Therapists in Illinois

Hi there! My name is Alicia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I earned my Master's degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2012 and have been practicing in community-based outpatient settings for most of my career. I enjoy helping younger and older adults who may be struggling with a variety of disorders, including depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions (among others). I am focused on helping clients address these challenges in a way that supports their individual needs and personal growth. I believe my ability to connect with people, my genuine and lighthearted approach, and my deep understanding of how life's curveballs can sometimes throw us off of our game are what make me versatile as a clinician.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Chicagoland area. I received my Bachelor's Degree from Northwestern University and my Master's Degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I have been working in the school system for the past several years and I also have my certification in perinatal mental health. I am looking forward to beginning my practice with Grow! *** I have additional short-term availability throughout the summer. Please see my schedule for these openings!***

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work. I am based in Illinois and have over 10 years of experience in many different capacities of the mental health field. I work with individuals (adults 18 years and up). I do my best to create a warm, inviting, safe, and judgement free environment.

Hi! I am Brianna, a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the state of Illinois. I have been practicing for 4 years. I work with adults and teens who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, career challenges, family/relationship concerns, and much more! My goal is to assist you in becoming the best version of yourself! I look forward to supporting you on your journey.

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.

As a Latina and Jewish therapist, I see the need for therapists who can identify with intersectional identities. I work with people who are dealing with issues around their race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity. I support our clients in processing how being you in our society affects how you feel about yourself and ultimately your mental health. I want our clients to learn to appreciate the unique gifts that they bring as they process past experiences.

As a Licensed Clinical Social worker I believe in helping you, to help yourself. Balancing the everyday challenges of life at work, at home and in relationships can be difficult to navigate alone. I will use a client-centered approach and various evidence-based practices to help you on your journey of self discovery and to manage stress, anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. Let’s work together to develop the skills and resources you already have, as well as discover new ones in order to problem solve and achieve measurable progress towards your therapeutic goals.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Chicago, IL. I have been a practicing clinician since 2017. I have experience with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoanalytic therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies. My treatment approach is rooted in evidence-based practices that focuses on how feelings affect thoughts which leads to behavior. I studied at National Louis University, where I obtained a Master’s degree in Community Counseling. I have worked in several settings including psychiatric hospitals for adolescents, intensive outpatient programs for adolescents and adults, in-home family therapy for adoptive children, and individual therapy in a community health clinic.

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!

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck in cycles of anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges? You're not alone and you don't have to go through it alone. My name is Renee, and I try my best to be a compassionate, culturally responsive psychotherapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and communication issues. I recognize that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable step, especially if you’ve felt misunderstood or unseen in other areas of life. You deserve a space where you feel safe, respected, and empowered. I provide a warm, supportive environment rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence based care. I incorporate approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt therapy, and trauma-informed methods to support lasting change and emotional resilience. I believe in honoring each client’s unique cultural background, values, and lived experience. My goal is to help you reconnect with yourself in the present moment, deepen self-awareness, and move toward clarity, confidence, and healing. Let’s begin this journey together.

In my experience as a counselor, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of individuals in various settings. I have worked with children and adults in the community, residential, hospital, and educational settings. In each environment I have witnessed the marvel of human potential firsthand. As a clinician I approach people and the work that I do from the belief that people have the innate ability to grow and heal on their own. My personal life experience and my practice have fostered this belief, recognizing that the process may require or be made more manageable with some assistance or a guide, in the form of counseling. Through my experiences I have witnessed the benefits of the human components that aid in the healing process of psychological symptoms that create difficulty in moving toward fulfillment and full integration of the human experience in the lives of many. The therapeutic relationship, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard are components that for me represent the core of therapy. These components create an experience in which someone can safely explore themselves, their experiences, the world around them, and identify solutions to ailments and the "true self" that is often altered by the world around us.

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

Hello there ! I am Ana Do you find your self stuck in life? , do you find difficult to relate to other people in social settings? Lack confidence ? Do you feel misunderstood by those around you ? Hablas Español? I am here to help you overcome any barriers that can come your way; to feel free from unpleasant emotions, together we will explore new ways to cope and to bring up your better self , spiritually, mentally and emotionally. This is your time and space to feel completely safe and understood . I am looking forward to meet you !

I received my MS & PhD from the University of Miami, in Florida, with a major in Developmental/Pediatric Psychology, and am a Licensed Psychologist in the States of Florida since 1993 and the Illinois since1997. I specialize in addressing the needs and concerns of children, adolescents/young adults, and their famiies. My approach is eclectic and draws from several evidenced-based psycho-therapeutic approaches while integrating the mind-body connection of mindfulness throughout the exploration of your concerns and needs, and in providing you and/or your child with required self care to best assist you and them in building and increasing your window(s) of tolerance, always sensitive to addressing your, your child's, and your family's needs with warmth and compassion. SPECIALTIES Child/Adolescent Development and Behavior, Parenting issues/Parent Education, Post-Partum Learning Disabilities and Developmental Disabilities, Adoption and Foster Care , Attachment Issues , ADD/ADHD, Eating disorders , Sleeping disorders , State Regulation, Family conflicts, Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Depressed Mood, Trauma and abuse , Grief, Work/LIfe Balance/Career/Adjustment disorders/Coping with life changes. Years of Experience: 30

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

I am dedicated to helping women, teen girls, and children build self-worth, motivation, self-confidence, and a healthy body image. I also focus on guiding people through stressful life transitions, grief, career discernment, academic/work pressures, cultural assimilation, and living with developmental/intellectual disabilities and/or chronic physical conditions. My education was obtained at Loyola University Chicago and The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Please reach out to begin your journey toward optimizing your health and well-being!

Healing and restoring individuals and couples as a Therapist and Consultant specializing in Mental Health , conflict resolution and Substance Abuse for 20+ years. I have worked with Adults, Adolescents, Teens and Young Adults extensively. I specialize in CBT Therapy, CBT Trauma Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Domestic Violence and Strengths Based Therapy. For individuals or couple experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, fears or any other Mental Health issues I can assist you with combating these issues that are affecting your daily life using a strengths base approach.

As a dedicated therapist and owner of Freed Minds, I am committed to supporting individuals on their journey to holistic well-being. By focusing on understanding and nurturing the whole person, I integrate various therapeutic approaches to address the mind, body, and spirit. My practice is deeply rooted in the belief that each individual is unique and capable of profound growth and transformation. This conviction drives my commitment to helping you live your most authentic and fulfilling life. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation, empowering you to lead a life filled with purpose and joy.

Hello! Are you feeling stuck and struggling to move forward? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Are you finding yourself being self-destructive? I will meet you with compassion, understanding, and a true passion for helping others. By using a strength-based, client centered approach we will explore what is holding you back and work to spark joy back into your life. Whether you're dealing with being overwhelmed, cycles of anxiety and depression, addiction issues, or recovery from trauma. I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow.

Hi there, I'm Agathe Do you feel overwhelmed by thoughts of the past or worries of the future? Are you struggling to manage relationships with family, friends and coworkers? Is it hard to take care of your needs? I practice a merriment of evidence-based therapy approaches tailored to meet your needs, including exposure therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, women’s issues and body positivity. Together, we will process difficult feelings and identify tools that work for you so you can live your best life. We'll use a holistic approach tailored to empower you to live the life you dream of. I'm here to support you in your therapeutic journey. I look forward to working with you!

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.

I am a holistic and culturally sensitive therapist (and Reiki Practitioner) with over seven years of experience specializing in trauma-informed care. As an EMDR therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate and heal from complex emotional and psychological challenges. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. My approach includes EMDR Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I am also IFS informed, which helps me provide a well-rounded and integrative treatment experience. I have a particular focus on working with survivors of abuse (Domestic, incestual, sexual, physical, etc). Additionally, I support clients dealing with PTSD, C-PTSD, dissociative disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, depression, and women’s issues. My goal is to create a safe, empathetic environment where clients can explore their struggles and work towards meaningful healing and growth. Staying current with the latest developments in psychotherapy and trauma care is important to me, as I believe it’s essential for providing effective and evidence-based treatment. I am committed to empowering my clients on their journey, facilitating their transformation, and supporting their path to a more fulfilling life.

Hi! I live in Indiana, but I graduated from the University of Illinois @ Chicago with my Master of Social Work degree in 2001. I have been working in the field for over 25 years in many different disciplines. I worked at domestic violence shelters, with child and family services, vocational rehabilitation counselor with deaf and hard of hearing, also teaching at the college level, and hospital social work. Now, my goal is to help others get through life's struggles, make positive changes in their lives, and become more confident in themselves.

Hello, my name is Julie! Seeking counseling is a courageous first step toward healing, and I am here to help! Do you feel sad, anxious or stressed most of the day? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Do negative and anxious thoughts fill your mind making it impossible to feel hopeful, relaxed or happy? If these are some feelings you can relate to, I can offer you support. Together, we can work through uncovering unresolved issues, identifying and changing negative thoughts and beliefs, helping you to meet your goals for therapy and learning healthy ways of coping and communicating during difficult situations. As your therapist, I will be nurturing, caring, and genuine. I believe in providing my clients with a warm, non-judgmental environment and a safe place to explore their challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Certified Anger Management Specialist. I have over 20 years of experience working in the mental health field with Adults (18 & over). I obtained a B.A degree from Northeastern Illinois University and a M.A. degree in Professional Counseling from Argosy University. Some of my specialty areas include Mood and Anxiety disorders, Low self-esteem, Drug & Alcohol Addiction, Anger management, Domestic Violence, Grief, Communication issues etc. I have enjoyed working with clients in a variety of settings including; Private Practice, Psychiatric units, Hospital ERs, Halfway Houses, Crisis Centers, Domestic Violence Shelters and Correctional Centers.

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who attained a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2020. My passions include social justice, prison reform, substance use, and domestic violence. I have extensive knowledge working with individuals who struggle with addiction, anxiety, stress, depression, adjustment issues, relationship issues, and coping with chronic health conditions.

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

I work with clients who are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression or trauma. I also work with clients who may need assistance in processing everyday life stressors and want a supportive therapist whom they can confide in who will also challenge them and assist with problem-solving. I also work with those facing reproductive challenges. As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, I understand the complex emotional and psychological impact that infertility and miscarriage can have. I can: • Support you in maintaining hope, peace and positivity while navigating uncertainty and help you build resiliency as you work through obstacles. • Help you to recognize and access your deeper intuition, so you are better equipped to honor your body, spirit and mind with the highest intention throughout your journey. • Work with you on increasing clarity and purpose around your fertility journey. • Utilize a holistic approach to address integrative lifestyle strategies that may be beneficial to your fertility path. • Assist you in addressing relationship difficulties that can arise out of the stress of fertility challenges, help you develop strategies to increase intimacy with your partner and foster healthy communication. For women and men who have experienced reproductive loss: • The devastating and seemingly invisible pain of losing a pregnancy is unique in that it involves not only the loss of your baby, but also involves the loss of the future - and there is no accepted way to mark that loss. Sometimes it seems that friends and family members expect the person to move on quickly. Partners often grieve differently - and for men, the trauma of miscarriage is often overlooked. Also, some women may suffer guilt or shame associated with the loss that doesn't tend to occur with other types of grieving. • There is no universal template for grief. Together, we will address your unique needs as you work through your grieving process.

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).

I’m Dr. LaTia Greer, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and trauma specialist with over 25 years of experience in mental health and wellness. At Authentic Heart Behavioral Health & Wellness, I provide a safe, compassionate space for clients to heal, grow, and reclaim their sense of balance. My work is deeply rooted in the belief that you don’t have to face life’s struggles alone—healing becomes possible when you feel seen, heard, and supported. I specialize in helping individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as those who feel overwhelmed by the challenge of setting and maintaining healthy boundaries. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck in cycles of stress, guilt, or self-doubt. Together, we explore what’s underneath those struggles and build practical, evidence-based strategies to create real change. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed practices, mindfulness, and integrative therapy to fit your unique needs. That means we’ll not only focus on symptom relief but also on deeper emotional healing—supporting you in reconnecting with yourself and building resilience for the future. Clients often tell me that therapy with me feels like a balance of gentle guidance and real-world tools they can apply right away. I’ll meet you where you are, whether you’re seeking relief from constant worry, working through past pain, or learning to say “yes” to yourself without guilt. Most importantly, my goal is to help you move from simply surviving to living with greater confidence, clarity, and peace. Healing is a journey, and I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping clients navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I specialize in working with individuals managing anxiety, stress, and life transitions, and I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to promote growth and resilience. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you feel understood and empowered to make meaningful change.

Hello, I'm Kunume, a licensed clinical social worker and registered therapist based in Illinois. I earned my Master's degree from the University of Minnesota and have over 15 years of experience in the field. I’ve worked with adults, couples, and children in diverse environments, using a variety of therapeutic approaches. My methods include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused strategies, and experiential techniques to help individuals navigate emotional and life challenges toward a healthier emotional state. I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable being yourself as we work together to achieve the balance you seek.

Hello there, I’m Elizabeth Jensema. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing social work for 20 years. I enjoy helping adults struggling with their mental health and also those struggling with addiction. My goal is to meet you where you are at and to help you achieve goals that are meaningful to you. I like to have fun with humor, stay positive, and focus on moving forward one day at a time. I feel it's important to provide support and the reassurance that you are not alone, we are all struggling. I hope I can help you to feel comfortable and supported.

I’m Timberly. Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from who you want to be? I specialize in helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and major life transitions with compassion, clarity, and intention. As a trauma-informed, integrative therapist, I guide you in understanding your story, reconnecting with your inner strengths, and creating meaningful change at a pace that honors your readiness. I draw from narrative therapy, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and solution-focused techniques to help you make sense of your experiences and move forward with confidence. Whether you're struggling with self-doubt, emotional regulation, or feeling like you’re simply surviving rather than thriving, I’m here to support you with grounded insight, gentle challenge, and practical tools. Think of me as a collaborator, someone who walks beside you as you rewrite your internal narrative, heal old wounds, and step into a more empowered, intentional version of yourself. Together, we’ll work to move you from uncertainty to self-trust and from emotional exhaustion to a life that feels aligned, whole, and purposeful.

I want to meet a client where they are at, therefore where one wants to start. I am genuine and authentic and want to assist someone to get the help and resources they may need to be and feel better as a person overall. I enjoy teaching skills and am constantly learning new skills and techniques to be a better therapist. I also may push at times in order to assist one to explore further what it is they are experiencing.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I received my Masters from the University of St. Francis and have been practicing over 13 years. I offer personalized psychotherapy services tailored to meet your unique needs. Together we’ll work towards uncovering insights, developing coping strategies, and fostering positive change. Let’s embark on this journey of self discovery and transformation together.

Hi - I'm Seth, and many of my clients come to me because they struggle with unhealthy relationship dynamics, whether it be in long-term or brand new romantic partnerships, family relationships, or general functioning in interpersonal interaction. I specialize in relationships, addiction, depression, anxiety, and trauma, and have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families with diverse life experiences and a broad spectrum of personal struggles. I approach each person with unconditional positive regard and encourage authenticity, both in relationships with others and the relationship with oneself. I welcome opportunities to cultivate safe spaces for sharing, thinking, and healing. I bring a gentle, respectful, and accepting demeanor to the therapeutic relationship, supporting emotional awareness, self-appreciation, humor, and celebration as cornerstones of a healthy and resilient foundation for personal growth. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and completed my Master's degree in Social Work at University of Michigan. When I'm not working with clients, I can be found playing the cello, guitar, or piano; hiking with my family; or perfecting my deviled egg recipe.

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

When life be Life'n and you feel that you are in a choke hold, struggling to catch your breath, that’s when support matters most. I am Dr. Chaney, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LCPC) based in Chicago. With over 15 years of experience, I specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, grief, self-doubt, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I earned my doctoral degree in Counseling Education and Supervision from Governors State University, as well as my master’s and undergraduate degrees from Chicago State University. My goal is to provide a safe, understanding space where you can feel heard, safe and empowered to move forward.

Hello, My name is Tom, and I have practiced clinical Social Work for over a decade. I specialize in PTSD/trauma-related disorders. I have a family and enjoy gardening year-round. As a clinical social worker, I work from a strengths-based approach; meaning, I work with individuals' strengths to build a foundation of safe and healthy coping and problem solving skills, as well as assist in allowing for ongoing introspection.

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.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Masters degree in 2000 and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I am committed to helping adults, young adults, adolescents and older adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, mood disorders, and stress management issues. I am looking forward to working with individuals who need support, an open and safe space to explore issues, and compassionate care! I hope you take this brave step for yourself because you deserve it!

Hi there, I am Rachel Logan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, esteemed author, speaker, and founder of Get to the Root Counseling, P. C. I provide counseling services for individuals in Illinois and Missouri. I help individuals break unwanted cycles and recover from past traumas using a combination of evidence-based techniques and Christian principles. My motto is "Therapy + God = Healing." I offer a unique model for uncovering the root of these cycles, enabling individuals to live peacefully.

I work both individuals and couples in a collaborative space to allow the client(s) experiencing relationship challenges, interpersonal difficulties, marriage conflicts, stress, depression, and/ or anxiety a space to be heard, feel validated and at times challenged in a safe environment. My goal is for clients to feel comfortable in learning about their own strengths and be able to assist them in discovering their own internal resources to help them be at peace with whatever is challenging them. Couples’ work is focused on finding areas to increase satisfaction, finding areas of need within yourself, and learning to better communicate those needs to your partner. By increasing positive responses in your relationship, you will develop more commonality and shared goals which can lead to positive outcomes. Often, people get stuck in a rut and need support in navigating their way back to a positive relationship with themselves and others. I am trained in marriage, family, and trauma, a Certified Family Trauma Professional and an EMDR trained clinician. I enjoy working with couples and individuals with relationship issues as well as life stressors. I have worked with the geriatric population and understand the struggles of adults caring for parents and navigating life stressors, navigating end of life issues, and grief. If you are experiencing challenges in your life, regardless of where it stems from and you are experiencing difficulty with your day-to-day functioning or are experiencing work/life stressors, we will work together to develop a path for you to begin enjoying your life again and learn to take control. In our first session we will collaborate and determine if you would like to move forward with therapy and we can build a plan that best supports your goals.

First and foremost, congratulations on taking the important step toward positive change in your life. I am both honored and eager to have the opportunity to support you on this journey. With over 20 years as a licensed clinical social worker and more than 40 years in the social work field, I have had many opportunities to help people. Yet, I it is my mission to bring a fresh, practical perspective in our work together. My background includes experience supporting people who have faced trauma, significant life events, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, I have a special place in my heart for those diagnosed with ADHD and on the Autism spectrum. My approach to therapy is holistic, focusing on how environmental factors influence functioning and well-being. In collaboration with each individual person and based on their unique needs, I select tried and true interventions from multiple evidence based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with much focus on mindfulness. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive environment for healing and believe in helping people find solutions in a nonjudgmental and efficient manner. Throughout our sessions, I will be open and honest while maintaining a respectful and supportive demeanor.

What happens when our well-intentioned - yet sometimes uncooperative - brains try to protect us from experiencing harm? Yup, you got it! It's called Stress, also known as Anxiety, and at times it can be quite the nuisance. You are welcome to join me on a journey of knowledge and self-discovery to recognize and appreciate how our brain and bodies have helped us survive the personal challenges and struggles life presents. And then, let's help our brain recognize that, when we are actually safe, we don't need to go into stress mode, and we can learn how to direct Anxiety to take a seat until it is next needed. Often times, Anxiety's friends, Depression and Trauma, love to join the party (uninvited). Together, we can learn to appreciate them as well, while sending them on their way. Along the way, let's tap into a bit of Grace and Self-Compassion. Let's also identify the multitude of Strengths and Resources in place, and use them to move from a Fear-Based response, to one of Courage.

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.

I hold a Clinical Psychologist license to practice in Illinois. I completed my doctorate studies at Adler University. My professional experience in treatment spans over 25 years. I believe a person holds the ability to transform their life for the better. I find satisfaction in helping them advance on their path. The following examples show my methods for treating anxiety and depression. The evidence-based treatment method I use for anxiety focuses on individualized symptom-specific approaches that match the client’s needs and personal preferences. The combination of repetitive and irrational thoughts about perceived danger, uncertainty or failure creates distressing mental states which may manifest as negative thought, such as: "I am not good enough" or "something bad will happen" or "I will be fired if I make a mistake." I assist my clients to detect and fight their negative beliefs and thoughts. I guide clients to manage their anxiety symptoms with mindfulness breathing techniques and progressive muscle relaxation methods. With assigned homework including mindfulness exercises, I guide the client to maintain their progress and self-regulation between sessions. My depression treatment approach matches each client's symptoms, their life history, and their social environment. Depression exists on a spectrum from temporary sadness to persistent and severe Major Depressive Disorder. The maintenance of depression relies on negative thoughts such as “I am worthless” or “Nothing will ever get better.” Our focus will be to identify and modify. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help clients view their depressive thoughts in a non-judgmental manner to reduce their rumination and emotional distress. By teaching problem solving skills and the practice of mindfulness helps the individual become more aware of their physical tension. Assigning homework guides the individual to improve sleep hygiene, self-care, and build effective coping strategies.

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.

As a provider, I bring a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to counseling, rooted in my own experiences as a wife, mother to two wonderful children, and lover of animals. I understand the challenges of balancing family life, personal growth, and the stresses that come with both. I graduated from the University of Illinois with a Master's degree in Social Work and currently work full-time as a school social worker, where I have the privilege of supporting students through life's challenges. My passion for helping others extends beyond the school setting, which is why I am excited to offer supportive online counseling with the goal of eventually opening an in-person practice to further serve my community. In my free time, I enjoy watching my children play sports and spending time outdoors during the summer months. However, I also love cozying up indoors with a good book or favorite TV show. These personal interests help me relate to the balance of work, family, and self-care that many clients face. I am eager to expand my work from the school environment into the broader community, offering a safe, supportive space where individuals can explore their challenges and grow towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Mary is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over forty years of experience working with adults with substance abuse, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship problems. Mary is also a Certified, Level Three, TEAM, Cognitive and Behavioral Therapist, through the Feeling Good Institute. Mary begins therapy by developing a warm and friendly connection with clients, so they feel comfortable and at ease. When the client is ready to get started, she helps them develop a treatment plan using simple and effective CBT techniques. Mary practices meditation daily and brings a broad range of mindfulness techniques into her practice.