Therapists in Illinois

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.

Flexibility, welcoming / safe space, non-judgmental, and compassionate are some of the values I bring to the counseling sessions. I hold a doctoral degree in counseling with specializations in clinical mental health and clinical rehabilitation counseling. I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and a Post Doctoral degree in Stress and Trauma. If you feel you are stuck in life and want to make changes in your life, career or future planning, I'm here for you.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Master's degree from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 5 years. I help people of all ages struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma become the best versions of themselves. I utilize CBT and DBT as my theoretical approach (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy), so I assist client to connect their negative thoughts and feelings to their past and present behaviors and find meaningful ways to cope.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes therapy should feel like a space where you can be fully human without judgment, pressure, or pretending. My approach is trauma-informed, relational, creative, and practical. I work with people navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, identity, life transitions, emotional regulation, and feeling stuck. Together, we’ll explore the “why” behind patterns while also building tools for the “what now.” My goal is to help you Proclaim the Real Authentic You and move from simply surviving toward genuinely thriving.

Hi, My name is Shardè Snyder and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Woker with over 10 years of experience in the social services field. Having worked in several capacities. Due to my range of experience I am able to see many sides of an individual’s experience I work with and provide assistance with guiding them to find solutions that work for them.

Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I have worked in the mental health field for seventeen years in both hospital and outpatient settings. This experience includes work in direct patient care, program development, and in hospital administration in a clinical director role. I also have taught coursework in psychology and human development in a university setting, and worked in an administrative capacity in secondary education in the state of Illinois. My educational background includes a Masters in Clinical Psychology and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership. My clinical approach brings behavioral intervention and education together in a clinical setting. I enjoy using psychoeducation as a foundation for treatment. That means I like to focus on educating the patient on their symptoms/diagnosis so we can collaborate on a treatment plan that they understand and makes sense for their life circumstance. If people understand why they experience the symptoms they have and how their body responds to stressors; it can give them the insight necessary to build skills to cope in a healthy and effective way.

Are you ready to live better? Do you currently feel stuck in the past? Do you desire to be fully in the present to do well today and in the future? Let’s work together to reach your personal goals to be the best that you can be. Life is a journey and each day is a new opportunity. The past does not define the future. I focus on CBT therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy. Let’s collaborate together to help you reach your personal goals. Let us work together to find the tools and strategies that works for you. I offer a nonjudgmental space for you to process your issues and concerns. Let’s work together to manage your personal challenges.

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

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.

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.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and over 12 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults navigating mental health challenges related to traumatic life experiences and circumstances beyond their control. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and collaborative. I integrate holistic and evidence-based practices to support healing, build resilience, and help clients reconnect with their sense of purpose and inner strength. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where meaningful change and self-discovery can unfold.

I view us as the ultimate team! You are the expert of your own life story. I am here to help you rewrite the parts that don't quite fit with the version of yourself you want to be. Using empathy and humor, we will work together to redefine the narrative you have of yourself into one you are proud to take ownership of.

I'm a licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience helping adults deal with a variety of issues, including relationship problems, divorce adjustment, depression, anxiety, identity, substance abuse and/or trauma. In our work together, you will feel safe and secure as we move slowly and gently through your concerns. Whether the first time dealing with an issue or an old issue that keeps showing up, I will help you to begin to identify and express your feelings about your experiences. It's a gift you deserve — one we all deserve. The pathway to healing is open to you, and I will do my best to help you get there.

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.

You’re used to being the one others rely on—but lately you may feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from yourself. Many women come to therapy feeling anxious, burned out, or stretched thin from juggling work, caregiving, relationships, and the expectations they place on themselves. If you work in a helping profession—like healthcare, education, or therapy—you may be used to supporting everyone else while quietly carrying your own stress, exhaustion, or compassion fatigue. Therapy offers a space to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and begin finding balance again. I work with women navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional exhaustion. My approach is holistic and compassionate, integrating CBT, ACT, mindfulness, breath meditation, and psychoeducation. Together we’ll identify what matters most to you and build practical tools to support your mental and emotional well-being. I also have additional training in women’s health and compassion fatigue, and I enjoy supporting women who spend their days supporting others. If meaningful to you, we can explore spirituality as part of the healing process. Therapy with me is collaborative, supportive—and sometimes includes humor. If this resonates, I invite you to reach out.

I wish to help clients by building trust and offering practical tools to manage stress, improve communication, and navigate life transitions. I enhance self-awareness with honest feedback, and uses humor to create a relaxed space. I validate experiences and tailors therapy, fostering resilience and well-being through a supportive and collaborative approach. Life's transitions can feel overwhelming, leaving you disconnected & unsure of where to turn. If you're seeking a supportive guide through these challenges, consider reaching out. I understand the importance of genuine connection and offers a warm, conversational approach to therapy. I'm ready to listen, offer honest feedback, and take the journey with you.

Hi and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. I have worked in the mental health field since 2013, starting out in community mental health and crisis services. I work primarily with teens and adults and specialize in challenges facing early adulthood (18-25). I have extensive experience in crisis services and outpatient treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions. We will work collaboratively to foster a positive relationship and help you develop the language and skills to manage the challenges you struggle with. Together, we can overcome the barriers preventing you from growing into the person you want to be. I am passionate about everyone finding their place in this world and creating meaningful connections. Life is not always easy but we can get through this together.

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, my name is Beverly Little, and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with eight years of experience working with adults. I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, and other mental health challenges. My approach to therapy is warm, supportive, and practical. I use evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Supportive Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to help you better understand your thoughts, manage emotions, and build skills that support lasting change. I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental space where you can feel safe to share openly. Together we will work at your pace to explore what's been weighing on you and identify steps that help you feel more balnced, confident, and in control of your life.

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.

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

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

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.

Hello and welcome. Have you been thinking about starting therapy for a while but feel overwhelmed by the idea of where to start? At whatever pace you are comfortable I am here to help you identify and prioritize your issues to begin to overcome the problems that are holding you back from thriving as your best self. Since earning my degree in 2003, I have worked with all age groups in the areas of anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, self-harming, chronic pain, relationship issues, anger management, and life transitions. If you are ready to begin, I am ready to help you get motivated.

Hi, I'm Alex (she/her/hers). I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) in Illinois. I received my Master's Degree from Webster University (Saint Louis, MO) and have been practicing for 8+ years. I help young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, ADHD, support needs, and more. I love utilizing an eclectic approach because no one theory or modality works with all clients. My goal is to help you reach your goals and help you be the best version of yourself. Some fun things about me, I have 3 cats with my husband. I love sports (Go StL Cardinals, Blues, and KC Chiefs!). I enjoy Pokémon and building my collection of cards. I am an Aries and enjoy lots of different music. Looking forward to meeting with you :)

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I have been practicing in the mental health field with adolescents and adults for the past 12 years. In working with a client, I focus on creating an environment in which you will feel at ease and respected. I have an ability to quickly establish rapport which helps you to actively work with me towards your identified goals. My client-centered approach allows you to openly share issues you feel are causing distress and explore ways in which you would like to make changes.

Navigating through the paths of life can be challenging. You don't have to journey them alone. My name is Leslie Scott aka the Esteem Counselor. I am here to support you along your journey with a clinical road map and conversation to make your journey easier to endure. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 plus years of experience specializing in Culturally Based Therapy, Christian Counseling, Anxiety, Loss, Life Transitions, Relationships, Family, Couples, Diversity, Inclusion, and Narcissistic Abuse. I work with a diversity of clients and would welcome the opportunity to support you as you navigate through this phase of your life's journey.

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 18 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 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.

Hello! My name is Teretha Lewis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist in the Chicagoland area. I completed my Master of Social Work Degree with a specialization in Mental Health from Loyola University Chicago. For most of my career I have worked in various settings with the therapeutic community with individuals who have experienced trauma and are struggling to manage their daily lives. I specialize in treatment of children/adolescents, adults, and families struggling with Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Sexualized Behavior Problems and PTSD. In my work my goal is to assist my clients to develop greater insight and effective strategies to manage stressful and distressing situations in their lives. Because no single treatment is suited for all, I tailor sessions with each client's unique style and needs. I believe therapy can be one of the most healing technique for someone to overcome challenges in their lives.

As a therapist, I will continue to assist client with my full ability and understanding how to decrease the negative and increase the positive internal and external related emotional vulnerabilities. I will concentrate on reaching that approach by assisting you as a client’s with developing your insight of overcoming emotional vulnerabilities and work toward those significant behavioral factors more realistically of gaining a better understanding of learning how to agree and not disagree with living life on life terms appropriately. As your therapist, I will continue to coordinate visits with you to assist you with exploring new methods of learning how to cope with alleged emotional problems reaching a point where you have a feeling of optimism and ready to take the steps towards wellness in your life.

Hello, I'm Donna. Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Are you feeling anxiety? Are you feeling doldrums or depression? I want to help you discover the reasons behind these feelings. I want to assist you on the journey of self discovery and enlightenment. Why? Because you are worth it! I have 7+ years in experience working as a therapist in a private practice setting. I have experience as an intern working as an outpatient addiction counselor, I participated in a year long training to be an affirmative practice counselor working with the LGBTQ community. I am trained as a reiki master and I have helped individuals with depression, anxiety, and many other life stressors. There are many reasons that can cause the feelings that we have. You are unique and you are special. Together we will find your balance, we will discover what will help you find a brighter and shinier future. Let's work together! *** Please schedule appointments on the hour (i.e. 3:00, 4:00 etc.) and not on the half hour (i.e. 3:30, 4:30 etc.) or at the 15 or 45 minute times (i.e. 3:15 or 3:45 etc.) Thank you for your understanding as we work to improve the scheduling platform.***

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.

Hi I am an LCPC, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been working with clients for almost 7 years. In a nutshell I help clients to better understand themselves, their histories, and why they do what they do. I help people figure out what they want, and find more effective ways to get what they deserve out of life particularly in the areas of relationship.

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.

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.

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

Currently I am only accepting new clients who are trans. I am a trans and queer Licensed Clinical Social Worker and artist with 15 years of experience in community mental health. My approach is that all people deserve to have the opportunity to experience a safe, kind, and welcoming space to explore their mental health, and that as a therapist, it is my job to nurture that. I am driven to create therapeutic opportunities for people who want and need them within the LGBTQ2IA+ community. I am open to working with clients that find themselves in need of an understanding, compassionate, and community-oriented therapist who will help to guide them through healing work. My areas of focus are: LGBTQ2IA+ and TGNC emerging adults and adults, major life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, gender dysphoria, and sexual identity exploration. I completed my Master of Social Work (MSW) and Master of Arts in Gender Studies (MA) degrees concurrently at Loyola University Chicago. Before entering graduate school, I worked in multiple positions focused on reproductive justice, body autonomy, and community care. My life and professional experiences have led me to provide therapy with a focus on community care through an anti oppressive lense. I understand that helping one person can have a positive impact on the greater community surrounding them. I believe that treatment approaches should fit the individual's needs and thus I utilize many modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, somatics, and narrative therapy. My approaches of curiosity and kindness create a welcoming space to engage in therapy. Choosing to work with a therapist is a powerful way to help yourself and we all deserve a chance to have focused time to explore, learn, and grow through challenges.

Welcome! My name is April Lacey, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I see clients coping with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and self-esteem concerns. My approach focuses on fostering a strong collaborative relationship with clients to reach their goals. I value genuineness and believe in meeting clients where they are while treating everyone with respect and compassion.

Welcome—I'm glad you're here. Seeking support is a brave step and I aim to create a calm, nonjudgmental space where you can speak openly, explore what matters to you, and find practical ways to move forward. Whether you're facing a sudden crisis or a long-standing struggle, we'll work together at a pace that feels safe and productive, honoring your values and strengths as we clarify goals and build lasting skills. I provide practical, evidence-informed clinical care to adults seeking clearer thinking, steadier emotion, and healthier relationships. The desire to know yourself and to be truly known by others is central to a life worth living; I respect the courage it takes to face difficult patterns and make lasting change. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with more than 25 years’ experience helping people navigate life challenges.

Welcome—I’m truly glad you’re here. I bring a warm, grounded, and collaborative approach to this work, shaped by graduating with honors in my Master’s program and earning my Bachelor’s in Social Work with a Minor in Human Services. With 17 years of experience supporting at‑risk youth and families across Illinois, Kansas, and Missouri—and roughly five years in a direct therapeutic role—I’ve learned that healing is most powerful when mind, body, and spirit are invited into the process. My background includes specialized training in DBT, ASIST, trauma‑responsive care, and emerging work with elders through grief support and medical assessments. My practice continues to expand as I deepen my understanding of military culture and the unique stressors faced by Service Members, Veterans, and their families. I integrate training in reintegration support, deployment‑related stress, and identity transitions to help military‑connected clients navigate life with clarity and strength. I am honored to now offer supportive therapeutic services to clients in the state of Virginia. As a Licensed Massage Therapist, Somatic Therapy remains one of my first passions and is available for in‑person sessions. This body‑based approach helps clients release stored tension, regulate the nervous system, and reconnect with the wisdom of their physical and emotional selves. When the body softens, the mind opens—and healing becomes more accessible, more intuitive, and more aligned. My work is guided by a simple belief: ~When people feel safe, seen, and supported, they naturally move toward wholeness.~ It’s an honor to walk alongside you as you reconnect with yourself and step into a life that feels grounded, authentic, and spiritually aligned.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I am deeply committed to providing culturally responsive care to clients of all backgrounds. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout, life stressors, relationship issues, challenging family dynamics, or healing from past experiences, you don't have to do it alone. I have over 12 years of experience supporting individuals as they work towards a more fulfilling and authentic life. My work is grounded in understanding how identity, culture, and lived experience shaped who you are and how you navigate life. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and practical. I specialize in evidence-based therapies including EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, and solution-focused strategies to help clients process emotional distress, strengthen emotional regulation, improve relationships, and develop practical skills that bring lasting relief.

I have a unique and creative way of utilizing different therapeutic tools to match my client’s needs and individual issues. My focus is to create a trusting and safe environment to enable my clients to explore their deepest feelings and thoughts. I rely on an empathetic and motivational approach, as well as on the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and utilizing EMDR treatment.

In 2008, I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. After 10 months of treatment, I realized I wanted to work with other cancer fighters and their loved ones. Since my career change to social work and therapy, my experience has broadened to include refugee resettlement, hospice social work, medical social work, and trauma-informed therapy. I am passionate about supporting my clients through grief, trauma, chronic and terminal illness, anxiety, depression, couples counseling, family therapy, and parent training. My goal is to foster an environment where my clients feel supported, validated, and empowered.

Hello, Welcome and thank you for being here! My name is Maritza and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Starting therapy is a meaningful step and can bring up a lot at once; relief, uncertainty, hope, or even fear. All of these feelings are valid. I strive to create a warm and supportive space where you can slow things down and explore what’s been feeling heavy. Many of the people I work with are navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, or the impact of past experiences. This can show up as overthinking, worry, self-doubt, or feeling emotionally drained from trying to manage it all on your own. In our work together, we'll focus on understanding what’s getting in the way, build practical coping tools, and strengthen your ability to respond to life in ways that feel more grounded and intentional. Therapy is also a space for growth, reflection, and reconnecting with yourself in a deeper way. If you're looking for support in that process, I'm here when you're ready.

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

Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful choice. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. My practice focuses on supporting adults facing anxiety, depression, and substance dependency, with dedicated experience serving veterans, military families, and the LGBTQ+ community. I use a compassionate, strengths-based approach to help you navigate life’s toughest challenges and build a path toward lasting healing and happiness.

As a child, I always wanted to pursue a career where I could assist with an individual’s growth, creativity and happiness. I learned at a young age the struggles that life can bring, not only through the inevitable, but also through situational traumas that we at times have to face and endure. Being an active member in the clinical field of helping professionals, I have certainly learned the importance of patience, empathy and peace. Identifying and securing ones’ purpose in life, creates the true masterpiece of one’s story. My goal is to assist you in your journey to self-actualization. ​

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.