Chronic Illness Expert Addresses American Psychological Association
August 26, 2002

Contact: Pauline Bartel
(518) 237-1353

Patricia Fennell, LCSW addressed the annual meeting of the American Psychological Association in a full-day seminar on August 22, 2002 at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Hotel in Chicago.

Known as "the Kubler-Ross of Chronic Illness" because of her groundbreaking work in an emerging field affecting millions, Fennell introduced participants to a comprehensive, "Four-Phase" treatment plan for helping patients navigate the physical, psychological, and social aspects of chronic illness. Chronic illness is a life-altering challenge currently faced by more than 50% of the United States population, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. Fennell's "Four-Phase" coping model is an original, research-based approach developed from her extensive experience working with patients with chronic disease and syndromes.

Fennell is a clinician specializing in chronic illness, trauma, and bereavement counseling. She is the author of The Chronic Illness Workbook: Strategies and Solutions for Taking Back Your Life (New Harbinger Publications, Inc.). Fennell is the President and CEO of Albany Health Management, an organization engaged in counseling, health-related research, professional training, community education, and chronic illness retreats.