If you have been living with a chronic illness or a disability you well know it’s not easy, not for you and not for your family. But it can be easier and it can be better.

When I first got thrust onto a rehab unit during my internship, I had absolutely no idea how in the world could psychology help. And then I met this patient, hospitalized because of a severe relapse of multiple sclerosis. When I walked in I was greeted by a smiling, jolly lady in a wheelchair. She was so cheerful I thought I had the wrong room. She shared that she was raising her disabled grandchild and that this relapse had been so severe that she now had to go on disability. She was so relieved, so happy, that finally, because of her worsening MS, she could finally devote to her grandchild all the attention he needed. See what I mean when I say that my patients have been my best teachers?

It truly is difficult, in the mist of illness, to figure out what makes your life worthwhile, how to make it worthwhile, how to make your day easier, less exhausting, less painful. But I can help you; I’ve done it so many times, and it’ll be better, not perfect, but better.

I welcome your family to join us. They’ve had a rough ride too and things can be easier for them as well. And last, but not least, if illness has dimmed the light of intimacy with your partner, let me help you put a smile back on his or her face, and yours too.