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Picture of Kirsty Corvan, therapist at Guided Growth

GUIDED GROWTH
COUNSELLING

Therapy for people living with

Chronic Illness

Start your journey

Oh hi there!

I’m Kirsty, the face behind guided growth counselling. I am a BACP registered therapist who specialises in working with people who live with chronic illness, pain or fatigue.

If you’re looking for a space to finally feel heard, validated and believed, you are in the right place.

Helping you move from feeling unheard and dismissed to empowered and confident.

The Chronic Illness Therapy Blog

The Chronic Illness Dilemma: Bridging Values and Reality

Aug 30
6 min

The Chronic Illness Dilemma: Bridging Values and Reality

Why I became a Chronic Illness Therapist

Aug 15
4 min

Why I became a Chronic Illness Therapist

Struggling with Chronic Illness? 5 signs it might time to try therapy

Aug 5
5 min

Struggling with Chronic Illness? 5 signs it might time to try therapy

Do you ever feel worried that you're the only person who gets angry at their health situation?

You're not alone 💙

In my work supporting clients with chronic conditions, I hear the anger at missing out on life, the frustration at not being able to participate how you want in relationships, the exasperation at medical professionals who won't listen, the inward frustration at your own limitations, I hear it all..

The therapy space is a safe place to let it all out without having to worry about judgment or rebuttals. You can just be unapologetically you

Having a space to work through the anger and to learn how to cope going forward can have a lasting impact on your day to day life.

✨️ Can you resonate with these feelings? Please share in the comments!

👋 And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #invisibleillness #spoonielife
#spooniesupport #therapy #anger
#endometriosis #endo #fibro #fibromyalgia
#pots #eds #longcovid #crohns #cysticfibrosis

Do you ever feel worried that you're the only person who gets angry at their health situation?

You're not alone 💙

In my work supporting clients with chronic conditions, I hear the anger at missing out on life, the frustration at not being able to participate how you want in relationships, the exasperation at medical professionals who won't listen, the inward frustration at your own limitations, I hear it all..

The therapy space is a safe place to let it all out without having to worry about judgment or rebuttals. You can just be unapologetically you

Having a space to work through the anger and to learn how to cope going forward can have a lasting impact on your day to day life.

✨️ Can you resonate with these feelings? Please share in the comments!

👋 And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #invisibleillness #spoonielife
#spooniesupport #therapy #anger
#endometriosis #endo #fibro #fibromyalgia
#pots #eds #longcovid #crohns #cysticfibrosis

Been thinking about trying therapy? Now could be the perfect time 👋

✨️ I'm currently accepting new clients and have evening slots available so it can fit around any schedule.

🤍 If you have any queries or questions, please know my DM's are always open

.

#therapy #counselling #chronicillness
#anxiety #grief #relationships
#spooniesupport

Been thinking about trying therapy? Now could be the perfect time 👋

✨️ I'm currently accepting new clients and have evening slots available so it can fit around any schedule.

🤍 If you have any queries or questions, please know my DM's are always open

.

#therapy #counselling #chronicillness
#anxiety #grief #relationships
#spooniesupport

Feeling guilty about feeling joy? Read on 👇

In my work as a chronic illness therapist, I often hear from clients about the fear of allowing themselves to feel joyful moments in the present.

There is a guilt that if you feel happiness or contentment that you are somehow saying that you are okay with being sick or that you don't want to get better.

I remind them, and you that it's not an and/or situation. These two things can co-exist. You can find contentment in your present and still have dreams of a more positive future.

In fact, finding peace in your present can help you reach your future goals as you are coming from a place of empowerment rather than fear or anxiety.

✨️Can you resonate with these types of feelings?
Let me know in the comments!

👋 If you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.
#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#longtermconditions #dynamicdisabilities #invisibleillness #spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport #mecfs #pots #eds
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis
#crohns #colitis #ibd #diabetes
#fibro #fibromyalgia #cysticfibrosis

Feeling guilty about feeling joy? Read on 👇

In my work as a chronic illness therapist, I often hear from clients about the fear of allowing themselves to feel joyful moments in the present.

There is a guilt that if you feel happiness or contentment that you are somehow saying that you are okay with being sick or that you don't want to get better.

I remind them, and you that it's not an and/or situation. These two things can co-exist. You can find contentment in your present and still have dreams of a more positive future.

In fact, finding peace in your present can help you reach your future goals as you are coming from a place of empowerment rather than fear or anxiety.

✨️Can you resonate with these types of feelings?
Let me know in the comments!

👋 If you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.
#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#longtermconditions #dynamicdisabilities #invisibleillness #spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport #mecfs #pots #eds
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis
#crohns #colitis #ibd #diabetes
#fibro #fibromyalgia #cysticfibrosis

Spoonies, how much of your precious energy do you use on research, only then to be crippled with anxiety about options and possible outcomes?

When you have negative experiences in medical settings, it can seem like this is the only way forward.

However, therapy can be a great place to work on lessening the impact anxiety has on you, as well as working on your confidence, so advocating for yourself in medical settings is easier.

So, while you still may have to be your own researcher, it can have a less negative impact on your mental health.

👋 Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support
.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonielife #spoonie #spooniesupport
#dynamicdisability #invisibleillness
#therapy #anxiety #confidence #selfesteem

Spoonies, how much of your precious energy do you use on research, only then to be crippled with anxiety about options and possible outcomes?

When you have negative experiences in medical settings, it can seem like this is the only way forward.

However, therapy can be a great place to work on lessening the impact anxiety has on you, as well as working on your confidence, so advocating for yourself in medical settings is easier.

So, while you still may have to be your own researcher, it can have a less negative impact on your mental health.

👋 Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support
.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonielife #spoonie #spooniesupport
#dynamicdisability #invisibleillness
#therapy #anxiety #confidence #selfesteem

Supporting people with chronic illness, I see firsthand how living with a chronic condition affects your mental health.

Your whole identity changes. Not because you've made a conscious decision to reinvent yourself, but a forced life altering change. This can take a long time to process and learn how to integrate this new you with the old you.

Your body might change. You may have reduced mobility, and you may have swelling, bloating, scarring, or a whole different host of physical changes. The emotional toll of having to look at unwanted changes every day can be so difficult.

You grieve the life you used to live pre-illness. Work life, social life, travel, relationship dynamics, and so many things are now affected, and it's natural and necessary to grieve those changes.

Anxiety about symptoms, flares, and medical procedures are common for spoonies, and living with a heightened level of anxiety can be scary, especially for those who haven't lived with anxiety before.

The mental roll of living with chronic pain and chronic discomfort or fatigue takes its toll on your mental health, and its something nobody can understand unless they have experience of it.

Therapy can be a great way to look after your mental health whilst living with chronic illness, having a safe place to explore whatever may be going on for you.

✨️ I'm currently accepting new clients, so do reach out if you would like more info on working together.

👋 If you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#mecfs #fibro #fibromyalgia #pots #eds
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis #pcos
#cysticfibrosis #copd #diabetes #crohns

Supporting people with chronic illness, I see firsthand how living with a chronic condition affects your mental health.

Your whole identity changes. Not because you've made a conscious decision to reinvent yourself, but a forced life altering change. This can take a long time to process and learn how to integrate this new you with the old you.

Your body might change. You may have reduced mobility, and you may have swelling, bloating, scarring, or a whole different host of physical changes. The emotional toll of having to look at unwanted changes every day can be so difficult.

You grieve the life you used to live pre-illness. Work life, social life, travel, relationship dynamics, and so many things are now affected, and it's natural and necessary to grieve those changes.

Anxiety about symptoms, flares, and medical procedures are common for spoonies, and living with a heightened level of anxiety can be scary, especially for those who haven't lived with anxiety before.

The mental roll of living with chronic pain and chronic discomfort or fatigue takes its toll on your mental health, and its something nobody can understand unless they have experience of it.

Therapy can be a great way to look after your mental health whilst living with chronic illness, having a safe place to explore whatever may be going on for you.

✨️ I'm currently accepting new clients, so do reach out if you would like more info on working together.

👋 If you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#mecfs #fibro #fibromyalgia #pots #eds
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis #pcos
#cysticfibrosis #copd #diabetes #crohns

Tell me in the comments what you would pick and why? 👇

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoons #spoontheory
#spoonielife #spooniesupport #invisibleillness
#dynamicdisability #therapy
#pots #eds #endometriosis #endo #pcos
#fibro #fibromyalgia #mecfs #fnd
#longcovid #crohns #colitis #cysticfibrosis

Tell me in the comments what you would pick and why? 👇

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoons #spoontheory
#spoonielife #spooniesupport #invisibleillness
#dynamicdisability #therapy
#pots #eds #endometriosis #endo #pcos
#fibro #fibromyalgia #mecfs #fnd
#longcovid #crohns #colitis #cysticfibrosis

Spoonies, do you believe this? 👇

A common theme across my work with clients living with chronic illness is a belief that somehow they are at fault or blame for being unwell, or that this is how they are being punished for a past misdeed.

I am here to remind you that no matter what you have been through; whether it's trauma, something you are ashamed of, or you neglected your health in the past and treated your body badly, that your chronic illness is NOT your fault 💙

You do not deserve it. You've been dealt a s**t deal, and I'm sorry that you have to go through this.

✨️ Send this to someone who might need this reminder today ✨️

👋 And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#chronicconditions #invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport #therapy #counselling
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis
#pots #eds #cfsme #fnd #fibro #fibromyalgia
#cysticfibrosis #crohns #colitis #longcovid #ms

Spoonies, do you believe this? 👇

A common theme across my work with clients living with chronic illness is a belief that somehow they are at fault or blame for being unwell, or that this is how they are being punished for a past misdeed.

I am here to remind you that no matter what you have been through; whether it's trauma, something you are ashamed of, or you neglected your health in the past and treated your body badly, that your chronic illness is NOT your fault 💙

You do not deserve it. You've been dealt a s**t deal, and I'm sorry that you have to go through this.

✨️ Send this to someone who might need this reminder today ✨️

👋 And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#chronicconditions #invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport #therapy #counselling
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis
#pots #eds #cfsme #fnd #fibro #fibromyalgia
#cysticfibrosis #crohns #colitis #longcovid #ms

As someone who supports people living with chronic conditions, I see these worries, or variants of them, so often with my clients.

We live in an increasingly judgemental world, so I can't reassure my clients that they won't be judged, however, what I can work on with them is the impact that others opinions have on them.

People's opinions of you are none of your business, and it is the art of not giving a **** what they think is what needs practising 😁

Now, I realise this is entirely easier said than done, especially if your self-esteem is already low. But, together, building confidence is something that we can work together on in therapy, so that if you are unlucky enough to come across a judgemental judy, their opinions will have less weight than before 🧡

🙌 I'm currently accepting new clients, so if you do have any questions, then please send me a DM.

👋 And if you're new here follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#cfs #cfsme #invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#therapy #selfesteem #confidence #pots
#eds #crohns #colitis #endo #endometriosis
#adenomyosis #fibro #fibromyalgia #fnd
#rheumatoidarthritis #cysticfibrosis

As someone who supports people living with chronic conditions, I see these worries, or variants of them, so often with my clients.

We live in an increasingly judgemental world, so I can't reassure my clients that they won't be judged, however, what I can work on with them is the impact that others opinions have on them.

People's opinions of you are none of your business, and it is the art of not giving a **** what they think is what needs practising 😁

Now, I realise this is entirely easier said than done, especially if your self-esteem is already low. But, together, building confidence is something that we can work together on in therapy, so that if you are unlucky enough to come across a judgemental judy, their opinions will have less weight than before 🧡

🙌 I'm currently accepting new clients, so if you do have any questions, then please send me a DM.

👋 And if you're new here follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#cfs #cfsme #invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#therapy #selfesteem #confidence #pots
#eds #crohns #colitis #endo #endometriosis
#adenomyosis #fibro #fibromyalgia #fnd
#rheumatoidarthritis #cysticfibrosis

I couldn't help myself 🤣🤣

Don't worry, in reality I'm not too concerned about being demure in the therapy space.. but mindfulness always helps 😁

.

#therapy #counselling #therapyhumour
#chronicillness #mindful #demure

I couldn't help myself 🤣🤣

Don't worry, in reality I'm not too concerned about being demure in the therapy space.. but mindfulness always helps 😁

.

#therapy #counselling #therapyhumour
#chronicillness #mindful #demure

As a therapist working with people living with chronic conditions, I see many similar patterns of behaviours with my clients.

They all show up because of similar feelings of low self-esteem, feelings of unworthiness, and guilt.

I work with clients to build their confidence so they can show up how they want, as their authentic selves, take up space, and experience joy where they can, free from guilt that if they are happy now, then they mustn't deserve to be well again.

You deserve it all - health, happiness, confidence & joy 💙

Double tap if you can relate!

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#therapy #anxiety #confidence #self-care
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #pots
#eds #fibro #fibromyalgia #longcovid
#me #mecfs #cysticfibrosis #crohns #colitis
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis

As a therapist working with people living with chronic conditions, I see many similar patterns of behaviours with my clients.

They all show up because of similar feelings of low self-esteem, feelings of unworthiness, and guilt.

I work with clients to build their confidence so they can show up how they want, as their authentic selves, take up space, and experience joy where they can, free from guilt that if they are happy now, then they mustn't deserve to be well again.

You deserve it all - health, happiness, confidence & joy 💙

Double tap if you can relate!

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#therapy #anxiety #confidence #self-care
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #pots
#eds #fibro #fibromyalgia #longcovid
#me #mecfs #cysticfibrosis #crohns #colitis
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis

Spoonies, have you felt this too?.. 👇

I hear this or similar versions from my clients so often.

The feelings of being a burden, the guilt that you are still not better.

As I remind my clients, I remind you: Your illness is not your fault. You are not a burden.

Share this with someone who needs this reminder 💙

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#therapy #spooniesupport #spoonielife #spoonie
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #counselling
#fibro #fibromyalgia #endo #endometriosis
#adenomyosis #me #mecfs #pots #eds
#longcovid #crohns #colitis #diabetes #fnd

Spoonies, have you felt this too?.. 👇

I hear this or similar versions from my clients so often.

The feelings of being a burden, the guilt that you are still not better.

As I remind my clients, I remind you: Your illness is not your fault. You are not a burden.

Share this with someone who needs this reminder 💙

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#therapy #spooniesupport #spoonielife #spoonie
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #counselling
#fibro #fibromyalgia #endo #endometriosis
#adenomyosis #me #mecfs #pots #eds
#longcovid #crohns #colitis #diabetes #fnd

Spoonies, has your anxiety taken over? Read on..

In my work as a chronic illness therapist, I see how much anxiety my clients are filled with. It invades every aspect of their life.

You are anxious about new symptoms. You are anxious about symptoms that have suddenly disappeared. You are anxious about symptoms that might come at an occasion or event. You are anxious about the next really bad bout of pain.

It's never-ending, and it feels exhausting.

I hear you.

I work with my clients to help them manage their anxiety, so it is not so overwhelming. Your chronic condition already takes enough from you. Don't let anxiety take any more.

✨️ I'm currently accepting new clients, please reach out via DM or email if you would like to know more about working together.

👋 And if you're new around here follow @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#anxiety #therapy #counselling
#invisibleillness

Spoonies, has your anxiety taken over? Read on..

In my work as a chronic illness therapist, I see how much anxiety my clients are filled with. It invades every aspect of their life.

You are anxious about new symptoms. You are anxious about symptoms that have suddenly disappeared. You are anxious about symptoms that might come at an occasion or event. You are anxious about the next really bad bout of pain.

It's never-ending, and it feels exhausting.

I hear you.

I work with my clients to help them manage their anxiety, so it is not so overwhelming. Your chronic condition already takes enough from you. Don't let anxiety take any more.

✨️ I'm currently accepting new clients, please reach out via DM or email if you would like to know more about working together.

👋 And if you're new around here follow @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#anxiety #therapy #counselling
#invisibleillness

It's live! The new and improved website is up 💙

I hope it will help you to get to know me a bit better and to help understand how I work!

As a self-confessed technophobe, doing this alone has been a battle! So if anything needs fixed.. it might be a few days before I look at it again 🤣🤣

In all seriousness though, I would love if you could check it out and let me know what you think!

Link in the comments 😀

.

#chronicillness #therapy #spooniesupport
#guidedgrowthcounselling

It's live! The new and improved website is up 💙

I hope it will help you to get to know me a bit better and to help understand how I work!

As a self-confessed technophobe, doing this alone has been a battle! So if anything needs fixed.. it might be a few days before I look at it again 🤣🤣

In all seriousness though, I would love if you could check it out and let me know what you think!

Link in the comments 😀

.

#chronicillness #therapy #spooniesupport
#guidedgrowthcounselling

Chronic illness got you struggling with body image? You're not alone...

My clients often come to sessions with body image concerns. While these are unique to each individual, there are common themes that come up all the time.

Have you had your body confidence affected due to your chronic illness? Let me know in the comments..

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #bodyimage
#confidence #spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis #pots
#eds #ibs #crohns #colitis #diabetes
#fibro #fibromyalgia #mecfs #me

Chronic illness got you struggling with body image? You're not alone...

My clients often come to sessions with body image concerns. While these are unique to each individual, there are common themes that come up all the time.

Have you had your body confidence affected due to your chronic illness? Let me know in the comments..

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #bodyimage
#confidence #spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#endo #endometriosis #adenomyosis #pots
#eds #ibs #crohns #colitis #diabetes
#fibro #fibromyalgia #mecfs #me

Why do people struggle to understand the difference of each day between someone with chronic illness and someone without?

When supporting clients with chronic illness, a common theme that comes up is the pressure to be able to do the same as everyone else each day. This pressure can be outside pressure, but often it is self-inflicted.

The pressure to be the 'same as everyone else and the self-blame when you can't keep up leads to a vicious circle of over-exerting yourself.

I help clients to put boundaries in place and to regain their confidence to enforce them, so they can show up how they want, and most importantly, how they need.

Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more support for people living with chronic illness

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#eds #pots #endo #endometriosis
#fibro #fibromyalgia #mecfs
#ibs #crohns #colitis #diabetes
#longcovid

Why do people struggle to understand the difference of each day between someone with chronic illness and someone without?

When supporting clients with chronic illness, a common theme that comes up is the pressure to be able to do the same as everyone else each day. This pressure can be outside pressure, but often it is self-inflicted.

The pressure to be the 'same as everyone else and the self-blame when you can't keep up leads to a vicious circle of over-exerting yourself.

I help clients to put boundaries in place and to regain their confidence to enforce them, so they can show up how they want, and most importantly, how they need.

Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more support for people living with chronic illness

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#eds #pots #endo #endometriosis
#fibro #fibromyalgia #mecfs
#ibs #crohns #colitis #diabetes
#longcovid

Supporting clients with chronic illness, I often hear them describe how their illness has taken over their whole identity and how they miss their old self.

So when when the same clients start to find a bit of their old self amongst the chronic illness and share how they are feeling more confident, I do a little happy dance inside 😄

Chronic illness takes over so much of someone's whole life, and if you can regain a little bit you back, why wouldn't you go for it?

✨️ I currently have some limited availability for new clients. If you would like to learn more about how we might work together, pop me a DM.

👉 And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights
.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#therapy #confidence #selfesteem
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #pots
#eds #mecfs #ibs #colitis #crohns
#endo #endometriosis #fibro #fibromyalgia
#longcovid #adenomyosis

Supporting clients with chronic illness, I often hear them describe how their illness has taken over their whole identity and how they miss their old self.

So when when the same clients start to find a bit of their old self amongst the chronic illness and share how they are feeling more confident, I do a little happy dance inside 😄

Chronic illness takes over so much of someone's whole life, and if you can regain a little bit you back, why wouldn't you go for it?

✨️ I currently have some limited availability for new clients. If you would like to learn more about how we might work together, pop me a DM.

👉 And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights
.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#therapy #confidence #selfesteem
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #pots
#eds #mecfs #ibs #colitis #crohns
#endo #endometriosis #fibro #fibromyalgia
#longcovid #adenomyosis

Hands up if you've ever been spun one of these by a medical professional?! 😡

My work as a chronic illness therapist looks different with each client.

However, a common theme across most of my clients is experiences of being unsupported and often gaslit by medical professionals.

It is an all too common occurrence, which can leave people feeling angry, ashamed, confused, and more vulnerable.

Therapy is a great place to process these types of experiences and to have a place where you are believed and your experiences validated.

Can you relate to comments like these? I would love to hear you experiences in the comments!

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#pots #eds #endo #endometriosis
#adenomyosis #fnd #ibs #colitis #crohns
#fibro #fibromyalgia #diabetes #cfs #me

Hands up if you've ever been spun one of these by a medical professional?! 😡

My work as a chronic illness therapist looks different with each client.

However, a common theme across most of my clients is experiences of being unsupported and often gaslit by medical professionals.

It is an all too common occurrence, which can leave people feeling angry, ashamed, confused, and more vulnerable.

Therapy is a great place to process these types of experiences and to have a place where you are believed and your experiences validated.

Can you relate to comments like these? I would love to hear you experiences in the comments!

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#pots #eds #endo #endometriosis
#adenomyosis #fnd #ibs #colitis #crohns
#fibro #fibromyalgia #diabetes #cfs #me

Okay, spoonies, hear me out! 👋

Those I support in therapy have shared in many ways what uses up their spoons, how they feel when they are in short supply, or even in overdraft.

And I see clients present differently week to week. I get to know them. I know when a session is using up double the amount of spoons, then it usually does.

But more often than not, I also see the difference in how the person presents by the end of the session. Yes, I absolutely have not gotten rid of their pain or fatigue. I have, however, showed up for them and given them the space they need, for whatever the need might be. It could be a space to process an appointment, a fight with their partner, anger at their lack of energy this week, and so on.

So yes, while therapy does involve an investment of spoons to get you through a session mentally, in the long run, the investment gives a return.

You are using less mental energy spoons during the week because you've had the space to process at your therapy session, leaving you with more spoons to use where you need most.

👇 What do you think? I'd love to hear your opinions in the comments!

👋 And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights

.

#chronicillness #chonicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#therapy #counselling #cfsme #fibro
#fibromyalgia #endo #endometriosis
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#pots #eds #ibs #crohns #colitis
#pcos #adenomyosis #fnd #diabetes

.

Okay, spoonies, hear me out! 👋

Those I support in therapy have shared in many ways what uses up their spoons, how they feel when they are in short supply, or even in overdraft.

And I see clients present differently week to week. I get to know them. I know when a session is using up double the amount of spoons, then it usually does.

But more often than not, I also see the difference in how the person presents by the end of the session. Yes, I absolutely have not gotten rid of their pain or fatigue. I have, however, showed up for them and given them the space they need, for whatever the need might be. It could be a space to process an appointment, a fight with their partner, anger at their lack of energy this week, and so on.

So yes, while therapy does involve an investment of spoons to get you through a session mentally, in the long run, the investment gives a return.

You are using less mental energy spoons during the week because you've had the space to process at your therapy session, leaving you with more spoons to use where you need most.

👇 What do you think? I'd love to hear your opinions in the comments!

👋 And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights

.

#chronicillness #chonicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#therapy #counselling #cfsme #fibro
#fibromyalgia #endo #endometriosis
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#pots #eds #ibs #crohns #colitis
#pcos #adenomyosis #fnd #diabetes

.

My clients with chronic illness often share with me how they've become an expert medical secretary for themselves.

Now I say secretary in jest, but the reality is no joke. It can be exhausting trying to keep up with appointments, scheduling, rescheduling, mentally preparing for them, and researching for them because you know you need to have everything prepared to be taken seriously.

It is like a full-time job, only one you never wanted, you don't get paid for and is no break from.

Can you relate? I'd love to hear how you manage in the comments!

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#spoonielife #spoonie #spooniesupport
#therapy #endo #endometriosis #fnd
#fibro #fibromyalgia #eds #pots
#crohns #ibs #colitis #cysticfibrosis
#longcovid #diabetes

My clients with chronic illness often share with me how they've become an expert medical secretary for themselves.

Now I say secretary in jest, but the reality is no joke. It can be exhausting trying to keep up with appointments, scheduling, rescheduling, mentally preparing for them, and researching for them because you know you need to have everything prepared to be taken seriously.

It is like a full-time job, only one you never wanted, you don't get paid for and is no break from.

Can you relate? I'd love to hear how you manage in the comments!

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability
#spoonielife #spoonie #spooniesupport
#therapy #endo #endometriosis #fnd
#fibro #fibromyalgia #eds #pots
#crohns #ibs #colitis #cysticfibrosis
#longcovid #diabetes

Some of the most common unhealthy coping mechanisms my clients share with me come from the loss of control over their lives.

They often share feelings of shame surrounding these less healthy coping strategies. However, I always remind them that when we view these coping tools through a more compassionate lens, it is clear why people often are drawn to these as a way to try and take some control in their lives.

They are more healthy ways to regain control and find joy in your life, irregardless of your health status, and this is something I work on with each client as it is so individual.

Can you relate to some of these? I would love to hear your experiences in the comments!

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #spoonie
#spoonielife #spooniesupport #therapy
#endo #endometriosis #pots #fnd
#fibro #fibromyalgia #adenomyosis
#ehlersdanlossyndrome #ibs #crohns #colitis

Some of the most common unhealthy coping mechanisms my clients share with me come from the loss of control over their lives.

They often share feelings of shame surrounding these less healthy coping strategies. However, I always remind them that when we view these coping tools through a more compassionate lens, it is clear why people often are drawn to these as a way to try and take some control in their lives.

They are more healthy ways to regain control and find joy in your life, irregardless of your health status, and this is something I work on with each client as it is so individual.

Can you relate to some of these? I would love to hear your experiences in the comments!

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #spoonie
#spoonielife #spooniesupport #therapy
#endo #endometriosis #pots #fnd
#fibro #fibromyalgia #adenomyosis
#ehlersdanlossyndrome #ibs #crohns #colitis

Yes i might have made a joke via my queen Taylor, but medical gaslighting is no joke for people living with chronic illness.

My clients have shared with me the range of emotions of experiencing comments like these - from annoyance, anger, frustration to rage at being constantly disregarded, and disbelieved.

Therapy is a space where you will always be respected and believed. My aim is first and foremost that when my clients come in the door that they experience that.

Have you experienced medical gaslighting? How do you process the emotions from this? I would love to hear in the comments!

And if you're new here follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#therapy #medicalgaslighting #trauma
#fibro #fibromyalgia #endo #endometriosis
#pots #ehlersdanlossyndrome #crohns
#colitis #ibs #invisibleillness #dynamicdisability

Yes i might have made a joke via my queen Taylor, but medical gaslighting is no joke for people living with chronic illness.

My clients have shared with me the range of emotions of experiencing comments like these - from annoyance, anger, frustration to rage at being constantly disregarded, and disbelieved.

Therapy is a space where you will always be respected and believed. My aim is first and foremost that when my clients come in the door that they experience that.

Have you experienced medical gaslighting? How do you process the emotions from this? I would love to hear in the comments!

And if you're new here follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#therapy #medicalgaslighting #trauma
#fibro #fibromyalgia #endo #endometriosis
#pots #ehlersdanlossyndrome #crohns
#colitis #ibs #invisibleillness #dynamicdisability

My clients with chronic illness often share with me how they feel unimportant or less than others.

Often, they don't even realise they feel this way until they come to therapy, and the realisation can be upsetting.

You are not less than anyone for having a chronic condition, no matter what your inner critic tries to tell you.

I work with my clients to help them grow in confidence, to be assertive in who they are and what they want. I help them to find meaning and purpose in a way that feels right for them and help recognise their value and importance.

Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #chroniccondition #me #cfs #fibro
#fibromyalgia #endo #endometriosis
#pots #ehlersdanlossyndrome #fnd
#crohns #ibs #colitis #rheumatoidarthritis

My clients with chronic illness often share with me how they feel unimportant or less than others.

Often, they don't even realise they feel this way until they come to therapy, and the realisation can be upsetting.

You are not less than anyone for having a chronic condition, no matter what your inner critic tries to tell you.

I work with my clients to help them grow in confidence, to be assertive in who they are and what they want. I help them to find meaning and purpose in a way that feels right for them and help recognise their value and importance.

Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #chroniccondition #me #cfs #fibro
#fibromyalgia #endo #endometriosis
#pots #ehlersdanlossyndrome #fnd
#crohns #ibs #colitis #rheumatoidarthritis

Grief is a huge part of living with chronic illness.

Grieving the life you planned, your hopes and dreams, the loss of your health, the loss of independence, and stability are all valid things to grieve.

But staying put in your grief will only leave you feeling stuck and unfulfilled.

Whilst grief doesn't leave you, you can grow a life around it so that you can go on to find joy and meaning alongside periods of grief.

I help clients to process and validate their grief and to explore what a new life going forward could look like.

Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more support for those living with chronic illness

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #spoonie
#spooniesupport #spoonielife #grief #loss
#endometriosis #endo #adenomyosis
#fibro #fibromyalgia #me #cfs #crohns
#colitis #ibs #Lyme #fnd

Grief is a huge part of living with chronic illness.

Grieving the life you planned, your hopes and dreams, the loss of your health, the loss of independence, and stability are all valid things to grieve.

But staying put in your grief will only leave you feeling stuck and unfulfilled.

Whilst grief doesn't leave you, you can grow a life around it so that you can go on to find joy and meaning alongside periods of grief.

I help clients to process and validate their grief and to explore what a new life going forward could look like.

Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more support for those living with chronic illness

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #spoonie
#spooniesupport #spoonielife #grief #loss
#endometriosis #endo #adenomyosis
#fibro #fibromyalgia #me #cfs #crohns
#colitis #ibs #Lyme #fnd

My clients who have chronic illness have shared with me the difficulties of putting family plans on hold. It is another huge life adjustment as a result of being chronically ill.

Sometimes, it's because their illness is affecting their fertility, and sometimes its because their body couldn't handle the stress of a pregnancy in its current unwell state.

Either way, it brings up enormous feelings of fear and guilt over plans that have to change or that may never be.

Therapy is a safe place to talk about these plans, as it is often upsetting to keep talking about them with your romantic partner as it is affecting them too.

My clients can share with me their fears, hopes, and dreams about family plans away from the pressure of having to make decisions or hurting someone's feelings by bringing it up.

If this is an area you feel you could use some supprt with, do get in touch.

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #spoonie
#spoonielife #spooniesupport #infertility #fertility
#endometriosis #endo #adenomyosis
#crohns #colitis #ibs #pots #fnd
#fibro #fibromyalgia #me #cfs

My clients who have chronic illness have shared with me the difficulties of putting family plans on hold. It is another huge life adjustment as a result of being chronically ill.

Sometimes, it's because their illness is affecting their fertility, and sometimes its because their body couldn't handle the stress of a pregnancy in its current unwell state.

Either way, it brings up enormous feelings of fear and guilt over plans that have to change or that may never be.

Therapy is a safe place to talk about these plans, as it is often upsetting to keep talking about them with your romantic partner as it is affecting them too.

My clients can share with me their fears, hopes, and dreams about family plans away from the pressure of having to make decisions or hurting someone's feelings by bringing it up.

If this is an area you feel you could use some supprt with, do get in touch.

And follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #dynamicdisability #spoonie
#spoonielife #spooniesupport #infertility #fertility
#endometriosis #endo #adenomyosis
#crohns #colitis #ibs #pots #fnd
#fibro #fibromyalgia #me #cfs

My clients living with chronic illness often talk of the loneliness they experience because of their illness.

Nobody will ever understand no matter how hard they want to. Even others with the same illness will have an entirely unique experience of it.

Although as a therapist, I can not understand what it is my clients physically go through, I can be there for them to do my very best to understand what is going on for them emotionally.

Having a safe space to share how you are really feeling can be invaluable in freeing up energy that was being used up mentally and having it for other aspects of your life.

Using spoons on therapy is not a waste!

Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights.

.

#spoonie #spoons #spoonielife
#spooniesupport #chronicillness
#chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#ME #CFS #fibro #fibromyalgia
#endometriosis #endo #crohns
#fnd #Lyme #invisibleillness

My clients living with chronic illness often talk of the loneliness they experience because of their illness.

Nobody will ever understand no matter how hard they want to. Even others with the same illness will have an entirely unique experience of it.

Although as a therapist, I can not understand what it is my clients physically go through, I can be there for them to do my very best to understand what is going on for them emotionally.

Having a safe space to share how you are really feeling can be invaluable in freeing up energy that was being used up mentally and having it for other aspects of your life.

Using spoons on therapy is not a waste!

Follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights.

.

#spoonie #spoons #spoonielife
#spooniesupport #chronicillness
#chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#ME #CFS #fibro #fibromyalgia
#endometriosis #endo #crohns
#fnd #Lyme #invisibleillness

Whilst people living with chronic illness may not have the same amount of energy as others to do vigorous self care routines, there are still low-energy ways to take care of yourself.

Whilst self-care looks different for everyone, these are some easy ways to get started.

I would love to hear what self-care practises you use in the comments!

And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicwarrior
#chronicfatigue #selfcare #therapy
#invisibleillness #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#spoonie #endometriosis #pots #fnd
#crohns #colitis #ehlersdanlossyndrome
#adenomyosis #fibromyalgia #fibro

Whilst people living with chronic illness may not have the same amount of energy as others to do vigorous self care routines, there are still low-energy ways to take care of yourself.

Whilst self-care looks different for everyone, these are some easy ways to get started.

I would love to hear what self-care practises you use in the comments!

And if you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness support.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicwarrior
#chronicfatigue #selfcare #therapy
#invisibleillness #spooniesupport #spoonielife
#spoonie #endometriosis #pots #fnd
#crohns #colitis #ehlersdanlossyndrome
#adenomyosis #fibromyalgia #fibro

People living with chronic illness can often have many experiences of medical gaslighting and trauma.

They have to fight to have their very real symptoms taken seriously and not be told that "It's probably just anxiety".

Women are also less likely to be believed in medical settings.

Therapy can be a great place to process these experiences, and first and foremost, have a place where you are seen and believed just as you are.

No gaslighting here, just me wanting to listen 👋

🩷 I'm currently accepting new clients. If you feel you would like some support, do pop me a DM.

✨️ And if you're new around here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights

.

#medicalgaslighting #medicaltrauma #therapy
#counselling #chronicillness #chronicpain
#chronicfatigue #invisibleillness #anxiety
#fibromyalgia #endometriosis #pots
#ehlersdanlossyndrome #crohns #spoonie
#spooniesupport #spoonielife

People living with chronic illness can often have many experiences of medical gaslighting and trauma.

They have to fight to have their very real symptoms taken seriously and not be told that "It's probably just anxiety".

Women are also less likely to be believed in medical settings.

Therapy can be a great place to process these experiences, and first and foremost, have a place where you are seen and believed just as you are.

No gaslighting here, just me wanting to listen 👋

🩷 I'm currently accepting new clients. If you feel you would like some support, do pop me a DM.

✨️ And if you're new around here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights

.

#medicalgaslighting #medicaltrauma #therapy
#counselling #chronicillness #chronicpain
#chronicfatigue #invisibleillness #anxiety
#fibromyalgia #endometriosis #pots
#ehlersdanlossyndrome #crohns #spoonie
#spooniesupport #spoonielife

Grieving the loss of the self you thought you would be, but no longer can be due to chronic illness, can be overwhelming.Therapy can be hugely beneficial in this process.

Firstly, it gives you a space to explore your ideal self free from outside pressure, "shoulds & and musts," and others' opinions or expectations.

It also helps in coming to terms with compromises that you may have to make going forward while still recognising and grieving the life you wanted to live.

Therapy can be a great way to begin to rebuild confidence so you can start to strive towards your new goals or ideals.

Finally, it is always and foremost a place to be simply truly heard, believed, and a space to be accepted for your truest self.

✨️ I'm currently accepting new clients so do reach out via DM if you would like more info on working together

👋 If you're new here follow along for more therapy insights for chronic illness

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#therapy #confidence #selflove #selfesteem
#endometriosis #fibromyalgia #pots #rheumatoidarthritis #cysticfibrosis
#crohns #colitis #fnd #spoonie
#spoonielife #spooniesupport #invisibleillness

Grieving the loss of the self you thought you would be, but no longer can be due to chronic illness, can be overwhelming.Therapy can be hugely beneficial in this process.

Firstly, it gives you a space to explore your ideal self free from outside pressure, "shoulds & and musts," and others' opinions or expectations.

It also helps in coming to terms with compromises that you may have to make going forward while still recognising and grieving the life you wanted to live.

Therapy can be a great way to begin to rebuild confidence so you can start to strive towards your new goals or ideals.

Finally, it is always and foremost a place to be simply truly heard, believed, and a space to be accepted for your truest self.

✨️ I'm currently accepting new clients so do reach out via DM if you would like more info on working together

👋 If you're new here follow along for more therapy insights for chronic illness

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#therapy #confidence #selflove #selfesteem
#endometriosis #fibromyalgia #pots #rheumatoidarthritis #cysticfibrosis
#crohns #colitis #fnd #spoonie
#spoonielife #spooniesupport #invisibleillness

Living with a chronic illness often means attending a vast number of medical appointments.

Unfortunately, medical gaslighting and trauma are common occurrences for many people who seek help with chronic conditions.

This can lead to a huge knock to a person's self-esteem and self-worth.

I work with clients to build their confidence so they can advocate for themselves in medical settings, because unfortunately its often still very necessary for them to do so.

👋 I'm currently accepting new clients. If you feel this is an area you would like support with, please send me a DM.

✨️ If you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for therapy insights for people living with chronic illness.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #therapy #confidence #self-esteem
#medicalgaslighting #trauma #anxiety
#endometriosis #adenomyosis #fibromyalgia
#pots #crohns #migraine #fnd #diabetes
#Lyme #ehlerdanlossyndrome #ibs #colitis
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport

Living with a chronic illness often means attending a vast number of medical appointments.

Unfortunately, medical gaslighting and trauma are common occurrences for many people who seek help with chronic conditions.

This can lead to a huge knock to a person's self-esteem and self-worth.

I work with clients to build their confidence so they can advocate for themselves in medical settings, because unfortunately its often still very necessary for them to do so.

👋 I'm currently accepting new clients. If you feel this is an area you would like support with, please send me a DM.

✨️ If you're new here, follow along @guidedgrowthcounselling for therapy insights for people living with chronic illness.

.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#invisibleillness #therapy #confidence #self-esteem
#medicalgaslighting #trauma #anxiety
#endometriosis #adenomyosis #fibromyalgia
#pots #crohns #migraine #fnd #diabetes
#Lyme #ehlerdanlossyndrome #ibs #colitis
#spoonie #spoonielife #spooniesupport

Glimmers are the opposite of triggers. For those living with chronic illness, who each day can be faced with a new symptom or new flare up, embracing and deliberately looking for glimmers can be a great way to stay mindful, present and experience moments of peace and contentment.

Glimmers look different for everyone, and they're often free. Things like reading a chapter of a good book, 10 minutes of stretching, the smell of freshly cut grass, they can be anything!

One of mine is a nice cup of tea alone; either before the rest of the house is awake or when I'm home alone, so I can just take a few moments to relax and reset and just be.

I would love it if you would share some of your glimmers in the comments!

And if you're new here, follow @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights
.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#therapy #glimmers #mindfulness
#endometriosis #adenomyosis
#fibromyalgia #pots #crohns
#ehlerdanlossyndrome #colitis #fnd
#invisibleillness #spoonie #spoonielife

Glimmers are the opposite of triggers. For those living with chronic illness, who each day can be faced with a new symptom or new flare up, embracing and deliberately looking for glimmers can be a great way to stay mindful, present and experience moments of peace and contentment.

Glimmers look different for everyone, and they're often free. Things like reading a chapter of a good book, 10 minutes of stretching, the smell of freshly cut grass, they can be anything!

One of mine is a nice cup of tea alone; either before the rest of the house is awake or when I'm home alone, so I can just take a few moments to relax and reset and just be.

I would love it if you would share some of your glimmers in the comments!

And if you're new here, follow @guidedgrowthcounselling for more chronic illness therapy insights
.

#chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicfatigue
#therapy #glimmers #mindfulness
#endometriosis #adenomyosis
#fibromyalgia #pots #crohns
#ehlerdanlossyndrome #colitis #fnd
#invisibleillness #spoonie #spoonielife

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