Therapists in Illinois

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.

Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful choice. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. My practice focuses on supporting adults facing anxiety, depression, and substance dependency, with dedicated experience serving veterans, military families, and the LGBTQ+ community. I use a compassionate, strengths-based approach to help you navigate life’s toughest challenges and build a path toward lasting healing and happiness.

Welcome to La Conseillère Creative's | Studio in Situ Art Therapy | Contemporary Counseling | Executive Coaching | Micro -> Macro Systems Consulting I'm EC an Art Therapist (MAAT + MFA), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Domestic Violence Counselor specializing in Trauma Informed Psycho-education and creative care modalities for adults, couples, families & kids. Prior to achieving this ABC Soup of credentials I identified mostly as an artist, social impact entrepanuer, designer and community activator. My work exists at the intersection of radical self-expression, relational aesthetics, and ergonomic 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, hard workers or 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?

I work with adults, children & teens, and their families. My approach to therapy is restorative and invitational. I encourage you to keep an open mind, trust the therapeutic process, and be willing to take thoughtful risks as we work together. My goal is to help you build the insight, knowledge, and skills needed to address your concerns and create meaningful, lasting change. I have more than 25 years of experience helping adults, children & teens, and families in crisis from my private practice. I have also worked in schools, with law enforcement and military personnel and their families, in correctional facilities, and I have been a clinical director for an inpatient hospitals and a residential treatment center. Additionally, I worked in the Canadian Arctic, traveling monthly to train and consult in education, healthcare, and correctional facilities for over 20 years.

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

My name is Bradley Thomas. In many ways, I am just like you. I have worked, raised a family, battled physical challenges, had good relationships and had relationships fall apart. I continue to strive towards living my best life. I bring this same passion for life into our therapy sessions and consider it an honor to align myself with you and help you towards living your best life.

I am a licensed clinical social worker and substance abuse counselor providing therapy services to adults. I have been practicing therapy for 12 years but have been in the field of social work since 2000. My professional experience includes work in child welfare, treatment foster care, adoption, parenting concerns, substance use, domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA, and life transitions.

My name is Nick Sanders, and I am excited for the opportunity to meet and work with you as you begin your journey toward growth and healing through therapy. I bring over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. Outside of my professional work, I am a former student-athlete who still enjoys staying active. I like throwing the football around, playing flag football and basketball, running, and kicking the soccer ball around. Some of my favorite hobbies include reading, exploring nature, playing video games, watching movies, traveling, and volunteering my time to mentor youth. Let’s connect and take this journey together.

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! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing for over 30 years. I have spent my career helping others travel down their own path. I have extensive experience working with families of children with special needs. I enjoy working with single mothers, teens and tweens. I have experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum as well as those who are "Highly Sensitive". I strive to help individuals build resilience in the face of trauma and life's challenges. I have extensive experience working with incarcerated individuals. I have first hand experience managing the stress associated with working as a first responder. I enjoy working with people with mental illness and personality disorders. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change.

I work with individuals experiencing relationship difficulties, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. You may be looking for a fulfilling relationship, struggling to communicate with a significant other, or working through betrayal trauma. You may be seeking guidance while in a polyamorous / non-monogamous relationship. You may be in the midst of a life transition, feeling lost and overwhelmed, needing compassionate support and direction. I also support women experiencing perimenopause and menopause-related life changes. Peri- and menopause can be a difficult time, filled with physical discomfort and emotional upheaval. I offer a supportive space where you can share your experiences and find effective strategies to overcome your struggles. I am here to empower you with new tools that will move you toward what brings you to life. I will guide you toward self-compassion, so you can embrace all aspects of yourself and thrive. I ensure that my therapy space is safe, sex-positive, LGBTQIA, ENM/Polyamory, neurodiversity, and kink affirming.

Sometimes life can feel heavy, even when everything looks fine from the outside. You may be keeping up with school, work, family, or relationships while privately feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained. You may also be trying to cope with past trauma, substance use, or patterns that no longer feel helpful. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are ready for support but may not know exactly where to begin. My goal is to offer a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you can talk openly, feel understood, and begin making sense of what you are going through.

Hello! My name is Gayle. I am kind and warm, but honest and straightforward. My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, meaning I will meet you with empathy and understanding, regardless of the issues that are causing you distress. At times, life's stressors seem insurmountable, and it feels as though it’s difficult to just get through the day. I can help guide you toward a resolution and healing. I am adept at working with individuals or couples with a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, relational conflict, trauma, life transitions, and I specialize in OCD and BiPolar Disorders.

Whether you've never tried therapy before or are considering getting back into it, give yourself a pat on the back for taking this first step! I know how hard it can be to prioritize your own mental health, especially when life gets hectic. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I believe in meeting my clients where they're at and providing them a space each week where they can feel heard, understood, and cared for. I believe therapy shouldn't feel like another chore on your to-do list. It should feel like the "me time" you need (and deserve!) to set down the weight of everything you've been carrying so that you can start feeling like yourself again. Whether you're in the middle of a difficult time or grappling with a past that is holding you back, I will be there with you every step of the way to help get you "unstuck" and back to the life you want to be living.

I am a Latina-identified therapist with 10 years of diverse clinical experience in social work. Throughout my career, I have worked in healthcare settings, partnering with clients to identify meaningful goals and develop practical strategies for achieving them. My approach is grounded in culturally responsive, compassionate care that honors each person's unique experiences while fostering resilience, healing, and personal growth.

I am passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. I believe in the transformative power of therapy and am dedicated to equipping clients with practical tools and strategies to foster resilience and promote healing. With a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a commitment to trauma-informed care, I create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

It's important for therapists to be, first and foremost, real human beings in relation to clients. I know how to be a therapist. You know how to be you. I try to bring understanding and, when appropriate, humor into my work with people. Therapy is where you can try on different parts of yourself in a non-judgemental environment. What happens in session can reflect what you experience in your everday life. This provides you with perspective to live a more fufilling life. I work remotely, but find that this is not a barrier to real connection.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but you don't have to figure things out alone. I'm Paige, an LCPC who provides a supportive, judgment-free space where you can be yourself and talk openly about what's on your mind. I work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression, and life's challenges, including those who feel stuck and are ready to start making sense of what's going on. My goal is to help you feel understood, build on your strengths, and create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you. I'd love to connect if this sounds like a fit.

I am passionate about helping people navigate the challenges of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and addiction. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside clients in community mental health centers, academic medical settings, and private practice, supporting them as they heal, grow, and discover what’s possible for their lives. I am also deeply passionate about teaching and sharing knowledge—I’ve taught college courses on addiction treatment and have led trainings for other therapists on how to provide effective, compassionate care. I earned my graduate degree from the University of Chicago. When I’m not in session, you’ll often find me enjoying a good book, trying out a new recipe, or enjoying quiet moments with my spouse and our two cats.

I'm a licensed mental health provider dedicated to helping individuals improve their overall well-being through evidence-based practices. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, I encourage clients to actively participate in their treatment, helping them gain insights, develop coping strategies, and achieve their personal goals. With a commitment to ongoing professional development, I stay updated on the latest research and best practices, ensuring that you receive the most effective support possible. I am here to listen, understand, and guide you toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with nearly twenty years of experience across community mental health, forensic settings, and psychiatric emergency services. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, relationship challenges, and chronic pain, including specialized experience with veterans, for which I received the 2023 Judge Paul F. Healey Award for Veterans Services. My approach is relational, warm and non-judgmental, integrating CBT, mindfulness-based methods, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy to address the connection between mind, body, and overall well-being. I tailor treatment to each person's strengths, goals, and pace, and I believe real change happens when clients feel genuinely seen and safe enough to go deeper.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with individuals of all ages. I support clients navigating infertility, pregnancy-related concerns, grief and loss, trauma, as well as depression and anxiety. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, and I have received specialized training in EMDR. I am committed to creating a supportive, compassionate space where clients feel safe, understood, and empowered in their healing.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

My passion lies in supporting individuals on their emotional health journey and creating a safe space for healing and self-discovery. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, addressing all aspects of a person's being - the good, the bad, the ups, the downs. By focusing on the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of an individual, I aim to help clients embrace all parts of themselves as they heal and grow. My goal is to empower individuals to confidently present their true selves to the world and live their desired lives.

I am able to see the strengths in most of my clients; for example if they are poor students and failing school, I can see their resilience in other areas. I am opened minded and non-judgmental, as long as one does not advocating harm to themselves or others. I hope to identify what's working for you, as far as support systems, coping skills and values.

I'm the baby of 4. I believe in the power of compassion and empathy to foster healing and growth. My therapeutic philosophy centers around active listening, compassion, and trust. I strive to create a space where you feel validated, supported, and understood. My approach ensures that you are met with empathy and respect, no matter what challenges you are facing.

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

Hi I am Brendalis and go by Brenda. Do you feel tired of been undervalued, or feel that you do not matter? I am here to help you improve those feelings and help you understand that you do matter, and you are valuable. I love helping individual achieve their goals and help improve their well-being. I have vast experience working with individual with trauma, depression, anxieties, ADHD, self-esteem, family dynamics, and life-changing events. I consider myself an eclectic social worker who understands that one approach doesn’t fit all, and I like to utilize different techniques based on the client’s needs. Talking about our feelings make us feel vulnerable; therefore, one of the most important steps into the healing journey is working on developing a client therapist relationship. My goal is to help alleviate the stigma and to provide that comfort that will help you improve the symptoms that seems to be holding you back in a non-judgmental way. When it comes to changes, I can relate. As a military wife, I have been through a lot of changes and challenges. Whether it was having to relocate to a new place, having to leave family and friends and/or having to start all over, I completely understand how scary it is and I am here to help you through that process of change and the fear of the unknown. I recently move to Florida, and I am licensed in Illinois, Iowa, and Washington State. I am here to help you through the healing journey.

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

Are you holding everything together on the outside while feeling exhausted on the inside? You don’t have to carry that weight alone. I’m Paris Freeman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I view therapy as a collaborative space to help you reclaim your peace, regain control, and feel truly heard. Whether you are navigating grief, managing daily stressors, or searching for practical tools to handle life’s transitions, we will work together at a pace that honors your unique journey; helping you restore balance to your mind, body, and spirit.

I bring 16 years of experience supporting adults with co‑occurring mental health and substance use disorders. I have worked with adults in all stages of recovery form those who need withdrawal management, residential treatment, partial hospitalization intense daily treatment, and relapse prevention. I provide compassionate, person‑centered care—whether someone pursues abstinence, harm reduction, or both—helping them build stability, recovery skills, and a healthier life.

Hi! I am an LCSW in Florida, licensed in Florida, Texas, Alabama. and Illinois. I obtained my Masters from the University of South Florida in 2000. I live in the Orlando area and have been doing telehealth since 2020. I practice a variety of approaches because not one size fits all. I believe in resiliency and have a strengths based perspective. I have worked in variety of settings including private practice, community mental health, inpatient, home health, hospice, and telehealth with wide variety of clients from children to elderly, family, couples, and group therapy as well.

Hello I am glad you are on your path to healing and creating your best life ! I am here to partner with you to navigate life’s ups and downs . I believe in building authentic relationships and creating a safe nonjudgmental space. I have a doctorate in leadership eduction and hold an LCSW . I am a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. I am trained in EMDR . I specialize in grief, trauma , and suicide loss. I have worked extensively with people struggling with relationship issues , learning disabilities , pet loss , divorce , obesity, life transition’s, and difficulties maintaining work life balance . I am here to help you put joy back into your life ! My door is open to everyone . I really enjoy working with women of all ages. Young adults finding their way in life. Adults and seniors . I am a strong supporter of the LGBTQI community and welcome everyone in the LGBTQIA community .

Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Chicago. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I've been practicing for 5 years helping people improve their lives through mindful change and a supportive voice. I'm here to be your loudest cheerleader as you make necessary changes and work toward your life goals.

I'm a psychotherapist and Clinical Social Worker with 26 years experience providing mental health care for individuals, couples and families. I have experience providing brief and long-term therapy with adolescents and adults coping with a spectrum of mental health conditions; grief and loss; relationship issues; occupational problems and social injustices. It's exciting when relief and hope grow from therapy and the relationship supports meaningful change.

I have not taken the traditional route in my life to get to this career, but I am so thrilled to be here. I have a background in journalism and secondary education. I believe my background and experience offers a unique perspective when working with clients. I have been licensed for over five years now and consider myself a lifelong learner. Pets are my favorite part of telehealth counseling! Since I work from home, there may be occasional disruptions from my pets. Your animals are always welcome to join a session! (I am currently looking for office space in the Peoria, IL area)

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, trauma, self-esteem concerns, and burnout. Together, we'll identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, build practical coping skills, and work toward goals that align with your values and vision for your life.

I’m a trauma-informed therapist whose work is shaped by both lived and professional experience. As an immigrant and former refugee, I understand that healing does not happen outside of context. My work is relational, culturally responsive, and grounded in helping clients make sense of what they have carried, understand repeating patterns, and move with more clarity and self-trust. I bring warmth, honesty, curiosity, and directness into the room while honoring the culture, identity, relationships, and systems that shape each client’s story.

I would best describe myself as someone who seeks to provide a compassionate and effective approach to people seeking change. It takes a lot to become a therapist. I often think of a therapist as a rock in a tumbler. We spend a lot of time smoothing out our own rough edges so that we can be helpful to others. Your life is your own. I work with people to discover what they want and what's standing in their way.

I am a Latinx bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist. I have a master’s degree in social work from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago. My expertise has centered on providing therapeutic care in inpatient settings and community mental health centers with a focus on crisis and trauma interventions. I am trained in mindfulness-based approaches, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, parent training and Motivational Interviewing. In therapy, I address patient's concerns which include depression, anxiety, domestic violence and complex trauma. My approach to care is to create a safe and comfortable environment for all of my clients and I believe individuals can excel when addressing their symptoms from a systematic, family and individual approach. I began practicing 9 years ago at a community mental health center with survivors of domestic violence. Thereafter, I worked with adolescents experiencing depression and anxiety. The next five years I spent my time working with pediatric patients in the Autism spectrum addressing behavioral concerns. In this process I have worked with the LGBTQ+ and Latinx community and inclusive of other communities. It is my belief that therapy is unique to each individual and I cater individually to all my patients. I practice cultural humility as I continue to learn about cultural uniqueness and differences. I continue to research and inquire about patients' experience to improve my approach to therapy, the therapeutic relationship and experience.

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.

Hello! I am Lisa Lindsey-Robinson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from the state of Illinois. I specialize in helping people of all ages deal with thoughts, challenges, and emotions that affect their daily lives. I provide a safe space to unravel complex issues and will work with you to rebuild and strengthen those factors that hinder growth and progress. My goal is to address your needs and guide you towards a fulfilling and balanced life.

I'm Ericka Whitley, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people recognize their strengths and navigate life's challenges with confidence. I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, and major life transitions. My approach is supportive, collaborative, and goal-oriented, helping clients gain insight, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful change while feeling understood and empowered throughout the process.

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been in practice for seven years. I support clients dealing with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, school and work burnout and caregiver stress and burnout. I believe each person’s mental health journey is unique, and effective treatment should align with their specific goals.

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.

Hello, I'm Amanda, Have you been struggling with the challenges of life lately? Do you feel like you are in a constant state of survival? Do you want to start living? Are you looking to approach life with a new lens? I help individuals take control of their lives whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult emotions or life events. I provide a safe and judgement free space to make you as comfortable as possible. We will work together to explore what is helpful and what is not. I understand that everyone is different and believe that is most important when providing therapy. Whether you have been to therapy several times before or this is your first time, I look forward to experiencing your growth with you.

Hi! I’m Shelly, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a passion for supporting individuals on their journey to mental and emotional well-being. I have dedicated my career to empowering children, adolescents and adults to live up to their true potential. After receiving my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Michigan State University, I moved to Chicago to attend graduate school. I received my master’s degree in 1999 and my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in 2004. My graduate training focused on working with kids and teens with emotional and behavioral challenges. I have over 20 years experience helping individuals with anxiety, depression and life transitions, to name a few areas that I specialize in. I believe in the inherent strength within each person. I work collaboratively with clients to help them discover beliefs, patterns, and behaviors that might be impeding resilience and personal growth. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space where you can openly explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. My approach is personable, rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices that foster connection. I strive to help my clients feel empowered as they navigate through all of life’s ups and downs.

Welcome! I'm Melissa =) Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a supportive and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues,ADHD, healthy communication, and improved coping skills, to name a few. My focus is with individual adults to help develop assertive communication and boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. I feel honored to hold and support this space with you. Not sure if you could use some help navigating life's challenges? Let's talk about the kind of support I can provide you. Bock a session with me to see if we're a good fit and how we can help you have more peace. Unfortunately, I am unable to assist in concerns for any type of documentation.

I am an experienced and compassionate mental health professional who is passionate about helping those living with mental health struggles - ranging from anxiety and depression to marital/relationship discord and substance abuse issues. I specialize in helping my patients overcome the pain and suffering often caused by these often debilitating mental health struggles. My ultimate goal is to help my patients defeat the mental, emotional and/or psychological barriers that prevent them from living their very best lives.

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.