness.
I came to Woodhaven with a wealth of life experience in both the arts and human services. Working as a professional musician for many years connected me to some of the most vulnerable populations including the aging, chronically ill and those experiencing grief and sadness. I learned that creativity and healing are intimately linked and you invariably need one to pursue the other. My unique path has given me valuable insight into the human experience, which is something that we all share. I am particularly interested in the innate ability we all have to strive towards hope and healing.
(385) 999-7724 View (385) 999-7724
Photo of Shannon Clark, Psychologist in Salt Lake City, UT
Shannon Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106  (Online Only)
Improving relationships and facing emotions helps you better manage stress and chronic illness.
What's not working with your health and life goals? Do you suffer from pain and can't get a clear answer why? Do you find the motivation to stay healthy an impossible task with your busy schedule? Do difficult relationships or trauma make it hard to manage stress? It's time to do the deeper work.
Improving relationships and facing emotions helps you better manage stress and chronic illness.
What's not working with your health and life goals? Do you suffer from pain and can't get a clear answer why? Do you find the motivation to stay healthy an impossible task with your busy schedule? Do difficult relationships or trauma make it hard to manage stress? It's time to do the deeper work.
(314) 866-3957 View (314) 866-3957
Photo of Erika Forsyth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Erika Forsyth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 12, I understand that living with and managing a chronic illness like diabetes can be both emotionally and physically taxing.
Feeling alone in your grief, stress, or sadness is an overwhelming place to be. For many of us, facing a major loss or life transition without support can lead to feeling stuck or even hopeless. These emotions are normal if you live with a chronic illness or are the caregiver for someone with a chronic illness. It is natural to desire balance and moments of relief in your daily life, but you may find those difficult to create given the relentless task of managing the chronic medical condition.
Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 12, I understand that living with and managing a chronic illness like diabetes can be both emotionally and physically taxing.
Feeling alone in your grief, stress, or sadness is an overwhelming place to be. For many of us, facing a major loss or life transition without support can lead to feeling stuck or even hopeless. These emotions are normal if you live with a chronic illness or are the caregiver for someone with a chronic illness. It is natural to desire balance and moments of relief in your daily life, but you may find those difficult to create given the relentless task of managing the chronic medical condition.
(626) 587-3653 View (626) 587-3653
Photo of Sydney Pruett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Sydney Pruett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCP, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84104  (Online Only)
As an abuse survivor living with chronic illness & physical disabilities, I have a high level of empathy for marginalized communities & trauma clients.
I am passionate about helping clients with trauma, anxiety, & depression, & most enjoy working with clients aged 13-35. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, & compassion, regardless of background. Working with those who are from more marginalized populations & concerns related to these areas (2S-LGBTQIA+ populations, women's issues, religious trauma, racism, physical health concerns/ disabilities, teen/adult children of immigrant families, etc.) is a passion of mine, but I am happy to work with those who are not part of these populations as well. I will tailor our treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
As an abuse survivor living with chronic illness & physical disabilities, I have a high level of empathy for marginalized communities & trauma clients.
I am passionate about helping clients with trauma, anxiety, & depression, & most enjoy working with clients aged 13-35. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, & compassion, regardless of background. Working with those who are from more marginalized populations & concerns related to these areas (2S-LGBTQIA+ populations, women's issues, religious trauma, racism, physical health concerns/ disabilities, teen/adult children of immigrant families, etc.) is a passion of mine, but I am happy to work with those who are not part of these populations as well. I will tailor our treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
(385) 213-6411 View (385) 213-6411
Photo of Bri Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Salt Lake City, UT
Bri Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFTI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
I have personal experience with relationship stress, trauma, chronic illness, and loss, and an academic emphasis in trauma-informed care.
Seeking help in therapy takes strength and bravery, and I applaud clients for taking the first steps. It's easy to be hard on ourselves about how we feel or how we respond to our experiences. Sometimes we feel stuck, individually or in our relationships, and it can be hard to see a new path. I'm passionate about helping clients reach their potential to grow, change the patterns that no longer serve them, and move past the obstacles in their way. I work with clients to process and heal, create greater connections in their relationships, communicate more effectively, create healthy boundaries, and move through life more confidently.
I have personal experience with relationship stress, trauma, chronic illness, and loss, and an academic emphasis in trauma-informed care.
Seeking help in therapy takes strength and bravery, and I applaud clients for taking the first steps. It's easy to be hard on ourselves about how we feel or how we respond to our experiences. Sometimes we feel stuck, individually or in our relationships, and it can be hard to see a new path. I'm passionate about helping clients reach their potential to grow, change the patterns that no longer serve them, and move past the obstacles in their way. I work with clients to process and heal, create greater connections in their relationships, communicate more effectively, create healthy boundaries, and move through life more confidently.
(801) 998-2099 View (801) 998-2099
Jenny Patterson Vasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
I have a strong belief in the possibilities of healing, growth and change within an authentic collaborative client/therapist relationship. I have over 18 years of experience working with individuals and families recovering from trauma, living with chronic illness, working through relationship concerns and facing the challenges of mental illness. Taking the first steps to heal is often difficult, or even painful, however in doing so we can create a "path with heart" and meaning. I take a mindfulness based, goal oriented and active approach to therapy with focus on developing critical life skills.
I have a strong belief in the possibilities of healing, growth and change within an authentic collaborative client/therapist relationship. I have over 18 years of experience working with individuals and families recovering from trauma, living with chronic illness, working through relationship concerns and facing the challenges of mental illness. Taking the first steps to heal is often difficult, or even painful, however in doing so we can create a "path with heart" and meaning. I take a mindfulness based, goal oriented and active approach to therapy with focus on developing critical life skills.
(801) 784-2670 View (801) 784-2670
Photo of Amanda Cutler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Amanda Cutler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
*ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR GROUP THERAPY OR WAITLIST ONLY* Through the therapeutic process, you can release the pain that you carry and build a life that you enjoy. I am passionate about helping you heal. As a therapist, my primary focus is on the overall wellness and goals of my client. I use a client-centered approach while providing trauma-informed and evidence-based methods to help you achieve what is really important to you. Areas of specialty include trauma, anxiety, life transitions, coming of age issues, depression, attachment, relationship issues, grief, chronic illness and coping with stress and loss.
*ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR GROUP THERAPY OR WAITLIST ONLY* Through the therapeutic process, you can release the pain that you carry and build a life that you enjoy. I am passionate about helping you heal. As a therapist, my primary focus is on the overall wellness and goals of my client. I use a client-centered approach while providing trauma-informed and evidence-based methods to help you achieve what is really important to you. Areas of specialty include trauma, anxiety, life transitions, coming of age issues, depression, attachment, relationship issues, grief, chronic illness and coping with stress and loss.
(385) 255-7538 View (385) 255-7538
Photo of Heather Fleming, Pre-Licensed Professional in Salt Lake City, UT
Heather Fleming
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84109
I also have a daughter who battles chronic illness, a military veteran spouse with PTSD, who also survived cancer.
Accepting new patients; no waiting list. Finding the right therapist can feel daunting, especially if therapy has been less than productive for you in the past. The therapeutic relationship is vital to your success, and I am committed to making the experience safe and productive while we explore your vulnerabilities and strengths and cultivate the therapeutic tools necessary to manage your unique challenges. I have a passion for helping others and a desire to see them succeed. For the past 15 years, I have practiced in various areas, including mental health, medical social work, long term care, hospice, and Child & Family Services
I also have a daughter who battles chronic illness, a military veteran spouse with PTSD, who also survived cancer.
Accepting new patients; no waiting list. Finding the right therapist can feel daunting, especially if therapy has been less than productive for you in the past. The therapeutic relationship is vital to your success, and I am committed to making the experience safe and productive while we explore your vulnerabilities and strengths and cultivate the therapeutic tools necessary to manage your unique challenges. I have a passion for helping others and a desire to see them succeed. For the past 15 years, I have practiced in various areas, including mental health, medical social work, long term care, hospice, and Child & Family Services
(801) 980-3357 View (801) 980-3357
Photo of Amanda Kutz, Psychologist in Salt Lake City, UT
Amanda Kutz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
My practice is centered around empowering clients to embrace change, navigate life transitions, and deepen their understanding of themselves. I am a clinical health psychologist with expertise in treating insomnia, binge eating and aiding people coping with chronic illness. I am certified in the gold standard treatment for insomnia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). I additionally have extensive experience treating anxiety disorders, depression and navigating life stress such as relationship difficulties and career burnout.
My practice is centered around empowering clients to embrace change, navigate life transitions, and deepen their understanding of themselves. I am a clinical health psychologist with expertise in treating insomnia, binge eating and aiding people coping with chronic illness. I am certified in the gold standard treatment for insomnia, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). I additionally have extensive experience treating anxiety disorders, depression and navigating life stress such as relationship difficulties and career burnout.
(385) 398-9486 View (385) 398-9486
Photo of Lauren Masuda, Psychologist in Salt Lake City, UT
Lauren Masuda
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
I strive to create a warm, collaborative, and safe environment where you can explore your concerns, goals, and desires for creating the change you seek. I specialize in working with people who want relief from 1) life stress related to work or relationship difficulties 2) anxiety or overanalyzing 3) depression or lack of motivation 4) grief or trauma 5) self-criticism 6) aging or caregiving 7) chronic illness/health concerns.
I strive to create a warm, collaborative, and safe environment where you can explore your concerns, goals, and desires for creating the change you seek. I specialize in working with people who want relief from 1) life stress related to work or relationship difficulties 2) anxiety or overanalyzing 3) depression or lack of motivation 4) grief or trauma 5) self-criticism 6) aging or caregiving 7) chronic illness/health concerns.
(385) 449-4756 View (385) 449-4756
Photo of Mountain View Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Mountain View Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84106  (Online Only)
Additionally I work with people who are recovering from trauma, in life transition (divorce, serious and chronic illness) or want to address end of life issues.
I believe that you can have a great life no matter the issues and feelings you currently have. This possibility may be hard to imagine now, but that is what I help you do. My job is to help you clarify what you want and then to achieve this. We all have a "wise mind" and heart in us. The wise mind can become obscured by stress and circumstance, but this is what you come to therapy to discover. With encouragement and support, you can learn to trust your path and solve whatever your current problems are. I work with motivated people who want to improve their lives.
Additionally I work with people who are recovering from trauma, in life transition (divorce, serious and chronic illness) or want to address end of life issues.
I believe that you can have a great life no matter the issues and feelings you currently have. This possibility may be hard to imagine now, but that is what I help you do. My job is to help you clarify what you want and then to achieve this. We all have a "wise mind" and heart in us. The wise mind can become obscured by stress and circumstance, but this is what you come to therapy to discover. With encouragement and support, you can learn to trust your path and solve whatever your current problems are. I work with motivated people who want to improve their lives.
(307) 413-5803 View (307) 413-5803
Photo of Breeann Galvin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Breeann Galvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW, LSUDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Hi there! My name is Breeann and I am a certified social worker and licensed substance use disorder counselor. I specialize in providing therapy for those navigating addiction, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, and chronic illness. I also have significant experience working with older adults and those employed in safety-sensitive positions for the U.S. railway system.
Hi there! My name is Breeann and I am a certified social worker and licensed substance use disorder counselor. I specialize in providing therapy for those navigating addiction, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, and chronic illness. I also have significant experience working with older adults and those employed in safety-sensitive positions for the U.S. railway system.
(385) 324-3615 View (385) 324-3615
Photo of Ann Nielsen, MSW, LCSW - The Virtual Couch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Ann Nielsen, MSW, LCSW - The Virtual Couch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84117  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy to adults age 26 and older, and I work with clients facing many different issues and life transitions, including: aging; body image, body acceptance, HAES; self-esteem; managing stress; attachment; infidelity; trust; codependency; divorce; coparenting; high-conflict/parallel parenting; chronic illness/diseases, including cancer.
I am licensed in Utah and Wyoming, and I have specialized training and over 15 years of clinical experience treating anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, trauma, and grief and loss. I have worked in various clinical settings, including inpatient hospitalization, outpatient clinics, and private practice, and I have nearly 10 years of experience providing telehealth therapy. I provide engaging, evidence-based treatment to clients experiencing mild to severe mental health issues. My approach is trauma-informed and compassionate, and I work to create space where you feel comfortable to share and know that you will be heard in our work together.
I provide individual therapy to adults age 26 and older, and I work with clients facing many different issues and life transitions, including: aging; body image, body acceptance, HAES; self-esteem; managing stress; attachment; infidelity; trust; codependency; divorce; coparenting; high-conflict/parallel parenting; chronic illness/diseases, including cancer.
I am licensed in Utah and Wyoming, and I have specialized training and over 15 years of clinical experience treating anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, OCD, trauma, and grief and loss. I have worked in various clinical settings, including inpatient hospitalization, outpatient clinics, and private practice, and I have nearly 10 years of experience providing telehealth therapy. I provide engaging, evidence-based treatment to clients experiencing mild to severe mental health issues. My approach is trauma-informed and compassionate, and I work to create space where you feel comfortable to share and know that you will be heard in our work together.
(801) 682-1630 View (801) 682-1630
Photo of Cami Docchio, Pre-Licensed Professional in Salt Lake City, UT
Cami Docchio
Pre-Licensed Professional, MBe, CMHC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
While I support clients of all identities and ages, I specialize in working with clients who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, might be experiencing life & faith transitions, or have been impacted by health conditions or disabilities both personally, professionally, or familial. I also have over 10+ years of extensive experience working with children and adolescents. I have supported young adults through feelings of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and identity exploration. I hope to offer my clients a corner of the world that provides a space of connection, curiosity, and healing.
While I support clients of all identities and ages, I specialize in working with clients who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, might be experiencing life & faith transitions, or have been impacted by health conditions or disabilities both personally, professionally, or familial. I also have over 10+ years of extensive experience working with children and adolescents. I have supported young adults through feelings of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and identity exploration. I hope to offer my clients a corner of the world that provides a space of connection, curiosity, and healing.
(385) 206-6881 View (385) 206-6881
Photo of Jason Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Jason Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Are you facing uncertainty with your place in life, your relationships, or with your personal health? Do you desire to decrease stress levels, and gain the tools and understanding to better connect with your authentic and empowered self? Working through the uncertainty, overwhelm, disconnection, and impact on your self-worth can be so much to navigate on your own. Regardless of your progress on your journey, working alongside someone who understands the complexities of these concerns can be beneficial.
Are you facing uncertainty with your place in life, your relationships, or with your personal health? Do you desire to decrease stress levels, and gain the tools and understanding to better connect with your authentic and empowered self? Working through the uncertainty, overwhelm, disconnection, and impact on your self-worth can be so much to navigate on your own. Regardless of your progress on your journey, working alongside someone who understands the complexities of these concerns can be beneficial.
View
Photo of Steven R Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Steven R Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Increase resilience and experience greater life fulfillment. Fostering a mutual respect and collaborative relationship with clients to achieve defined goals lies at the heart of my practice. My approach to therapy honors each of my client's unique life experiences, positive and negative, by utilizing a trauma-informed lens to guide each client through accessing their strengths and building skills in order to increase resilience and experience greater life fulfillment. I employ a variety of therapeutic modalities to conceptualize problems and create interventions, including acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, and treatments rooted in the latest neuroscience.
Increase resilience and experience greater life fulfillment. Fostering a mutual respect and collaborative relationship with clients to achieve defined goals lies at the heart of my practice. My approach to therapy honors each of my client's unique life experiences, positive and negative, by utilizing a trauma-informed lens to guide each client through accessing their strengths and building skills in order to increase resilience and experience greater life fulfillment. I employ a variety of therapeutic modalities to conceptualize problems and create interventions, including acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, and treatments rooted in the latest neuroscience.
(801) 717-9905 View (801) 717-9905
Photo of Stacy Lund, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Stacy Lund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CYT
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
I believe in a collaborative approach to build the path to healing as well as a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. My practice as a clinician is centered around helping individuals process traumatic experiences so they can heal and live a more present and focused existence. I have extensive knowledge of end-of-life issues including chronic pain, unresolved trauma, personal spirituality, , as well as the grieving process.
I believe in a collaborative approach to build the path to healing as well as a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. My practice as a clinician is centered around helping individuals process traumatic experiences so they can heal and live a more present and focused existence. I have extensive knowledge of end-of-life issues including chronic pain, unresolved trauma, personal spirituality, , as well as the grieving process.
(385) 346-2684 View (385) 346-2684

See more therapy options for Salt Lake City

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.