Physical Disability

A physical disability is a limitation on a person's physical functioning, mobility, dexterity or stamina. There are many different types of physical disabilities. A physical disability may be temporary, long-term, or permanent. Whether you were born with a disability, or have experienced the disability because to injury or illness later in life, being physically disabled can be mentally challenging. A physical disability sometimes leads to social isolation as it may prevent some people from leaving the house, or experiencing things they were previously able to do. It may also cause a loss of independence, especially if the disability requires the care others. This may lead to feelings of helplessness and depression. If you are experiencing a physical disability, particularly if you are struggling with negative emotions, talking with a qualified mental health professional may be an important part of your treatment plan. Reach out to one of TherapyDen’s physical disability experts today.

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Meet the specialists

 

As a social worker who has worked in each phase of the health care system as well as being a person who has their own physical disabilities, I bring a unique perspective to those who have disabilities, including celebrating and affirming our differences and discussing how we can bring more of that energy to the world at large.

— Greta MacMillan, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Madison, CT

Unfortunately, ableism is alive and well in our society and is rarely talked about, let alone addressed. My approach is firmly grounded in the belief that disability is a part of human diversity and does not need to be fixed. The harm caused by ableism runs deep and is pervasive. My personal experiences guide my work with clients who have disabilities and I use holistic techniques to help folks care for themselves, and provide a space that is validating, empowering, and empathetic.

— Esha Mehta, Social Worker in Greenwood Village, CO
 

As someone with lived experience with a physical disability, I can support you on your journey from acceptance to adaptation. We will explore the beliefs about yourself that might be holding you back and help you reclaim your identity and the life you want to live.

— Beth Gustin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westminster, CO
 

Disabilities, both seen and unseen, can impact how you navigate the world and how the world navigates you. Together, we can work to help you meet your challenges head-on, savor your triumphs, and examine the emotions that arise from both.

— Natassia Johnson, Clinical Psychologist in Sugar Land, TX

I have 39 years of lived experience as a person with a mobility disability. I am now a below knee amputee and I have arthritis. I provide a safe and understanding place to explore the impact of disability and help my clients create a new life disability.

— Cathryn Glenday, Counselor in Albuerque, NM
 

Coping with partial hearing loss, tinnitus, or chronic health challenges lead to fatigue and overwhelm. Irritation sets in and others don't seem to fully understand you. I will work with you to feel empowered and discover coping strategies to let you lead the life you desire.

— Patrick Tully, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA

I acquired a spinal cord injury in 1997 from a car wreck. I understand the adjustment from being able bodied to disabled.

— Leslie Vaughn, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Heath, TX
 

Whether your symptoms are outwardly noticeable or invisible, they are often accompanied by shame and a mistrust of the body. Together we can work toward finding self-compassion, gratitude, and kindness toward yourself and your body - to feel at home in your body.

— Meg Kies, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate

Learning to live with disability, be it something you recently discovered or that you have worked with your whole life, can take a lot of energy and time consuming. We will work together to process grief and reach acceptance and move into a comfortable living place.

— Shannon Barnes, Licensed Professional Counselor
 

Help you relax, revitalize, and improve your overall health

— Nicco Castell, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Deerfield Beach, FL

Disability can vastly change the way we interact with our world and how the world interacts with us. I understand this at a personal level. As a person with a disability, I understand that the world we live in wasn't built for my needs and yet I will make it work. In therapy we can explore disability, disability identity, and coping with the able-world around us. More importantly, we can explore what you want to do with your life and how to do it - barriers and all.

— Guy Smith, Counselor in Fitchburg, WI
 

We specialize in serving the Children with Life Limiting Illness and Children's Extensive Support population and their families. This includes children and families with chronic illnesses, developmental disabilities, and other special needs.

— The Child & Family Therapy Center of Denver, Therapist in Greenwood Village, CO

I have been working with individuals with disabilities for the past six years. I specialized in rehabilitation psychology during my postdoctoral fellowship. In other words, I had solid training and have had some great teachers who have helped me understand how to provide therapy that is specifically disability-affirmative. My approach is flexible and client-centered, which means this might be the only place in your life where you don't have to be the one to adapt.

— Nina Tilka, Clinical Psychologist in Tustin, CA