Chronic Illness Psychiatrists in San Diego County, CA

Photo of Jeremy Flagel, Psychiatrist in San Diego County, CA
Jeremy Flagel
Psychiatrist, MD, ABIHM, IFMCP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
Chronic illness involves a web of our environment, experience, genetic expression.
Conventionally and holistically trained, I'm a psychiatrist also certified in Functional Medicine. Applying an integrative and functional approach to psychiatry provides a more complete model to treating chronic illness. We partner to evaluate how your unique biology, history, lifestyle and environment are contributing to disease. Taking a wider lens to view the systems involved in underlying disease we can focus on healing root causes, rather than just trying to cover up the symptoms. Seeking short term relief while planning long term recovery, together, we seek the right balance of body, mind and spirit.
Chronic illness involves a web of our environment, experience, genetic expression.
Conventionally and holistically trained, I'm a psychiatrist also certified in Functional Medicine. Applying an integrative and functional approach to psychiatry provides a more complete model to treating chronic illness. We partner to evaluate how your unique biology, history, lifestyle and environment are contributing to disease. Taking a wider lens to view the systems involved in underlying disease we can focus on healing root causes, rather than just trying to cover up the symptoms. Seeking short term relief while planning long term recovery, together, we seek the right balance of body, mind and spirit.
(619) 536-1566 View (619) 536-1566
Photo of Jay Timacdog, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Jay Timacdog
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
We support clients from the LGBTQIA+ community, military service personnel, immigrants, and elderly with chronic illness.
Are you one of those individuals needing mental health support but worried about the stigma that comes from talking to a therapist or psychiatrist? It's completely normal to feel concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health. But here's the thing: seeking help is a brave and important step towards feeling better. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there's no shame in taking care of your mental well-being. Finding a trustworthy provider can be challenging. Rest assured, here at HAWON Services, our patient’s privacy is our outmost priority.
We support clients from the LGBTQIA+ community, military service personnel, immigrants, and elderly with chronic illness.
Are you one of those individuals needing mental health support but worried about the stigma that comes from talking to a therapist or psychiatrist? It's completely normal to feel concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health. But here's the thing: seeking help is a brave and important step towards feeling better. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there's no shame in taking care of your mental well-being. Finding a trustworthy provider can be challenging. Rest assured, here at HAWON Services, our patient’s privacy is our outmost priority.
(619) 815-7812 View (619) 815-7812
Photo of David Gersten, Psychiatrist in San Diego County, CA
David Gersten
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I practice Integrative Psychiatry and Nutritional Medicine. I utilize amino acid therapy and trauma-based modalities. I gather information about every aspect of your life with the intention that you will feel safe sharing "anything." My goal is to provide an accepting, nonjudgmental environment in which you feel you are "not simply a diagnosis." I want you to feel heard and understood. I strive to establish Connection. With connection comes hope. With hope people are motivated to engage in the healing process. I don't work with medications. Here's my intro video on Amino Acid Therapy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqrFS6OtAmE
I practice Integrative Psychiatry and Nutritional Medicine. I utilize amino acid therapy and trauma-based modalities. I gather information about every aspect of your life with the intention that you will feel safe sharing "anything." My goal is to provide an accepting, nonjudgmental environment in which you feel you are "not simply a diagnosis." I want you to feel heard and understood. I strive to establish Connection. With connection comes hope. With hope people are motivated to engage in the healing process. I don't work with medications. Here's my intro video on Amino Acid Therapy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqrFS6OtAmE
(760) 659-5043 View (760) 659-5043
Photo of Vincent David Feitosa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Vincent David Feitosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941  (Online Only)
Greetings to new patients! We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to individuals from all walks of life, with a special emphasis on those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, schizoaffective disorder, dual diagnosis, ADHD, and LGBTQI+ concerns. As a seasoned Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board Certified, I bring a wealth of experience, particularly in working with the chronically mentally ill. In our welcoming and nonjudgmental environment, our focus is on providing more than just medication support; we aim to instill hope, relief, and quality of life. Discover a Path to Wellness with Us!
Greetings to new patients! We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to individuals from all walks of life, with a special emphasis on those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, schizoaffective disorder, dual diagnosis, ADHD, and LGBTQI+ concerns. As a seasoned Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board Certified, I bring a wealth of experience, particularly in working with the chronically mentally ill. In our welcoming and nonjudgmental environment, our focus is on providing more than just medication support; we aim to instill hope, relief, and quality of life. Discover a Path to Wellness with Us!
(858) 879-6097 View (858) 879-6097
Photo of Jill Gaskill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Jill Gaskill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP-B, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(858) 956-7268 View (858) 956-7268
Photo of Marym Lateef, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Marym Lateef
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, EFTMP-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
(619) 493-3897 View (619) 493-3897
Photo of Lena Allos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Lena Allos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92134
Waitlist for new clients
Lena is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has experience treating children, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, Sleeping Disorders, and Substance Abuse. She is a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and specializes in LGBTQ+ mental health care. She also specializes in IV therapy including Ketamine infusions, vitamins, and NAD+ infusions. Ketamine is used for the treatment of depression. As an additional option for specialty care, we are proud to offer Concierge services.
Lena is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has experience treating children, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, Sleeping Disorders, and Substance Abuse. She is a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and specializes in LGBTQ+ mental health care. She also specializes in IV therapy including Ketamine infusions, vitamins, and NAD+ infusions. Ketamine is used for the treatment of depression. As an additional option for specialty care, we are proud to offer Concierge services.
(442) 259-1282 View (442) 259-1282
Oscar Castillo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Oscar Castillo, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Southern California. With a strong background in mental health, I specialize in caring for individuals of all ages dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD. I am also proud to support the LGBTQ+ community and undocumented individuals, ensuring that everyone receives the care and respect they deserve.
Hello! I'm Oscar Castillo, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Southern California. With a strong background in mental health, I specialize in caring for individuals of all ages dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD. I am also proud to support the LGBTQ+ community and undocumented individuals, ensuring that everyone receives the care and respect they deserve.
(619) 773-0238 View (619) 773-0238
Photo of Anna Amour Ross, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Anna Amour Ross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNS-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122  (Online Only)
Are you looking for an experienced psych med provider with a conservative approach to prescription meds? Dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience, Anna has proven success in assisting patients (age 17+) w/ complex dual diagnosis. Licenses in AZ, CA, OR, MD & WA providing prompt access to mental health services for conditions that include ADHD (non-stimulants), Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Chronic Pain, Insomnia, Mood, PTSD. Woman Veteran Owned Private Practice serving 5 States via convenient virtual telehealth appointments. Accepting New Patients Now!
Are you looking for an experienced psych med provider with a conservative approach to prescription meds? Dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of experience, Anna has proven success in assisting patients (age 17+) w/ complex dual diagnosis. Licenses in AZ, CA, OR, MD & WA providing prompt access to mental health services for conditions that include ADHD (non-stimulants), Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Chronic Pain, Insomnia, Mood, PTSD. Woman Veteran Owned Private Practice serving 5 States via convenient virtual telehealth appointments. Accepting New Patients Now!
(619) 304-9879 View (619) 304-9879
Photo of Open Mind Health, Psychiatrist in San Diego County, CA
Open Mind Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. We offer customized holistic treatment plans in our wellness tracks developed to provide lasting results, Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today to get started on your path to mental wellness at 855-550-MIND (6463).
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. We offer customized holistic treatment plans in our wellness tracks developed to provide lasting results, Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today to get started on your path to mental wellness at 855-550-MIND (6463).
(619) 949-0858 View (619) 949-0858
Photo of Trenice Johnson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92111
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(858) 786-0159 View (858) 786-0159
Photo of Kris Ancho, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Kris Ancho
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Kristoffer A. Ancho is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He is a master’s prepared nurse practitioner with 10 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse. He has extensive experience caring for geriatrics, adults, adolescents, and children suffering from mental illness at Sharp Mesa Vista Hospital. He also provided care for veterans at the VA San Diego’s Neuromodulation Clinic. He is experienced with repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), Esketamine (Spravato), and IV Ketamine infusion.
Kristoffer A. Ancho is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He is a master’s prepared nurse practitioner with 10 years of experience as a psychiatric nurse. He has extensive experience caring for geriatrics, adults, adolescents, and children suffering from mental illness at Sharp Mesa Vista Hospital. He also provided care for veterans at the VA San Diego’s Neuromodulation Clinic. He is experienced with repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), Esketamine (Spravato), and IV Ketamine infusion.
(858) 293-1562 View (858) 293-1562
Photo of KMG Psychiatry (Dr. Ankur Bindal), Psychiatrist in San Diego County, CA
KMG Psychiatry (Dr. Ankur Bindal)
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA, FAASM
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910  (Online Only)
KMG Psychiatry is an integrative psychiatry practice delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to the communities of San-Diego County, with a multi-faceted approach, striving to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths, creating an individualized treatment plan for every patient, using a combination of traditional and innovative treatments. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and state of the art Neurostar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
KMG Psychiatry is an integrative psychiatry practice delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to the communities of San-Diego County, with a multi-faceted approach, striving to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths, creating an individualized treatment plan for every patient, using a combination of traditional and innovative treatments. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and state of the art Neurostar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(619) 393-3114 View (619) 393-3114
Photo of Todd Benjamin Young, Psychiatrist in San Diego County, CA
Todd Benjamin Young
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Dr. Young is a board-certified psychiatrist serving the communities of Northern San Diego County, with offices conveniently located in Encinitas. He has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, both in outpatient and acute care settings. Areas of focus include mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, ADHD, psychotic disorders, trauma-related conditions, behavioral disorders, and many others.Primary treatment modalities include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, using applied principles of psychodynamic psychiatry, functional medicine, nutrition, healthy relationships, personal development and lifestyle design
Dr. Young is a board-certified psychiatrist serving the communities of Northern San Diego County, with offices conveniently located in Encinitas. He has extensive experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, both in outpatient and acute care settings. Areas of focus include mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, ADHD, psychotic disorders, trauma-related conditions, behavioral disorders, and many others.Primary treatment modalities include psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, using applied principles of psychodynamic psychiatry, functional medicine, nutrition, healthy relationships, personal development and lifestyle design
(760) 313-3762 View (760) 313-3762
Photo of Adel Mostafavi, Psychiatrist in San Diego County, CA
Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(424) 363-4654 View (424) 363-4654
Photo of Joshua Flatow, Psychiatrist in San Diego County, CA
Joshua Flatow
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. We provide a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness. Please use this link for a free informational TMS session https://www.pacificmindhealth.com/tmsinfo.html
(424) 367-1395 View (424) 367-1395
Photo of Psychiatry Services | Help Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Psychiatry Services | Help Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
At Help Therapy, we recognize the benefits that medication can provide in enhancing one's mental health alongside psychotherapy. Our team of psychiatric experts specializes in prescribing medications to address a wide array of mental health conditions. With a commitment to quality care and personalized treatment plans, our practitioners work closely with clients to assess their individual needs and develop a comprehensive approach to medication management. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other concerns, we are here to offer compassionate support and effective treatment options.
At Help Therapy, we recognize the benefits that medication can provide in enhancing one's mental health alongside psychotherapy. Our team of psychiatric experts specializes in prescribing medications to address a wide array of mental health conditions. With a commitment to quality care and personalized treatment plans, our practitioners work closely with clients to assess their individual needs and develop a comprehensive approach to medication management. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other concerns, we are here to offer compassionate support and effective treatment options.
(619) 815-5178 View (619) 815-5178
Photo of Maryam Hakma Lateef, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego County, CA
Maryam Hakma Lateef
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHNP-BC
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
Hi there, Are you struggling with depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, not able to focus or concentrate when you need to? Are you considering psychiatric medication management as part of your treatment along with an integrated, holistic approach? Then welcome to my practice. I specialize in treating these conditions, using a holistic, integrated approach, including bio-energenetics. Each individual is a unique, multidimensional being with expressions of mind, body and spirit. The continuum of health, is maintained through a delicate balance of these divisions within the human energy field.
Hi there, Are you struggling with depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, not able to focus or concentrate when you need to? Are you considering psychiatric medication management as part of your treatment along with an integrated, holistic approach? Then welcome to my practice. I specialize in treating these conditions, using a holistic, integrated approach, including bio-energenetics. Each individual is a unique, multidimensional being with expressions of mind, body and spirit. The continuum of health, is maintained through a delicate balance of these divisions within the human energy field.
(520) 666-8099 View (520) 666-8099
Photo of Sham Singh, Psychiatrist in San Diego County, CA
Sham Singh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(619) 728-3882 View (619) 728-3882
Photo of Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in San Diego County, CA
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(619) 612-5816 View (619) 612-5816

See more therapy options for San Diego County

Chronic Illness Psychiatrists

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.