IFS Therapy Therapists in Chicago, IL

Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy is a transformative approach that helps individuals connect with and harmonize the different “parts” of their inner world. By cultivating self-compassion and understanding, IFS empowers clients to heal past wounds and navigate emotional conflicts with greater clarity. With 19 IFS-trained therapists in Chicago, IL, you can access expert support tailored to fostering self-awareness, balance, and personal growth. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently accepting new clients, offering timely availability for this unique and empowering therapeutic journey.

Availability updated: 5/22/2026

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Eating Disorders
Life Transitions
+8
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and co-founder of Sunrise Therapy LLC. Over the past three years, I’ve worked in nonprofit, outpatient, and intensive care settings, supporting people through high-pressure transitions. My focus is helping people slow things down enough to understand what they’re carrying and move at a pace that feels safe for their nervous system, so change can actually hold.
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New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+10
Hello! My name is Kamaria Excell and I am a therapist, yoga teacher, and floral designer passionate about supporting you on the journey of living a life that is truly your own. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and focused on creating real lasting change versus temporary bandaid fixes. I support clients in better understanding their inner world and all parts of themselves so that they can divest from old coping skills and lean into a life that is pleasurable, because the most powerful act of creation on this life journey will always be the act of creating ourselves.
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Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+7
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults and young adults navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful and self-aware, but still feel stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand or know how to change. My approach is relational, collaborative, and tailored to you. I integrate EMDR and parts-based work to help clients better understand themselves, process meaningful experiences, and feel more grounded in how they move through their lives. Together, we’ll focus on making sense of what’s coming up for you - both in the present and beneath the surface - so that change feels more natural, sustainable, and aligned with who you are.
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Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
+7
As a trauma-informed therapist and practice owner, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the impact of their trauma, especially family and childhood trauma/abuse, anxiety, and major life adjustments. Therapy is a collaborative partnership and I aim to provide a trusting and safe environment where you feel supported by your clinician. I look forward to meeting you and seeing if we are a good fit for on another.
VirtualAvailable
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New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
I work with clients who struggle with anxiety or depression due to relationships or family issues. During the first few sessions, we'll dive into the issues you are most concerned about and collaborate on a plan with goals to help get you back on track. Many clients experience small improvements within the first month of therapy and sizable improvements down the road.
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Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello and welcome. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling to manage stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it on your own. I provide a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable opening up at your own pace. Whether you’re navigating trauma, substance use, depression, anxiety, or self-esteem challenges, my goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and supported. With nearly 20 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certification as an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, I work with individuals to build practical skills for healing and growth. Together, we’ll focus on self-awareness, emotional regulation, healthy boundaries, communication, and lasting change. Reaching out can feel difficult, but it’s an important first step. I’m here to walk alongside you and support you as you move toward greater clarity, healing, and emotional well-being I invite you to schedule your first session so we can begin this journey together!
VirtualAvailable
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Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+5
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a diverse background in mental health care across various settings and states. Outpatient therapy and telehealth therapy services are my primary focus. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, understanding, and respect for each client's unique experiences and emotions. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where individuals can explore their challenges, build resilience, and work toward meaningful change.
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Authentic
Challenging
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
+3
Welcome! There is no beauty in "settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living." It is time to be courageous and see what might be causing you to settle. In the midst, I will use cognitive behavioral because I know it therapy works in actual clinical practice. While it may require hope, perseverance, and patience, you'll be glad you did! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Illinois, Colorado, and Florida. I received a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northwestern University (NU). I am trained with a systemic view of change, using empirically-based information that the profession and I know works. Additionally, I have a Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling, focusing on Marriage and Family from Liberty University, obtaining clinical training in faith-based solutions. The convergence of ideologies from these two schools helps my aspirational core values of acceptance, appreciation, diversity and inclusion.
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Open-minded
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

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

Specialties

Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+12
"Aloha! I'm a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, an expert on trauma & complex trauma (CPTSD) resolution, developmental trauma, attachment & attachment repair, parts work, and nervous system regulation. I believe in a trauma-informed, holistic approach to therapy, and 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 30 years, and have worked in a variety of mental health settings. I am licensed in Illinois (LCPC), and live on the big island of Hawaii 🌺 I see all 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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Empowering
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+1
Hi! I am Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have been in the field since 2016. I have a passion for helping people release stress and trauma being stored in the body. I enjoy working with couples and individuals from a trauma and dissociation-informed lens. I have experience working with PTSD, CPTSD, OSDD, and DID. I integrate evidence-based practices, including somatic work, EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, and Ego State Therapy. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I also have experience integrating faith in sessions for those who are interested.
VirtualAvailable
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Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+3
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), my mission is to guide individuals on a journey back to their innate wisdom, compassion, peace, and confidence. I often think of the story of Michelangelo, who described sculpting as the act of chipping away marble to reveal the beauty already within. This metaphor beautifully captures the counseling process: together, we identify and remove the barriers obscuring your true SELF, allowing your inner brilliance to shine through. My approach is rooted in deep compassion for the human experience. I bring to our work a blend of trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices, enriched by certifications in Mind-Body Bridging, Cognitively-Based Compassion Training, and Cultivating Emotional Balance. I draw from powerful therapeutic frameworks, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Mindful Self-Compassion, and Compassionate Inquiry, tailoring each session to meet your unique needs.
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Solution oriented
Warm

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.
VirtualAvailable
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Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am a licensed mental health and addiction counselor with a background in the psychobiology of addiction and a strong focus on helping individuals create meaningful, lasting change. My work blends evidence-based therapy with a trauma-informed, nervous-system-aware approach, recognizing that healing often involves more than insight alone. I am Level 1 Trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and use parts-based work to help clients understand internal patterns with curiosity and compassion rather than self-judgment. I am also a Certified Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) and Rest & Restore Protocol provider through Unyte Listening Therapies, offering listening-based interventions that support nervous system regulation, emotional resilience, and a greater sense of safety and connection—particularly for individuals impacted by trauma, anxiety, or chronic stress. My therapeutic style is collaborative, supportive, and individualized. I work primarily with adults navigating addiction, emotional regulation challenges, relational difficulties, and life transitions. Together, we focus on increasing self-awareness, strengthening internal resources, and building skills that support sustainable change both inside and outside of therapy.
VirtualOffers in-person in Kankakee, IL - Accepting clients in ILAvailable
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Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+12
Hi! My name is Marta, Why just survive when we can thrive? This is the question we need to ask ourselves when thinking about starting therapy. I have dedicated my career to help answer this question, with over six years experience working within a variety of specialties and populations. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor that has worked extensively with individuals struggling with relationship dissatisfaction and other relational issues, depression, anxiety, anger and emotion management, emotional eating, panic attacks, trauma, struggles with self-esteem, stress-management and burnout, difficulties with parenting or co-parenting, career related hurdles and work dissatisfaction, adult ADHD, OCD, and intrusive thoughts. I work with adults trying to navigate life’s hurdles, and am very well versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and a variety of other methods, therapies, and techniques to help you achieve your goals. I take a creative and holistic approach with treatment to make sure we nourish our mind-body connection and cater to each individual clients needs using a client centered approach in addition to other techniques. My focus is on personal fulfillment, growth, and change and I am also a huge advocate for self-care. Whether you're dealing with overwhelming emotions, a lack of balance, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. It can be hard to ask for support, and even more difficult to open up to someone new, and this is a great first step! Together, we can work towards finding the root of your struggles, and move towards cultivating a full and abundant life. So now we ask, are we ready to thrive?
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Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi, I’m Nancy Paz Welsh, a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in Maryland, Virginia, and Illinois. As a proud second-generation American of Salvadoran descent, I’m passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and normalizing therapy as an essential part of overall well-being. I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, curiosity, and evidence-based support. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we’ll build on your strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and foster greater self-awareness to support lasting, meaningful growth. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My therapeutic style is warm and collaborative, combining empathy with gentle accountability to help you make progress at your own pace. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I’m here to meet you exactly where you are—without judgment. Whether you’re overwhelmed by emotions or simply seeking more balance, I’ll walk alongside you with compassion and curiosity as you move toward the life you want. Outside of therapy, I’m a wife, mom to two toddlers, and dog mom of three—so life is rarely quiet! I enjoy reading, video games, trying new foods, and teaching my kids about their Salvadoran roots (yes, they’re already pupusa fans). My self-care must-haves? Coffee strong enough to launch a spaceship, food that makes me dance, podcasts that keep me grounded, and laughs that double as ab workouts! If you’re ready to explore new perspectives and make meaningful change, I’d be honored to support you on that journey!
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Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+10
I’m Heather Freed, LCSW, founder of Freed Minds. As a therapist, former executive, wife, and mom, I understand how easy it is for capable women to lose themselves in responsibility, relationships, and the pressure to keep it all together. I specialize in helping high-responsibility women move beyond burnout, overfunctioning, and self-neglect through holistic, trauma-informed therapy that supports healing of mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to help you build a life that feels more peaceful, grounded, and true to who you are.
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Authentic
Warm
Direct

Specialties

Addiction
Family Therapy
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I work with people who feel overwhelmed by emotions, stress, or past pain. My role is to listen, understand, and teach you simple, powerful tools from therapies like DBT, CBT, and others. We will work together to help you feel calmer, think more clearly, and build better relationships. The goal is to help you take control and build a life you truly want and value. I believe in your strength to change, and I'm here to guide and support you every step of the way.
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New to Grow

Specialties

ADHD
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+10
Welcome to the Studio in Situ | a creative space made anywhere. I'm EC an Art Therapist (MAAT & MFA), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified DV Counselor by way of Chicago, IL & Kansas City, MO. Prior to achieving ABC soup status I identified as an artist, designer and communiity activator. My work exists at the intersection of radical self-expression, relational aesthetics, and manufactured systems. For more than a decade, I have worked with individuals navigating the human condition in the context of a sublime horror we know as the American dream. I work especially well with creativly curious, intellectually restless, entrepreneurs, and those who have felt alienated by social roles, institutions, or purely medicalized approaches to mental health. Many of my clients are perceptive, skilled and capable, yet feel fragmented, overextended, creatively blocked, or disconnected from achieving self-actualization. My approach is collaborative, experiential, and structurally aware. I believe psychological health cannot be separated from holistic wellness, environment, labor, relationships, embodiment, culture, or material conditions. Together we examine not only symptoms, but the broader natural & constructed ecosystems we inhabit. We investigate mobility through social and emotional "life worlds", the narratives one has inherited, our survival strategies, what we find valuable, beautiful and how we make meaning with a life's worth of raw material. Alongside clinical practice, I have developed community-based art and advocacy projects with justice system-impacted individuals, survivors of violence, as well as alternative labor communities. Across all of this work runs a shared question: how do human beings maintain dignity, imagination, agency, community and connection under difficult conditions?
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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 Illinois. 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.

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 happens during the first therapy 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.