Meet Denise
Chronic Illness Expert and Perpetual Joy Seeker
Hi, I’m Denise Archilla, a certified life coach, a former Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LSWC) and a Montessori certified teacher with over two decades of experience providing support and management tools to warriors – a term many of us like to use to acknowledge and describe those living with a chronic illness. As a warrior myself (diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome/Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (EDS/HSD) and Dysautonomia) and a mom to two young-adults that identify as warriors, my personal knowledge of long-term illness and disability has greatly informed my work and expertise. I assist people in developing the habit of finding joy alongside the pain. In this process, they are able to reclaim their identities, which often become entangled with a difficult and all-encompassing medical diagnosis.
I specialize in a non-clinical, practical approach to help you become your best advocate.
Self Advocacy
Transition from Pediatric to Adult Care
Parenting as a Patient & Caregiver
Real Life Problem Solving
Actionable Plan
Who are my clients?
Parents
It's not easy being a caregiver of a child with long-term illness - whether newly diagnosed, navigating the healthcare system, or managing symptoms. We'd do anything for our kids and it's just gut-wrenching when we can't "fix" this for them. I've certainly been there and can help you through this journey too. Support from someone who "gets it" can make a huge difference!
Teens
Being a teen or young adult can be stressful enough. But, adding long-term illness/disability in, can feel overwhelming. I've worked with many teens, including my own, as they transitioned from pediatric care to adulthood and greater independence. As one of them stated, "Adulting is hard! Adulting with chronic illness is even harder!"
Adults
No matter where you are in your path with chronic illness, it's rarely easy. And if you live with chronic pain, severe fatigue, brain fog, etc...it can be a real challenge to find joy and purpose. Whether you need support, help achieving a specific goal, someone to give you the tools to recognize your worth, or all of the above, I'd be honored to help.
I can't say enough good things about Denise. She has been a game-changer for me in terms of managing my chronic illness. She is incredibly knowledgeable, compassionate, and has helped me develop practical strategies for managing my life, my symptoms, and my daughter’s symptoms! She has been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration. I highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for support and guidance in navigating life with a chronic illness.
Nika C.
Coaching has allowed me to talk to someone who really gets me and what I am going through on a daily basis. I can talk about anything with Denise - from bad roommates to chronic pain, and she can guide me through how to handle these things. The coaching gives me an outlet to express myself and understand who I am better. It has been so crucial in helping me navigate the beginnings of adult life. I always know that I will come out of a session feeling better than when I came in!
Kayla A.
Denise’s coaching has had a transformational impact on my life, and her expertise in grief and illness brings in another dimension to our coaching sessions. Her ability to make one feel seen and understood has been a natural catalyst for positive change and momentum. She has helped me work through blocks that I thought were going to be permanent fixtures in my life, despite years of therapy.