Therapists in Illinois

I'm Ken Markovic, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes healing happens through safety, curiosity, and genuine human connection. I work collaboratively with clients to help them understand their inner world, build practical tools for emotional regulation, and move toward a life that feels more authentic and sustainable. My approach is compassionate, integrative, and grounded in the belief that people already carry the wisdom they need — I am simply here to help them access it. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, non-judgmental space where we move at your pace and focus on what matters most to you. I have a deep passion for working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions. I also enjoy supporting clients who are working through identity, self-worth, and building more fulfilling relationships. No matter what brings you to therapy, my goal is to meet you exactly where you are. Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy the spending time with friends and family, dog-walking and training, reading, Chicago sports, nature, and writing music. All of these help me stay grounded and remind me of the importance of connection — with self, and others. Taking the first step toward therapy is not always easy, so give yourself some credit for being here. Let's work together to help you build the life you deserve!

Having 20 + years of experience in the counseling field, I enjoy helping people improve marriage and family relationships, and I am passionate about working alongside individuals to overcome anxiety, depression, ADHD, and sexual addiction. Often, this can happen in a short-term time frame. I work with individuals to overcome everyday and complex challenges. From a therapeutic perspective, I bring in both Christian principles and psychology into my practice and help identify personal strengths and solutions for creating treatment goals.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin. I received my Masters degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and have been practicing for eight years. I have experience in multiple settings with diverse clients including medical facilities, schools, intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization programs, and outpatient practice. I feel grateful and privileged to hear the life stories and share in the therapy process with my clients.

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 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.

I have over 3 decades of experience working in the fields of mental health and social work. I work with youth, adults, families, and couples who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and school refusal. Prior to private practice, I worked in academia as an administrator of social work programs and as a medical social worker.

Hi, I’m LaShaunna LeSure, a licensed clinical therapist who specializes in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck in your thoughts, or like you’re constantly “on edge,” you’re not alone. Anxiety, depression, and the weight of past experiences can make even the simplest parts of life feel exhausting. Maybe your mind won’t slow down, you’re carrying a heaviness you can’t quite explain, or you find yourself reacting in ways that don’t match who you want to be. Whatever brought you here, it matters—and you deserve a space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of work, parenting, or life in general? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. I work with adults who are struggling to manage stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression, especially those trying to juggle the pressures of professional and personal responsibilities. I have a special focus on supporting educators and school professionals who often give so much to others that their own well-being takes a back seat. Together, we’ll create a supportive, collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change. My approach is warm, practical, and tailored to help you feel better and find a sense of balance again. Before transitioning into private practice, I spent 34 years working in public schools, helping students, families, and staff navigate life’s challenges. That experience gave me a deep understanding of how stress shows up across all areas of life—and how important it is to have a safe place to process, heal, and grow.

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.

My name is Jonathan Closner and I have been providing therapeutic and clinical counseling services to clients for over 15 years. I hold professional licences in Florida, Illinois, and Texas. I hold dual a dual masters in mental health counseling and marriage and family therapy and sex therapy. As a therapist I utilize clinical interventions and techniques that are individualized to unique issues of the client. I have extensive training and experience in evidence based treatments such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). In addition, I am also trained in sex therapy and incorporate sex positive approaches with clients. In my experience I find that an integration of clinical modalities is often most effective and appreciated by clients. Overall I approach my work with clients from a strength-based perspective. I believe that clients possess the strengths and resources within their lives to be successful in overcoming the challenges and problems that they face. These challenges come in the form of mental health problems, relationship issues, or other stressors that arise out of life circumstance. My commitment is to use the most appropriate techniques and interventions that allow clients to resolve problems, reduce symptoms, and increase personal strengths and skills for dealing with these issues in the future. Clinical areas of experience and expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, personality disorders, sexual problems, sexual orientation, LGBTQ issues, relationships and sex, alternative lifestyles, and substance use disorders. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you. You may schedule online or if you have further questions about scheduling please reach out!

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) holding licenses in Massachusetts, Illinois and Michigan. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan, and have worked in the mental health field for about 8 years in different settings with children, adults, and families. I use a empathetic and calming approach in my session that allows every client to be heard and understood. I believe healing is truly possible when my client is given a safe and supportive space to voice their thoughts and feelings. Through your sessions with me, you will build up your skills to better understand and manage your feelings that are currently weighing you down.

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 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.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has spent over 20 years working in community mental health, crisis intervention, and private practice. That experience has given me a deep understanding of what people actually need to feel better — not just textbook answers, but real, practical support that meets you where you are. You'll work with someone who has seen a lot, judges nothing, and genuinely believes in your capacity to heal.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 2 decades experience. I have experience working in schools, hospitals, and in private practice. I enjoy working with adults, young adult, and teens who are motivated to learn and grow and be their best version of themself. I am open minded and accepting of all people. My approach is both supportive and firm.

I have worked with children and adults, facilitating individual and group therapeutic sessions. Building from over 15 years of experience working as a social worker in various settings, including but not limited to, domestic violence shelters, social service agencies and departments of children and family services. I have worked with court ordered clients. Clients that seek services voluntary are also welcome.

Hello! I am a Christian Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based out of Central Illinois. Life is a journey, and as with all journeys there are ups and downs, struggles and hardships. I am here to help you manage the journey of life. When you feel stuck, I am here to help you get back up and on your way again. Through a Christian lens, I will help you find peace in life.

Hello! My name is Amaris, and I’m glad you’re here :) Do you ever feel like you’re carrying more than your share — emotionally, mentally, or relationally? Do you find yourself doubting your needs, overthinking decisions, or feeling responsible for everyone else’s wellbeing? Many women move through the world with expectations and pressures that shape how they show up. My work focuses on helping women understand the “why” behind their emotions and behaviors so they can move through life with more clarity, confidence, and self‑trust. I am passionate about supporting women who are navigating the heavy burdens of Trauma and PTSD, OCD, and Eating Disorders. Often, these challenges stem from years of minimizing yourself, over‑functioning for others, or trying to maintain rigid control when everything feels overwhelming. Sometimes personal growth means recognizing that you’re either going to deal with your stuff, or your stuff is going to deal with you. Therapy is a powerful place to begin that process.

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.

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.

Loss is inevitable - whether it's a loved one, a sense of yourself, a connection, a part of your identity, or any other tangible or intangible shift that brings grief, confusion, sorrow, loneliness...... You don't need to face it alone. In-person or online, through nature therapy, creative arts, education, exploration, conversation. Let's figure it out together.

Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.

Hi I’m Gina! Do you know that everyone feels overwhelmed from time to time? Balancing the demands of life, family, and work can be challenging. I have PhD and MSW from the University of Illinois at Chicago. I am a highly trained therapist with experience helping people recover and achieve their personal and professional goals. My approach is filtered through a diverse lens that views all clients as having the ability to work through challenges. Sometimes all you need is a little help to move forward. Building upon your strengths and past coping mechanisms will help you develop better ways of managing stress and conflict. There are many interventions such as meditation, cognitive behavioral, family systems and solution focused therapy that can be used to tackle the issues affecting your emotional wellbeing. I know seeking therapy can feel scary, but you are making the right decision. Contact me today so we can discuss how therapy can help you.

Hello. My name is Janet Rodriguez. I am Hispanic and bilingual. I have been a licensed clinical professional counselor since 2004, but I have been working as a counselor since 1996. As a clinical professional counselor, I am a dedicated and compassionate person committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore challenges and to encourage personal growth. I serve a diverse range of individuals and use a flexible, client-centered approach by selectively drawing from various therapeutic theories and techniques to create a personalized treatment plan. The impact of my work is helping clients build resilience, develop coping strategies, and achieve greater well-being by promoting trust and empowering them to understand and overcome personal obstacles.

Hello, my name Patrick and I served in three combat tours: serving our country for nine years as a United States Marine. I decided to serve those that are mentally ill in 2013 after my tour of service. After 5 years of study and schooling I got my start in 2017 in a dual-disorder treatment center conducting Intensive inpatient/outpatient groups and utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy as an approach to treating mental health disorders. Today, I specialize in taking an eclectic approach to using interventions looking at the holistic approaches to the human dynamic. This means looking at a person’s relationships and/or lack, cognitive schemas, their behaviors and habits, their priorities, and then determining how interventions and treatment plans will be formulated. I look at a person’s self-concept and determine holistically how their behaviors, thoughts, and patterns are contributing to their problems and functioning. The skills and tools of a therapist are the personal characteristics they bring into therapy: empathy, active listening these aren’t just attributes that look good on paper but are verbal and non-verbal forms of communication; and its these skills I believe what enables successful outcomes in therapy.

Hi, I’m Tianna! I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is naturally empathetic and genuinely enjoys helping people feel heard, understood, and supported. My personality is warm, down-to-earth, and relatable, and I believe therapy can include both meaningful conversations and moments of humor. I work with teens and adults who may be navigating anxiety, overwhelming emotions, overthinking, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, school or work stress, and life transitions. My approach is collaborative and practical—I’ll meet you where you are while also helping you recognize your strengths, understand patterns, and develop tools you can use in everyday life. I know opening up to someone new can feel uncomfortable, so I focus on creating a space where you can show up as yourself without feeling judged or pressured to have everything figured out. Therapy with me isn’t about being told what to do; it’s about working together to help you better understand yourself, build confidence, and make changes that feel meaningful to you.

Hello, my name is Holly. I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience dedicated to empowering clients be the best version of themselves. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and collaborative using a strengths-based, client centered approach. My clinical experience includes working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have extensive training in crisis counseling in the Emergency Department and inpatient psychiatric units. I have worked in domestic violence and provided community-based therapy to children and families. I enjoy working with new mothers, caregivers, and those working through grief and loss.

Navigating adulthood is hard. If you are finding yourself overwhelmed with stress and pressure from a life transition, relationships, your job, school, etc. or feel lost in figuring out who you are or who you want to be, I'm here to help. I will meet you where you are in your journey of adolescence, young adulthood and beyond and provide support and tools to cope with challenges, improve relationships, reframe your thoughts, and practice consistent self-care.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with more than four years of experience supporting individuals as they navigate life's challenges, transitions, and opportunities for growth. My ideal clients can be emerging adult looking for a safe place to land as they figure out who they are and where they're headed, or adults who feel overwhelmed by the demands and chaos of life and are looking to regain their footing. I take a person-centered, relational approach to therapy, which means I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important parts of the healing process. I strive to create a space where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted. I approach each person's story with curiosity, compassion, and a nonjudgemental perspective, recognizing that every journey is unique. While therapy can involve difficult conversations, I also believe there's room for humor along the way. When appropriate, I enjoy brining warmth, authenticity, and a little laughter into sessions to help make the process feel more approachable and human.

My name is Miguel Lopez, a Hispanic male (He/Him/His) and U.S. Army combat veteran who brings a unique perspective to my work as a therapist. Fluent in Spanish and passionate about guiding people through life’s challenges, I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Walden University, a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from Colorado Technical University, and an Associate’s in Criminal Justice from Pikes Peak State College. With over a decade of experience as a caseworker, substance abuse counselor, and therapist, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse clients facing real-life struggles and in need of daily support. Life can be tough, and we all face difficult moments—whether it’s a breakup, divorce, grief, the loss of a loved one or pet, or even a job loss. In these times, having an unbiased person to offer support can make a world of difference. I see trauma as an unexpected part of life that is often hard to process, but with the right help, it can be managed and overcome healthily. I’ve personally experienced more than my share of trauma, grief, loss, sadness, depression, and substance use, and I sought help to work through them. My approach to therapy is centered on helping people in the best way possible, always with an open mind. I often use Maslow’s hierarchy of needs as a guide, because I believe mental health is hard to prioritize when physical needs aren’t met, or issues like homelessness or substance abuse are present. I enjoy working with clients from age 5 to older adults who face Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, and other mental health or substance use challenges. It’s easy to fight battles alone and suffer in silence, but you don’t have to anymore—together, we can work toward healing and a better future.

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 a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and Oregon with six years of experience in the mental health field. I do live in Illinois. I take a holistic approach with my clients but also incorporate various therapy techniques based on their needs and expectations. I strongly value the mind-body connection. Healing can be messy and uncomfortable but also beautiful at the same time.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with individuals of all ages. I support clients navigating infertility, pregnancy-related concerns, grief and loss, trauma, as well as depression and anxiety. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, and I have received specialized training in EMDR. I am committed to creating a supportive, compassionate space where clients feel safe, understood, and empowered in their healing.

Hello and welcome! You've taken a great step by considering if therapy could be right for you. Many situations and life circumstances bring people to this space, and I look forward to talking with you more about your unique story. If you're even wondering if therapy might be right for you, then the answer is yes! My name is Emma Peters. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. I received my Masters degree in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health) at the University of Arkansas. While in Arkansas I worked with adolescents with maladaptive sexual behaviors and co-ocurring disorders in an inpatient setting. Upon relocating to Illinois, I spent several years working in substance use treatment settings, including residential/inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient programs. I've spent the last several years focusing on individual therapy. While in this space, I have developed a passion for working with young adults and supporting the unique challenges they face today. This journey can feel a bit overwhelming at times. I believe in bringing authenticity, compassion, and even a bit of humor into the therapy space to support and empower you through life's most difficult moments.

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.

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.

Hi there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois, with over 30 years of experience in the field. I obtained my Doctoral and Masters degrees in counseling education from Argosy University and Northeastern Illinois University, respectively. My practice focuses on supporting clients dealing with life stress, depression, and anxiety, while also assisting families in enhancing their communication skills. I'm passionate about helping individuals become the best versions of themselves and making a positive impact on their lives.

Hello, my name is Eric Dungan and I'm a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Worker. I attended University of Louisville. I specialize in PTSD, Grief, loss, Depression, Anxiety, Marriage and Family and Anger Management. I have years of experience in the field of mental health care. I strive to help people attain their maximum potential in all aspects of their lives, using several different treatments modalities. All sessions are focused, to provide a nonjudgmental and objective environment to help the patient view their struggles with a new objective and fair perspective towards themselves and other significant people and events in their lives.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC/LMHC) based in the states of Illinois and Indiana. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grace College in Winona Lake, Indiana. II also have a PhD in Christian Counseling from Newberg Theological Seminary in Evansville, IN. I have experience and practice for approximately 7 years. I enjoy helping others discover they can learn to live on the other side of their hurt and pain. I respect clients' autonomy and have a compassionate ear as I work to help you become successful in your future endeavors and management of your own life.

My name is Vince. I’m a licensed clinical social worker. I’ve worked in inpatient rehab as well as outpatient mental health facilities. I help people manage their anxiety and depression by learning coping skills. I help people process their past experiences and help people identify problem areas to improve. I help people develop their identity and their self-esteem to help become the person they need to be for themselves in their family.

Are you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed, as if you have lost control over your own life and are unsure how to get back on track? It happens to all of us sometimes. Our minds can be our biggest enemies, where our expectations get the best of us. Allow me to collaborate with you in order to unpack your thoughts and emotions to gradually make adjustments to help you become a stronger version of yourself. Whether you are struggling with a life transition, pregnancy and postpartum, caregiving for a loved one, grief and loss, anxiety or depression; I will work with you to process and navigate through these difficult times. I will empower you to find your strengths and use them to make a little progress every day.

Hi there, Welcome to therapy! I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka. I am a Licensed Psychotherapist. I work with clients both in person and through teletherapy platforms. I’m happy that you have taken the first step towards healing. First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude for choosing therapy and allowing me to be part of your healing process. Taking this step requires courage, and I commend you for it. I have worked with individuals, couples and families seeking counseling for over 16 years, both online and in my private practice in their healing journey.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in a variety of settings for 20 years. I enjoy working with clients and families to build upon skills and resilience that will serve them in their treatment journey. I have extensive experience treating trauma, mood disorders, self harm / suicidal thinking, anxiety and addiction. I believe clients can and should thrive in the therapeutic experience.

Sometimes it feels like the actual apocalypse is just around the corner. We are bombarded with terrible headline after terrible headline. Inflation is making it harder to pay the bills, let alone have fun, or reach our dreams. With so much going on in the world, it’s no wonder that there are greater rates of anxiety and depression! In the midst of it all, you might be trying to figure out who you are, what you want from life, how to have that honest conversation with your friend, setting boundaries with a parent, whether to switch jobs, learning to be more comfortable in your skin, etc. It’s a lot to manage. I can help. I am a licensed psychologist and consider myself a generalist with a wide variety of clinical interests including issues related to family of origin, self esteem, identity development, issues related to oppression and marginalized identities, depression, anxiety, stress, and interpersonal relationships.

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.

Hi There! My name is Melissa I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's Degree from Lewis University. My background encompasses many different areas to include the mental health field, educational academic and career performance, corporate business and training, and EAP. I have 11 years in K-12 and higher education counseling and teaching experience as well as over 15 years in corporate business. My passion and vast experience in all of these settings and now within the clinical mental health setting for almost 7 years is how I thrive to assist all individuals in achieving complete satisfaction and success in all aspects of life! I love with working individuals from young adulthood as well as adults as they become well rounded, healthy human beings as they struggle with relationship issues, anxiety and stress, depression, self esteem, healthy boundaries, parenting concerns, and family conflict. Guiding all individuals, from youth to adulthood, towards the healthiest path in all self care domains is my goal! Being client-centered and focused on unconditional positive regard, my strong skills of empathy, rapport, and non-judgement are what I strive for in a successful therapeutic relationship. As I support you on your journey, be assured in knowing I am here to listen, connect, and provide you with the healthiest direction in order to reach your goals and your highest potential!

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.

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 have several years of experience treating individuals, families, and adolescents using a holistic, empathic, and trauma-informed approach. Watching friends and family struggle with mental health and substance abuse issues fueled my passion for helping those who struggle with these difficulties from a place of understanding, patience, and empathy. I received a BA in psychology first, which led to obtaining a substance abuse certificate. I gained experience working with families and individuals and, after some time, I was ready to further my education and obtained a Master of Social Work. This helped me expand my clinical skills and learn more targeted therapy modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, psychoanalytical care, and art therapy. I found these approaches are a great synthesis of neuroscience, trauma, and creativity.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day life? Are there things from your past that are unresolved? Do you desire self-improvement but don’t know where to start? Starting where you are is the first step in every new journey. I want to help guide you on your journey by helping you to unlock your own inner power to make transformative changes in your life. This can sound overwhelming, but you don’t have to do this work alone. I take a client-centered approach by meeting you wherever you may be in your journey of healing and self-discovery. Whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, work or family stress or issues surrounding self-esteem and identity, you’ll receive the support that you need. I get it. Therapy can be intimidating. That is why I aim to provide a safe and affirming space for my clients to open up, grow and heal. In my 7 years as a social worker, compassion and understanding have always been at the cornerstone of the work that I do with my clients. Our sessions will not be the exception to this. This along with evidence-based techniques will be the key to helping you identify and overcome the current barriers in your life. Ready to work together? Let’s do it!