Av Med Therapists in Illinois

John Swails is an ordained minister, a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Certified DBT Therapist, and Marine Corp Veteran, with military mental-health practice experience addressing traumatic stress, separation, family grief, and relationship issues, and civilian experience addressing physical and sexual abuse, single-mothers with dual diagnosed children, and group therapy for middle-school and teens to develop resiliency. As a therapist, John utilizes proven DBT, Strategic, CBT-Family, Solution-Focused, and other systemic techniques to address individual, couple, and family issues. As a minister John is sensitive to the beliefs of the client and is ready to explore spiritual solutions to any issue.

Hi my name is Cynthia! I earned my bachelor degrees from DePaul University, where I majored in Psychology. I earned my master’s degree from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a concentration with clinical counseling. I have a tremendous amount of experience working with adolescents, families and adults. I look forward working with you and helping you achieve your goals.

Hello-My name is Nick! I am enthusiastic about my work as a counselor and passionate about helping my clients at all stages of their journey. Effective counseling is about learning through engagement; I actively create a supportive space, offering practical tools to help you increase self-awareness, deepen your understanding of your life, strengths, and hurdles, and collaborate with you to achieve your desired change. I also thoroughly enjoy working with couples in all seasons looking to deepen their connection. I hold both Gottman Level 1 & 2 marital counseling training certifications and have facilitated thousands of hours of sessions for couples looking to create a solid framework for the future, balance daily tasks amidst the chaos, or rediscover their spark. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). Together, we'll explore what's been getting in your way, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools that help you create the life you want, free from addiction. My goal isn't to tell you what to do—it's to help you better understand yourself, make choices that align with your values, and move toward lasting change at a pace that feels right for you.

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or facing a major life transition? I provide a safe, supportive space where adults can slow down, gain clarity, and develop practical strategies for moving forward. Throughout my extensive career, I've helped people navigate life's challenges both as a licensed clinical therapist and as a healthcare executive leading major hospital systems. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, grief, or a major life transition, I provide a supportive space to gain clarity, build resilience, and move forward with confidence. Raised in Chicago’s Rogers Park and influenced by my father’s resilience as a Holocaust survivor, I bring a strong foundation of empathy and perspective to my work. I hold a master's in clinical social work from Loyola University and am licensed in Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, New Mexico and West Virginia. I also earned a master's degree in business administration from North Park University and an executive management certification from University of Southern California. Having lived and worked across the United States and internationally, I bring a broad, culturally informed perspective to my practice. My therapeutic philosophy emphasizes positivity, confidence, and persistence.

Reaching out to a complete stranger to talk about your personal life can be unsettling. Oftentimes, what makes us uncomfortable helps us to grow. If you are ready to take the next step into therapy, know that I will start where you are and we will go from there. We will work together to come up with what you want out of therapy and work together to accomplish your goals. I aim to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental, reflective space to continue your personal growth. In sessions, you will find my approach to be relational, strength-based, and trauma-informed. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with adults/young adults. I received my Master’s degree from Loyola University specializing in Mental Health and sub-specializing in Migration Studies. I am fluent in Spanish and bicultural in U.S. and Latin American cultures. I grew up in Chicago with my Salvadoran family. Populations that I work with are the following: young adults/adults with unresolved childhood/family trauma, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, autism, ADHD, people who identify with the LGTBQ+ population, interpersonal violence, grief/loss, past poverty trauma, first generation college kids, first generation professionals, and religious trauma. I am hopeful that your next step into therapy will be a positive and healthy experience that will allow you to cultivate your personal growth. When you are ready, the door is open to begin this process. **** Please note that I do not do evaluations or testing for ADHD.****

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have 11+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in different therapeutic settings who have various diagnoses and come from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I am also a certified life coach and I find great joy in working collaboratively with my clients and their families.

Welcome! Therapy is an invitation for healing and change, so congratulate yourself for taking this step toward transformation in your life. My name is Bridget, founder of Mind Move Therapy, where I provide psychotherapy, somatic movement therapy, and physical health coaching. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective—integrating emotional, physical, and cognitive aspects of well-being. I specialize in somatics, emphasizing that the body holds emotions, trauma responses, and stress, so healing involves working with the body as well as the mind. Clients often report meaningful progress in therapy with me. You can overcome symptoms of trauma and stress, heal from the past, and move toward a happier, more meaningful life. I specialize in treating various traumas, including childhood trauma, abuse, loss, and PTSD. I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. I work with clients with Borderline Personality tendencies or those impacted by BPD. I work with clients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder and other somatic issues. I support clients with addiction issues. Every client walks a unique path and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I create a safe, therapeutic environment where clients have the opportunity to explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors in which to gain insight, experience shifts in emotional states and find a renewed sense of mental and physical well-being.

Hi there! My name is Alicia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I am also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Indiana. I earned my Master's degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School (of Professional Psychology) in 2012 and have been practicing in community-based, outpatient settings for most of my career. I am passionate about providing support to others and I believe every individual from any walk of life should have a safe space to understand and process their own mental health. I enjoy helping adults of all ages who may be struggling with a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions (among others). I am primarily focused on helping clients address these challenges in a way that supports their individual needs and personal growth. I believe my ability to connect with people, my genuine and lighthearted approach, and my deep understanding of how life's curveballs can sometimes throw us off of our game are what make me versatile as a clinician.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my MA in Clinical Psychology from Eastern Illinois University and have practiced for over 25 years. I enjoy helping people find hope again when struggling with depression, trauma, and self-injury. Life is hard, and sometimes we need to know that someone out there believes in us and knows that we can heal.

I am an experienced and compassionate mental health professional who is passionate about helping those living with mental health struggles - ranging from anxiety and depression to marital/relationship discord and substance abuse issues. I specialize in helping my patients overcome the pain and suffering often caused by these often debilitating mental health struggles. My ultimate goal is to help my patients defeat the mental, emotional and/or psychological barriers that prevent them from living their very best lives.

I am "the LemonAID maker", a trauma informed LCSW clinically trained and motivated with a passionate talent to help you, "just breathe!" Sowing seeds of transformation through evidence-based practice, empowerment, education and enlightenment in a safe productive space. Through consistent, targeted and active listening we peel back, layer by layer to discover what’s truly holding you back from being able to "just be heard and understood", communicate and build positive relationships. Through a unique integrated therapy of evidence- based practices, you are quietly introduced to a new way of looking at your situation and develop practical skills, behaviors and active solutions to address negative feelings of offense, inferiority, anger, hurt, depression, etc in order to reframe and navigate traumas destructive hold in your life so you can be excited about your ability to LIVE your BEST life and get through past traumas and hurts that have been holding you down to help you soar.

Hello! If you are looking for an experienced therapist who combines genuine support with practical guidance, we may be a good fit. My style is warm, conversational, and straightforward. As a licensed psychotherapist with experience in therapy and corporate coaching, I help adults feel less overwhelmed and become more grounded, confident, and clear about what comes next. I work with adults experiencing: Personal Stressors, Including: - Anxiety, chronic stress, and overthinking - Depression, low motivation, and feeling stuck - Loss, grief, trauma, and difficult life experiences - Relationship and communication challenges - ADHD and other neurodivergent needs - Major life transitions, including divorce, caregiving, and relocation - Concerns related to confidence, identity, sleep, or unhealthy coping Workplace Stressors and Burnout Including: - Career uncertainty and professional transitions - Work-related anxiety, overwhelm, and overthinking - Leadership and management pressures and demands - Challenges with motivation, focus, confidence, or communication - Adjusting to a new job, role, workplace, or career direction - Balancing professional responsibilities with personal and caregiving demand Together, we will explore what is weighing on you and develop realistic strategies that fit your life. I offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. When you are ready, I invite you to schedule a session. I look forward to hearing your story!

Hello, I am a seasoned therapist who has worked in the field in different entities for the past 18 years. As a therapist, it is my job and duty to help you feel, think and function better. Although I've worked with many clients who had different experiences, I am specially gifted in working with clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, managing anger, personality conflicts, and building positive relationships. I will use therapeutic models that work for you.

Hello! My name is Maria Ruiz, and I would like to introduce myself as a motivated and dedicated professional who is passionate about helping others create balanced, fulfilling, and safe lives. Throughout my eleven years of counseling experience, I have worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life. I have supported clients as they navigate their healing journeys through grief related to loss, relationship challenges, trauma, and other significant life events. I have extensive experience working with survivors of domestic violence, helping them rebuild their lives, rediscover their identity, and establish a sense of safety, empowerment, and self-worth. I have also guided individuals in exploring and managing depression, anxiety, and anger, fostering greater self-awareness and strengthening their ability to take control of their lives. As a clinician, I bring passion, empathy, energy, and honesty to the therapeutic relationship. My approach is warm, genuine, and collaborative while also providing thoughtful guidance and reflection. I believe in walking alongside my clients as they build on their strengths, overcome challenges, and work toward achieving their personal goals. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward growth, healing, and well-being.

Hi, I’m Marianne Ogbonnaya. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. I have been practicing for over 5 years. I specialize in self-esteem issues and will work with you to increase your confidence and sense of well-being. I work with a variety of individuals and provide culturally affirming counselling to BIPOC, with a focus on first-generation and immigrants

My name is Jenelle Hoyt, I am an award winning Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 10+ years of experience in the helping profession. As a therapist, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem and career challenges, as well as emotional and physical trauma to cite a few. I specialize in helping individuals who are not only feeling the stressors of life but also unsure of how to cope with or change these stressors in a positive way. We will work together to create attainable goals that will be reviewed and assessed consistently to ensure that they align with the vision of who you are and want to continue to be.

Hello! I am Rebecca, a therapist practicing in Illinois. In 2013 I graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with my Master's degree. I received training in EMDR by the EMDR Institute. Currently, I practice 100% telehealth, so we can work together no matter where you live. I see clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes, grief for the loss of a human or pet, and trauma. We all make changes when we are ready. Change can be difficult, and it's not all forward movement. I'm a very laid-back therapist, and provide a safe, judgement-free space where I'll work with you by listening, questioning, and using curiosity. I can help by teaching you skills, discussing decisions, and helping you learn how to change the way you think about yourself, other people, and the world. If appropriate, I can help you with traumatic experiences by providing EMDR and "parts" work. Give yourself the gift of therapy. Explore new ways of seeing things, new ways to manage emotions, new ways of communicating with others, and new ways to care for yourself.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois, and I am a virtual practice. I received my Masters from the Loyola University Chicago and have been in this industry for almost 20 years. I help young adults and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and childhood-trauma become the best versions of themselves. I very much like a positive and strength-based approach to therapy. I think it is important to find balance in your life and it starts with improving self-esteem.

Hello! I am a Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience helping multicultural clients explore strategies to manage mental health, relationship issues, and other struggles. You don’t have to face these feelings alone. We can explore your thoughts and emotions in a safe space, helping you take the first step towards a better future.

Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or like you just can't get everything done? Do you often wonder how everyone else seems to do it but you can't? Like you are letting people down or you are not enough? Do you struggle to find joy in everyday life or find it difficult to shut down the racing thoughts and enjoy the moment? If so, you have come to the right place. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 13 years of experience working in a wide range of settings. I have worked with families, children and teens, in residential substance abuse, private practice, adoption preservation and correctional settings. I have helped clients conquer anxiety, depression, burn out, mom guilt, process past traumas and find the coping skills necessary to live a balanced life. My style can be described as client centered, strength based and solution focused. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused therapy, mindfulness and solution - focused therapy, in combination with genuine conversation. I take a laid back approach as I believe in meeting my clients where they are and working at a pace that is comfortable for them. I know that reaching out for help can be scary but you shouldn't have to struggle alone.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe healing is about more than reducing symptoms—it’s about helping you reconnect with the person you were always meant to be. If you’ve been living in survival mode, carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, know that healing is possible. My goal is to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel safe, heard, and supported as you move toward lasting emotional wellness. I provide trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy that honors the connection between the mind, body, emotions, and relationships. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, nervous system regulation, somatic practices, and Relational Life Therapy (RLT) for couples. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor treatment to your unique experiences, strengths, values, and goals, recognizing that every healing journey is different. Many of the people I work with have spent years putting everyone else’s needs before their own. They may struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing, low self-worth, burnout, unresolved trauma, grief, or feeling disconnected from themselves. Others are navigating difficult relationships, divorce, parenting challenges, or significant life changes and want healthier ways to cope. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that are keeping you stuck and begin creating new ways of thinking, feeling, and responding that support the life you want to build. Our work together will focus on understanding how past experiences continue to influence your present. We’ll explore the beliefs, behaviors, and emotional patterns that developed as protective strategies while learning practical skills to regulate your nervous system, manage stress, improve communication, establish healthy boundaries, strengthen self-trust, and cultivate resilience. My goal is not simply to help you feel better in the moment, but to help you create meaningful, sustainable change that lasts long after therapy ends.

I’m Heather Freed, LCSW, founder of Freed Minds. As a therapist, former executive, wife, and mom, I understand how easy it is for capable women to lose themselves in responsibility, relationships, and the pressure to keep it all together. I specialize in helping high-responsibility women move beyond burnout, overfunctioning, and self-neglect through holistic, trauma-informed therapy that supports healing of mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to help you build a life that feels more peaceful, grounded, and true to who you are.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than thirty years of experience supporting individuals and families across schools, hospitals, substance use programs, homeless shelters, and community mental health settings. I’ve also supervised master’s‑level clinicians as they developed their skills and professional identities. I approach therapy with curiosity, openness, and deep respect for each person’s story. My work is compassionate and individualized, honoring both psychological insight and the spiritual depth many people bring to their healing. Together, we create a space where growth feels grounded, meaningful, and genuinely your own.

After starting my career in advertising, I realized through self-discovery and soul-searching that my real passion in life is helping others. In 2010, I decided to go back to school to be clinically trained in social work at Loyola University Chicago, where I spent extensive time working with both adolescents and adults. I have been practicing since 2012 and have been helping clients globally with a variety of issues in my core areas of expertise, including addiction, mood disorders, and identity issues. I am also certified in Financial Social Work, bridging my passions for personal finance and emotional well-being. I live in Chicago and enjoy sports, travel, reading, and quiet Sundays at home.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Master's degree from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 5 years. I help people of all ages struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma become the best versions of themselves. I utilize CBT and DBT as my theoretical approach (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy), so I assist client to connect their negative thoughts and feelings to their past and present behaviors and find meaningful ways to cope.