Chronic illness has psychological, financial and vocational implications that must be addressed in addition to the treatment of the disease itself. When a loved one is diagnosed with a chronic illness, it impacts his or her entire network of family and friends. Relationships endure immense strain as the uncertainties of chronic illness begin to arise. Often good intentions at the point of diagnosis begin to fade as fatigue, stress and finacial burdens begin to mount.
Deborah's approach is to focus first and foremost on the patient, but then to address the caregivers who are also deeply impacted by the disease and its affect on their loved one. "It takes a comprehensive approach," Deborah says, to meet the needs of the chronically ill individual, the primary caregiver, family members and others. A team approach that looks to the needs of all the people involved can help lessen the burden on the individual and his or her caregivers."
Deborah helps individuals and their families with specific issues and challenges including:
Initial diagnosis
Making adjustments to new circumstances
Grief and loss therapy
Caregiver support
Care management planning
Deborah also offers group counseling for chronically ill individuals and caregivers. Contact her ofice for information at (303) 204-7230.
Deborah A. Heitman, MA, LPC Psychotherapist | (303) 204-7230 | deborahheitman@comcast.net 6343 W. 120th Avenue, Suite 105 | Broomfield, CO 80020