Living with chronic illness is often talked about in terms of symptoms, diagnoses, and treatment plans. But what’s less visible and just as impactful is the emotional weight that comes with it.
I spoke with two therapists who specialize in working with clients navigating chronic illness: Our very own, Jane Troescher, LPC, of Modern Therapy and Wellness, and Dr. Victoria Rodriguez, PhD,LPC, a Louisiana-based therapist who provides telehealth for individuals navigating chronic illness and medical trauma.
They shared how complex and deeply human this experience really is.
The emotional challenges go far beyond the diagnosis
Chronic illness doesn’t just affect the body it deeply impacts mental and emotional health.
Jane shared that she frequently sees:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- PTSD
These challenges don’t just come from the illness itself, but also from navigating the healthcare system and feeling unsupported.
Victoria highlighted something equally important: isolation.
“In the beginning, people tend to rally… But when an illness becomes chronic, when there’s no clear end point, support often fades.” She also named something many people experience but rarely talk about: internalized ableism, the belief that you “should” be doing more, even when your body is already stretched beyond its limits.
The mind-body cycle is real
One of the most important insights Jane shared is that mental and physical health often operate in a cycle.“Physical issues make mental issues flare, then mental flares cause the physical flares.” Breaking this cycle isn’t about fixing one side. It’s about learning how to support both at the same time.
Chronic illness can be traumatic
Victoria offered a different way of viewing chronic illness: “I conceptualize chronic illness as a type of complex medical trauma… not a singular event but a culmination of years of searching for the right diagnosis, fighting to get testing…” This ongoing experience can shape how someone feels in their body, in relationships, and in the world.
What actually helps people feel less alone
Both therapists emphasized the importance of connection but in ways that are both emotional and practical.
- Connecting with others who “get it”
Support groups and chronic illness communities can be incredibly powerful. There’s something deeply validating about being around people who share a similar experience and language.
Victoria runs a support group for those who experience chronic illness. She shared: “I’ve seen amazing transformation happen… there’s a shared experience and shared language.”
- Building the right kind of support system
Victoria also uses a practical exercise with clients: “We’ll go through their phone and create a custom contact list for different types of support… You need all types of support when managing chronic illness.”
Jane echoed this, emphasizing that practical support matters. Things like helping with meals, cleaning, or pet care can make a meaningful difference.
The most important advice for navigating chronic illness
Both therapists came back to one core message: Ask for help.
Jane encouraged:
- Asking for provider referrals
- Requesting accommodations when needed
- Letting loved ones help with tangible, everyday tasks
- Working with a therapist to advocate within the healthcare system
“People want to help, but often don’t know how.”
Victoria added that finding community is key:
“Research suggests that gathering with a supportive community can actually reduce perceived pain.”
She also emphasized the value of working with a therapist who understands chronic illness and can help build tools for living more fully.
If you or someone you love is navigating this, know this:
You’re not imagining how hard it is
- You’re not alone in how you feel
- And support….real, meaningful support is possible
About the therapists
At Modern Therapy and Wellness, Jane Troescher, LPC, specializes in supporting individuals living with chronic illness. She offers both in-person and telehealth sessions and is trained in Brainspotting, a somatic, brain-body approach that can help process trauma and calm the nervous system.
- Jane@moderntherapyandwellness.com
- Click here to read more about Jane
Dr. Victoria Rodriguez is a Louisiana-based therapist who provides telehealth for individuals navigating chronic illness and medical trauma. Click here to read more about her chronic illness support group.
- (985) 441-7550
- victoria@revivepractice.com
- revivepractice.com