Attachment-Based Therapy Therapists in Chicago, IL

Attachment-Based Therapy focuses on the emotional bonds formed early in life between children and their caregivers, exploring how these connections influence relationships and emotional well-being throughout life. This approach helps individuals heal attachment wounds from childhood or past experiences, fostering stronger, more secure relationships in the present. Ideal for those navigating relationship challenges or the effects of trauma, Attachment-Based Therapy nurtures trust, connection, and emotional healing. With 35 therapists in Chicago, IL specializing in this supportive approach, you can access compassionate, personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is welcoming new clients, offering timely availability to support your journey toward deeper connection and healing.

Availability updated: 10/11/2025

Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 26 ratings

Soraia Oliveira

LCSW, 7 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Racism
Spirituality
+7
As a Latina and Brazilian, I bring a multicultural perspective to my work, with fluency in Spanish, Portuguese, French, and English. I have many years of experience supporting immigrant women and others from diverse backgrounds. I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Together, we'll work to challenge and reshape narratives that no longer serve you, build tools for resilience, and celebrate the strengths you bring. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a deep commitment to honoring each client’s unique cultural experiences.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 12 ratings

Stacey Jones

LCPC, 12 years of experience

Warm
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi there! I’m Stacey Jones, a licensed mental health professional in Illinois, Indiana and Arizona. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from Saint Xavier University in 2014 and have spent over a decade supporting individuals through life’s challenges. My clinical experience spans community mental health, private practice, and school-based settings, giving me a well-rounded perspective on the diverse needs of the clients I serve. I work with adults of all ages, helping them navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, grounded in the belief that healing happens when you feel safe, heard, and supported. I focus on your strengths and goals, tailoring each session to meet you where you are. Therapy with me is a space where you can show up as your full self, without judgment. Together, we’ll build insight, develop effective coping tools, and work toward lasting, meaningful change. My hope is that you leave each session feeling more empowered, more connected, and better equipped to thrive in your daily life.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 81 ratings

Bridget Montgomery

LCPC, 13 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Welcome! Therapy is an invitation for healing and change, so congratulate yourself for actively seeking transformation in your life. My name is Bridget, founder Mind Move Therapy that provides psychotherapy, somatic movement therapy and physical health coaching. I approach therapy from a holistic- emotional, physical, cognitive perspective. I specialize in Somatics- emphasizing that the body holds emotions, trauma responses and stress so healing includes the body. My clients report positive results from therapy with me. You can overcome symptoms of trauma and stress, heal from the past and live happier and more meaningfully. I specialize in treating various traumas, including childhood trauma, abuse, loss, and PTSD. I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. I work with clients with Borderline Personality tendencies or those impacted by BPD. I work with clients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder and other somatic issues. I support clients with addiction issues. Every client walks a unique path and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I create a safe, therapeutic environment where clients have the opportunity to explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors in which to gain insight, experience shifts in emotional states and find a renewed sense of mental and physical well-being.
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Pam Davis

LCSW, 25 years of experience

Empowering

Specialties

Coping Skills
Grief
Life Transitions
+8
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been in the field of social work for more than 25 years. I obtained my MSW from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois- Chicago. With compassion, empathy and expertise, I offer a nonjudgmental space for you to share your story. I believe everyone has unique strengths and the inner resources necessary for healing/personal growth. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, blending techniques that best help you achieve your unique goals. Change can be challenging, and we will proceed at a pace in which you feel safe and supported.
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Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 21 ratings

Rachel Sharp

LCPC, 11 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+4
I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, perfectionism, and low self-esteem, among others. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based techniques. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel safe to explore your thoughts and emotions. Whether you're facing a major life transition or simply want to better understand yourself, I'm here to support you every step of the way. My work is grounded in the belief that healing happens in safe, attuned relationships. I integrate attachment theory, EMDR, psychodynamic insight, and emotion-focused techniques to help clients explore the roots of their struggles, process unresolved trauma, and build more fulfilling relationships—with themselves and others. Whether you're working through anxiety, relationship issues, childhood wounds, or overwhelming emotions, I offer a warm and collaborative space where all parts of you are welcome. I use an attachment lens to understand how early experiences shape current patterns, EMDR to target and reprocess painful memories, psychodynamic exploration to uncover unconscious dynamics, and emotion-focused work to deepen emotional awareness and resilience.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 31 ratings

Amanda Wittmer

LCPC, 6 years of experience

Solution oriented
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Art Therapist based in Illinois. I provide a culturally sensitive and trauma informed approach to therapy to provide empathy, understanding and a safe space for you to process your experiences through talk therapy or art making. I mostly work with those who have experienced childhood, religious and sexual trauma or are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 88 ratings

Diane Recob

LCSW, 13 years of experience

Intelligent
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

ADHD
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in treating simple and complex trauma, neurodivergent traits (ADHD, ASD, sensitivities) and along with general mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. I draw on a number of tools to identify and resolve the underlying events and experiences that distressing and disruptive including CBT, DBT, IFS, and EMDR and Somatic Experiencing. My belief is that you deserve to work with someone who truly understands your experience, takes action on your healing, not passively listening to you. I help my clients heal and create the change they are seeking. It is most important that you feel you are being seen and heard in a secure, safe place with no judgement. I love working with people who want to make meaningful changes in their lives so they can find the happiness they deserve!
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 29 ratings

Dawn Leatherman -Kulis

LCPC, 8 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Open-minded
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+4
I provide a collaborative and supportive space for individuals and couples navigating relationship challenges, interpersonal difficulties, marriage conflicts, stress, depression, and anxiety. My goal is to ensure that every client feels heard, validated, and—when appropriate—gently challenged in a safe and respectful environment. Together, we’ll explore your strengths and uncover the internal resources that can help you find peace amid life’s challenges. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, therapy can be a powerful tool for rediscovering joy and regaining control. Couples Therapy My work with couples focuses on: Increasing relationship satisfaction Identifying personal needs and learning to express them effectively Enhancing communication and emotional connection By fostering positive interactions and shared goals, couples often find renewed commonality and deeper intimacy. Individual Therapy I support individuals facing: Relationship issues Life transitions and stressors Caregiving challenges Grief and end-of-life concerns I have extensive experience working with the geriatric population and understand the unique pressures faced by adults caring for aging parents. My Training I am a Certified Family Trauma Professional and an EMDR-trained clinician, with specialized training in marriage, family, and trauma therapy. I bring a trauma-informed lens to all my work, ensuring that clients feel safe and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 3 ratings

Matthew Q. English

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Specialties

LGBTQ
Men's Issues
School Issues
+10
Matthew English LCSW, RYT (Registered yoga teacher) is dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. Matthew brings an expertise to his practice, with a strong background in cognitive behavioral therapy, emotion focused therapy, and mindfulness practices. He specializes in areas such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, school challenges, and trauma. Primarily working with people of color, the lgbtqia+ community, and men.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 7 ratings

Amanda Gaugler

LCSW, 8 years of experience

Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
+10
The present world can be a beautiful and intriguing place-but when dealing with day to day stressors or mental health 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.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 41 ratings

Douglas DeRhodes

LCSW, 16 years of experience

Open-minded
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Men's Issues
Mood Disorders
+10
I provide individually tailored treatment in a safe and supportive environment that draws and builds upon each person's strengths, resources, wisdom and goals. My style is collaborative, warm and interactive. I enjoy working with a range of clients from children to adults. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, healing from trauma, major life transitions, grief & loss, identity development, self-esteem difficulties, coping with medical health issues and illnesses, dual diagnosis (substance abuse and co-occurring psychiatric disorders), mindful living, and cultivating self-compassion. Using a strength-based approach, I help clients realize their inner strength to make desired life changes. I believe strongly that people can make those changes and create the life they want. I believe it's important in the therapeutic process to establish a relationship of trust, acceptance and empathy. In keeping with the belief that mental and emotional health is as vital as physical health to overall well-being, I am committed to making services available conveniently and comfortably. Appointments can be scheduled seven days a week with early morning and late evening availability.
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Offers in-person in Western Springs, IL - Accepting clients in IL
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 15 ratings

Christina Pizarro

LCSW, 8 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
As you embark on your journey, therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to explore, understand and challenge life experiences that shape our identities and perceptions of the world. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience working in the heart of Chicago, providing therapy and other clinical services to individuals struggling with severe mental illness and addiction, I approach therapy from a holistic and multicultural perspective. As a Mexican and Filipino American woman, I draw on my personal experiences to better understand how cultural factors influence our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us. My goal is to build a respectful and collaborative partnership with my clients to support them on their journey towards healing and self-discovery. I firmly believe in addressing presenting issues by understanding the whole person, rather than just focusing on the problem. Using a strengths-based approach, along with evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and psychodynamic approaches, I work with my clients to identify thought patterns, regulate emotions, and build self-awareness to foster healing and self-compassion. I earned my Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in Mental Health from the Jane Addams College of Social Work, and have worked in a variety of settings, including residential care for addiction, outpatient addiction treatment facilities, and community mental health care. My diverse experiences and training have enabled me to build a creative work space that centers the person as a whole, providing a healing space where individuals can feel heard, honored, and understood.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 42 ratings

Ken Summers

LMFT, 14 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Couples Counseling
Parenting
+10
Hello! I'm a Christian Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. I received my Master's from Capella University in Minnesota and have practiced in Illinois for 14 years. Previously, I was a licensed and ordained youth pastor for almost 24 years. I love to help couples, parents, and their children navigate through challenging life and relational issues toward restoration and health.
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Offers in-person in Bloomington, IL - Accepting clients in IL
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Wendy Taylor

LMFT, 22 years of experience

Open-minded
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Crisis Intervention
Grief
+7
Are you looking for coping skills to manage anxiety? Welcome Illinois and Indiana residents. I've been a licensed mental health therapist for 20+ years and have had a variety of different roles in the behavioral health field. I believe my personal and employment experiences over the years help to inform the way I am with clients today. Reaching out for help or trying therapy for the first time can be stressful for some due to past trauma, fear of vulnerability, trust issues, the unknown, etc. If you've made it this far, I'm glad you're pushing through the uncomfortableness in hopes of finding new skills or techniques to help improve your current situation.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 72 ratings

Christine Manuel

LCSW, 16 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
+1
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.
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Offers in-person in Burr Ridge, IL - Accepting clients in IL
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 30 ratings

Stephanie Petrey

LCPC, 24 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Foster Care/Adoption
Parenting
+10
I work with individuals, children and families and offer both long and short-term counseling. My approach is calm & thoughtful, but interactive. I enjoy utilizing a variety of therapy techniques so that each of my clients has a plan that is individualized to their goals. The work you do to learn about & make changes for yourself through therapy can truly be a rewarding experience.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 13 ratings

Bithynia Abarca

LMFT, 8 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+8
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with eight years of experience, and I am deeply passionate about the work I do. Throughout my career, I have worked in both nonprofit settings and private practice, earning a reputation for building meaningful, long-term relationships with my clients. Many clients return to me when they decide to re-engage with therapy, which speaks to the trust and connection we previously established. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating daily stressors, the challenges of past trauma, or relational distress. While I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, I am most frequently sought out by Latinas and individuals with a Christian background.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 25 ratings

Nicole Solomon

LCSW, 15 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
+2
Everyone wants healthy relationships right? Does it seem like you keep making the same mistakes that wind up ruining relationships? Do you know what relationship attachment style you have and how that affects your relationships? Let's find out! I specialize in treating unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression and PTSD that affects relationships. Undiagnosed or untreated ADHD can also play a role in unstable relationships. Do you want some coping skills for your ADHD to help you live a happier more fulfilled life? I will meet you where you are and help you grow from there! Not only will we focus on your mental health but we will also address self-care. I look forward to starting this journey with you!
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 6 ratings

Laura Lewison

LCPC, 20 years of experience

Empowering
Open-minded
Intelligent

Specialties

Depression
LGBTQ
Mood Disorders
+7
I am a solutions focused therapist with over 20 years of experience. In this time, I have worked with people from all walks of life from those who have struggle with homelessness to CEO's of companies. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, family therapy, couples therapy and the lgbtqia+ community. My therapy style is cognitive, interactive, and compassionate. I will listen to you without judgement and together we will work to reach your goals.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 13 ratings

Debbie Kahn

LCSW, 30 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who received my Bachelor's and Master's degrees at UIC in 2002. I have worked in various settings, including schools, a health department, churches, and private practice. I enjoy bringing hope and change to individuals. ​ My approach to counseling is to provide a strong therapeutic relationship tailored to your needs and goals in a safe, nonjudgmental, nurturing environment where healing can begin. I am passionate about working together to learn new tools for change when you feel overwhelmed, distressed, or stuck. I aim to create a caring environment that invites one to explore one's personal story and find healing. Therapy focuses on discussing past and current patterns and coping skills to help people gain greater self-awareness and the ability to solve problems more effectively in the future. When scheduling an appointment, we can consider other options because my availability is primarily in my private practice, and I have additional availability. Feel free to reach out if you are not able to find a time that matches your schedule.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 44 ratings

Jenelle Hoyt

LCPC, 6 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+7
My name is Jenelle Hoyt, I am an award winning Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 10+ years of experience in the helping profession. As a therapist, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem and career challenges, as well as emotional and physical trauma to cite a few. I specialize in helping individuals who are not only feeling the stressors of life but also unsure of how to cope with or change these stressors in a positive way. We will work together to create attainable goals that will be reviewed and assessed consistently to ensure that they align with the vision of who you are and want to continue to be.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 6 ratings

Paula Mathiasen

LCPC, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Spirituality
+8
I am passionate about helping people get unstuck. You are worth it and have unique strengths and purpose! I work with individuals, couples, and groups to pursue healthy relationships, personal growth, and emotional wholeness. My desire is to bring hope, guidance, and be a safe place for you to process and find solutions to your challenges. I look forward to working with you on the journey of hope and fulfillment.
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Margaret Ciomek

LCPC, 15 years of experience

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Parenting
+9
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Masters in Counseling from Loyola University, Chicago, IL. I also have a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Warsaw University, Poland. I have been practicing for over 20 years helping a variety of clients, including families with children age 2 to 18, young adults, and women in life transitions. I also worked with clients of different ages throughout their grieving process.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 7 ratings

Hannah Jurkevicius

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Life Transitions
+3
Life can be difficult, and sometimes we can get overwhelmed or lose our way. As a therapist, I can be a healthy support system to help you achieve emotion regulation by learning ways to control your emotional state and needs in various situations. I provide comfort in processing unresolved grief through psychoeducation about the 6 stages of grief (Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Acceptance, Meaning). I lend support to you through your past and current traumatic events. I also focus on family and couple conflicts by addressing specific issues and improving communication and conflict resolution. If you find yourself relating to any of these this can be the time to seek additional support. I can help children ages 4 and up individual adults, couples, and families. I offer a safe space of support, empathy, and encouragement as we work together through your healing journey to become your best possible self.
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Offers in-person in Aurora, IL - Accepting clients in IL
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 25 ratings

Jennifer Curtin

LCPC, 14 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
Hello! I am Jennifer Curtin and I am thrilled you have made the decision to focus on what matters most in this life -- you! I am a queer therapist who has had about 14 years as a private practice and outpatient therapist. I received my Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University and have invested the majority of my clinical training in working with LGBTQ+ folks, trauma and relationship systems. I use a warm, humorous and light style that incorporates science, humanness and understanding into every session. I am deeply committed to gender affirming, minority stress informed , trauma informed care. I am truly excited to work with you.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 46 ratings

Jennifer Taylor

LCPC, 29 years of experience

Warm
Empowering
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+15
"Hello! I'm a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, an expert on trauma resolution, attachment, parts work, and nervous system regulation. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy so I integrate traditional talk therapy with experiential therapies that aid in better nervous system regulation, healing, and overall relief of symptoms. Experiential, brain-based healing & somatic therapies can help accelerate change and often reduce time in counseling. I specialize in biologically based healing, which assists in resolving trauma symptoms that are frozen or stuck in the body. I have training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization & reprocessing) and am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP). I interweave these therapies and attachment-based support and repair into all my work with clients, which allows for a rich, gentle, connection-based healing approach. I have been in private practice for over 20 years, and prior to that time I worked in a variety of mental health settings. I am licensed in Illinois (LCPC), and live on the big island of Hawaii 🌺 I see clients via telehealth (self pay & insurance). Education & Certifications: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) Master of Psychology, The Adler School of Professional Psychology Bachelor of Psychology, Illinois State University Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) Transforming the Experience-Based Brain (TEB) Touch Practitioner SSP (Safe & Sound Protocol) provider
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 22 ratings

J'lessa Yelder

LCSW, 3 years of experience

Warm
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois. I received my Masters from Clark-Atlanta University and have been practicing for 3 years. I help children struggling with anxiety and depression. I help young adults and adults manage anxiety and depression by teaching coping skills and encouraging them to use them throughout their daily lives to improve their symptoms.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 2 ratings

Mary Blue

LCSW, 9 years of experience

Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
+6
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.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Dr. Bianca Clark

LCSW, 15 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Hi! My name is Dr. Bianca Clark and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have a doctorate degree in Advanced Studies in Human Behavior, I have a Bachelors and Masters degree in Social Work. My bachelors degree is from Loyola University Chicago and my masters degree is from Chicago State University. I reside in the Chicagoland area. I have worked in behavioral health, outpatient mental health, psychiatric services, and crisis. My background is in Child Welfare, Juvenile Delinquency, Juvenile Probation, and Mental Health.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 4 ratings

Kellie Meyn

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Specialties

Family Conflict
Men's Issues
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hey there! I am a LCSW based in Illinois. I recieved my Master's degree from Aurora University and have been working in the mental health field for approximately 6 years. I have been work with adult males to help them heal from trauma and learn more effective coping strategies. For the last year I have been working teens and adults to cope with life transitions and learn coping skills for anxiety and depression. I am LGBTQ friendly and gender affirming.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 6 ratings

Shauna Summers

LCPC, 13 years of experience

Direct
Solution oriented
Humorous

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+11
I work to provide a safe, non-judgmental, culturally safe space where you can share, we can identify what isn't working, and implement the best practice interventions that work toward your goals. Curiosity about why we do what we do is helpful when we need to create different habits. Therefore we work on cultivating a sense of curiosity so we can learn how to identify what isn't working in our life anymore. When we are open to new possibilities, we reduce self-imposed limitations to improve our own life experiences. When we strengthen what we are already good at, we reduce the impact of our life challenges. When we integrate newly learned skills with existing skills, we tend to feel more hopeful about our future and increase our self-confidence. These changes can lead to adopting new ways of coping, learning how to view our challenges from new perspectives and using all of this to live your best life.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 138 ratings

Tracey Thomas

LCSW, 31 years of experience

Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+3
Hello, I'm Tracey. Did you know that people do one of two things when they feel like no one is listening? The person either repeats oneself over and over or just stops talking. Did you know that research supports that any person surviving an adverse or traumatic experience will need on average about 7 times to tell their story to begin the healing process? Do you feel tied to a toxic dynamic with one or both of your parents despite you being an adult that has left you living in the past and feeling like a burden, not measuring up, chasing that parent in hopes of a glimmer of insight while finding many of your current life domains are plagued with patterns of problems? Then you are in the right place. I counsel and coach individuals and couples on how these historical, upbringing-related thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are immobilizing you and your relationships with others. People pleasing, perfectionism, avoidance, and anxiety from worry about what others think of you are just some of the ways it can show up in adulthood. Whatever you are experiencing, from trauma to depression to anxiety to addictive behaviors, it does not need to go with you moving forward. You deserve and should be encouraged and supported to be You as You Define You according to your values and beliefs. I'm ready to start helping you find You. We will use a holistic approach that encompasses various approaches, but seeks to take the weight of the world off your shoulders and allows for being human. You know it's time to get started and overdue. So, let's get going on taking You Back.
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Leslie Zarker

LCPC, 7 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+7
I’m a therapist who values authenticity, connection, and collaboration. I know how overwhelming life’s challenges can feel, and I’m passionate about helping people find practical tools and supportive strategies to navigate stress, relationships, and personal growth. I enjoy working with parents and working adults, creating a safe and compassionate space where you can feel understood and empowered to make meaningful changes.
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Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 20 ratings

Victoria Pieper

LCSW, 8 years of experience

Holistic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+4
Sometimes the body is the first indicator that it's time to deal with our trauma. When this happens, the feelings that arise can be overwhelming and scary. The good news is, you don't have to deal with them alone. In the words of Bessel van der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score: “Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.” My role in this process is to help you understand the origin of these thoughts and gently escort you into a new future. Need to talk about issues of trauma, depression or anxiety? Feel like you’re drowning amidst all the recent changes in your life? If so, I’d be happy to explore this with you further. I help adults from diverse backgrounds and cultures deal with different life transitions and manage self esteem issues. I have a trauma focused background and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I primarily use the tools of compassion, psychoeducation, mindfulness, and problem solving to offer new perspectives on dealing with intergenerational trauma. In many cases, certain behaviors unknowingly are repeated between parents and their children. In session, we address your childhood trauma by discussing what happened, and processing your past and present feelings. Aside from family trauma repetitions, dealing with all the recent changes in the world can also be a source of stress and anxiety. When we meet, we’ll dive into all these stressors and establish a plan for self-care that will assist you in letting go of negative thoughts and feelings and move towards a space of more optimism.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 68 ratings

Megan Bigler Tafolla

LCSW, 3 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Grief
+10
As a licensed clinical social worker, I am committed to collecting evidenced based "tools for my toolbox" to aid those grappling with finding the new normal after their world has shifted. I most love helping people find language to describe their losses, often when there has been difficulty finding the words, inspiring people to find hope again, and facilitate the development of a plan to move forward in a way that both honors their experiences and embraces the future. I take an action-oriented, collaborative approach to therapy. I utilize a combination of psycho education, storytelling, and evidenced-based interventions to offer meaningful insight to support clients’ healing. I strongly believe that rock bottom is the foundation upon which we can rebuild our lives. We do regular check-ins to review progress along the way. Our goal is not to change the past, but instead to find some relief from symptoms that impact daily functioning. I will solicit feedback regularly during sessions for takeaways to gauge progress and curate treatment interventions based on what is most engaging and productive for the individual client.
Virtual
Next available on

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Illinois rather than a city like Chicago?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Illinois from Rockford to Springfield! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Illinois.

Will my therapist take insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.