Chronic Illness Counseling
About the Program
Whole-person support for individuals and families navigating life with chronic illness
Living with a chronic illness affects more than just physical health—it impacts emotional well-being, identity, relationships, and daily life. At Pillars of Wellness, our Chronic Illness Counseling program offers compassionate, evidence-based mental health support for individuals and families navigating the emotional and psychological challenges of long-term medical conditions.
Our clinicians are trained in trauma-informed, whole-person care and use proven therapeutic approaches to help clients manage the mental health impacts of chronic illness, including anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, and lifestyle disruption.
Who This Program Supports
This program is ideal for individuals who are experiencing:
- Emotional distress related to a chronic or long-term medical condition
- Anxiety, depression, or grief following diagnosis or disease progression
- Chronic pain, fatigue, or lifestyle disruption due to illness
- Identity shifts, isolation, or loss of independence
- Stress navigating medical systems or treatment demands
Suitable for:
- Individuals
- Small groups (up to 5 participants)
- Caregivers and families through organizational partnerships
What You Can Expect
Chronic Illness Counseling provides whole-person support designed to help individuals and families navigate the emotional and psychological challenges of living with long-term medical conditions.
All care is delivered in a culturally inclusive, trauma-informed, judgment-free environment using evidence-based approaches.
Each session includes:
- Emotional grounding and stress-reduction techniques
- Psychoeducation related to chronic illness and mental health
- Guided discussion focused on coping and adjustment
- Practical tools to manage stress, symptoms, and emotional overwhelm
- Optional worksheets and supportive resources
Program Format
- Session Length: 50–60 minutes
- Delivery Method: In-person / Telehealth / Hybrid
- Frequency: Weekly, Biweekly, or Monthly based on individual needs
- Group Option: Available for select populations
- Staff Access: Offered to healthcare, wellness, and employer partners
Locations
Schererville, Valparaiso, Hobart, Merrillville
Telehealth: Available statewide
Program Impact
Specialized Clinical Support
We have 8 clinicians with specialized training in Chronic Illness counseling and psychosocial care, utilizing evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, mindfulness-based interventions, and stress-reduction techniques.
Indiana Health Context
In Indiana, 13.8% of adults have 3 or more of the following: arthritis, asthma, chronic kidney disease, COPD, cardiovascular disease, cancer, depression, or diabetes. 7 of the top 10 causes of death in Indiana in 2020 were chronic illnesses, with cancer and heart disease being the leading contributors.
Mental Health Treatment Gap
7.3% of adults in Indiana have reported an unmet need for mental health treatment, compared to 6.2% nationally.
Meet Our Clinicians
Our clinicians are licensed, trauma-informed professionals with specialty training in chronic illness counseling and psychosocial care. They utilize evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, mindfulness-based interventions, and stress-reduction techniques.
Pillars of Wellness is a community-based mental health organization providing therapy, education, and specialty programs across Indiana and surrounding regions.
Partnership Information
Chronic Illness Services would love to partner with you. The following are some examples of what we offer, but services are not limited to this:
- A streamlined referral process
- Coordinated care with medical teams (with client consent)
- Tailored workshops and trainings on the emotional impact of chronic illness
Interested in partnering or requesting services?
Email: info@pillarsinspires.com | Phone: 219-323-3311
Applicant Information
Interested in working for Pillars in this program?
As part of this Center of Excellence, clinicians have the opportunity to:
- Provide focused services in their specialty area
- Collaborate with program-aligned clinicians
- Receive mentorship, supervision, and leadership opportunities
- Help shape future programming and community outreach
- Grow clinically while contributing to innovation and excellence
Program-Related Continuing Education Courses
These courses are excellent resources for counselors hoping to advance their skillset in specific interest areas. View all our continuing education courses.
Healing Starts Here
If you or someone you care about is navigating the emotional challenges of chronic illness, you don't have to do it alone. Our team is here to support you with compassion, expertise, and personalized care.
Ready to Get Started?
Our administrative team is here to help answer your questions and match you with the right clinician.