Therapists in Illinois

I’m a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping clients navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I specialize in working with individuals managing anxiety, stress, and life transitions, and I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to promote growth and resilience. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you feel understood and empowered to make meaningful change.

Are you beyond exhausted? Is your anxiety running the show? Are you burnt out from your job, your responsibilities, or simply being a person in today’s world? Have you been called "too sensitive?" Whether you're struggling with overwhelm, anxiety, or navigating relationships as a sensitive soul in a world not set up for sensitivity, I am here to support you every step of the way. Through our work, you will gain valuable insights, cultivate resilience, and unlock your full potential.

I am a licensed clinical social worker and substance abuse counselor providing therapy services to adults. I have been practicing therapy for 12 years but have been in the field of social work since 2000. My professional experience includes work in child welfare, treatment foster care, adoption, parenting concerns, substance use, domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA, and life transitions.

Hi there, I'm Christy. Are you struggling, feeling overwhelmed, like a fish out of water? Having difficulty balancing work, relationships, health, and being kind to yourself? I help individuals manage stress and anxiety. Together, using a holistic approach to address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit we can get you back to balance. I integrate mindfulness, yoga, and nature to help develop a stronger balanced relationship with yourself. Whether you dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or chronic medical conditions I'm here to help you. Seeking therapy is a big step in allowing yourself to heal and grow in a safe space.

I have worked in the mental health field for over 8 years learning skills to pass on to clients. My goal is to help clients create plans to succeed on their journey. Together we can find the obstacles that stand in front of you and work to overcome them. I strive to help clients find the “why” behind their actions and help them see what is helping and what needs to change to succeed.

Hi, I’m Jennifer Murphy, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with children, adolescents, and families. I believe therapy should feel supportive, collaborative, and genuinely human. I strive to offer a steady, nonjudgmental space where clients will feel heard and understood as they navigate life’s challenges, make sense of their experiences, and move toward meaningful growth at their own pace.

Creating a space where you can find what works best for you in your journey. Focusing on strengths helps individuals recognize their own resilience and capabilities, which is vital for growth. By tailoring my approach to each person's unique situation, I honor their individuality and foster a deeper sense of self-understanding and agency. People often thrive when they feel heard and supported in a way that aligns with their own needs and goals, rather than being pushed into a redefined mold.

I am a quirky and challenging therapist who graduated from Northwestern University with a Masters in Counseling Psychology in 2014. Having worked extensively in partial hospitalization, therapeutic schools and private practice settings, I combine practical skill based solutions to increase emotional regulation alongside relational work to reshape the past. I provide individual adolescent and early adulthood trauma and gender affirming therapies in addition to IEP consulting, college preparation and parent coaching.

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, trauma, self-esteem concerns, and burnout. Together, we'll identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, build practical coping skills, and work toward goals that align with your values and vision for your life.

Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Chicago, IL. I received my Master of Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis and have been practicing for 6 years now. I got into this field because I wanted to change the world. While I may not be able to do this alone, I will do all that I can to support my clients and help them to change theirs. Life is tough but we are resilient; sometimes, we just need the opportunity to feel seen and heard in a warm, safe, nonjudgmental space to remind ourselves of that - that is exactly what I strive to give to each of my clients. I absolutely love working with adults ready to take that next step into change. Maybe you've spent months or even years feeling like you were stuck. It can be very difficult to know where to start or how to sort things out on your own. Despite these feelings, maybe you feel like there's a possibility that things could be different. I'm here to tell you that it is and reconnecting to a meaningful life is not as far away as it may seem. If you're ready to get back to yourself and work towards your goals, I am here, ready to partner with you and help guide you there.

Hello, my name is Heather Stample LCSW. I have been doing therapy work for about 5 years and social work for 10 years. I love supporting and encouraging others. I joke I am a girls girl, a hype man, an encourager. I always wondered why I loved people so much and how to tap into that. Well, here I am, I figured it out. I want you to know how loved you are, how important you are, and to know you don’t have to keep doing this life all on your own. Sometimes, when we meet, something I say may sound confusing, but I promise you it will come full circle. I want you to be able to challenge yourself, be willing to challenge me when you feel uncertain, and be able to challenge life so you can start thriving again!

Hi, I’m K’Nya! As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I am passionate about couple’s therapy and couples struggling in the area of communication and emotional intimacy. I have received extensive training working with high conflict couples and I also work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and life transition dilemmas! I am of Christian-faith and have no problem with incorporating faith into our sessions (for those that identify as Christian).

Welcome! I'm glad that you're here! You are taking an important and courageous first-step towards a better you. I am passionate about helping people navigate life’s ups and downs and discover meaningful, lasting change. I believe therapy should be a collaborative and empowering process, where you feel supported, understood, and truly heard. My approach is client-centered and rooted in empathy, which means I meet you where you are and tailor our work to fit your unique needs and goals. Because no two people are the same, I use an eclectic blend of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you recognize and reshape unhelpful thought patterns, Client-Centered Therapy to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for growth, and Brief Solution-Focused Counseling to help you identify strengths and take practical steps forward. This flexibility allows me to adapt our sessions to what works best for you, whether you’re seeking tools to manage stress, improve relationships, or create positive changes in your daily life. Above all, my goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel comfortable being yourself and confident that you don’t have to go through life’s challenges alone.

Hello and welcome. I'm a board certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Licensed Independent Social Worker. I earned my Master of Social Work from University of Illinois and practiced in the clinical, workplace-embedded, and deployed settings while on active duty for 16 years during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Much of my experience is in treating first responder and veteran traumatic stress, general life stressors/major life transitions, depression, anxiety and insomnia. I have worked in addictions and family maltreatment outpatient programs as well as in community education and outreach. For a couple of years, I got to help Airmen and Soldiers as part of a partial hospitalization and inpatient mental health care team. I have experience prior to licensure as a domestic violence victim advocate and sexual assault survivor advocate in the the state of IL, as well as having worked with adults with developmental delays in a residential setting.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with 20 years of experience working with adults, teens, and children. I use a holistic, trauma-informed approach that sees emotional challenges as signals of unmet needs or unprocessed experiences—not personal flaws. I strive to create a warm, validating space where you can understand yourself more clearly and move toward the life you want.

I am able to see the strengths in most of my clients; for example if they are poor students and failing school, I can see their resilience in other areas. I am opened minded and non-judgmental, as long as one does not advocating harm to themselves or others. I hope to identify what's working for you, as far as support systems, coping skills and values.

I would describe myself as warm, honest, and practical. My goal is to create a space where you feel truly heard and understood, while also helping you take meaningful steps toward the life you want. Every person already has strengths within them, even when stress, pain, or old patterns make those strengths hard to access. In our work together, I will meet you with empathy, curiosity, and respect. I will also be direct when needed. I do not believe therapy is about judgment, but I do believe growth often requires accountability, honesty, and a willingness to try new ways of thinking and responding.

Life can become complicated when the strategies that once worked stop working. Whether you're navigating a recent ADHD or AuDHD diagnosis, struggling with burnout, anxiety, depression, or major life changes, it can feel like you're trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces. As someone who was diagnosed later in life, I understand both the relief and the disruption that can come from finally having an explanation for lifelong challenges. That experience has shaped my approach to therapy and deepened my appreciation for the resilience people develop while trying to navigate a world that wasn't designed with their needs in mind. My work is grounded in the belief that every person has a unique nervous system, unique strengths, and unique challenges. Rather than treating a label, I focus on understanding you as a whole person. I draw from established therapy approaches, neuroscience, and our growing understanding of the connection between the brain and body. I also believe that therapy doesn't have to feel cold or clinical. Humor, relatable analogies, and practical tools are often part of our conversations. I work primarily with adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or exhausted from constantly trying to keep up. Many are navigating neurodivergence, life transitions, relationship challenges, or the loss of skills that can accompany chronic stress and burnout. I also provide an affirming space for clients in kink, polyamorous, and other consensual nontraditional relationships. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, reduce overwhelm, build sustainable strategies, and create a life that feels more authentic and manageable. You don't need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. We can work through it together, one step at a time.

I work with individuals desiring positive life changes through a collaborative process. Specializing in assisting health care professionals manage their own mental health under the unrelenting demands of their career. Also, Individuals who find themselves unexpectedly thrust into caretaker responsibilities that require them to learn how to re-balance their lives. Three decades of experience as a professional working in mental health services makes me uniquely qualified to assist, not only health care professionals, but a wide variety of individuals in need.

I'm Ericka Whitley, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people recognize their strengths and navigate life's challenges with confidence. I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, and major life transitions. My approach is supportive, collaborative, and goal-oriented, helping clients gain insight, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful change while feeling understood and empowered throughout the process.

My name is Dr. Olushola Bakare, and my work centers on helping people recognize the strengths they already carry. Just as a fish is built to swim and a bird to fly, I believe each of us has our own natural way of moving through life, and my role is to help you find and lean into yours. I work with adults and older adults who are ready to feel more grounded, confident, and understood, in a space that is safe, warm, and free of judgment. To help make sure we are the right fit from the start, I want to be upfront that my practice does not currently include couples counseling, medication management, or completing disability, FMLA, or legal paperwork. I work with adults 18 years and older. If any of these are part of what you are looking for, I am happy to help you find a provider whose practice is built around that support.

I’m Kimberly M. Brooks, LCSW. I help adults and couples facing anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship strain, and emotional overwhelm find clarity and peace. My style is warm, direct, and grounding. I offer practical tools, honest insight, and optional faith-integrated support to help you heal, strengthen your relationships, and move forward with confidence. Clients often tell me they appreciate the calm space I create, the clarity that comes from honest conversations, and the steady guidance that helps them move forward.

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! I have been continuously licensed as a Clinical Psychologist since 1999. I grew up poor in inner city Cleveland. I was the 1st in my family to complete a college degree of any kind. I was a truck driver before I became a psychologist. I have a neuromuscular disability which effects my lower arms and hands and lower legs and feet. I use a wheelchair for long distances but I can walk a little. I graduated with a BA in psychology from Cleveland State University in 1992. I graduated with my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 1998.

I am an experienced and dedicated professional with a rich history spanning over three decades in counseling, education, professional services, and human advocacy. With a robust background, I have accumulated over two decades of successful supervision, five years of specialized McKinney-Vento Act implementation, and a strong aptitude for managing intricate projects while promoting collaboration. My skill set encompasses adept writing, organizational prowess, effective communication, and expertise in counseling and program development. My true passion lies in addressing the multifaceted challenges that families, adults, children, and youth encounter, especially in the realms of poverty, homelessness, substance-related issues, incarceration, and other life difficulties. Throughout my career, I've established a proven track record of forging robust partnerships and making a lasting impact. My adaptability and unwavering commitment, as evidenced by my licenses and certifications, render me an invaluable addition to any organization committed to effecting positive change in the lives of vulnerable populations.

Welcome! I’m so glad you have found your way here. Often we get swept up in the competing demands around us and forgo what we need. We can lose ourselves without even realizing it or maybe we never had the chance in the first place. Before we know it, we are stuck thinking, "Why can’t I seem to do what’s most important to me? What is most important to me anyway?" My hope is that together we can find healing and create a life you want to live. I think of my role as a guide offering a new perspective. A light in the dark. A little background of me, my name is Kel and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Illinois. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression I am also passionate about navigating relationships, spirituality, and late diagnosed Autism. With my client centered approach we will tailor interventions to meet your specific needs. I am a Certified Autism Specialist and level one Internal Family Systems (IFS) training enjoy incorporating art of all kinds. In addition, I am a Reiki Master and Certified Pranic Healer. My previous experience includes 11 years of working in a variety of behavioral health settings, including outpatient therapy, intensive outpatient, inpatient, and residential programs. In 2017 I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from Aurora University. I would love to meet with you, get to know you, and develop a plan together to get you where you want to go.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker conducting sessions virtually in New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Nevada. I specialize in people that are going through tough times and need coping skills to manage. Life might have thrown you curve balls, and you might not be accepting of the uncertainty and the change. I'll be here to tell you that bad situations can be temporary and life changes can also be great. I specialize in helping people who fall down but get back up. I'll help you to talk about your feelings and help you to make treatment goals that you have been wanting to reach.

I am a licensed clinical social worker by education, and I have been a licensed clinician for over 23 years. Most recently my career has brought me to work in collaboration with GROW as a private therapist. I have been working on GROW for nearly 2 years. I also work part time as a group therapy counselor for aging adults in an intensive mental health and community outreach program. I love both occupational settings and my clients with ever growing passion. We live in a fast-moving society, and it can be hard to keep up with all of our various adult life roles and responsibilities. Adults, young and mature, who are making mental health a priority in their lives are notably the most satisfied and happy individuals in this challenging society. I offer my clients a safe space to explore their experiences in this world, express and understand their feelings, get to know themselves on a deeper level, and learn skills to take control of their thoughts and emotions. I will often challenge my clients to intentionally practice new skills or approaches outside of our sessions. My ultimate objective is helping my clients achieve their definition of personal success and satisfaction. I have worked with a variety of adult clients of various ages and life phases. Each phase of our adult life comes with unique challenges. I have extensive and varied experience working with adults in late stages of life, long past retirement, and clients who are nearing death. The last stage of life can be the most challenging and requires the most assistance yet there are limited services to support the mental health needs of the current aging population. This is a serious problem, and I am on a mission to be part of the solution.

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.

Welcome to Tribe Works Behavioral Services where real talk is impactful and intentional. This space was cultivated to provide quality and working care to all that grace my path. I am committed to your mental health and overall wellness by taking the time to get to know you and understand your unique needs. My therapy sessions are tailored to provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore, heal, and grow. With a focus on empathy and understanding, I will guide you towards positive change and personal growth. My Promise To You: To provide sessions that are tailored to your unique needs, while addressing issues such as end-of-life, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. While using therapeutic interventions that aim to foster self-awareness, emotional healing, and personal transformation.

Therapy isn't just about talking. It's about getting results. I offer the kind of therapy which provides my patients with the results that they are seeking. I am an experienced Psychotherapist (25 years) who is licensed to provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I am an honors graduate of Northwestern University , The Family Institute at Northwestern University, and The Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis. While completing my graduate studies, I was chosen to be mentored by several of the top Family Therapy Theorists in the United States. I have taught at Northwestern University, as well as, Lake Forest College as a faculty member. I have been a Clinical Fellow at the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy for over 20 years. My goals for each patient are individually thought out according to a collaboration between patient and therapist. I can teach you how to become your own best advocate. My objective as your therapist is to assist you in becoming the best you can be in the environment in which you live. People start to heal the moment they feel heard. I look forward to joining you as your therapist.

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.

I believe everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to explore the barriers that interfere with living the life they desire. My goal is to foster a comfortable and affirming environment, particularly for individuals from oppressed and marginalized communities. Having access to support, self-awareness, and effective coping skills is essential for managing life’s stressors. I also believe in the importance of processing past experiences and exploring how they shape our current worldview and relationships.

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.

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.

Welcome! I'm Sarah! Your story matters. You have value. I don't want you to walk through this pain alone. I work with females who want to work on anxiety, people-pleasing, insecure attachment, emotional regulation, perfectionism, communication, setting boundaries, grief, comparison, self-compassion, shame, building confidence, divorce, health struggles, relational concerns, navigating breakups, practicing self-care, and building a healthy relationship with yourself and others. Whatever is hurting or aching must be tended to. I am a warm, Christian therapist who focuses on creating a space where you can share the painful parts of your story as well as feel supported through practical tools and new perspectives to move forward. In the first few minutes of each session, I teach a tool. These tools have been extremely helpful for me and my clients, so I am passionate to share them and find my clients make more progress! Then I check in with you on what you would like to process for that day. After you share, I focus on processing your feelings and the situation as well as sharing my perspectives and tools. Feel free to reach out to see if I might be a good fit for you!

I am open about my legal blindness. I am an adaptable and direct clinician who is passionate about collaboratively assisting teens, adults, and families to achieve their unique goals in a healthy manner. I combine counseling techniques with practical, problem solving approaches to strengthen behavioral, emotional, and mind-body functioning to manage stress and empower clients. I highly value a client-centered approach to therapy and behavioral therapies to meet clients where they are and with acceptance.

Hello! I am Connie Molina, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I have over 8 years working with adults, seniors, families and teens in various aspects of their lives. I have experience in the medical field such as case management, palliative and hospice care, and also with youth in a non-profit agency in which I work closely with individuals struggling with variety life challenges. I use evidence-based interventions for seniors, adults, teens, that transfer well in virtual therapy. My approach will have focus, structure, and measurement of progress.

The present world can be a beautiful and intriguing place-but when dealing with day to day stressors, trauma histories, or mental health symptoms we tend to lose sight of this. With our never ending priority lists, it's easy to feel like we are a burden when we experience challenges, but I'm honored to hold space for you! I take your trust in me very seriously and am proud of you for taking this step.

My name is Mary Blue and I am a therapist who helps adults navigate relationships, attachment struggles, anxiety and life transitions. My approach is compassionate, direct, and tailored to your unique needs--whether that means exploring deep emotions, challenging old narratives, or developing practical coping tools. Therapy with me is a space where you can be real, feel supported, and work toward lasting change.

My name is Wendy Ortiz. I am bilingual in both English and Spanish. As a Relational and EMDR Therapist with over eight years of experience, I enjoy helping folks by providing a safe and non judgmental space. My objective in the therapy space is to promote healing, self-exploration, clarity and empowerment. Whatever you may be going through right now, I care and look forward to offering support throughout the therapeutic process.

I am a licensed therapist with over 12 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based care across a wide range of settings. I earned my Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University and hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, Sociology, and Anthropology from Antioch College. Throughout my career, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. My work has included supporting clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and complex psychosocial stressors. I bring a collaborative, strengths-based approach to therapy, tailoring care to each individual while honoring resilience, insight, and personal goals.

My name is Dushun Beckford-Torres, LCSW, and I bring 17 years of social work experience and 6 years of post-licensure clinical practice to every client I serve. I've worked with adults and adolescents navigating some of life's most challenging terrain - rebuilding confidence and motivation, healing from trauma, and sustaining recovery from addiction with meaningful supports in place. I use a blend of evidence-based approaches to meet each client where they stand. I use Motivational Interviewing to draw out each client's own reasons and readiness for change, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients identify patterns and build practical coping skills, and a Strengths-Based approach that centers every client's resilience, wisdom, and capacity for growth. Together, these tools create a therapeutic experience that feels both structured and deeply personal. My work centers on genuine human transformation. I have walked alongside clients who arrived feeling broken and watched them rediscover their strength, reclaim their voice, and build lives rooted in purpose and possibility. That journey of personal growth fuels everything I bring into the therapy session. I hold a deep passion for Black mental health and expanding access to quality, culturally affirming care for Black communities and other marginalized groups. I believe every person deserves a therapist who sees their full humanity, honors their lived experience, and meets them with both clinical excellence and genuine care. If you feel ready to do the work and want a therapist who will stand firmly in your corner, I am ready to offer the experience, the heart, and the commitment to help you move forward.

*Currently accepting female clients only* Therapy has changed, and thankfully so. The old idea of spilling your heart out to someone who feels distant, judgmental, or out of touch does not work anymore. So let’s not do that. I’m Jessica Milgrome, a licensed mental health clinician with 15 years of experience, a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and a National Certified Counselor. I work with women navigating anxiety, overthinking, emotional overwhelm, relationship stress, burnout, and major life transitions. My approach is modern, direct, and judgment-free. Therapy with me is a real conversation. No awkward silence. No walking on eggshells. No wondering if you said the wrong thing. We talk openly, focus on what actually helps, and skip techniques that do not fit your real life. Sessions can be video or phone. If video feels too intense some days, that is okay. Therapy should feel supportive, practical, and human. To share a bit about myself, I’m a big fan of stand-up comedy because laughing really is life. I look forward to Mondays for Spotify’s Discover Weekly playlists and live by the mantra, “When words fail, let the music speak.” I also share my life with six dogs. I’m here to help you organize your thoughts, build confidence, set boundaries you can keep, and move forward feeling clearer and more grounded.

I am a licensed clinical therapist and life coach with extensive experience helping individuals create meaningful, lasting change in their lives. My work is focused on supporting people who are high-functioning yet feel stuck, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or uncertain about their next steps. Many of the clients I work with are successful on the outside but internally struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, relationship challenges, burnout, or difficulty following through on the changes they know they need to make. I bring a results-oriented, structured, and insight-driven approach to my work. As a clinician, I am trained to assess emotional patterns, behavioral responses, and underlying drivers that keep people stuck. As a life coach, I help clients move forward with clarity, accountability, and intention. This dual lens allows me to meet clients where they are emotionally while also helping them create practical, forward-moving change in their daily lives. Clients often seek me out for my ability to quickly identify core issues, provide direct and thoughtful feedback, and help them gain perspective without judgment. I am known for balancing compassion with honesty and for helping clients feel both supported and challenged in ways that lead to real progress. My style is collaborative, grounded, and focused on building sustainable tools rather than temporary relief. I work with individuals who are ready to be intentional about their growth and committed to showing up for the process. Whether clients are navigating personal transitions, relationship concerns, emotional regulation, or a desire for greater fulfillment and direction, my goal is to help them feel more confident, grounded, and capable of creating the life they want to live.

I am an Illinois- based National Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and an Army Veteran. I have worked in the human services for over 20 years. Including, substance use, depression, anxiety, LGBT, anger, and self esteem. I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek assistance and direction. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Who I Am Hi, I’m a psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience—and I still wake up every day passionate about helping people heal and grow. Therapy, to me, is about more than problem-solving; it’s about reconnecting with yourself, rediscovering your strengths, and creating lasting change. I bring empathy, authenticity, and a laid-back, nonjudgmental vibe to my work. My approach blends evidence-based practices like CBT, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness with a deep respect for each client’s unique journey. I also bring the perspective of someone who’s walked through the trenches of life—childhood abuse, trauma, tragedy, and the challenges that come with being human. Those experiences don’t define me, but they do shape the way I connect—with honesty, compassion, and a real understanding of what it means to struggle and to heal. At the heart of my practice is creating a space where you can show up exactly as you are—no pressure, no judgment. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back, tap into your resilience, and build tools to move forward with clarity, confidence, and hope. Helping people heal isn’t just my profession—it’s my calling, and it’s an honor to walk alongside others on their journey.

I am an Illinois and Wisconsin Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has extensive experience working with individuals, groups, couples, and families. I earned my Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University, where the prominent perspective was person-centered therapy. I have worked with several different client populations including couples with marriage difficulties, adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and other life adjustment issues, physically and sexually abused adolescents and adults, adolescents with mental health issues related to school, home, adjustment, or mental illness, and even adolescents and adults on the verge of suicide. In working with these populations, I have gained vast experience in family dynamics and feel it is important to focus on the whole system, especially when a child is involved. I have also been trained in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and I feel many adults and adolescents could greatly benefit from learning these skills. God is our ultimate counselor and His word is referenced and prayed from as part of the healing process.

Shelena is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She has worked in the field of mental health for 10 years and in private practice for the past 5 years. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She received her BA in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She loves working with individuals to help them reframe negative thinking and behaviors. She utilizes treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Reality Therapy. She believes that given the right tools we all can become the best version of ourselves.

I thank you for the opportunity to collaborate with you in your healing journey. My desire is to help you through life’s struggle, and challenges. My goal is to provide authentic, compassionate, and nonjudgmental quality care. Building a therapeutic relationship is the first step in the treatment process. I offer person centered therapy specific to your individualized and unique experience, in order to assist you through the struggles of life. I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I utilize a goal- oriented, strength-based approach with my clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a graduate of the University of Georgia and have been practicing for 5 years. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey.