5 therapists in Illinois matching your needs

You will often find me with an iced coffee in hand, maybe catching up on the latest reality TV drama, or laughing with my kiddos and loved ones. I'm absolutely in love with the work I do. Seriously, it's not just a job for me; it's a genuine passion. Helping folks navigate life's twists and turns, finding strength in vulnerability, and witnessing those "aha" moments? Let's just say it's what energizes me to start each work day (and that says a lot as I am not a natural morning person). I have genuine interest and care for my clients, looking forward to our sessions. My professional journey has been diverse, spanning various settings including community mental health, correctional centers, private practice, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Drawing from this extensive background, I offer a holistic and compassionate approach to therapy that is deeply rooted in understanding the complexities of human experiences. My work encompasses a wide range of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual I work with. My therapeutic philosophy is grounded in the belief that healing is a deeply personal and transformative journey, and I am committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and unwavering support. I strive to foster an environment where growth and healing can flourish, ultimately empowering my clients to lead more fulfilling and authentic lives.

Hi! I'm so glad you are here to learn a bit more about me. Picking the right therapist is such an important decision and I want you to feel confident you've found a great match. One of my biggest priorities is to make therapy feel good for people. I know that for many, therapy can seem awkward or uncomfortable. I'm trying my best to change that narrative by allowing our time together to be relaxed and a space where you feel like an equal. I want you to feel seen and understood anytime we work together. My specialty is helping those who have experienced truly difficult seasons in life find three main things: self-awareness, balance and peace. This often includes working with those who have had tough childhood experiences, first responders, relationship issues (divorce, abuse, infidelity, etc.), sexual assault victims, and parents with postpartum anxiety and/or depression. In our sessions together we will focus on getting to know your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. We will identify where the problem spots are, and collaborate in creating strategies you can use to feel more balanced in your day-to-day life. We can also explore memories and past experiences, understanding how these affect your present. Ultimately, our work can help you to find peace with the past, contentment with your present and enthusiasm for the future.

Struggling with personal issues with intimacy, connection, romance, or sexuality can be scary and confusing. Having the right someone to work with you to help you get through those times and situations can be rewarding. Whether it’s to develop a way out of a difficult situation, learn how to cope, or explore aspects of yourself I am here to work with you. My primary focus is on issues that manifest themselves in a sexual nature or have a sexual aspect to them. I assist clients in identifying, understanding and overcoming issues of an intimate nature with grace and dignity.

You may find yourself experiencing toxic relationships/codependency, eating disorders, drugs & alcohol, anxiety, and perfectionism – the list of the ways we distract and soothe ourselves from discomfort goes on and on. You may find the need to learn more about yourself and your relationships, process life events, share things that are difficult to share with other people, or to explore how past experiences have shaped you. I am passionate about helping clients foster self-awareness by using motivational interviewing, to meet you right where you are. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University. I am a National Board Certified Counselor. I have spent over 12 years in the mental health field, and 8 years as a mental health professional. You don’t need to be in a crisis to benefit from therapy. Ongoing wellness is crucial to a balanced life.

“An Arrow can only be shot by pulling it backward. So when life is dragging you back, it means that it is going to launch you into something great.” Life has its way of pulling us backward, but I believe with positive support, healthy coping skills, and processing through things that are dragging you back; you can learn to thrive and launch yourself into greater things. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Missouri and also licensed in Illinois and Massachusetts. I received my Master's from the University of Missouri-Columbia. I have worked with clients of all ages and enjoy the chance to help you make positive changes to live your best life! I have worked in the mental health field for over ten years. Throughout my time working in mental health I have worked with clients with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, and substance and alcohol use disorders. My greatest skill as a therapist is being able to work with clients and help them feel accepted, heard, and understood. I have been trained in many therapy modalities and use these skills to help clients learn coping skills to better manage and cope with daily stress and symptoms they have previously suffered from. I believe change is possible. Using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills, I teach clients mindfulness, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance. This specific therapy modality was specifically created to help people diagnosed with personality disorders, but I have also found these skills effective in treating a range of other symptoms including anger, depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, self-harming behaviors, trauma responses, and eating disorders. I integrate DBT skills into my client's treatment based on their needs. By learning these helpful and healthy coping skills I have witnessed my clients learn to not only manage their lives better but thrive in life.