Chronic Illness Therapists in Cook County, IL
Amy Weider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
Aarti S. Felder
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BCN, CIT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Are you or a loved one facing the challenges of living with a chronic illness? Between managing appointments, navigating the medical system, understanding your condition and your medications, recovering from hospital stays, and many more... it can become overwhelming. The mind and the body influence each other, and it's important to actively manage mental health when living with chronic illness. My speciality is in navigating mental health in chronic illness. I can support you in finding the balance and living a life of value.
Are you or a loved one facing the challenges of living with a chronic illness? Between managing appointments, navigating the medical system, understanding your condition and your medications, recovering from hospital stays, and many more... it can become overwhelming. The mind and the body influence each other, and it's important to actively manage mental health when living with chronic illness. My speciality is in navigating mental health in chronic illness. I can support you in finding the balance and living a life of value.
Francesca Cottone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I support children, teens, adults, couples, and families on their journey through a holistic lens, while looking at the “whole person". I am passionate about supporting those struggling with anxiety, anxiety related disorders (social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, self-esteem, body image, body dysmorphic disorder, body-focused repetitive behaviors, life transitions (school, motherhood, friendship, family, marriage, divorce, career, etc), relational difficulties, stress management, communication skills, chronic illness, and trauma.
I support children, teens, adults, couples, and families on their journey through a holistic lens, while looking at the “whole person". I am passionate about supporting those struggling with anxiety, anxiety related disorders (social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, self-esteem, body image, body dysmorphic disorder, body-focused repetitive behaviors, life transitions (school, motherhood, friendship, family, marriage, divorce, career, etc), relational difficulties, stress management, communication skills, chronic illness, and trauma.
Becky Freeman-Murray
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Waitlist for new clients
Here to help in this difficult time,offering sessions in person, by phone or video. I'm a seasoned therapist with 25+ years of clinical experience. I'm warm, compassionate and confident through my professional experience and personal journey studying health and wellness. I am child life specialist with extensive experience with autism (ASD) and play therapy.. I'm a personal survivor of Lyme disease, and am Lyme-literate and able to understand chronic illness. As part of my tenure, I have spent years supporting adults, families, couples, and parents to thrive in their life. I'd love to meet you and support you in your journey!
Here to help in this difficult time,offering sessions in person, by phone or video. I'm a seasoned therapist with 25+ years of clinical experience. I'm warm, compassionate and confident through my professional experience and personal journey studying health and wellness. I am child life specialist with extensive experience with autism (ASD) and play therapy.. I'm a personal survivor of Lyme disease, and am Lyme-literate and able to understand chronic illness. As part of my tenure, I have spent years supporting adults, families, couples, and parents to thrive in their life. I'd love to meet you and support you in your journey!
Ilyssa E. Lasky
Counselor, LCPC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I specialize in parenting, chronic illness, teens, & artist's journeys.
Do you feel that anxiety, stress and panic are taking a toll on you body and the mind? My approach to therapy is to create a safe space where you can explore and heal the difficult and painful issues that are showing up in your life. Together we will move beyond problem-solving into releasing the mistaken beliefs and core unresolved issues behind your symptoms. My body-centered and mindfulness approach allows me to work directly with your nervous system to address symptoms like anxiety, racing thoughts, and irrational fears as well as feeling stuck, depressed and unavailable or unresponsive to life and relationships.
I specialize in parenting, chronic illness, teens, & artist's journeys.
Do you feel that anxiety, stress and panic are taking a toll on you body and the mind? My approach to therapy is to create a safe space where you can explore and heal the difficult and painful issues that are showing up in your life. Together we will move beyond problem-solving into releasing the mistaken beliefs and core unresolved issues behind your symptoms. My body-centered and mindfulness approach allows me to work directly with your nervous system to address symptoms like anxiety, racing thoughts, and irrational fears as well as feeling stuck, depressed and unavailable or unresponsive to life and relationships.
Peggy Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
My background and experience draws on over 36 years of experience working in a large teaching medical center overseeing cancer support programs, chronic illness, bereavement, couples therapy, anxiety and depression.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
My background and experience draws on over 36 years of experience working in a large teaching medical center overseeing cancer support programs, chronic illness, bereavement, couples therapy, anxiety and depression.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
Robin B Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, health anxiety, working with cancer patients, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues, as well chronic illness.
The therapeutic experience is as unique as one’s thumb print. I strive to help you achieve your goals in navigating life’s transitions and challenges by creating a safe place for you to process your feelings and concerns. It takes courage and strength to reach out and ask for help. I work collaboratively with each client to establish the best treatment plan based on their needs at the time we meet. I am supportive, non-judgmental and warm - with a calm style… and some humor.
I specialize in depression, health anxiety, working with cancer patients, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues, as well chronic illness.
The therapeutic experience is as unique as one’s thumb print. I strive to help you achieve your goals in navigating life’s transitions and challenges by creating a safe place for you to process your feelings and concerns. It takes courage and strength to reach out and ask for help. I work collaboratively with each client to establish the best treatment plan based on their needs at the time we meet. I am supportive, non-judgmental and warm - with a calm style… and some humor.
Patricia Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
You've come this far in life, but now you're at a crossroads. You may be facing a new set of challenges in physical health, relationships, or other aspects of life. I listen with compassion and share coping strategies with adults dealing with life stress or with chronic illness.
You've come this far in life, but now you're at a crossroads. You may be facing a new set of challenges in physical health, relationships, or other aspects of life. I listen with compassion and share coping strategies with adults dealing with life stress or with chronic illness.
Taylor Flores
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in supporting clients experiencing depression; religious, medical, or sexual traumas; disability/chronic illness; and incarceration/court-related issues.
I work together with my clients to help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and self-esteem, manage relationships and life transitions, and provide the tools and resources to express and cope with emotions. I support my clients who feel stuck or dissatisfied gain better insight into negative thought patterns that may be hindering their ability to achieve a fulfilled life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, with you being the expert of your own life. By working together, I will create an individualized approach tailored specifically to each client in order to best suite your specific needs.
I specialize in supporting clients experiencing depression; religious, medical, or sexual traumas; disability/chronic illness; and incarceration/court-related issues.
I work together with my clients to help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and self-esteem, manage relationships and life transitions, and provide the tools and resources to express and cope with emotions. I support my clients who feel stuck or dissatisfied gain better insight into negative thought patterns that may be hindering their ability to achieve a fulfilled life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, with you being the expert of your own life. By working together, I will create an individualized approach tailored specifically to each client in order to best suite your specific needs.
Joan LePontois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnwood, IL 60712
I have extensive experience with clients who have experienced trauma. I also enjoying working with clients who have emotional obstacles in the way of reaching personal goals.I have had years of experience in working with clients with chronic illness such as cancer, diabetes or other medical issues, both children and adults. I have also worked with clients experiencing anxiety or depression. I use multiple treatment modalities depending on the client need.I prefer in office visits but I can do teletherapy if needed.
I have extensive experience with clients who have experienced trauma. I also enjoying working with clients who have emotional obstacles in the way of reaching personal goals.I have had years of experience in working with clients with chronic illness such as cancer, diabetes or other medical issues, both children and adults. I have also worked with clients experiencing anxiety or depression. I use multiple treatment modalities depending on the client need.I prefer in office visits but I can do teletherapy if needed.
Susan Zeigler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
I am here to work with you regarding the things in life where you feel "stuck." You may be stuck for a variety of reasons, including past or current trauma, chronic illness, relationship or work-related stressors, or caring for children or your aging parents. You might be in a heterosexual marriage and realize that you are LGBTQ, and you are scared, wondering how to move forward in a way that is sensitive to your family, and is true to your identity. I have both personal and professional experience with this issue, and I am happy to help you navigate through it.
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Samantha Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
You already know the areas of your life that are holding you back, but you don't know where to start - which has led you here. Maybe anxiety is causing you to avoid the people, places, and activities you used to enjoy. Maybe chronic illness makes you disconnect from the things you value due to exhaustion and overwhelm. Maybe intrusive thoughts about causing harm, contamination, your identity, or about other scary topics take up your whole day. You worry that things will never feel "normal" again. You'd like to be able to work through the anxiety and frustration these things cause, and start living your life again.
You already know the areas of your life that are holding you back, but you don't know where to start - which has led you here. Maybe anxiety is causing you to avoid the people, places, and activities you used to enjoy. Maybe chronic illness makes you disconnect from the things you value due to exhaustion and overwhelm. Maybe intrusive thoughts about causing harm, contamination, your identity, or about other scary topics take up your whole day. You worry that things will never feel "normal" again. You'd like to be able to work through the anxiety and frustration these things cause, and start living your life again.
Bri Beck
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
I have a particular passion and expertise in supporting clients living with disabilities (such as chronic illness, physical disability, sensory impairments, ASD/ADHD, and rare diseases), however, I also enjoy working with individuals facing a variety of life challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and relationship issues.
As a therapist, my goal is to co-create an authentic, safe, and courageous relationship with each unique individual. I firmly believe that within a strong therapeutic bond, beautiful transformations can unfold. My approach to therapy is characterized by openness, collaboration, affirmation, and honesty. I bring my full humanity into the therapeutic space and encourage each client to do the same. I utilize a blend of theoretical frameworks such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatically-Integrated Therapy, Art Therapy, "parts" work, and Feminist Therapy.
I have a particular passion and expertise in supporting clients living with disabilities (such as chronic illness, physical disability, sensory impairments, ASD/ADHD, and rare diseases), however, I also enjoy working with individuals facing a variety of life challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and relationship issues.
As a therapist, my goal is to co-create an authentic, safe, and courageous relationship with each unique individual. I firmly believe that within a strong therapeutic bond, beautiful transformations can unfold. My approach to therapy is characterized by openness, collaboration, affirmation, and honesty. I bring my full humanity into the therapeutic space and encourage each client to do the same. I utilize a blend of theoretical frameworks such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatically-Integrated Therapy, Art Therapy, "parts" work, and Feminist Therapy.
Mindy Elizabeth Levin-Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I work with adults who are suffering from a multitude of mental health issues, chronic illness, Loss, PTSD, and transitions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
I work with adults who are suffering from a multitude of mental health issues, chronic illness, Loss, PTSD, and transitions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families for 29 years. While I received my degrees many years ago and much has changed in my field, I have stayed current in my knowledge of Psychology. I provide therapy to people who are experiencing stress, change and discomfort in their current life. I work with diverse populations with a variety of needs. I visualize therapy as a partnership: you define your goals and we develop ways to help you experience the joy in life, that everyone deserves.
Abbey Storey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
My areas of expertise include working with individuals navigating chronic illness, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, and vocational rehabilitation.
Each of us are navigating our own personal journeys, with challenges along the way. We make connections each day through our successes and struggles, where it is important to remember that we are not alone. You can overcome barriers, feel a true sense of belonging, relieve worry and stress, increase joy, and know yourself on a deeper level as you achieve more than you thought possible. I am passionate about helping you make lasting improvements using your unique talents to create the life that you desire as we uncover your personal definition of success.
My areas of expertise include working with individuals navigating chronic illness, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers, and vocational rehabilitation.
Each of us are navigating our own personal journeys, with challenges along the way. We make connections each day through our successes and struggles, where it is important to remember that we are not alone. You can overcome barriers, feel a true sense of belonging, relieve worry and stress, increase joy, and know yourself on a deeper level as you achieve more than you thought possible. I am passionate about helping you make lasting improvements using your unique talents to create the life that you desire as we uncover your personal definition of success.
Jeanelle Kline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
Are you tired of spending all your time in therapy educating your therapist instead of working on what you need? Looking for a therapist who specializes in struggles with identity, sexual orientation, diverse sexual groups, such as kink/BDSM; relationship orientation such as polyamory, relationship anarchy, or swinging; anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, and other chronic illness; secular or alternative faiths such as paganism; and are seeking patient-centered, compassionate, and affirming care?
Are you tired of spending all your time in therapy educating your therapist instead of working on what you need? Looking for a therapist who specializes in struggles with identity, sexual orientation, diverse sexual groups, such as kink/BDSM; relationship orientation such as polyamory, relationship anarchy, or swinging; anxiety, depression, HIV/AIDS, and other chronic illness; secular or alternative faiths such as paganism; and are seeking patient-centered, compassionate, and affirming care?
Mary Ann Riksheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Olympia Fields, IL 60461
I see clients ages 12-80+, who may be dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, family problems, life stage issues, chronic illness, or grief. As we explore your situation, we will learn more about the current problem, and how it is similar to or different from experiences you have had in the past. Your usual ways of solving problems may not be working now. As we reflect on your characteristic responses to people and situations, we will consider changes you can make that will help you get more of what you are looking for in your life.
I see clients ages 12-80+, who may be dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, family problems, life stage issues, chronic illness, or grief. As we explore your situation, we will learn more about the current problem, and how it is similar to or different from experiences you have had in the past. Your usual ways of solving problems may not be working now. As we reflect on your characteristic responses to people and situations, we will consider changes you can make that will help you get more of what you are looking for in your life.
Dr. Amelia Swanson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076 (Online Only)
I specialize in infertility, pregnancy loss, third-party reproduction, postpartum depression and anxiety, chronic illness, stress in medical professionals, ADHD and anxiety.
Do you feel stuck on a roller coaster of hope and disappointment? Are you exhausted trying to stay positive while struggling to cope day to day? Are you devastated when you find out a friend had a second (or third) child while you have been desperately trying to have one? Do you avoid friends and family because you feel heartbroken and jealous of their pregnancies? Do you worry that stress is the reason you aren’t pregnant? Stress doesn't cause infertility - but infertility does cause stress. You can learn ways to cope with the stress of infertility and you deserve to enjoy your life!
I specialize in infertility, pregnancy loss, third-party reproduction, postpartum depression and anxiety, chronic illness, stress in medical professionals, ADHD and anxiety.
Do you feel stuck on a roller coaster of hope and disappointment? Are you exhausted trying to stay positive while struggling to cope day to day? Are you devastated when you find out a friend had a second (or third) child while you have been desperately trying to have one? Do you avoid friends and family because you feel heartbroken and jealous of their pregnancies? Do you worry that stress is the reason you aren’t pregnant? Stress doesn't cause infertility - but infertility does cause stress. You can learn ways to cope with the stress of infertility and you deserve to enjoy your life!
Niki T Colon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
Are you a chronically ill person who feels unheard or dismissed? Are you struggling with navigating life as a Queer, TGNC, poly, or kinky person? Or with AFAB-specific health conditions (Endometriosis, etc.)? My work centers marginalized identities, including those who are chronically ill, disabled, queer, TGNC, poly, and/or kinky. My lived experiences navigating chronic illness, ableism, survivorship, and Bi+ invisibility have taught me compassion and the importance of rest as an act of resistance against oppressive systems. In the words of Audre Lorde, self-care “is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
Are you a chronically ill person who feels unheard or dismissed? Are you struggling with navigating life as a Queer, TGNC, poly, or kinky person? Or with AFAB-specific health conditions (Endometriosis, etc.)? My work centers marginalized identities, including those who are chronically ill, disabled, queer, TGNC, poly, and/or kinky. My lived experiences navigating chronic illness, ableism, survivorship, and Bi+ invisibility have taught me compassion and the importance of rest as an act of resistance against oppressive systems. In the words of Audre Lorde, self-care “is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
Samantha Dauber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnwood, IL 60712 (Online Only)
My professional experience has focused on working with adults and families dealing with adversity and life transitions and an array of other challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, family conflict, relationship problems, mood disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, chronic illness, and women's issues.
I strive to use interventions that meet the specific needs of my clients in a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental way. I often use a cognitive-behavioral approach (CBT) in psychotherapy as I help my clients adjust and overcome maladaptive thinking patterns and behaviors. I also utilize dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and other therapeutic modalities as a way of teaching clients important coping techniques to manage their stress and navigate their challenges. My goal is to help my clients learning healthy ways of living and a positive mindset to overcome challenges.
My professional experience has focused on working with adults and families dealing with adversity and life transitions and an array of other challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, family conflict, relationship problems, mood disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, chronic illness, and women's issues.
I strive to use interventions that meet the specific needs of my clients in a safe, comfortable, and nonjudgmental way. I often use a cognitive-behavioral approach (CBT) in psychotherapy as I help my clients adjust and overcome maladaptive thinking patterns and behaviors. I also utilize dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and other therapeutic modalities as a way of teaching clients important coping techniques to manage their stress and navigate their challenges. My goal is to help my clients learning healthy ways of living and a positive mindset to overcome challenges.
See more therapy options for Cook County
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.