Book 100+ of the best Trauma and PTSD therapists in Illinois

Hi this is Carol. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in eight states. My career started in Pennsylvania where I attended Chestnut Hill College and received my Master's in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy Option. It continued in upstate Pennsylvania and New York where I attended SUNY University of Buffalo and received my Master of Social Work Degree. I capped those off with a Psy.D. from Cal Southern University, Magnum Cum Laude 2012. I hold an LCSW in PA, VA, NC, TX, and LI. I hold an LISW-CP in South Carolina, and LICSW in RI and MA. I facilitate stress reduction meditations once weekly on an internet platform for Mindful Leaders. I am a certified AADC in South Carolina. I am trained in EMDR methods including their substance and pain control protocols. All licensures and certifications are current.

Hi I'm Shan :) ! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who's been working as a therapist since 2018. I'm big hearted, non judgmental and believe in the healing power of authenticity. I've worked with individuals of all ages on a wide scope of issues and strongly believe that I learn and grow alongside each and every person I work with.

Hello, and thank you for checking out my profile. I have worked with clients since 2009 and graduated with a master's in counseling in 2011. I have worked with in several clinical settings, addictions facilities, and with Child Protection Services. I also opened my private practice in 2014 and have worked with many multicultural clients presenting various concerns. I have a family of my own and have travelled extensively giving me vast multicultural experiences.

Motto: "Its okay to not be okay." "Everyone needs a listening ear." We all need help from time to time. I envision my practice as a mental health community where all people are capable of change. Far too often, people are seen as deficient and lacking what it takes to be healthy and happy. I understand that everyone is unique and different and that people are shaped by their experiences and circumstances. You are the expert in your life and I am just here to assist you. You have the answers within you. Sometimes we just need a little help to eliminate negative thoughts and destructive behavior that can become an obstacle in our lives. My expertise areas include working with individuals with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, infertility/fertility issues, and POC (people of color).

Hello! I am a licensed therapist (LMHC in Indiana, LCPC in Illinois, and LPC in Michigan). I received my master's in Counseling Psychology from North Park University in Chicago and have been practicing for 8 years. I help adults that are struggling with anxiety, have a history of trauma, or are experiencing perinatal mental health symptoms, to create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.

Welcome! I'm an LCSW-BACS and Louisiana native who practices in both, Texas & Louisiana. I’ve worked with a variety of clinical presentations, in various clinical settings. I have experience working with children, youth, adults, veterans and families. The settings in which I’ve practiced include intense inpatient, clinic, substance use disorder treatment, mental health rehabilitation, correctional rehabilitation facility and school settings. I'm EMDR trained and a recently Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I collaboratively assist clients with improving their self-esteem and self-worth, processing trauma, managing depression and anxiety, challenging negative thought processes, emotion dysregulation, and processing symptoms of grief and mood disorders. This is a collaborative therapeutic process that allows fostering healthy intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships, resolving symptoms of grief and trauma, modifying negative internal narratives, managing anxiety and depression, decreasing emotion dysregulation and dissociating, and fostering one's sense of self. I've worked with adults, families and adolescents who experienced anxiety, depression, family transitions, trauma wounds, anxiety, low self-esteem, PTSD, LGTBQIA transitions, substance use, bipolar mood disorders, personality disorders and several other life challenges etc. I have been so honored to be present throughout my client's journeys of growth, if only to help unburden them from internal suffering. I strive to be both non-judgmental, and collaborative, while challenging those that fear based responses to the environment.

I have a dedicated 24 years of social services experience, with 14 years of outpatient clinical experience. I started my career as a mentor for youth, in local non-for-profit programs. I then advanced to other comprehensive roles, with interchangeable titles, that ultimately focused on youth development and mentorship. I received my BA in Psychology at Purdue University & MA at the University of Chicago, School of Social Administration. Immediately, upon the end of graduate school, I began my experience with outpatient mental health therapy. Since, I have fulfilled a spectrum of diversified clinical roles, that include home-based, outpatient, inpatient, and telehealth therapy for vast developmental range- from early childhood to late adulthood. This includes specialty treatment with various therapy modalities, such as CBT, ACT, DBT, PST.

Hello, I am licensed in California, Illinois, and Missouri. I have experience in helping teens, adults, couples, families, veterans, and military personnel with stress and anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of shame, blame, or judgment. You are encouraged to take the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, it takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Professional experience and additional areas of focus: Adoption and Foster Care, Cancer, Caregiver Issues and Stress, Communication Problems, Control Issues, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Family Problems, Forgiveness, Hospice and End of Life Counseling, Impulsivity, Men's Issues, Military and Veterans Issues, Mood Disorders, Multicultural Concerns, Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks, Post-traumatic Stress, Self-Harm, Sexual Assault and Abuse, Sexuality, Young Adult Issues Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy

Are you tired of dealing with your inner thoughts alone? Do you feel as if no one understands you, and you are alone in this world? Well, I am here to tell you, you are not! I provide a supportive and nurturing environment where individuals can develop coping skills, enhance their self-awareness, and build resilience. I have assisted both adolescents and adults with overcoming trauma, suicidal ideations, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and complex relationships. I enjoy the collaboration process that takes place when assisting clients to achieve their best selves. I believe hopefulness and intentionality are the primary components of a fruitful therapeutic relationship. Collaboration is important - together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help reduce some of your mental health challenges, too. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge. I look forward to speaking with you to see if we are a good fit to partner in your journey!

"In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into Growth or step back into safety." Abraham Maslow My name is Dr. Julie Brandenburg, Ph.D.; HSPP. If you are considering therapy, then you are already taking steps toward growth and change. My therapy specializations include but are not limited to, women's issues and trauma. What follows below is a list of issues that clients often bring up in our therapy sessions. The list is based on my professional experiences with clients, but by no means represents all of the topics and concerns that you may choose to address in therapy. Your issues are uniquely yours, and cannot be placed into anyone else's categories. I have found, however, that sometimes a list gets the ball rolling for potential clients! Some of the issues women bring up in our sessions include (but many additional issues are also discussed): Worry/Anxiety Sadness/Depression Coping with Divorce Self-Esteem Balancing Life "Roles" Self-Care Healthy/Unhealthy Relationships Adult/Child Trauma Trauma-Related Symptoms and Life Impact Life Transitions If you identified with any items on the above list or came up with items of your own, would you like help resolving these issues? The choice is yours. Therapy is for those who believe that their lives can get better and are willing to work to the best of their ability to make that happen. If you choose to work with me, I will be with you every step of the way, encouraging and challenging you to grow toward your best version of yourself.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my Masters from Aurora University. I have specialized training in EMDR and TF-CBT and have spent the last 19 years of my career as a social worker and therapist working with all age groups. I provide a safe, supportive space for children, adolescents, and adults to process their experiences and develop healthy coping strategies.

Greetings, I am a licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, who is licensed in Georgia and Illinois. I am currently resident in Georgia. I am also a Certified Clinical mental health Counselor (CCMHC). I have over 16yrs of practice as a clinician in the residential and outpatient setting. I am trained in the use of the following treatment modalities; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for clients residing in Illinois and Florida. I have worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings over the past 10 years. I love coming alongside clients and helping them to develop healthier ways of thinking and coping with life and situations they have experienced. I love educating clients on options they have and empowering them. I love using a variety of methods and techniques to meet each individuals needs.

Hi, nice to meet you; my name is Helen Roberts. I’ve been a therapist since 2000, graduating from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. I have a unique combination of 20-plus years of experience working with Christian Counseling, Trauma Treatment, Attachment Therapy, Sexual Addiction, Betrayal trauma, Couples, Adults, and children. I began seeing clients two years earlier while working as a secondary therapist with families having children at risk of being removed, as well as attachment issues. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT with children, Attachment therapy, and as a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist and many other modalities. I am board certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors. I started the Trauma and Recovery Center in Green Bay, WI. I was one the founding members of Peace Makers Ministries and Under His Wings Ministries, working with attachment issues, trauma recovery, and Christian counseling. In 2015, I began training as a Certified Sexual, Addiction Therapist (CSAT), supervised by Dr. Kenneth Adams. I was trained in Betrayal Trauma by Dr. Kevin Skinner. Since that time, I have continued to work with attachment, adoption issues, trauma issues, sexual addiction, pornography addiction, anxiety, depression, and betrayal trauma. These types of therapy mean that I can work with you if you have difficulty connecting with your mom or dad, saw or experienced abandonment or rejection, or were involved with a traumatic (to you) event. I work with children, couples, individuals, and families. You deserve recovery and healing with a well-trained therapist who specializes in the modalities for your healing. I know you may not know how to fix your situation or relationship right now, but I know how to help. Request an appointment today; let’s start the conversation.

Hello, my name is Eric Dungan and I'm a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Worker. I attended University of Louisville. I specialize in PTSD, Grief, loss, Depression, Anxiety, Marriage and Family and Anger Management. I have years of experience in the field of mental health care. I strive to help people attain their maximize potential in all aspects of their lives, using several different treatments modalities. All sessions are focused, to provide a nonjudgmental and objective environment to help the patient view their struggles with a new objective fair perspective towards themselves and other significant people and events in their lives.

My name is Marisol Cruz, and I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I have worked within school settings for 28 years, both in high school and elementary school. The students I served came from one of the most diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds. Many of the students had various needs. Students suffered from trauma, social-emotional, behavioral issues, relationship issues, adjustment issues, and more. During this time, I also worked with students with many diagnoses to help them learn how to use coping skills and strategies to manage their daily routines better. Currently, I work with adults with many of the same concerns mentioned above. As a counselor, I have assisted my clients/families with wraparound services within the school and outside community resources to help them live more productive lives. I work with families, helping them to create an environment that will establish routines. I also provide services for adults with depression, anxiety, relational support, and much more. As a counselor, I offer wraparound services to help families with the resources they need to help them with day-to-day interactions.

Hello, I'm Dr. Tatenda Perry, DPA. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor (LCAC) with 13 years of experience helping clients work through anxiety and depression. Whether related to work, school, family, relationships, body image, and/or self-esteem, I begin by working with my clients to identify their personal trigger(s). To this end, I tailor each session to specifically address who I’m with, where they are with their unique challenges, and where they are in their life. Then, with this framework setting the stage, I provide an environment of understanding and compassion to allow each client to feel safe and supported as they work to set boundaries and meet their goals. I believe my clients already have what they need within to be successful. It's my job and honor to help them unveil their "hidden" potential in ways that are nurturing, non-judgmental, and compassionate.

I have specialized in working with individuals and couples who are interested in a deep, transformative experience that resolves core issues, not just symptoms. My work is unique compared to many other therapists because I go beyond a strictly cognitive approach. I use a holistic approach that includes Psychodynamic (childhood issues), Somatic (body-oriented), Couples Systems, Meditative (Mindful) practices, Life Coaching and HMR (Holographic Memory Resolution) Techniques. HMR is a leading edge mind-body therapy that allows expedient access to past memories and complete resolution of the painful emotions associated with these events without having to relive them. My deep understanding of the interrelationship between mind, body and spirit allows for healing all facets of the human energy system. My client's often resolve and change deep seated negative patterns and cognitions resulting in a greater capacity for intimacy, joy, inner peace and confidence. My style is warm, interactive yet, direct and to the point. I will help you navigate towards the life you prefer to be living. I especially enjoy working with young adults, adults, and couples going through a major life transition, recovering from trauma or, looking for renewed meaning and direction.

Hello, my name is Megan Fletcher, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about assisting my clients through life transitions and improving their quality of life for increased growth and self-discovery. I am passionate about working with clients through life transitions and getting to know ones self on a deeper level. I take a person-centered approach to my therapy, meaning assisting you as a partner in identifying and exploring what you want according to your likes, dislikes, and needs in therapy. I take a holistic approach to therapy utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EFT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness techniques, Accelerated Resolution Therapy for relief from anxiety, periods of sadness, and stress. I am here to help you make measurable, achievable, positive, and specific goals to support your day-to-day and overall improving your mental and emotional well-being. I have 20y of experience in the health and fitness industry, my journey to becoming a therapist was focused on treating the person with a whole health model approach. This includes the 8 dimensions of wellness. Our first session is a time for us to get to know each other, gather information to set goals and objectives, and plan for your therapy experiences.

Hello and welcome! Starting therapy can be scary and intimidating and so I'd like share a little bit about myself that way you have a chance to know more about me before your first session! I completed my Bachelor of Science degree from Monmouth College and my Master of Science degree in counseling from Western Illinois University. I'm a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois and Texas. I have worked in the mental health field as a counselor since 2010. I was a therapist and crisis counselor for Bridgeway Community Mental Health starting in 2010 and then went on to become the Director of Crisis/Mental Health Juvenile Justice/and First Episode Psychosis Program. I then went on to work in private practice at Crossroads Counseling in Galesburg, IL. I have significant experience working with children and adolescents in the private sector as well as young adults. I enjoy working with clients who are healing from traumatic experiences. I have worked with survivors of trauma and abuse throughout my entire counseling career. I am EMDR trained and have a deep compassion for those dealing with the results of trauma and abuse. Additionally, I have worked with children and adults experiencing depression, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD and trauma using DBT and cognitive-behavioral therapy as treatment modalities. I live with my husband, Dustin, in Galesburg ,IL and have three active boys ages 16, 11, and 8. I enjoy reading, fishing, camping, being outdoors, and watching my children in various activities.

Hi! I am Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I 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 integrate evidence-based practices, including somatic work, EMDR, and Ego State Therapy. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I also have experience integrating faith in sessions for those who are interested.

Hello there, I'm Kristin. I am so happy you have come across my profile, and hope to work with you in the future. Have you been feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks, and feel your relationships, performance and health have been lacking? I help people in this exact situation work through their struggles to find what is holding them back and build themselves into a strong person with a positive outlook and increased self-acceptance. There are times in everyone's life when support is needed. Recognizing you could use support and taking steps to get that support can be scary and difficult. You are already one step closer to a better self! Let's work together!

Sherry Miller, M.S., LPC (OK, TX,WI), LCPC, (IL), LMHC (FL, MA), CSADC (IL), CSAC (WI), LADC (OK), M-CAP (FL), ICS (WI), BC-TMH. Hi there. My name is Sherry Miller. I have a Master of Science in Human Service Community Counseling from National Louis University at Chicago, IL. I pride myself in strict confidentiality; with a unique insight into my consumers. Because I have been in a program of Recovery from Alcohol, Drugs, and Codependency for the past 28 plus years I knows firsthand what it takes to find the truth of oneself and want assist you with your own unique and personal journey of self-awareness. I am dually licensed to treat mental health and substance abuse concerns. I am also licensed as an Independent Clinical Supervisor in the field of Addictions. My clinical interests include family dysfunction, addiction treatment, co-dependency, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and family, individual, or group counseling. I have over 28 years’ experience in the treatment of anger, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, behavioral issues, parent education, fearfulness, addiction issues, and co-occurring disorders. I am board certified to do telehealth (counseling over the internet) for clients that cannot make it to the office for their counseling appointment or prefer the comfort of having their counseling session in the privacy of their own home. I am experienced working with all ages, genders, and the LGBTQ community. In addition, I have experience working on a college campus with college age persons. In my free time you will find me spending time with my cats, and dogs, riding my horses, riding my bike or working out at the gym.

Greetings and welcome! Are you struggling with worry or panic, sadness, stressful or rapidly changing life circumstances, or traumatic experiences from your past? Stress, overwhelming emotions, or overall frustration with one's current life's path can zap the life energy from even the most stout-hearted among us! My name is Lee, and, as a licensed clinical psychologist, I empower high-functioning individuals struggling with a wide range of challenges to take back their lives and live with meaning and fulfillment. It is your birthright as a human being to experience peace of mind, hope, and joy. In our sessions together, I will help you find and use your strengths and resources to overcome the current challenges keeping you from living your most authentic, engaged, and meaningful life. I appreciate the courage it took for you to reach out to improve the quality of your life. Yes, you absolutely can live your most fulfilling life, and I offer to be your guide who will strive to enlighten, empower, and support you on your journey. I hope we can travel this part of your journey together!

Hi I am Pat Windsor a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing therapy for over 20 years to countless individuals and couples. I pride myself in providing a calming and serene environment. Clients and friends tell me I have "a therapist voice". I love to see my clients grow and become the person/people they want to be. My goal is to contribute a more personal touch of care to you. I love working with essential oils and working with clients with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, parenting and relationship concerns. Let go of stress, impatience and anxiety and bring peace and success to your life.

Being an adult can sometimes feel like you're on a roller coaster ride! Life isn't linear - it involves twists, turns, ups, and downs. We might feel "stuck" on the ride and aren't quite sure how to navigate getting off of it. Or we may find our “downs” might make us feel anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or stuck. The "ups" might be exciting, but may also come with their own sets of stressors. We might want to get off the ride or take a gentler one, but not know how. And that's okay! Therapy can help. Life doesn't have to feel like you're going on a thrill ride every day - you can get on a gentler ride. Of course, we don't always know how to get off the ride or swap seats for a gentler ride (like the "kiddie roller coaster"). That's where I come in! I'm here to support you with the challenges you might be facing in life, offer you a space to reflect or process, plus find new ways to cope so you don't feel like you're on a thrill ride every day.

Toyin is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years in the field of counseling. Toyin journeys with clients using a coaching style, psychodynamic approach, person-centered care, mindfulness-based practices, and integrative models including trauma-conscious yoga. Toyin utilizes Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the treatment of trauma, anxiety and depression. She also specializes in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure.

Hi I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and am experienced providing individual, couples, family and group counseling interventions. I work with children through adults, from a variety of backgrounds and varied presenting concerns. I utilize CBT, brief solution focused models, TF-CBT, and person centered interventions. I am a member of the Illinois Counseling Association and Illinois Mental Health Counseling Association.

Welcome! My counseling practice is in Wheaton, Illinois and I am also licensed in Florida. I have a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and a doctorate in Counselor Education & Supervision. In addition to private practice, I serve as professor in the counseling graduate program at National Louis University in the Chicago area where I teach all foundational theory and research-based courses.

Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or like you just can't get everything done? Do you often wonder how everyone else seems to do it but you can't? Like you are letting people down or you are not enough? Do you struggle to find joy in everyday life or find it difficult to shut down the racing thoughts and enjoy the moment? If so, you have come to the right place. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have over 13 years of experience working in a wide range of settings. I have worked with families, children and teens, in residential substance abuse, private practice, adoption preservation and correctional settings. I have helped clients conquer anxiety, depression, burn out, mom guilt, process past traumas and find the coping skills necessary to live a balanced life. My style can be described as client centered, strength based and solution focused. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused therapy, mindfulness and solution - focused therapy, in combination with genuine conversation. I take a laid back approach as I believe in meeting my clients where they are and working at a pace that is comfortable for them. I know that reaching out for help can be scary but you shouldn't have to struggle alone.

Hello, I'm Leteria and I am here for you. Looking for someone who will listen and try to understand? Need help in figuring out what you want or need? Do you want to better understand yourself and some of the decisions you've made or continue to make? Do you want help in communicating better with others? I want to help you understand yourself, your partner and the issues facing you. Let's figure it out together, where it's okay to be vulnerable, to not have to be strong all the time. Let's work on what you need and how you can get as close as possible. I have experience working with Teens, adults and couples. I have worked with survivors of abuse and trauma for over 20 years through child welfare; as a result I extensive knowledge and understanding of the challenges parenting brings and what trauma can do to the individual and the family unit. My 15 specific years of counseling experience has afforded me the opportunity to work with individuals struggling with anxiety, panic episodes, self-esteem, PTSD, pre-marital counseling, infidelity issues and couples.

Hello, my name is Chelsea, and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I graduated in 2019 from Clarke University with my Master's of Social Work. I spent my undergraduate years shadowing and volunteering at a sexual assault and domestic violence advocacy center. I completed research in the areas of trauma, decision making, and intimate relationships. I completed a job shadow with a Victim Witness Coordinator, where I also conducted a year long research project on domestic violence in rural communities. During that time I completed an internship at a combined homeless shelter and food pantry. I then completed a secondary internship at a local community mental health center. I spent four years working at that same local community mental health center where I provided crisis services, individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. I was able to earn my license during that time. I transitioned into school based social work and provided case management and therapy services in the local school setting. I now have opened a private practice called Resiliency Counseling, which is an individualized practice focused on providing individual, couples, and family therapy services to help people who are wanting to improve their mental health in a safe, accepting, and trusting environment. I always strive to meet my patients where they are at in their mental health journey and tailor my approach to what they need. I approach therapy as a mix of processing, guidance, and challenging, in order to help a client identify, process, and reach their mental health goals.

Welcome to McNulty Consultants. I am an individual private practitioner whose primary mission is to provide quality counseling and therapy services that enrich and empower my clients. My practice is small, with the intention to keep the work with my clients as personal as possible. My approach to therapy uses evidence-based techniques that have been demonstrated to reduce client distress and improve overall quality of life. I am an empathic listener who will help you identify what's important to you and what you your goals are. We'll collaborate, and I will offer guidance and feedback to improve your life and reach your goals.

With over nine years of dedicated experience, I’ve had the privilege of supporting adults, children, and adolescents as they navigate trauma, anxiety, and depression. I’m here for those who feel overwhelmed by overthinking or find themselves constantly striving for more, often to the point of exhaustion. Whether you're facing childhood trauma that’s resurfacing in adulthood or you're simply seeking personal growth, I focus on using your strengths to help you move forward. I have holistic approach to therapy that values each individual's unique experiences and strengths. I am licensed in IL & FL. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences. Through active listening, empathy and evidence-based techniques, I assist you in gaining insight, coping skills and resilience. Together, we navigate challenges, identify patterns and foster growth, empowering you to live a more fulfilling life. Build Healthier Relationships: Whether it’s personal relationships or your relationship with yourself, we’ll focus on improving communication, boundaries and emotional connection. Overcome Anxiety & Depression: We’ll develop personalized coping strategies to reduce overwhelming anxiety, address depressive symptoms and help you regain a sense of control over your emotions. Heal from Trauma: If past trauma is affecting your present, we’ll work through it together, allowing you to reclaim your life with greater resilience and emotional freedom. Develop Self-Confidence: Therapy will help you overcome low self-esteem, empowering you to trust yourself and build a more positive self-image. Enhance Personal Growth: We’ll explore your goals, values, and strengths, focusing on personal development that aligns with the life you want to create. Break Negative Cycles: Together, we’ll identify and shift the patterns of overthinking, procrastination, or self-doubt that are holding you back. Through therapy, you can expect to gain new perspectives, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of yourself, ultimately helping you achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Hi, my name is Neelma Zafar. The stigma in many cultures around mental health can be debilitating. I believe that no matter what background you are coming from, your mental and emotional health should be made as much of a priority as your physical health. Taking the first step and asking for help can be intimidating, but I meet my clients where they are and get to know them and their strengths. My approach is trauma-focused and evidence-based therapy and I believe in empowering my clients. I am trained in EMDR, DBT and CBT. Currently, I am working with sexually abused and sexually problematic children. I do family therapy sessions. I immigrated from Pakistan and I know personally what "trauma" is. I volunteered with refugees and worked with them on their mental health issues. I know Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi languages. I volunteer at the food pantry and daily bread soup kitchen and strongly believe in giving back to the community. I am hear to listen to my clients in a judgement-free zone in order to help them grow as a person and move past trauma.

Valuing client uniqueness means utilizing advanced, empathic interventions for self-acceptance in working through anxiety, panic, depression, trauma and attaining emotional regulation. Rebalancing distorted beliefs assists clients in the relief of anger, guilt, shame, self-sabotage. Differentiation & specifically designed working-through processes reflect maximizing unique client traits! Each client is identified as unique in their needs with subjective emotional experiences and cognitive structures requiring specific, individualized treatment plans and strategic interventions. These are tailored to facilitate optimum therapeutic progress. Licensed Ph.D. clinical psychologist IL, certified alcohol & drug counselor, over 40 yrs clinical practice focused on accessing empowering, unique client potentials that assist in the resolution/transformation of presenting issues through Self-Mastery. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is solution-focused on facilitating meaningful change for problem resolution Certified Neuro-Linguistic programmer-NLP, author 5 books (Motifs of Life Altering Experiences): emphasis on your unique life-transforming events/experiences which serve as a basis to help you attend to the quality of how you are dealing with stress, relationships, and conflicted emotions to develop your Self Functioning in more effective, satisfying ways.

We all have dealt with varying levels of stress and anxiety before. It becomes an ongoing issue when we don’t address the thoughts and feelings that arise as physical symptoms slowly begin to take over. My role in this process is to assist in delving into where these thoughts began and how to move forward in future situations. Need to talk about trauma or issues with depression? Having problems in your social relationships that you’re struggling with? Feel like you’re drowning because of all the recent changes in your life? Let’s tackle this together and discover ways to overcome negative associations from the past. I help adults struggling with symptoms of anxiety, dealing with different life transitions and managing self esteem issues. I also assist with depressive symptoms, 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 in dealing with instances of intergenerational trauma. In many cases, certain aspects unknowingly get repeated between parents and their children. This can be addressed through discussing your own understanding as well as opting to make changes for your future. 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 in turning all these negative thoughts and feelings into a pure sense of optimism.