Therapists in Illinois

At SAM Counseling & Wellness, we believe that healing begins with feeling seen, supported, and understood. Our mission is to help clients build resilience, restore balance, and rediscover hope through education, one mindful step at a time. We believe that therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and practical. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, strengths-based approaches, and attachment-informed interventions to help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we explore how past experiences shape present patterns, identify healthier ways of coping, and develop practical tools that foster resilience, emotional wellness, and lasting change. My goal is to create a supportive space where clients feel empowered to heal, grow, and thrive—not just manage symptoms.

As a licensed clinical social worker with a rich and varied background, I bring extensive experience and expertise to support individuals, couples, and families on their journey toward improved mental well-being. From my private practice in Naperville, Illinois, I offer personalized therapy, drawing upon my diverse clinical experiences spanning over two decades. My commitment to fostering inclusive education and promoting diversity and social justice extends beyond the therapy room, as evidenced by my involvement in community education and advocacy efforts. With a focus on empowerment and resilience, I strive to empower clients with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate life's challenges and thrive.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and completed my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology 18 years ago. Honestly, I can’t see myself doing anything else. My experience includes working with kids, teens, and adults; people with traumatic brain injury; and developmental and/or intellectual disability in community mental health, state-based inpatient services, and hospital settings for crisis assessments. I have a passion for helping others, and I want to be there to support people dealing with depression, anxiety, past trauma, grief, or anything else being experienced. My strength comes from knowing God has called me into this career, and I genuinely want the best life for you.

Are you facing challenges and unsure of where to turn? Are you seeking a safe place to talk and be heard? Perhaps you are facing sleepless nights, anxious feelings, sadness or wrestling with a stressful situation. Regardless of which of these concerns you may be facing, Reflections of Renewal Counseling Services is here to help. I help individuals to identify unhealthy patterns, coping mechanisms, and negative cycles of behavior. Our sessions will consist of focusing on identifying areas of change and building solutions to help your best self shine through. In our work together I will provide client- centered care to help you rebuild confidence as well as empowering you to make life choices that will sustain your progress. All services are provided from the comfort and convenience of your home. My ideal client is 21 years of age and older. Help is just a click away, don’t hesitate to message me for assistance.

Working as a counselor within a myriad of settings and diverse populations for the last 16 years has allowed me to become the therapist that has established a safe, empathetic, and knowledgeable space for you to grow. My clinical expertise includes having worked within juvenile residential and outpatient, adult outpatient, hospital, private practice, and adult correctional settings. This experience has allowed me to work with individuals presenting with life stressors, changes, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, issues related to legal issues/incarceration, trauma, domestic violence, and sexual abuse.

We all need a bit of support in our lives at one time or another. My goal is to partner with my clients to be this support. My name is Jennifer wolf, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience in a setting with diverse client populations. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to set goals and make positive changes in their lives. I assist many clients with stress, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, executive functioning and career difficulties.

Welcome to Divine Mind Services and Consulting, PLLC- “I’m a therapist specializing in evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to help individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. My focus is on creating a safe, supportive space where we can work together to build healthier relationships, manage emotions, and create meaningful change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or personal growth, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to move forward with confidence.”

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.

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 a Master of Social Work from Aurora University and hold the title of Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) and a Certified Domestic Violence Professional (CDVP). I employ an eclectic range of therapeutic modalities that are implemented through a trauma-informed lens, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In my leisure time, I enjoy socializing with my family and friends, meditation, nature walks, camping, gaming, and engaging in self-care activities. Favorite Quotes: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu. “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far – go together.” – Unknown.

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 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.

Hello & Welcome, I am Dr. Watson and I am happy to see you seeking services and reclaiming your joy. I commend you for taking the first step to improving your life. As a licensed psychotherapist in IL, AZ, CO, KY, ME, CT, DE, and OH. I have 30 years of experience working with teens, adults, and seniors, I look forward to partnering with you through your transition and supporting you in getting back into your journey of life. I specialize in working with people in transition including integrating better balance, managing life stressors, addressing health challenges, rediscovering wellness, and mid-life changes. Other areas of specialty include grief and loss, women’s issues, post-partum adjustment, multiethnic identity development/integration, student-athlete balance, and generalized life struggles. First responders, partners and families of first responders are specialized populations I help by addressing needs, increasing understanding, and strengthening support. Together we will explore obstacles and hurdles while discovering manageable strength-based changes that will improve your whole self - mind, body, and spirit. I partner with you on your journey and assist you in reclaiming your best self. Through mind-body connection and holistic approaches, I embrace creative therapeutic tools including talk, movement, music, art, getting in nature, and other creative avenues to ease expression of the challenges while finding your strengths and successes. My goal is to assist you in finding and retrieving your purpose while living with meaning. My clinical practice motto is “Love YOUR Journey ~ Live YOUR Life.”

Dr. Opelt earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University after completing his Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology: Community Counseling from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. During his graduate training, he earned certifications in Trauma Counseling and Multicultural Knowledge Basis in Mental Health Practices, and a graduate minor in Integrated Behavioral Health. Dr. Opelt has completed postdoctoral fellowships in research in Rehabilitation Psychology, with an emphasis on Multiple Sclerosis, at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and in clinical Rehabilitation and Pain Psychology at MedStar Health National Rehabilitation Hospital. He has focused his clinical work on adults who have concerns about insomnia, cognitive impairment, addiction, LGBT+ concerns, caregiver support, transplants, burn survivors, cancer, musculoskeletal diseases like MS and Parkinson’s disease, and those who have amputations. He is a licensed psychologist in Maryland and Illinois.

I am a bilingual Licensed therapist. I'm fluent in Spanish and English. As a child of immigrants, I grew up between Chicago and Mexico, so I got the opportunity to be exposed to both cultures. I relocated to the Houston area in 2010 after receiving a great job opportunity. As a therapist, I help my clients to work on their personal growth and to learn better ways to deal with difficult transitions.

Something brought you here. Maybe it is a specific problem that needs solving, or maybe it is a general sense that things could be better. Either way, reaching out takes courage, and you deserve to work with someone who takes that decision seriously. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief and various types of life transitions. My work is grounded in deep compassion, hope and the belief that every person has inherent worth. My approach is warm, direct, practical and tailored to what you need. For clients who desire it, I integrate Christian principles and faith-based perspectives into our sessions, offering a space where your spiritual journey can be interwoven into your healing and growth. I draw from psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches as well as from cognitive behavioral therapy. But honestly, the research is clear: the most important factor in therapy is the relationship between therapist and client. And that is what I seek to prioritize in my work with people. I believe in this work because I have seen what happens when people get the right support. It changes everything. Outside the office I am an outdoor enthusiast, a Bible nerd and a firm believer that rest is productive. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience, supporting people through various stages of life. I have worked in a variety of contexts over the course of my career including community mental health, corrections, private practice and the Veterans Administration. Let's meet for a free 15 minute consultation to see if we might be a good team to address your concerns.

Hello! I’m Jessica, a licensed therapist! I have been in the behavioral health field since 2011 and have been licensed as a therapist since 2015. I have extensive experience in treating trauma, co-occurring disorders, as well as, various mental health and substance use disorders. I’m trained in EMDR which is a specialized approach to address trauma. I believe in a very person center approach, meaning you’re in the drivers seat and I’m the passenger helping guide you. I will meet you where your at and assist in being very goal oriented and structured in the approach. I value giving and receiving feedback to ensure the therapeutic relationship is strong! If you’re ready to identify and focus in on specific areas of your life you’d like to see change, I’m here to help you on your journey.

Do you feel stuck in a pattern that is negatively impacting your overall wellness? Just as important as the "why" is the "what" aspect of the mind. What we think, what we feel and what we believe are all intertwined with our behavior. Exploring the thoughts and beliefs that underpin certain actions can lead to profound self-awareness and personal growth. In my interactions with clients, I have witnessed the transformative power of uncovering and challenging deep-seated beliefs that no longer serve them. While patterns and commonalities may emerge among individuals, it is crucial to remember that each person's mind is a unique landscape. What works for one may not work for another, and it is my duty as a clinician to adapt the plan of care accordingly. As a therapist and health coach, I incorporate a holistic (mind/body) approach.

I am a calm and compassionate individual who takes an interactive approach to therapy. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel truly heard, understood, and valued. Together, we will explore your concerns, identify meaningful solutions, and work collaboratively to help you navigate challenges and achieve your personal goals. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a background in Psychology and Sociology, I will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our sessions. I’m also certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid, a training that focuses on anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health challenges our youth face every day.

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 20 years and have a wide variety of experiences working with clients. I am certified in DBT and CBT and have training in ACT, motivational interviewing and trauma treatment. I find great fulfillment in partnering with clients in order to help them find the life they wish to live. I focus on what the client seeks and work to develop practical skills to help improve emotional balance, better relationships and more awareness of the present moment.

In my clinical work, I gain perspective and understanding of real-life challenges of clients that have experienced personal struggles. My clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their life issues. The goal is to best support the client to recognize what they need out of therapy.

Whether you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or are just looking for a change, therapy is a starting point to offer a safe supportive space to better understand what you are needing to guide you through. I am a licensed counselor with over ten years of experience working with people to offer a compassionate and collaborative space to make lasting, meaningful change.

Welcome to my profile! I am a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a deep commitment to client-centered care. With over a decade of dedicated service in the VA system, as well as over 30 years of work in mental health and child welfare, I offer a steady, trauma-informed perspective for individuals navigating life's complexities. My practice is built on a foundation of experience and deep listening, providing a safe, calm environment where you can work toward your goals at a pace that feels right for you. I use evidence based treatment for conditions such as PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, including CBT for Insomnia, CBT for depression, CPT for PTSD, as well as talk therapy, all to help address your concerns.

I believe that meaningful change starts with clarity, insight, and a plan. I help people navigate trauma, substance use, life transitions, and identity shifts with a calm, focused approach. I bring a strategic mindset to therapy—always looking beneath the surface to understand patterns, build structure, and support long-term growth. Whether you're processing deep emotional wounds or trying to make sense of a major life change, I offer a space that’s thoughtful, nonjudgmental, and grounded in evidence-based care.

I truly want to understand and align with my clients, to provide a unique healing experience, and help my clients to gain insights that they may not have had or experienced before. I help my clients develop coping skills that are unique to them, setting them up for the best possible outcome, because the therapy is tailored to their needs.

My name is Chloe and I am a licensed clinical social worker that has been working in the field for 8 years. I have been working with adults of all ages with main focus on anxiety, depression, PTSD, and women's issues. I take on a trauma informed approach with all of my clients. I take a client focused approach to work on their goals and break the stigmas of Mental health and seeking therapy. It can be difficult to start the journey of exploring ourselves with mental health support and I am here to help support and guide folks through this process.

I’m Nydia, a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of experience. I offer a warm, affirming space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. My compassionate, collaborative approach helps people explore their emotions, recognize their strengths, heal old wounds, and create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for them. Together, we build self-awareness, confidence, balance, and hope.

Hi I'm Regina Do you know that everyone feels overwhelmed; especially now. Balancing family, work demands, and life is challenging. Everyone experiences these things differently and may need some reminding of their own strengths. I am a highly trained therapist with many years of experience helping clients realize their own potential. My approach is filtered through a culturally rich and ethnically diverse lens. I'm gentle, empathic and meet my clients where they are at. Building upon past coping mechanisms will enable you to develop and find more effective ways of managing life stressors. Look, I get that everyone has some level of depression and anxiety. There are many interventions we can use from the traditional methods such as cognitive behavioral and solution-focused to the latest smart phone apps. I recognize that it will be hard work! But, through your hard work will be where true success comes.

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

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

You deserve an opportunity to feel supported by having your thoughts and feelings be acknowledged. Throughout the course of life, we may experience mental health challenges that arise unexpectedly. Allow yourself to heal from those challenges and grow towards the future with the support that therapy provides. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am invested in my clients whole self by guiding them into controlling their narrative and becoming their own author. I obtained my MSW at Governors State University in 2019 with a specialization in children and families.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker with experience in both private practice and inpatient hospital settings. I enjoy building strong, positive relationships with my clients and using humor to help foster connection in session. I’m human too — I strive to be a relatable and approachable therapist, creating an open, collaborative, honest, and supportive space where you can be yourself without filtering.

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

Life can look completely fine on the outside while feeling exhausting on the inside. You may be carrying anxiety, trauma, people pleasing, self-doubt, or simply the weight of trying to hold everything together. If you're looking for a therapist who is genuine, down-to-earth, and willing to meet you where you are, you're in the right place. Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially if this is your first time. You don't have to have everything figured out before reaching out. If you're ready for a therapist who will listen, laugh with you when appropriate, challenge you gently, and help you make meaningful changes, I'd love to meet you. Clients who come to me are strong, and often need a compassionate, listening ear of someone who "gets it." Perhaps you're someone who has never seen a therapist, or maybe you are a seasoned pro. Either way, my goal is to help you better understand yourself, develop healthier patterns, and move toward the life you want. Welcome. I am here for you!

We all have different life experiences that can create conflict and stress. It can be confusing to navigate. I am an individual who has lived experience with many different types of conflict that includes trauma, medical neglect and more. With perspective from these experiences and the insight from my educational background, I can provide mindful guidance to assist you on your journey. I am ready to meet you where you are and together, we'll develop practical tools to help you feel more confident navigating challenges, strengthen your resilience, and create lasting positive change. Through therapeutic strategies and interventions, that are designed to meet your specific needs, we can turn the stress and conflict into enrichment in your life.

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.

You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois, I’m here to help you navigate life’s obstacles with compassion, understanding, and support. My background includes extensive experience in trauma-informed community mental health, where I’ve worked with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds and at various stages of life. My approach is authentic, collaborative, and strengths-based. Together, we’ll work to build hope, recognize your unique strengths, and develop practical tools to manage anxiety, stress, and difficult emotions. My goal is to help you create meaningful change—shifting unhelpful patterns, finding relief from distress, and moving toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an act of courage and self-care. You’re worth the effort, and I’d be honored to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth.

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.

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 as well as Florida. 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 have worked as a therapist for over 8 years, serving in both private practice and community mental health settings. I graduated with my masters degree in social work from Florida International University in 2016 and I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish. Throughout my career, I have worked with many diverse populations, including individuals who have been incarcerated, struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, personality disorders , substance use disorders and an array of phase of life problems.

If you have seen the movie “Groundhog Day” starring Bill Murray as Phil, you would say it is a comedy. But it is more. He finally breaks out of his dull, repetitive life not by changing his surroundings or anyone else; he changes himself. Just like Phil, if you don’t change something, nothing will change. That is the purpose of counseling: to help you try something different, to change something about yourself, to help you become the best YOU. Whether you are in a tough spot or just have issues you want to address, I am here to help. I am a licensed clinical counselor and a licensed marriage and family counselor. I have 30+ years of experience treating: • Addictions • Mental illnesses • Depression • Trauma and abuse recovery • Anger management and more If I can’t help, I will connect you with someone who can. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be looking for and help build the life you so deeply deserve. I currently have daytime openings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for video or online appointments. Starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, and scary all at the same time. Congratulations on taking the first step by reading this. Areas of focus: • Stress, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Paranoia • Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Family of Origin Issues, Career difficulties, Workplace Issues • Grief, Self-esteem, Life Purpose, Coaching • Coping with life changes, Aging and Geriatric Issues, Men's Issues, Midlife Crisis, Young Adult Issues • Codependency, Control Issues, Domestic Violence • Drug and Alcohol Addiction • Forgiveness, Money and Financial Issues Clinical therapy approaches: • Client-Centered • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) • Existential • Solution-Focused • Systems Perspective. License information: • IL Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor 180000552 • IL Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 166000131

I have been an LCSW for 6 years. I’ve worked in a variety of settings from child welfare to healthcare. My favorite areas of work include grief & loss, navigating medical diagnosis, and college aged individuals! I would describe my style as laid back but direct. I use a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, solution focused, and EMDR if appropriate.

I use soulful authenticity to teach skills and invite clients to experience themselves differently. I create a safe but no-nonsense space where people can be real about their struggles, laugh when needed, while still digging deep into the roots of their pain. Insightful, relational, and spiritually grounded, you will gain a compassionate guide who will hold space for your wounds and challenge you to break unhealthy and unwanted cycles.

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.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois, North Carolina, and Connecticut. I am registered to do telehealth in South Carolina and Florida. I have over 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience supporting individuals through mental health challenges, trauma, addiction, and life transitions. As a Mexican and Filipino American woman, I bring a culturally informed approach that honors the impact of identity, community, and lived experience on healing. 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 work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep respect for each person’s story. I draw from evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy while focusing on strengths and self-awareness. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or seeking clarity, my goal is to create a space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered. You are valued.

With 17 years of experience in diverse therapeutic settings, I bring both depth and perspective to my work as a psychotherapist. My training is rooted in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with additional expertise in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Over the course of my career, I have had the privilege of helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, stress, and the complexities of relationships. I have a particular interest in supporting women’s mental health, drawing on my clinical knowledge and life experience to create a therapeutic space that is both compassionate and effective. I offer a mature, steady presence—one that balances warmth with skill—to guide clients toward growth, resilience, and meaningful change.

Life can be complicated, let's sort through it together! Hi! I'm Emily, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with clients in both Illinois and Ohio. I believe therapy should be a place where you can show up exactly as you are, without fear of judgment. In our work together, we'll celebrate your successes just as much as we'll work through your struggles, and I'll help you challenge unhelpful thought patterns while honoring the experiences that brought you here. We might even share a laugh along the way! My background is in medical and oncology based social work. In my work, I support children, adolescents, young adults, and families as they navigate serious illness, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and major life transitions. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and strive to create a space where clients of ALL identities feel respected, welcomed, and supported. I earned both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work, with a concentration in Mental Health, from Loyola University Chicago.

With a BA from Tulane University and an MSW from the University of Illinois-Chicago, I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) since 2000. My professional journey has been deeply rewarding, focusing on supporting individuals facing chronic illness, hospice care, depression, and anxiety. I utilize a strength-based approach combined with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to empower my clients. Throughout my career, I have developed a special affinity for working with older adults. My experience at Lutheran General Hospital and Alexian Brothers Medical Center, where I worked in case management and geropsychiatry, has honed my skills in addressing the unique challenges faced by this population. My passion lies in helping my clients navigate the complexities of loss and life transitions. I am committed to providing compassionate and effective psychotherapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

I’m Lauren Dircks, LCSW, a licensed therapist in Illinois with immediate openings. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or life transitions and longing for a safe space to turn? My passion is creating a supportive, empowering space where you feel truly seen as you heal and grow. Along with talk therapy, I offer EMDR for trauma recovery. I welcome teens, adults, seniors, and caregivers from all walks of life, offering a safe, inclusive space to be your authentic self. I support clients with anxiety, depression, grief, LGBTQ+ needs, perinatal care, dementia and caregiver stress, relationship conflict, anger, stress, self-esteem, and life transitions.

I believe healing happens when you feel safe, understood, and empowered. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, women's issues, infertility, and spiritual struggles. My approach is warm, collaborative, and holistic, blending evidence-based therapies like CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness while honoring each client's values and goals. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for change, I'll meet you with compassion and practical tools to help you move forward.