It's estimated that nearly half the American population is experiencing at least one chronic illness, including depression, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, respiratory diseases, and cancer. Moreover, approximately 40% of people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetimes.

Statistics tell just one sliver of a story, but every individual with a medical condition has their own lived experience and complex feelings. Moreover, if you or a loved one is living with cancer or another illness, you may be dealing with profound difficulties right now.

As a cancer and chronic illness therapist, I offer a compassionate space where you can safely explore your feelings, process your challenges, and discover new ways to cope with your current situation.

In my practice, I treat some of the following concerns:

Life Adjustment and Emotional Support

Whether you've just received a scary diagnosis- or you're in remission from an illness- life undoubtedly feels different, and you may find yourself resisting all that has changed (and might change in the future). This is normal, and it's why so many people resonate with strong themes of grief and fear associated with their health.

If you're finding it hard to adjust to life right now, therapy may focus on:

• cultivating a meaningful support system (family members, support groups, friends)

• reconciling feelings of isolation and/or loneliness

• navigating strong emotions, including sadness, anxiety, depression, anger, and hopelessness

• identifying coping skills that support overall stress management

• coping with life transitions and identity shifts

• redefining what a 'full and meaningful life' can look like amid your current circumstances

Relationship Challenges

Medical concerns can profoundly impact relationships in multifaceted ways. These effects may ripple across many different relationships, including family dynamics, friendships, romantic partnerships, and professional roles. If you feel disconnected from others, you may feel tempted to isolate yourself. However, even if this provides some temporary solace, loneliness often makes things feel worse.

Here are some ways we may focus on navigating relationship issues:

• improving communication skills by learning how to express your emotions and needs effectively

• navigating changes in roles and establishing boundaries to maintain a sense of respect

• practicing perspective-taking to understand the needs and feelings of others

• processing grief related to relationship changes

• offering support for caregivers and other family members affected by the illness

PTSD Symptoms

Some people with cancer or chronic illness develop trauma symptoms due to the life-threatening nature of their diagnosis or invasive treatments. Furthermore, if you've had a history of trauma, medical issues can exacerbate certain mental health symptoms.

These symptoms vary in type and intensity, and they can ebb and flow over time. Some common trauma symptoms include panic attacks, irritability, sleep problems, difficulty concentrating, trust issues, and feeling like you’re ‘on edge.’

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, therapy may help you by:

• having a safe space to explore and process distressing memories related to your illness

• learning how to identify early warning signs of trauma flashbacks or other intrusive symptoms

• developing healthy coping strategies to manage anxiety

• addressing avoidance behaviors by safely and gradually exposing yourself to feared situations

• identifying and reframing negative beliefs about yourself or the world around you

• regulating emotions via increased mindfulness and grounding

Parenting Concerns

Parents with health concerns experience unique struggles when it comes to the intersection of their own well-being and raising their children. Many families feel confused and scared about "what to do." For example, you may not know how to talk about what's going on with your children. You also might be grappling with all kinds of fear, including worry about money, work, your energy levels and pain, and the potential possibility of dying prematurely.

I provide support for parents at all stages of illness- this allows you to have space to process your needs so you can show up in the ways you want for your family.

Therapy sessions for parents may focus on:

• helping you process and regulate your emotions in a safe, compassionate space

• working through feelings of fear or guilt about how your illness may impact your family

• strengthening meaningful connections with your children despite your circumstances

• identifying and enlisting help from others to support your parenting needs

• feeling supported and planning for the future amid your uncertainty

FAQ

How Will Therapy Help Me If I Have Cancer or a Chronic Illness?

Therapy offers both emotional and practical support as you navigate the numerous challenges that come with a serious medical diagnosis. In addition to exploring your feelings and needs, we may also focus on addressing existential concerns, managing depression or anxiety, coping with stress, improving relationships, re-establishing a sense of identity, finding meaning, and creating a solid sense of support.

Can Therapy Help Me Physically Feel Better?

Possibly, yes. Research shows that chronic illness affects the nervous system, and when the nervous system is dysregulated, it's particularly susceptible to stress and pain symptoms. Moreover, people with a chronic illness have a higher risk of experiencing other mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety.

My work heavily focuses on the mind-body connection, and this can help release some of the stored tension existing within your body. Although we can't "eliminate" the pain, certain techniques can help you better understand, regulate, and manage pain.

Do You Also Work With Caregivers or Family Members?

Yes, cancer and chronic illnesses affect everyone in the family. If you have a loved one with a medical condition, seeking support can make a big difference.

What Can I Expect in a Typical Session?

All therapy sessions are entirely tailored to you and your specific needs. We may discuss how you're feeling emotionally, address particular challenges you're experiencing, and talk about adaptive coping skills. Sessions may also focus on practical concerns, including financial stress or communicating with loved ones. We may also spend time exploring deeper emotions surrounding your illness and its greater impact on your life.

How Can You Help Me Cope with the Emotional Impact of My Medical Diagnosis?

My goal is to help you feel supported as we discuss specific tools to help you manage your emotions and needs. This can foster a sense of empowerment throughout your medical treatment. I also will focus on helping you understand your feelings and find meaningful ways to live with the uncertainty or complexity associated with your illness.

Can You Provide Therapy for Individuals Currently Undergoing Cancer Treatment?

Yes, I work with clients of all ages and stages of illness, from an initial cancer diagnosis and throughout treatment. I also offer therapy for cancer survivors in remission.

Do You Treat Unexplained Chronic Pain or Undiagnosed Illness?

Yes. Chronic illness therapists perceive any pain or illness to be valid, regardless of a specific diagnosis. Pain is a complex symptom that may overlap or feel exacerbated by many other factors, including mental health conditions, fatigue, insomnia, inflammation, and nervous system dysregulation. Pain can also worsen with stress and aging.

Are Mental Health Professionals Comfortable Treating End-of-Life Issues?

Yes, as a therapist for cancer patients, end-of-life issues are treated with respect, compassion, and curiosity. I aim to provide a safe space for you to explore your needs and wishes- above anything, we'll focus on honoring what is most meaningful to you during this time.

Can Talk Therapy Help Me Unpack the Existential Concerns Related to My Diagnosis?

Absolutely. Many clients find that it's both important and rewarding to explore existential questions surrounding the meaning of life or individual beliefs amid a serious illness. If you feel particularly disconnected from yourself or the world around you, we will spend time honing in on what can help you restore a sense of connectivity.

What Other Resoruces or Counseling Services Might Help Me or My Loved One?

Embracing the 'village' effect really helps here. In addition to individual therapy, family therapy, group support, respite support services, and connecting with your hospital's oncology social workers may be beneficial. I am happy to connect with other healthcare professionals and community resources.

Therapy for Cancer Patients and Chronic Illness in New York and Connecticut

Living with cancer or a chronic illness is overwhelming, but you don't need to manage your emotional well-being all on your own. Therapy offers a non-judgmental, compassionate space to explore your emotions and learn new ways to cope with your circumstances.

Your mental health matters, and as an experienced provider, I am honored to assist individuals and their loved ones as they navigate their medical concerns. Although this can be a scary time, therapy may provide you with a much-needed sense of relief and guidance.

My private practice offers convenient online services for clients in New York and Connecticut. If you're ready to take the next step, please reach out today to schedule an initial consultation.