Aetna Therapists in Illinois

Hello and welcome! Have you been thinking about therapy but you're not sure where to start? I'm here to help you identify and prioritize issues that might be holding you back from thriving as your best self. It takes courage to begin therapy and pursue a happier and more fulfilled life, and I commend you for taking this brave step forward! My therapy style is empathetic and respectful, and I take pride in creating a safe space that optimizes reflection, healing, growth, and fulfillment. I strongly believe that you are the "expert in you" meaning that you know yourself best, and I highly value your input and experiences in our work together. My approach is collaborative, and we will decide the agenda for each session together.

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.

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.

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.****

Hello! My name is Kamaria Excell and I am a therapist, yoga teacher, and floral designer passionate about supporting you on the journey of living a life that is truly your own. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and focused on creating real lasting change versus temporary bandaid fixes. I support clients in better understanding their inner world and all parts of themselves so that they can divest from old coping skills and lean into a life that is pleasurable, because the most powerful act of creation on this life journey will always be the act of creating ourselves.

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.

Hello! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) working remotely. I got my MA in Counseling with a focus on forensic psychology from Adler University in downtown Chicago. I interned at a private practice for individuals coming out of prison while in grad school and have been practicing since graduation in 2020. I've had the chance to work in various areas, including community mental health, with court-involved clients, the foster care system, schools, and private practice. I am also in the Reserves and love to serve the military and their families. As an eclectic therapist, I tailor my approach to meet each client's unique needs. This flexibility allows me to draw from various modalities and techniques best suited to support my clients in their journey towards healthier lives. **Please note that I do not work every single Friday due to military obligations, nor do I work on the weekends.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) who offers a supportive, compassionate space where clients can feel seen, heard, and understood. I work with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, substance use concerns, and life transitions. My approach is collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in evidence-based practices, with a strong emphasis on building trust and emotional safety. Together, we focus on increasing self-awareness, strengthening coping skills, and supporting meaningful, sustainable change so clients can feel more confident, balanced, and empowered in their daily lives.

Hi there! I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Chicago, Illinois, with over 7 years of experience specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). My practice focuses on supporting adults who face challenges with emotional regulation, anger management, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, and other life stressors. In our work together, I use CBT techniques to help you identify and reframe unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. My approach is collaborative and empathetic, aimed at empowering you to develop practical coping strategies and a deeper understanding of self. Whether you're struggling with intense emotions, navigating complex relationships, or managing anxiety, my goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your concerns and work towards meaningful change.

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.

So you survived a pandemic, losses and uncertainty? Resilience is within you. My name is Dr. Erica, I am a psychotherapist and professor in the Chicago and Northwest Indiana area. I believe that we all possess abilities within us that can help us overcome the most difficult of times. Let us work together to use that same resilience to overcome other life stressors, be it anxiety, depression or relationship problems. I provide virtual sessions that allow you to sit in the comfort of your home while we explore possibilities to relieving the stress or discomfort you are experiencing. Empathy, openness and being nonjudgmental are some things that I hold dear to my practice. If you are tired of struggling in silence and feel like enough is enough, reach out today and let us work together to find possible solutions to the problem.

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.

During our first session, we will focus on getting to know you and understanding your reasons for seeking therapy. I will ask questions about your background, current concerns, mental health history, and what you hope to achieve in therapy. This helps me get a clear picture of your unique situation and begin identifying goals together. We will also review how therapy works, discuss confidentiality and professional boundaries, and answer any questions you have about the process. Together, we will start to explore your strengths, coping strategies, and any immediate concerns so that we can develop a plan tailored to your needs.

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.

I am passionate about helping people get unstuck. You are worth it and have unique strengths and purpose! I work with individuals, couples, and groups to pursue healthy relationships, personal growth, and emotional wholeness. My desire is to bring hope, guidance, and be a safe place for you to process and find solutions to your challenges. I look forward to working with you on the journey of hope and fulfillment.

In my clinical work, I gain perspective and understanding of real-life challenges of clients that have experienced personal struggles. My clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their life issues. The goal is to best support the client to recognize what they need out of therapy.

My name is Tamara S. Lewis, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the Behavioral Health Field for over 15 years and in Private Practice for the last 10 years I work with couples who struggle with communication, conflict management and intimacy issues. I work with individuals who struggle with depression and anxiety I am a transformative therapist. I teach individuals and couples the tools necessary to transform their lives and relationships in a way that is meaningful for them. I teach skills that clients are able to utilize outside of the therapy space to manage day to day life events long after therapy has ended. I take great pride in the progress and success of my clients and look forward to helping you.

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

I am a sex-positive, LGBTQIA-affirmative, polyamory-friendly, and kink-aware therapist. I work with individuals across a broad spectrum, providing a safe and supportive space to explore life challenges and changes. I offer compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental therapy, where we will explore both your struggles and successes, learning together how you want to move through life with greater confidence, clarity, and self-acceptance. .

Hello! My name is Nessa and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I also have a Master of Science in General Psychology. I offer therapy that fits you by understanding your challenges, creating a plan, and celebrating your progress. I offer a safe, inclusive space with in‑person or virtual sessions. We will work together on tough things like boundaries, grief, transitions, and patterns that keep you stuck. I am certified in therapeutic table-top gaming which allows for the therapy experience to happen through table-top role playing games. I also offer EMDR to help you with processing your deepest traumas and triggers. I can also work with you and your partner to build a relationship that is solid and fulfilling for everyone involved. I am a huge nerd and love to incorporate pop culture and gaming into my practice. If you have something that you connect with, let me know and we can absolutely relate that to your healing journey! We can bring in your favorite show, anime, video game, or TTRPG. I believe that therapy is a journey we take together down a river. You are driving the boat, and my job is to prepare you for rough waters and things that might trip you up. I view therapy as a collaboration between us, and a journey that moves at your pace. I look at therapy from a very trauma informed lens, and make sure to adjust my interventions to what you need most.

You deserve an opportunity to feel supported by having your thoughts and feelings be acknowledged. Throughout the course of life, we may experience mental health challenges that arise unexpectedly. Allow yourself to heal from those challenges and grow towards the future with the support that therapy provides. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am invested in my clients whole self by guiding them into controlling their narrative and becoming their own author. I obtained my MSW at Governors State University in 2019 with a specialization in children and families.

Hi, I’m a licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. I provide a relaxed, down-to-earth space where you can show up exactly as you are without feeling judged or overwhelmed. My approach blends practical tools with real, honest conversations to help you better understand your thoughts, manage anxiety, and feel more in control of your life. Therapy with me is collaborative, supportive, and focused on helping you make meaningful, lasting changes.

I believe that meaningful change starts with clarity, insight, and a plan. I help people navigate trauma, substance use, life transitions, and identity shifts with a calm, focused approach. I bring a strategic mindset to therapy—always looking beneath the surface to understand patterns, build structure, and support long-term growth. Whether you're processing deep emotional wounds or trying to make sense of a major life change, I offer a space that’s thoughtful, nonjudgmental, and grounded in evidence-based care.

I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist who works with individuals navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and issues related to self-worth and identity. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to better understand themselves and their patterns. My approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing from evidence-based practices while honoring each client’s values, strengths, and lived experiences.

Do you feel stuck in a pattern that is negatively impacting your overall wellness? Just as important as the "why" is the "what" aspect of the mind. What we think, what we feel and what we believe are all intertwined with our behavior. Exploring the thoughts and beliefs that underpin certain actions can lead to profound self-awareness and personal growth. In my interactions with clients, I have witnessed the transformative power of uncovering and challenging deep-seated beliefs that no longer serve them. While patterns and commonalities may emerge among individuals, it is crucial to remember that each person's mind is a unique landscape. What works for one may not work for another, and it is my duty as a clinician to adapt the plan of care accordingly. As a therapist and health coach, I incorporate a holistic (mind/body) approach.

I'm an experienced clinician with over 30 years in the mental health field, dedicated to others seeking change in their lives. Feeling stuck, unmotivated or worried about taking that next step? I have a good ear, a big heart and a clever mind and I want to help you on your next big thing. Let's figure it out together- it's going to be great!

Right now you are probably scared. You know something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start. You don't know if this works and you're at the point where you are afraid that nothing will work. We have all been there, me included. I understand and I do not judge. I have been a clinical therapist for the past 20 years. In my time I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, geriatric patients, and LGBTIQQ individuals. What I have discovered in all my years of practice is that people all want the same things. We want to know that we are loved, valued and respected. I can promise you that when you speak to me you will be the only person that matters. You will not find judgement and you will not find blame. We will work together, at your own pace. I will help you find hope, unwavering support and the motivation to change the things in your life that you feel need to be changed. Together, we can improve your life. I'm here whenever you're ready.

Welcome. I hope that some information about me, who I typically treat, and how I approach the therapeutic relationship will help you determine if we may be a good fit to work together. I am a therapist holding two masters degrees in both clinical social work and child development and have been working in the field of clinical work for over 15 years. My academic and professional background helps me to have a deeper understanding of development and how it interplays with clinical needs.

Hello! My name is Dana Abbey and I have been a fully licensed psychotherapist established in the mental health field for 13 years. Over the course of my career I have worked in settings such as emergency rooms, residential treatment programs, partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, schools, and outpatient clinics. This has afforded me a well rounded understanding of all aspects of mental healthcare. In the recent years I have incorporated telehealth into practice, allowing greater accessibility and convenience to more clients while providing the same results as in person therapy.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist, I believe mental health gives us the language to name, understand, and care for both our most painful and most meaningful experiences. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma-related challenges, helping them make sense of their inner world and build more grounded, fulfilling lives. My approach is collaborative, culturally responsive, and rooted in helping clients reframe limiting beliefs and develop tools that support lasting change.

Hi, my name is Tishina and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. For the past eight years, I've had the privilege of helping people navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood changes, and the challenges that come with everyday problem solving. I became a therapist because therapy changed my life. It helped me heal, find my voice, and believe in myself and now I'm passionate about offering that same support and hope to the people that I work with.

Hi there, my name is Holly. Have you ever felt like you are stuck in a rut and don't know how to move forward? Have you ever felt like you need someone to talk to, but don't want to share with your friends and family? My personal belief is that all people can benefit from therapy. Whether you are dealing with a stressful job, difficulties with family, or just navigating living life in the world. Everyone, including you, can find some benefit in therapy. I hope to help end the stigma that therapy is only for people who have a "problem" I aim to provide support for all people, no matter where you are in life. I value the trust and respect that can only be gained over time. If you feel that we may be a good fit, I would love to have the opportunity to get to know you more! Please reach out if you are interested in a sliding scale for cash payments.

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.

Hello, my name is Dr. Chamberlain and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. I earned my doctorate of clinical psychology in 2010 from Pacific University School of Graduate Psychology in Portland, Oregon. Prior to re-entering the field as a therapist and neuropsychological evaluator in 2021, I had a career in international corporate mental health benefits. In that role, I oversaw clinical service delivery at various organizations across the globe. I currently split my time between , conducting neuropsychological assessment and testing, and providing individual therapy to adults.

Hello! So glad you are here! Do you get into relationships hoping that this time things will be different? Do you feel overwhelmed and have a hard time recognizing your dreams and goals? Would you like a more kind and loving relationship with yourself and the ability to extend that to others in your life? I love helping people who are ready to identify patterns that hold them back from happiness and fulfillment in both relationships and other areas of life. My name is Lisa, and I provide therapy for both addictions and mental health issues. While I have treated those with active addiction for many years, I also treat behavior patterns stemming from addictions and family dysfunction. Although these patterns started out helping us survive challenging situations, they can keep us stuck. Many therapy seekers have found that these patterns can impact their ability to recognize their needs, dreams and to create and sustain both platonic and romantic relationships. I have a Master of Education degree in Counselor Education from Southern Illinois University specializing in Substance Abuse. From substance abuse counseling, I have expanded my areas of specialties to include family and relationship dynamics and how to heal "survival skills" that have evolved into self-defeating life patterns.

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 provide a collaborative and supportive space for individuals and couples navigating relationship challenges, interpersonal difficulties, marriage conflicts, stress, depression, and anxiety. My goal is to ensure that every client feels heard, validated, and—when appropriate—gently challenged in a safe and respectful environment. Together, we’ll explore your strengths and uncover the internal resources that can help you find peace amid life’s challenges. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, therapy can be a powerful tool for rediscovering joy and regaining control. Couples Therapy My work with couples focuses on: By identifying personal needs, communicating them clearly, and nurturing emotional connection, couples build positive interactions and shared goals that naturally deepen intimacy and satisfaction. Individual Therapy I help individuals move through relationship struggles, life transitions, caregiving challenges, and grief, drawing on deep experience with the geriatric population and the complex realities of caring for aging parents. My Training I am a Certified Family Trauma Professional and an EMDR-trained clinician, with specialized training in marriage, family, and trauma therapy. I bring a trauma-informed lens to all my work, ensuring that clients feel safe and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.

I am licensed in Illinois with 11 years of professional therapy work experience. I also am a sociologist of 30 years, studying and teaching on behavior within society. I have experience helping clients with anxiety, stress, grief, trauma and abuse, relationship difficulties, and family conflicts. I treat everyone with compassion, sensitivity, and respect. I work with my clients to meet their specific needs. It takes courage to take that first step to a more fulfilling, productive, and happier life. I am here to provide a safe space and support you through that process.

For the past 20 years, I have worked with families, couples, adults, and adolescents. Using cognitive-behavioral theory with narrative techniques, I help empower clients to explore areas within their lives that present challenges and inhibit change, and assist them with finding solutions that will work for them. However, I also believe that the therapeutic relationship is a vital component within any program, which means that I believe that any work needs to be collaborative between myself and my clients. I am certified to deliver trauma-focused treatments as well as providing services to help manage stress and anxiety.

I am Wendy Gilchrist, clinical professional counselor. I have 25 + years of experience working with people with severe symptoms or mental illness. If you're experiencing anxiety, stress, changing careers, navigating a difficult relationship, feeling down or lack or motivation, dealing with grief and loss. It is time to dive in and process all those uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. Together, we will be able to process them, put them in a safe place and find some ways to cope with them by learning to accept that you are the only one that can make the first step to change your difficult and unpleasant situation. Even at some point you feel hopeless, you have the potential to make a difference in your life.

I began training to be a psychotherapist 15 years ago after having worked in publishing for many years. Becoming a Social Worker and helping others has always been a kind of calling for me, but it took a little while for me to arrive at my goal. I hope that that part of my story helps to prove that it is never too late to change or to pursue goals. I continue to integrate the things that I have learned through formal education and through my own experiences of life so that I am best able to help others who are experiencing distress and difficulties with navigating life. We all need additional support from time-to-time, especially given the complicated, fast-changing world we live in. My goal as a psychotherapist is to be a source of support and assistance as you develop insight into the difficulties you face and as you begin to develop strategies for change. Through interactive-therapy sessions, I help you to understand and clarify life’s challenges and I support you as you begin to make the changes that are needed to make progress towards your goals. I help my clients to discover and explore a positive path in therapy that they can then continue to follow as they pursue their goals and their lives independently.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois. I earned my MSW in 2005 from the University of Minnesota. I have supported many clients experiencing life transitions such as career and relationship changes. Additionally, I have many years of experience supporting people around aging, Alzheimer's disease, caregiving and grief. I am drawn to this work because I believe everyone deserves to feel understood and supported as they face the ups and downs of life.

Tricia (she/her) earned her undergraduate degree from Marquette University in Social Welfare & Justice, with minors in Psychology and Peace Studies. Driven by a passion for community and healing, she went on to obtain her Master of Social Work (MSW) from Loyola University Chicago. During her graduate studies, Tricia immersed herself in school settings, gaining advanced, comprehensive training in the unique mental health needs of children and families. Today, Tricia brings her expertise to both educational environments and private practice. In her school-based work, she provides critical crisis and ongoing support, conducts safety assessments, connects families with vital community resources, and helps students navigate school-related challenges such as general trauma and school refusal. In her private practice, Tricia specializes in supporting individuals navigating life transitions, depression, anxiety, and the daily pursuit of life balance. She also has dedicated experience working within the LGBTQ+ community, particularly supporting individuals pursuing gender-affirming care. Her Philosophy: Tricia firmly believes that therapy is never "one-size-fits-all." She collaborates closely with her clients to design highly individualized treatment plans tailored to their unique goals. By blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches, Tricia creates a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients feel truly heard. Depending on your needs, sessions may include a blend of structured exercises, practical skills-building, and open-ended discussion. Tricia is passionate about cultivating long-term therapeutic relationships that foster self-awareness, growth, and lasting healing. Her clients frequently describe her as direct, empathetic, and insightful.

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.

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 with a rich and varied background, I bring extensive experience and expertise to support individuals, couples, and families on their journey toward improved mental well-being. From my private practice in Naperville, Illinois, I offer personalized therapy, drawing upon my diverse clinical experiences spanning over two decades. My commitment to fostering inclusive education and promoting diversity and social justice extends beyond the therapy room, as evidenced by my involvement in community education and advocacy efforts. With a focus on empowerment and resilience, I strive to empower clients with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate life's challenges and thrive.

I have 20 years of experience working with adults and adolescents from all walks of life. My expertise is in substance abuse, depression, relationships, family concerns, trauma and PTSD. I know sometimes people go through difficult times. They think something’s wrong with them because they have problems. Nothing could be further from the truth. Having difficulties is part of the human experience. Many people pretend they’re okay when they’re not. They keep all their pain and suffering to themselves. They’re afraid if they tell the truth, they’ll be abandoned and rejected. Therapy can open the door for you to stop pretending you’re “fine.” You can find the freedom to be you. Therapy can help you to come out of isolation and start living again. You'll start to feel better because you're showing the real you and you're connecting with someone. Your therapist can be a “loving witness to your pain.”

Hi! My name is Gilmarie, but you can feel free to call me Gigi. I am a licensed, clinical social worker providing individual therapy and couples counseling for clients in Illinois as well as Florida. I am bilingual in Spanish and English and am of Puerto Rican descent. As a social worker/therapist, I love working with people and I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. It is an honor to walk through life with my clients. Also, I enjoy providing faith-based counseling for those who desire to incorporate their faith in their therapeutic journey.

Regardless of how often we meet, be it once a week, once per month, or once in a lifetime, my goal is to create an atmosphere free from external judgment. This will allow you room to develop both clarity and confidence in the decisions you make while you determine the best manner in which to live your life. As you gain greater insight into ongoing challenges, I will provide theory based reflective and directive clinical support. Through this process, you may find your ability to grow and change has a limitless capacity. It's time to experience life on your terms.

As a mental health professional for over twenty-five years, I am dedicated to helping clients explore options and strategies so that they may live a healthier and happier life. I provide compassionate care and counseling to individuals in Illinois, Missouri and Florida via Telehealth. I possess a Master’s Degree in Social Work specializing in Mental Health and Addictions. I also have completed a Master of Business Administration Degree focused on Healthcare Management. I am a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and enjoy spending time with my family, fishing, camping and traveling. I have extensive experience in Leadership and Direct Care positions within Inpatient and Outpatient Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse Recovery and Rehabilitation facilities. As a result of those experiences, I witnessed and truly believe mental health and addiction recovery is possible. As we each experience our life’s journey, the good, bad, and ugly, we continue to learn and grow along the way. Many journeys will include troubled times resulting in anxiety, mood disorders, grief, loss, parenting difficulties, relationship issues, addictions and other challenges along the way. But most will also include exciting and positive times such as graduations, college, marriage, career advancements, births, relocations, new homes, new friends, and many more. Although positive, adjustment to these experiences may also result in a need for support during the transition. As a Social Worker, my approach will focus on the whole individual to identify other factors contributing to the current problem. This will include past and current relationships, health issues, work, living and social environments. My goal is to help clients find hope, joy and peace. They will achieve this by learning to view problems differently and using healthy coping skills to make changes and adjust to a new normal.