Chronic Illness & Pain
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It is estimated that at least 129 million people in the US have a chronic disease or illness, and over 51 million people in the US suffer from chronic pain*. Medical doctors work with patients daily to address the physical symptoms of these illnesses and conditions. Many aspects of chronic illness and pain can lead to emotional struggles: the process of testing, assessment, and diagnosis; the shift in daily routine due to a condition and/or appointments; the challenge to self-identity; traumas that may have occurred as part of your experience with your condition; and navigating life with the condition.
Our therapists often work together with medical doctors to be sure that all of your needs are being met. We collaborate with your treatment team as needed (and only with your permission!). We can also assist you with connecting to resources and accommodations in the community. |
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What is a chronic illness/disease?
Chronic illnesses are long-term health conditions, lasting a year or more, that require ongoing medical attention and impact activities of daily living. Chronic illnesses and pain often require the person to make changes to the way that they approach tasks and activities.
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Here are some examples:
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How does therapy with chronic illness and pain work?
Therapy for chronic illness and pain can be helpful in many ways. Your therapist can work with you to unpack all of the feelings you may be having about your condition and living with your condition. Your therapist can help to teach you grounding and coping skills that can help you decrease anxiety and tolerate pain you may be experiencing as a result of your illness. Your therapist can help you to set goals for yourself and work towards them, all while navigating life with a chronic illness.
Sometimes a person may enter therapy for a reason that does not have to do with their chronic illness or chronic pain. Having a clinician who understands chronic illness and chronic pain can still be helpful, as it is likely that your condition may impact the work that you want to achieve in your therapy sessions.
Sometimes a person may enter therapy for a reason that does not have to do with their chronic illness or chronic pain. Having a clinician who understands chronic illness and chronic pain can still be helpful, as it is likely that your condition may impact the work that you want to achieve in your therapy sessions.
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Online Therapy in New York for Chronic Illness & PainAttending appointments in person at an office can be difficult when living with chronic illness and/or chronic pain. You may already have many appointments that occur outside of your home, leaving you with a lack of desire to add another one to your plate. Due to the nature of your condition, flare ups or discomfort can interfere with being able to commit to a specific day and time each week to see your therapist.
To assist with this, we offer online therapy at Healing & Growth Counseling. Your online therapist can meet with you by video call using a secure platform to hold your appointments. You can attend appointments from the comfort of your home, couch, or bed. This can allow you to feel physically comfortable while also getting help in processing the emotions that are coming up for you. |
*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Questions about Therapy in NY for Chronic Illness & Pain?
Call us at (516) 406-8991.
You can also check out a blog post written on the topic of Medical Gaslighting by clicking here.
You can also check out a blog post written on the topic of Medical Gaslighting by clicking here.
