Aetna Therapists in Illinois

My name is Ana Vasquez. I am a mother, wife, Latina, and psychotherapist. Through my personal life experience and professional training, I can support you in an individual or couples’ psychotherapy process as you navigate life’s challenges from a safe, nonjudgmental space with empathic listening. My main areas of expertise in psychotherapy include: Attachment and Parenting: As a mother, I know that pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood can activate our own childhood wounds. Motherhood involves a transformation of the self and of the way we relate to our partner, our own parents, our support networks, and friends. In psychotherapy, I will support you through this process and help you find balance between your role as a mother and as a professional. Relationships and Family Challenges: Through individual therapy, I can support you in understanding the generational patterns that have influenced your past and current relationship choices. I can help you identify the non-functional relationship patterns you may have repeated over time that have not contributed to choosing or creating a healthy partnership. I can also accompany you in the process of creating and sustaining a stable, long-term relationship from an emotionally healthy place. Immigration: Migrating to another country involves a major life change that impacts us internally and challenges us on many levels. Migration often requires adapting to a new culture, a new language, new ways of being in the world, and new social norms. In psychotherapy, I will accompany you through the multiple changes and personal adjustments that emerge during this process.

My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. I serve my community as a counselor, therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from primarily underserved populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American cities. I have encountered child, adolescent and adult challenges ranging from trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the soft and more concrete changes you are looking to achieve in your life. My style is open, supportive and person centered, we will choose the approach for your situation using a variety of theories and concepts including art, movement, and EMDR.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the transformation in my clients' self-concept. This shift in perspective is crucial, especially for those who have been weighed down by feelings of inadequacy or failure. It’s incredible to see how this newfound self-belief translates into resilience, allowing them to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to challenges with greater ease.

I want to make therapy as comfortable as possible. Coming to therapy can be an intimidating process. The last thing people want is some stuffy, uptight professional that makes people feel like they need to censor themselves. I pride myself in being warm, friendly, and relatable. I view therapy as a collaboration between the therapist and client. I will do my best to make your therapy experience positive. My role is to listen, teach, support, and collaborate with my clients. I have worked in a variety of settings since embarking on my journey as a mental health clinician including hospice care, domestic violence, community mental health, intensive outpatient, and urgent mental healthcare. My preference is to work with mature adolescents and adults of all ages both in person and virtually.

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.

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), my mission is to guide individuals on a journey back to their innate wisdom, compassion, peace, and confidence. I often think of the story of Michelangelo, who described sculpting as the act of chipping away marble to reveal the beauty already within. This metaphor beautifully captures the counseling process: together, we identify and remove the barriers obscuring your true SELF, allowing your inner brilliance to shine through. My approach is rooted in deep compassion for the human experience. I bring to our work a blend of trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices, enriched by certifications in Mind-Body Bridging, Cognitively-Based Compassion Training, and Cultivating Emotional Balance. I draw from powerful therapeutic frameworks, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Mindful Self-Compassion, and Compassionate Inquiry, tailoring each session to meet your unique needs.

Hi there my name is Tanya and I am a License Clinical Social Worker. I believe that healing and growth happen when individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. Together, we can identify obstacles, build effective coping strategies, and work toward meaningful change.

I believe therapy works best when it feels less like a clinical appointment and more like a conversation with someone who's genuinely listening — really listening, not just waiting for their turn to speak. That's the space I try to create in every session: one where you can be honest without feeling judged, and where you leave feeling a little lighter than when you walked in. Many of my clients tell me they felt comfortable opening up right away, even in their very first session. That's not an accident — I take the time to understand where you actually are in your life before jumping to solutions. Whether you're navigating a major life transition, working through anxiety or depression, or just feeling stuck and unsure how to move forward, my goal is to help you see your situation more clearly and find a path that actually fits your life. I use an integrative approach — drawing on humanistic, solution-focused, and behavioral techniques — but the tools matter less than the relationship. I want you to feel heard, supported, and a little more hopeful after every conversation we have.

We all have challenges we face, like day-to-day anxiety, work stress, seasonal changes in mood, or life transitions. A strong support system is vital for navigating challenges & building resilience, & having an unbiased ear can be a game-changer. My clients often come to me with concerns such heightened anxiety, depressive symptoms, difficulty coping, negative self talk. I work with a range of clients, from young adulthood, to expectant and new mothers, to individuals who are mid-life and navigating a new season in their lives, and searching for tools to cope. Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, & though I don’t know you (yet), please know I am proud you’ve taken this step!

I’m a trauma-informed therapist whose work is shaped by both lived and professional experience. As an immigrant and former refugee, I understand that healing does not happen outside of context. My work is relational, culturally responsive, and grounded in helping clients make sense of what they have carried, understand repeating patterns, and move with more clarity and self-trust. I bring warmth, honesty, curiosity, and directness into the room while honoring the culture, identity, relationships, and systems that shape each client’s story.

Through a client-centered, feminist, and trauma-informed lens, I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, empathic, and collaborative space for healing and growth. Therapy sessions will be designed based on your particular needs and your unique style of working, and are adjustable based on how you are doing the day of the session. I know that clients are the experts in their own lives, and that my work is to provide support while they are navigating their challenges.

I’m a licensed therapist in IL dedicated to helping adults navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and self-compassion. I provide a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore difficult emotions, relationship patterns, life transitions, traumatic events, and much more. I believe meaningful change happens when we better understand ourselves, develop healthier coping, and strengthen our connection to our authentic selves.

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.

Life can feel overwhelming at times, whether you're managing anxiety, depression, past trauma, or navigating major life changes. You don't have to go through it alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide compassionate, evidence-based telehealth therapy through EmpathicPath, making it easy to access support from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I specialize in working with adults and older adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, health changes, retirement, loss of independence, and other life transitions. My goal is to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we'll explore what's holding you back, build practical coping strategies, and work toward greater resilience, emotional well-being, and a more fulfilling life. Wherever you are in your journey, I'm here to help you take the next step with confidence and hope.

I am a licensed clinical social worker providing individual and couples therapy for adults navigating relationship challenges, grief and loss, emotional overwhelm and major life transitions. My goal is to help clients identify patterns that keep them stuck, strengthen boundaries and build practical coping strategies that support meaningful, lasting change. My approach is structured, supportive and nonjudgmental, creating space where clients can process challenges and move toward healing and growth. For clients who wish to integrate faith into their counseling journey, I also offer Christian based counseling. In addition to my therapy work, I bring several years of experience as a medical social worker, serving in hospitals, hospices and long-term care settings. This background gives me a deeper understanding of the emotional, relational and practical challenges that often come with illness, caregiving, grief and significant life transitions. I am licensed to practice in IL, NC and OH.

Hello, I'm Tracey. "Relationships often die not because of conversations that were had but rather conversations that were never had," (Lysa Terkeurst). Communication is the #1 most reported reason for couples to enter therapy. It is the "appropriate" way of saying, "he doesn't listen to me," and "all she wants to do is talk and talk, {nag}" or giving each other what I refer to as the "non-verbal abuse" {silent treatment}. It means I don't know my partner, or we can't talk without fighting. Yet almost every couple starts off communicating at some level. I mean, come on--you and your partner would not be a couple if the first date involved playing the "Staring contest" where the first one to blink loses. What we fail to recognize is that Communication is a form of Intimacy. And all other forms on intimacy hinge on protecting the communicative intimacy. So, what is that and how do I get some before we leave each other? Communicative intimacy refers to the deep emotional and relational closeness that develops through communication, where individuals feel understood, valued, and connected on a personal level. It is both a feeling and a process shaped by how people interact, listen, and respond to each other. It involves an aligned commitment to taking care of it and protecting it. So, time's a wasting and you both are out of options. You both need to commit to starting this before you commit to ending.

Hello and welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker seeing clients in the states of Illinois, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a graduate of Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis' Master of Social Work program and have been providing psychotherapy to adults since 2016. I have extensive experience in working with people who are struggling with depression and anxiety, as well as life transitions and recovery from traumatic experiences.

Hi! Are you looking for a therapist who will meet you where you are while challenging you? Maybe you overthink everything, second-guess yourself, feel like you’re never doing enough, or find yourself constantly trying to keep everything together. Maybe you’re going through a transition that has left you questioning who you are, what you want, or where you fit. Therapy can be a space to slow down, understand what’s happening beneath the surface, and begin making changes that feel meaningful and realistic. My approach is warm, genuine, collaborative, and direct. I want you to feel comfortable being completely yourself while also feeling supported in challenging the patterns that may be keeping you stuck. You don’t have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. We can start exactly where you are.

I work with individuals, children and families and offer both long and short-term counseling. My approach is calm & thoughtful, but interactive. I enjoy utilizing a variety of therapy techniques so that each of my clients has a plan that is individualized to their goals. The work you do to learn about & make changes for yourself through therapy can truly be a rewarding experience.

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.

I'm Stef, a licensed clinical social worker and registered yoga teacher. I work primarily with adults who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or stretched too thin by the demands of life. I also specialize in women's mental health, including pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting. I became a therapist because I know how easy it is to get caught up in taking care of everyone else while ignoring your own needs. Clients often tell me they appreciate that I am warm, direct, and genuine. Therapy with me is collaborative, practical, and sometimes includes humor when it helps. My background in both mental health and yoga informs the way I work. While we'll focus on understanding thoughts, emotions, and patterns, I also pay attention to how stress shows up in the body and how healing often involves reconnecting with ourselves as a whole person.

Hi there, I'm Allyson! I am so proud that you have made this step. I’m glad you are here. There is a reason you are here, and I understand how vulnerable this can be. It is so brave that you have started this process and are ready to start your healing journey. My name is Allyson Stephens and I specialize in trauma-informed care. I have personally healed from generational trauma and done my work in order to better understand myself and how trauma impacts the body and mind.

I am a mature African American male therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples and families. I look forward to helping my clients better understand the underlying issues causing them discomfort and challenging their success in life. We will work together to find effective solutions and celebrate even your smallest accomplishments. I believe in mutual respect, being non-judgmental and "keeping it 100"! Let's get to work. PS: For the Teach for America Corps member's, please be advised that I was employed at a Regional Office of Education for over 12 years in a clinical capacity . I worked with teachers, school administrators, students and parent groups. I understand school cultures, the geopolitical pressures and expectations that are often placed on the teaching profession to achieve academic outcomes.

I am a licensed therapist specializing in supporting trauma survivors, and individual’s experiencing low self esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions and relationship challenges. My experience working with Veterans, children, families and diverse populations has shaped my compassionate and client- centered approach. I am passionate about helping you heal from past experiences, build confidence, strengthen resilience and create healthier, more fulfilling lives. First Session In our first session, my focus is on getting to knowing you- what brings you to therapy, what you are hoping to gain from our work together, and what may have felt difficult or painful lately. I’ll ask gentle questions to better understand your experiences, your history, your strengths and the goal you have for therapy- where you want your life to be, a month, six months, a year from now. Then we’ll identify options and strategies you can use to get there. You will leave the session with a better understanding of what you are facing and I can help you begin making sense of your experiences, recognizing your strengths, and identifying the next steps toward healing. There is no pressure to share anything you are not ready to discuss. We will begin building a foundation of trust and understanding and develop a collaborative plan for our work together. Most importantly we will move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

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.

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.

My name is Liz. I have been working in the mental health field for the past 15 years. While my work has centered on a variety of settings and populations, my primary focus has always been empathy. I want to learn about who you are and what motivates you to seek out therapy. Through a collaborative relationship, we will work to establish your goals and move towards them while building a safe and trusting space.

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.

I'm Seth Gruenwald, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Yes and Therapy, PLLC. I work with adults, couples, and families that feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them — in relationships, in anxious thinking, or in ways of coping that have run their course. My style is direct and collaborative, with a practical focus: I'll name what I'm noticing, and I expect us to build something useful together rather than just talk in circles. My clinical background spans child trauma work, family therapy, and years treating addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders, so I bring real range along with genuine curiosity about your particular story.

Hi there, so glad you're here! I most often work with clients who are looking to improve their self-esteem, manage daily stress, work on communication, learn to set and uphold boundaries, and those who are experiencing life transitions. I am a clinical social worker, licensed both in Wisconsin and Illinois, and I have been practicing as a therapist for 10 years now.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I received my master's in social work from Loyola University of Chicago. I have been a social worker for 40 years and practicing as a therapist for 10 years. I have experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, stress, grief and trauma. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I tailor my treatment to meet my client's specific needs and create a safe and non- judgmental space to support my client's healing journey.

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.

With 15+ years of experience, Mitsouko Chatelain, LCSW, provides compassionate, trauma-informed therapy for children (5+), teens, adults, and older adults. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and life transitions, she blends evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and Trauma-Focused CBT with a holistic, mind-body-spirit approach. In a safe, empowering space, Mitsouko helps you connect with your inner strengths, build resilience, and move toward lasting well-being.

Therapy with me is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in the belief that everyone has strengths to build upon. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for change, I offer a supportive space to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. My approach honors your lived experience while supporting growth, resilience, and meaningful change at your own pace. Building trust and rapport is at the heart of my work. I strive to offer a warm, empathetic space where you feel heard, supported, and understood, and definitely not judged.

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.

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 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 a mental health professional with a background in counseling, education, human services, and advocacy. I’ve worked with adults, youth, and families navigating relationships, life transitions, identity, stress, and difficult circumstances. My approach is relational, practical, and individualized. I believe therapy is about understanding the whole person, not just the problem that brought you in, and creating meaningful change that carries beyond the therapy room.

Dear future client, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Kentucky but licensed in KY and Illinois. I received my master's from the University of Louisville and have been practicing for 9 years. I work alongside adults to assist in managing strong emotions to support mental wellness. Adults who need support while learning ways to cope. A space to process unhealthy attachments and traumatic experiences.

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 hold licenses as a clinical social worker and a clinical addiction counselor. My educational background includes a BA in Psychology from Purdue University and a Master's in Social Work from Indiana University (2006). My experience includes 8 years in private practice, 12 years addressing the needs of DCS/probation/court-ordered clients, 7 years in a jail setting (including 6 years as a clinical supervisor), and a role as a clinical director at an addiction recovery center. My experience spans working with first responders, groups, couples, and individuals struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, suicidal thoughts, crisis situations, gender issues, adjustment disorder, parenting challenges, stress, self-esteem, codependency, relationship difficulties, and more.

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 Social Worker and I obtained both my Bachelor's and Master's degree in Social Work at Florida International University. I have over five years of experience helping teens, adults, and families in need of mental health services and/or medical/case management counseling. As a wife, mother, and therapist, I understand the importance of balancing personal responsibilities, relationships, self-care, and life’s many transitions. These roles have strengthened my appreciation for the unique challenges individuals and families face and the importance of creating space for personal growth, healing, and emotional well-being. I am the owner of Forevermore Counseling Services, LLC, licensed in AL, FL, IL, SC, and VA with the pursuit of more states, and utilizes empirical based interventions geared to your needs.

My name is Stacey Dinkelman, and I'm a licensed clinical professional counselor with more than fifteen years of expertise. I am attentive to each client's specific needs. I believe that every person has the potential to overcome their challenges in life, and with the right support and tools, we can make that happen. Whether you’re having a hard time adjusting to changes in life or you need help learning that your challenges don’t have to be roadblocks, I am here to help.

In a world that too often feels overwhelming and disconnected, creativity and nature are a source of consistency and reassurance. I help clients discover and develop the healthy, hopeful and resilient parts of themselves that are often the answer to “how do I deal with my anxiety, my depression, a significant loss, an important life transition, or a past trauma?"

I am an open-minded, person-centered, and strength-based mental health counselor that focuses on the present and provides counseling through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methodology. I have over 10 years of mental health counseling experience working with individuals ages 15-55 in need of Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, Grief, Career and general life skills counseling in private practice and school settings.

BQualls Behavioral Health Services, LLC's managing owner and Chief Clinical Officer is Brandi Qualls, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCPC) and psychotherapist in private practice in Illinois, and has years of experience working with at-risk youth and families. She is also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Indiana, including collaboration with a team of medical doctors, psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers, and community health workers in an integrated primary health care and behavioral health care center in a community setting.

Welcome—I’m so glad you’re here! I’m Nancy Paz Welsh, a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy to adults throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Illinois. My approach is shaped by both my personal and professional experiences. As the daughter of Salvadoran immigrants, a wife in a biracial marriage, and a mother of two, I understand that identity, culture, relationships, and family expectations can deeply influence how we experience and navigate life. Throughout my career, I’ve also had the privilege of supporting people from diverse backgrounds, communities, and stages of life. I strive to create an inclusive space where every part of your story is welcomed, respected, and understood. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, and major life transitions. You may feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, disconnected from yourself, or caught in patterns that no longer serve you. Therapy can offer a place to slow down, better understand yourself, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence. My therapeutic style is warm, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and collaborative. Our conversations may feel natural and approachable, but they will also have purpose and direction. I offer compassion alongside gentle accountability, helping you recognize unhelpful patterns, strengthen coping skills, and make choices that align with your values. We’ll work at a pace that feels manageable while remaining focused on meaningful and lasting growth. Starting therapy may feel daunting, but you don’t have to have everything figured out before taking the first step. Come as you are, and together we’ll work toward greater understanding, healing, and meaningful change. It would be an honor to support you along the way!

In my experience as a counselor, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of individuals in various settings. I have worked with children and adults in the community, residential, hospital, and educational settings. In each environment I have witnessed the marvel of human potential firsthand. As a clinician I approach people and the work that I do from the belief that people have the innate ability to grow and heal on their own. My personal life experience and my practice have fostered this belief, recognizing that the process may require or be made more manageable with some assistance or a guide, in the form of counseling. Through my experiences I have witnessed the benefits of the human components that aid in the healing process of psychological symptoms that create difficulty in moving toward fulfillment and full integration of the human experience in the lives of many. The therapeutic relationship, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard are components that for me represent the core of therapy. These components create an experience in which someone can safely explore themselves, their experiences, the world around them, and identify solutions to ailments and the "true self" that is often altered by the world around us.

You may look successful on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted on the inside. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, overthinking, performance pressure, trauma, or feeling like their mind never fully turns off.I help high-functioning adults who want more than temporary coping—they want to understand why they feel stuck and create lasting change. You may look successful on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted on the inside. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, overthinking, performance pressure, trauma, or feeling like their mind never fully turns off. I help high-functioning adults who want more than temporary coping—they want to understand why they feel stuck and create lasting change. My style is warm, practical, and collaborative. I integrate evidence-based therapies including EMDR, CBT, I-CBT, ACT, and neuroscience-informed approaches to help clients identify patterns, process difficult experiences, and build new ways of responding. Clients often come to me for anxiety, racing thoughts, perfectionism, workplace stress, burnout, performance anxiety, social anxiety, and experiences that continue to impact confidence, relationships, or emotional well-being. Together, we focus on helping you feel calmer, more confident, and more like yourself again.