Living with a chronic illness can affect every part of your life, physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s not uncommon to feel isolated, anxious, or frustrated as you navigate the challenges of ongoing health conditions. Over time, the constant adjustments and uncertainty can take a toll on your sense of self and well-being.
At Reclaim Balance, Jennifer Bearden, LCSW, provides compassionate and evidence-based therapy to help individuals living with chronic illness find emotional resilience and peace. With over two decades of experience in both medical and behavioral health settings, Jennifer understands the deep connection between the body and mind. She offers in-person therapy at her Bend, Oregon office (2542 NE Courtney Dr, Bend, OR 97701) and telehealth sessions throughout the state of Oregon, making it easier to receive support wherever you are.
What Is Chronic Illness Therapy?
Chronic illness therapy focuses on supporting individuals who are coping with long-term health conditions such as autoimmune disorders, diabetes, heart disease, chronic pain, or fatigue-related illnesses. The goal is not only to help you manage emotional distress but also to foster a stronger relationship with yourself as you adapt to life’s challenges.
Jennifer integrates approaches like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Nature-Informed Therapy to help clients work through trauma, grief, or anxiety that may accompany chronic illness. These methods go beyond traditional talk therapy, allowing you to heal at a deeper, mind-body level.
Through this integrative approach, Jennifer helps clients discover inner resources, cultivate self-compassion, and find practical tools for emotional balance, because living with a chronic condition doesn’t mean your life has to be defined by it.
How Do I Know if I Need Chronic Illness Therapy?
You might benefit from chronic illness therapy if you find yourself:
- Feeling emotionally exhausted or overwhelmed by the demands of managing your condition
- Struggling with anxiety, depression, or irritability linked to your health
- Experiencing changes in your identity, self-esteem, or relationships
- Feeling disconnected from your body or frustrated with medical limitations
- Avoiding activities or isolating yourself because of symptoms
- Having difficulty maintaining hope or motivation
Therapy can provide the space to process your emotions, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with what gives your life meaning and purpose.
How Does Chronic Illness Affect Your Mental Health?
When your body is in a constant state of stress, pain, or fatigue, your mental and emotional health often follow. Chronic illness can trigger a sense of loss. Loss of freedom, predictability, or even parts of your identity. The uncertainty surrounding symptoms and treatment can also lead to anxiety or depression, making it harder to manage daily life.
Jennifer’s approach acknowledges this mind-body connection. She helps clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, emotional blocks, and unresolved trauma that can worsen physical symptoms or increase emotional distress. Through compassionate, evidence-informed care, you can begin to restore a sense of control, acceptance, and balance.
What Happens When I See a Chronic Illness Therapist?
In your work with Jennifer, you’ll start by exploring your personal experience of living with chronic illness, and how it impacts your emotions, relationships, and sense of self. Together, you’ll develop a plan tailored to your specific needs, goals, and energy levels.
Therapy sessions may include:
- EMDR therapy to address trauma and emotional pain associated with illness or medical experiences
- IFS-informed therapy to explore and heal the internal parts of yourself that carry fear, guilt, or frustration
- Mindfulness and CBT techniques to help you manage stress and improve emotional regulation
- Compassion-focused approaches to nurture acceptance and self-kindness
Jennifer provides a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can express your frustrations, rediscover hope, and learn tools that empower you to live more fully—no matter what challenges your health brings.
Reach Out to Receive Chronic Illness Therapy
You don’t have to face chronic illness alone. Healing begins when you give yourself permission to be supported.
Whether you prefer in-person therapy in Bend or telehealth sessions anywhere in Oregon, Jennifer Bearden, LCSW, is here to help you reconnect with your inner strength and find a renewed sense of balance.
Take the first step today. Reach out to schedule your session and begin your journey toward healing and self-acceptance.