Blue Cross Blue Shield Therapists in Illinois

As a veteran and therapist, I bring a grounded, compassionate approach to helping others heal. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and supporting women who are navigating the lasting effects of trauma. I work with individuals dealing with chronic worry, panic attacks, social anxiety, and specific phobias. My approach is rooted in evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. These tools help clients better understand the roots of their anxiety and trauma responses, while building practical strategies for long-term healing and relief. I offer a calm, supportive space where women feel seen, heard, and empowered. My focus is on helping you regain confidence, restore a sense of control, and move forward with greater strength and resilience. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful progress—and real, lasting change.

I am originally from Florida and the Valedictorian of my high school who graduated and played football for Stanford University and The University of Michigan. After creating a nonprofit called Empire For The Youth, I have developed a curriculum for building wholistic life success and have worked in over 20 different schools throughout the united states. I work with all youth from ages 8-80 in helping them identify their life purpose and motivation for why they wake up and live every day. I help to mold daily habits to keep my clients living life full of HOPE...Having Only Positive Energy!

Hi, I’m Brian If you feel stuck, and unable to change things, I can help you to start moving again. We can join together and create a strategy for working through the event or dilemma that is stressing you out. Together we can restore or surpass your previous level of productivity and satisfaction. I want to hear your story. I will listen. I will not judge. For the last 18 years, I have helped individuals, families and couples resolve problematic situations. Their experiences often instilled insight, confidence, serenity and hope. My holistic mission is to: • listen empathetically, without judgement • Ease suffering and improve functionality • Teach you to persist when fear and doubt are present • Be equal partners working together to create and implement strategies to resolve, accept and overcome the obstacles that impede your progress I want to • Help you find insight, meaning and purpose • Provide support as you proceed in the direction of your choosing • Teach you how to live more effectively • Create the opportunity for you to smile when it is most needed and least expected I take the time to educate you about the conditions that you experience and the treatment you receive. I believe that self-empowerment begins with self-understanding. I will help you understand why you do what you do and feel what you feel. I have extensive experience treating addicted people in residential in patient treatment, outpatient and aftercare facilities. I advise and treat families struggling to with parents, children and siblings that are addicted

Hello, I'm Josh. Do you find yourself struggling with multiple stressors, consistently putting yourself down for not achieving the way you feel like you should be achieving? Has your anxiety gone from feeling somewhat manageable to being overwhelmed with what seems like small tasks? Are you struggling in your relationships, job, and health? I help individuals manage anxiety and depression, overcome burnout, and work through grief. I believe in a patient-centered, holistic approach to providing counseling. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and mindfulness techniques- all tailored to meet your unique and specific needs. Together, we will identify triggers, thoughts, behaviors, and core beliefs that are no longer serving you to help get you on the path you want to be on. It takes courage to start a journey of self-exploration with the aim of a better, healthier life. If you are ready to take your first steps, I am here to help support and empower you along your path.

Hi, I'm Dr. Taliah, Life sometimes leaves us unable to direct our attention. We're often being pulled towards many directions. If you have work, school, family or a recent life event you would like to process, I am here for you. If a recent life event has brought you distraction, grief or trauma and has you off of your game, let's get you back on track. I would be happy to support you in returning to your best self. Faith-based holistic approach, upon request.

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been providing psychological services for the past 26 years. I provide a wide array of psychological services including individual, couples, adolescent and family therapy. I also specialize in issues related to cultural differences and other issues of diversity. On a personal level, I love to write, listen to music, sing, dance and spend time with the people that I love. I not only love what I do professionally, I am very passionate about helping my clients change their lives for the better.

I work with clients experiencing relationship challenges, interpersonal difficulties, marriage conflicts and individuals with stress, depression, and anxiety. Clients need space to be heard, feel validated and challenged in a safe environment. My goals for clients are to aid them in finding internal resources that can help them be at peace with their own challenges as well as to help them in their relationships with others. Couples’ work is focused on finding areas to increase satisfaction, finding areas of need within yourself, and learning to communicate those needs to your partner. By increasing positive responses in your relationship, you will develop more commonality and shared goals which can lead to positive outcomes. Often, people get stuck in a rut and need support in navigating their way back to a positive relationship with themselves and others. I am trained in marriage, family, and trauma, a Certified Family Trauma Professional and an EMDR trained clinician. I have worked with aging adults, end of life issues, and grief. I am working with couples and individuals with relationship issues as well as life stressors. If you are experiencing challenges in your love life, difficulty with your day-to-day functioning or are experiencing work/life stressors call me to schedule a time to complete an assessment and we can build a plan that best supports you and your family.

Hello everyone, Let me take a few moments to introduce myself. My name is Nupur Sharma. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois. My background includes completing my Bachelor of Science (B.S) Degree from Loyola University Chicago in 2008, and I finished my Masters of Arts (M.A) Degree in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Specialization) in 2011 from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I bring over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional in different settings and with different populations. I have worked with adolescents, adults, and geriatric population over the years across a variety of treatment settings including inpatient mental health unit, addiction center, nursing facilities, memory care, inpatient behavioral hospital, community mental health center, managed care organization and working with insurance.

With over 30 years of experience, I have a broad and deep experience helping my clients explore their lives to make powerful and meaningful changes that determine how mental health challenges affect their lives. I bring a unique level of warmth, compassion, energy, and enthusiasm into my clinical work. I am a firm believer in “it takes a village” mindset, where together we build a stronger existence. Life can be overwhelming, reaching out for help, guidance and direction is one of our greatest strengths.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years' experience. I received my master's degree from the University of St. Francis, in Illinois. I am passionate about helping those struggling through life's many transitions. As a clinician, I meet my client's where they are at, listen to what they want to work on, and collaborate with them on ways to achieve their goals. Together, we work as a team towards growth and change.

I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology/Argosy University in Chicago. I believe the most essential element of therapy is developing a trusting, therapeutic alliance in order to facilitate change. I specialize in integrated treatments for addressing co-occurring disorders, offering genuine compassion, honesty, and humor, along with a trauma informed care approach to treatment. I work independently running a private practice and my experiences include working as an outpatient mental health therapist at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, serving those struggling with mental health issues as well as psychiatric disorders in the community. I have also provided psychotherapy at Family Guidance Centers, assisting those with substance use and psychiatric disorders after completing my internship with Rosecrance Treatment Center working as a substance abuse counselor.

Hi – I’m Vicki – do you ever find yourself feeling lost as you wander on a path that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere? Or maybe you’re standing at a fork in the road and you aren’t sure which way to go. No matter what you're going through right now, you can get through it and I can help. I am committed to walking beside you and helping you find your unique path to create a life full of wellness, personal growth, joy and meaning. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol/Other Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 17 years of counseling experience. I specialize in working with individuals 18 years and older who live in Illinois. MY AREAS OF EXPERTISE INCLUDE: SUBSTANCE USE, GRIEF AND LOSS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION. If you are interested in working with a therapist who is committed to creating an authentic, positive collaborative relationship with you, feel free to schedule an appointment with me through GROW.

Hello! I'm Christine Manuel, LCSW, a Client centered and goal oriented Therapist. I earned my Masters Degree from the University of Chicago, and I have been in this field for over 16 years. I work with Adolescents and Adults who are struggling with stress and anxiety, the effects of trauma, attachment issues, and Parenting concerns. I have an Individualized approach that allows me to join with Clients on their journey toward growth and healing.

I have been providing English and Spanish speaking families in the Chicago area with a wide range of psychological and counseling services since 1985. In our sessions we will explore your feelings, beliefs, or behaviors which are of concern to you and/or your family and identify aspects of yourself or your life that you would like to change. Issues we can discuss can include coping with life challenges, relationship issues, parenting stress, dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma or issues regarding work related stress. I have a Bachelors of Arts in Social Work and Psychology from Michigan State University, Masters of Arts in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University and a Masters in Public Health from the University of Illinois-Chicago. I am an Illinois Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Social Worker. I am a certified Divorce Mediator.

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.

I have been practicing Social Work/Counseling for 34 years. I am very passionate about what I do, and enjoy seeing clients set goals and take active steps to achieving those goals. I love getting to know my clients, and forming a safe place for them to explore ways they want to overcome barriers to growth and change. It is truly a privilege to meet in the therapeutic space and witness the growth that human beings can make when they are met where they are at and given the unconditional positive regard they deserve.

Hi, My name is Sandi Cross. I hold a BS and MSW, both from the University of Illinois. I also have a Type 73 Certification in School Social Work. I have spent my entire adult life working with children and families and am passionate about helping people identify and fulfill their goals, while confronting the struggles along the way. Many of the struggles include anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, anger-management, and low self-esteem.

If you had to describe you life in one word, it might be overwhelmed. 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.

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

I am a 47-year-old white Christian male that has been married for 29 years. I have three kids 26,19 and 16. I also have a spunky granddaughter who is five years old. I have a Master in Psych, as well as a MSW in Social Work. I also carry a CADC for work in Substance Abuse. I received my MSW from SIUC in Carbondale Illinois. I have been working in Mental health for the last 19 years in one way or another. I currently work at my day job with children 5-12, to assist with ADD, Anger, Sexual Abuse, grief etc. I have also worked with adults in the past. I am looking to be that calm helping hand in the storm that you are experiencing.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my master's degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and I have been practicing for 10 years. I help adolescents and adults struggling with mental health problems stemming from traumatic life experiences and circumstances out of their control. I offer a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy that utilizes both holistic and evidence-based practices.

I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking to enhance their mental well-being and alleviate symptoms of distress. Holding a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and bringing years of experience in the medical field (EMS), I have gained a deep understanding of the complex challenges individuals encounter in both their professional and personal lives.

Hi there, my names is Meghan Skidmore and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Northern Illinois. I have 16 years of experience as a clinical social worker. I have previously worked with children in mental health crisis as well as with children and families involved with the child welfare system. I also have worked the past 15 years as a school social worker, working with children and families to help them be successful in and out of the school setting.

Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? I’m here to help you navigate stress, conflict, anxiety, and depression. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, I’ll provide the tools and strategies to improve your well-being, regain control, and move forward with confidence. Together, we'll develop a winning game plan to strengthen your sense of purpose—shifting from struggling day-to-day to truly thriving.

Hi there! My name is Tamica, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from University of Southern California. My concentration is Mental Health with a sub-concentration in Military Families. I am a psychotherapist with a breath of wealth and experience in mental health, military families, social services, the criminal justice system, and case management services. I also have extensive experience working with the elderly population, and in psychiatric units, public school systems, mental health clinics, and State, Local and Federal Governmental agencies. My purpose is to help individuals learn evidence-based strategies, techniques and skills to manage their stress, anxiety, depression and other behaviors to reclaim their lives.

Hello! So glad you are here! Do you get into relationships hoping that this time things will be different? Do you feel overwhelmed and have a hard time exploring and working towards your goals or just life fulfillment? Would you like a more kind and loving relationship with yourself? I love helping people who are ready to identify patterns that hold them back from happiness and fulfillment in both relationship and other areas of life. My name is Lisa and I provide therapy for both addictions and mental health issues. While I have treated those with active addiction for many years, I also treat the patterns stemming from addictions and family dysfunction. This can impact relationships as well as how we see ourselves throughout life. I have a Masters of Education degree in Counselor Education from Southern Illinois University specializing in Substance Abuse. From substance abuse counseling, I have expanded my areas of specialties to include family and relationship dynamics and how to heal survival skills" that have evolved into self defeating life patterns.

Hello! I am Krista A.M. Jackson a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with extensive experience in individual, couples, family, and group therapy. I will empower you to function at your highest level of success through my unique approach that combines clinical expertise, personalized coping strategies, and a deep understanding of human behavior. I hold specializations in Adlerian psychology, behavior modification, and Emotionally Focused Training which allows me to tailor an approach to your specific needs. Whether you're seeking help with personal growth, relationship issues, or academic and career guidance, my solution-focused strategies and comprehensive background in behavioral assessment will provide you with the tools and support needed to overcome challenges and achieve your goals.

Welcome. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) in Illinois with a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology, post graduate certifications in : marriage and family therapy, IFS, addictions/ codepencedncy, family therapy, breathwork, DBT, group, and and trauma therapy, practicing for 40 years. I assist clients in their healing, recovery, and increased agency. I will work with individuals and the systems within which they operate.

Hi, I’m Mel B! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree from Aurora University in Social Work. For the past 10 years, I’ve helped young adults feel more confident, less stressed, and more in control of their lives—and I absolutely love it! My goal is to support you in becoming the best version of yourself. I believe therapy should feel comfortable, safe, and real. I’ll meet you where you are, without judgment, and we’ll find what works best for you. I like to keep things flexible, using a mix of humor, practical tools, and mindset shifts. So, what is my mission? I specialize in working with millennials and Gen Z adults who struggle with: Big Life Decisions – Career changes, moving, grad school, and other major transitions. Relationship Anxiety – Dating, breakups, commitment fears, and finding healthy connections. Confidence & Overthinking – Trusting yourself, making decisions, and quieting self-doubt. Self-Care & Self-Compassion – Taking care of YOU in ways that actually feel good. When I’m not helping clients, I’m a wife and a cat mom to three adorable fur babies. I’m a huge Swiftie, an iced coffee addict, and I love reading young-adult romance books with dashes of humor and magic. I enjoy going for walks, planning future trips, and spending time with family and friends. I’m also a big dreamer—I love setting goals and going after them! If you’re looking for a therapist who is warm, supportive, and will truly listen, I’d love to connect with you. Let’s work together to create a life that feels right for you!

I am an experienced and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to fostering holistic wellbeing and mental health in diverse client populations. With a sensitive ability to assess individual needs and circumstances, I specialize in individualizing therapeutic interventions to meet unique requirements. My approach emphasizes professionalism, empathy, crisis intervention, and evidence-based practices to ensure the delivery of effective and personalized care to marginalized communities. With a wealth of experience in fostering relationships and a deep passion for nurturing the growth of Latinx communities and youth, I bring a unique ability to establish rapport with individuals across all age groups. Committed to empowering clients on their journey toward healing and self-discovery, I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment conducive to growth and transformation.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with specialized training in expressive arts therapy, ecotherapy and sexual abuse and assault. I practice from a strengths-based, solution-focused perspective and will help you develop the insight and skills you need to achieve your goals. Also, apologies in advance for the random cameo by Eclipse, my supportive therapy cat.

I am an Army Veteran and LCPC with a certification as a national certified counselor through the NBCC and have accumulated over 6 years of direct individual/group practice as a licensed counselor. Overall, my experience spans over 10 years working as a crisis, substance use, and mental health counselor in the field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and substance use. I also have assisted many clients who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is very welcoming and inviting. I believe in honoring the values of respect, sensitivity, compassion, empathy and embracing a holistic point of view to promote mental wellness. It takes courage to make the steps towards a more fulfilling and happier life and embrace change. If you are ready to take that leap into a healthier mind, body, and spirit, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you in your new journey!

Looking for the right therapist to support your next step? I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and practical tools. Here’s how I support clients: 1. Anxiety & Life Stressors – Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain, we’ll work together to better understand your experience and build coping strategies that bring relief and clarity. 2. Workplace & Career Challenges – From burnout to job transitions to difficult work dynamics, I help clients unpack what’s happening and develop skills to move forward with confidence and purpose. 3. Relationship & Couples Support – I work with couples who want to communicate better, rebuild trust, and strengthen their connection. I provide tools that create lasting change and understanding. I offer flexible appointment times—including daytime, evenings, and weekends—so therapy can fit into your life. I know that finding the right fit matters, and I’d be honored to be part of your journey. Let’s begin the process together—at your pace, in your way.

I believe that everyone has inherent strength. While I can be direct and to the point, I understand that this conversation is about your life, not mine. I come from an inclusive feminist background and am comfortable working with all genders. I also believe in the power of laughter and that everyone is capable of leading their best life. I live in a multi dog/cat/parrot household and odds are good you will not just hear them but may occasionally see them. No worries they don’t judge and have been sworn to HIPAA secrecy.

If you've never been in therapy before, I know it can be a scary step. Be proud of your bravery. If you have been in therapy before, I'm glad you chose to return. Either way, my job is to help you find your strengths to learn to manage any issues you are dealing with so you can find your peace again. It is a journey and it won't always be easy but it will be worth it. I have been a therapist and a psychology professor for 30 years. I have worked with children, teens, and adults, although I have spent the majority of my career working with teens. I enjoy teens because I have a lot of patience for them. I believe in psychoeducation in therapy. I think that it's not only important to understand what you are doing but why you are doing it. Only by understanding both can you make the changes necessary for long-term happiness. I also believe in working on both the present and the past. I want to help you figure out how to make the present better immediately, while also working to understand anything from your past that may have helped lead to any current issues. Working on both in combination will give the most thorough explanation and avenue for effective treatment. Most importantly, I believe in working together. I may be the "expert" but only you know what is working and what isn't. I will ask you for feedback and I will listen to what you have to say. I am more than willing to do phone appointments if you find them more comfortable than video appointments. Just let me know.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Chicago. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I've been practicing for 5 years helping people improve their lives through mindful change and a supportive voice. I'm here to be your loudest cheerleader as you make necessary changes and work toward your life goals.

Hello there! Do you ever feel as though your life is a million-piece puzzle? Or feel as though your family or partner does not understand you. Life can be complicated; however, your mind does not constantly have to be. My diverse experience has allowed me to gain expertise in helping individuals (18 years+) in various settings, navigate through relational struggles, traumas, betrayals, anxieties, miscommunications, setbacks, self-discoveries, transitions, or misunderstandings. Together, we can identify what is not working and learn ways to communicate it in order to create change. I learned the importance of culture competency through my academic training at Adler University. It is important to understand how the dimensions of culture, race, gender, ethnicity, age, class, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, and language may affect the function of your relational systems. I come to you, gently, soft & warm. I have a strong sense of being mindful and allowing you to be in the moment. I can gently challenge you when need be or pep you up. Ultimately, I will meet you raw and unfiltered and embrace every part of it. You deserve a safe space to explore all parts of the self. Let’s connect and start piecing together the puzzle. **With every darkness, there is a light** Background: Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with 12 years of experience in the mental health field; 10 years as a therapist. BA in Psychology from Texas Tech University MA in Couples & Family Therapy from Adler University Experience: *Residential treatment caseworker *Psycho-social Interventionist *Support for young, migrant children separated from families, living in facilities *Parent group at Haymarket Chicago *School-based therapist in North Lawndale schools *Non-profit in North Lawndale, Chicago neighborhood *Non-profit in Lake County, IL -------------------------------------------------------------- *Prefers families & couples in-person* -Super Bill can be provided

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.

Hello! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) working remotely. I got my MA in Counseling with a focus on forensic psychology from Adler University in downtown Chicago. I have been practicing since graduation in 2020 and have served in various areas including community mental health and private practice. I am also a veteran and love to serve the military and their families. My practice is currently in a phase of growth, and I am excited to expand my reach through an online platform. As an eclectic therapist, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client. This flexibility allows me to draw from various modalities and techniques to best support my clients in their journey towards healthier lives.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has over 30 years in the mental health field working in psychiatric hospitals and private practice. I work with clients individually (ages 13-17; 18- 65+); Couples and Families who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, marriage/divorce issues, grief issues, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, domestic violence (victims) and substance use. I am passionate about what I do and truly care about each of my clients.

Hello my name is Gabby Wnek and I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Illinois. I have been practicing for 8 years. I help adults with anxiety, depressing, stress, and burnout. I help clients identify where they are feeling stuck, educate clients on the nervous system, and provide tools and techniques to regulate the nervous system. My approach with client is very practical so that clients can have a toolbox of skills that they can use for the rest of their lives.

"If you problem is like a mountain, I can't carry you up it. But I can walk with you every step of the journey." Hi, I’m Dan. I’m a licensed psychotherapist with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have also worked as a school counselor and as a behavior therapist for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I focus on issues such as anxiety, depression, adolescents/teens, behavioral issues, stress, coping skills, life transitions, mood disorders, relationship issues, school issues, self esteem, self-harm, spirituality, trauma and thought disorders. I believe in making therapy as easy as possible and creating a therapeutic environment in which my clients feel comfortable; sessions with my clients are always a safe space. I believe in meeting clients where they are at; your goals for therapy are my goals. Whether you're dealing with severe trauma, anxiety, depression or whatever life throws at you, I am here to help.

Hi, I enjoy assisting adults who are managing stress and anxiety, addiction, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, life transitions, and depression. I have a warm and direct approach. My focus is on identifying and understanding dysfunctional life patterns that keep you stuck. We collaborate as a team so you know how to apply what is learned in sessions to create change. I believe in a client-centered approach, tailoring my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each person. Through a collaborative and empathetic process, you can expect a caring and respectful therapeutic relationship based on mutual trust and respect. I support you by creating a secure and non-judgmental space where vulnerability is considered a strength, empowerment flourishes, and goals are met so you can get your life back.

Hello! At the beginning, my focus will be on getting to know you. Everyone has a story to tell and as you tell yours, I will be looking for your personal character strengths (we all have them). Your character strengths will help you achieve the positive change(s) you are seeking. Once I get a grasp on your strengths, we will combine your natural strengths with new strategies and supports from a variety of research-based resources. It is my goal that each and every counseling session be preventative, proactive, and/or empowering. Often, you will be given homework so the therapy continues even when we are not meeting. My specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, grief, couple/marriage counseling, Christian counseling, identity issues , recovery after a separation or divorce, infidelity, new transitions, career/college counseling, general stress, work environment issues, impostor syndrome, teacher/administration/education work-related stress, the stress that comes with being a parent, infertility, and being overwhelmed with responsibilities. My career started in education. My career in education spanned 18 years and included being: an elementary teacher, a middle school guidance counselor, a high school guidance counselor, and a college adjunct psychology professor. In my current position as a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), I have been in practice since 2016. I absolutely love what I do and I take the job very seriously.

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

I'm a clinical social worker with experience treating children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I graduated with my masters degree in social work (MSW) in 2008, earned by clinical licensure (LCSW) in 2010, and doctorate in clinical social work (DSW) in 2016. I believe that every client deserves a treatment approach created to meet their own particular needs and symptoms, and my role, as a competent practitioner, is to craft that treatment approach that maximizes the client's strengths, reduces/alleviates their current symptoms, and offers new patterns of engaging with their life and the world around them that prevent relapse into old and destructive patterns of behavior.

In my counseling practice, you can expect to walk away with practical tools and strategies to manage anxiety, improve your mood, and regain a sense of control in your life. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly share your struggles, set meaningful goals, and reconnect with what truly matters to you. For those navigating trauma or PTSD, we’ll focus on healing and fostering post-traumatic growth through a combination of CBT and narrative therapy. I truly believe in providing an approach that helps you feel both understood and supported as we work through your unique challenges, allowing you to move forward with strength and confidence.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois. I received my Masters from Aurora University and I have been practicing for 5 years. I am a warm, empathetic therapist who helps adults become the best versions of themselves. I work to help people understand who they are and manage their various stressors, anxieties, and emotions. Combining my lived and professional experience, I specialize in working with LGBTQ adults to address needs specific to our community, especially those of transgender experience. Further, I myself am an individual who has detransitioned and I extend services to those who have as well. I understand what it's like to go through transition and go back, and I want to ensure my clients get thorough care, transitioning or detransitioning. Of course, I work with people who are inside and outside the LGBTQ community, I'm an advocate for you. I also work with personality disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and so much more. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I have a wide range of resources available to all my clients for extra support. My biggest priority in therapy is honesty, as well as giving you a space you feel comfortable in so you can open up at your pace. I want to build a strong, lasting alliance between us so we can help you become the best version of yourself. I know that together, we are going to do great things. A little about me, I have a sphynx cat named Cupid and a black cat named Tofu. Behind me sits my spider, Marrow, who burrows and builds tunnels more than she spins webs. I also enjoy playing DND, I've been drawing since I was in kindergarten, and I play lots of video games, particularly fantasy RPGs.

I'm a psychotherapist and Clinical Social Worker with 23 years experience providing mental health care for individuals, couples and families. I have experience providing brief and long-term therapy with adolescents and adults coping with a spectrum of mental health conditions; grief and loss; relationship issues; occupational problems and social injustices. It's exciting when relief and hope grow from therapy and the relationship supports meaningful change.