Therapists in Illinois

I have a Doctorate in Psychology and am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I have been working as a therapist for over 16 years. I specialize in mood disorders, anxiety, trauma and LGBTQIA issues. I believe that therapy should be a safe place to talk about personal issues without any judgment. We all need someone to talk to and therapy provides that space where you can be yourself. We all go through some things from time to time and should be able allowed to talk with someone who is willing to listen and provide us with the support that we need.

Hello! I'm a Christian Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. I received my Master's from Capella University in Minnesota and have practiced in Illinois for 15 years. Previously, I was a licensed and ordained youth pastor for almost 24 years. I love to help couples, parents, and their children navigate through challenging life and relational issues toward restoration and health.

Since beginning my career in psychotherapy in 2002, I have been driven by a deep commitment to assisting individuals navigate life’s challenges and realize their fullest potential. Over more than two decades, I’ve had the privilege of guiding clients through moments of crisis and transformation—whether they arrived seeking relief from anxiety, support in grieving, or guidance through life transitions. My approach is integrative, blending the humanistic clarity of client‑centered therapy with the structured, skill‑based power of cognitive behavioral techniques. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy, combining practical tools with a supportive, nonjudgmental space. My approach helps clients challenge unhelpful thoughts, build coping skills, and grow through empathy, trust, and collaboration. Reaching out for help can feel daunting—I know it takes courage to share your worries or frustrations. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, low mood, relationship challenges, or feeling stuck, you’re not alone and your story matters. If you’re curious about therapy or how to start, I’d be honored to listen and support you when you’re ready.

I possess a doctorate in Psychology, serve as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and hold the certification of Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of Illinois. I am the author of the best-selling self-help publication titled "How to Be a Mental Health Savage." I am a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness with the objective of diminishing mental health stigma on a global scale. My approach to mental health enhancement emphasizes a holistic perspective, incorporating intellectual stimulation, relationship restructuring, dietary modifications, and physical activity. My comprehensive experience encompasses acute trauma care, counseling for co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse), as well as conducting custody evaluations, FOID appeal assessments, immigration mental health evaluations, and juvenile forensic evaluations.

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor providing therapy to address a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, ADHD as well as difficulties with communication and navigating conflict in relationships. Often individuals seek therapy after what they have tried on their own is not providing the change they are seeking. I provide a supportive and partnership approach to therapy incorporating tools to meet client goals.

I view us as the ultimate team! You are the expert of your own life story. I am here to help you rewrite the parts that don't quite fit with the version of yourself you want to be. Using empathy and humor, we will work together to redefine the narrative you have of yourself into one you are proud to take ownership of.

Hello, my name is Matt Marder. Thank you for considering my services and for taking the time to learn more about how I can support your personal development. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I offer behavioral therapy with a focus on promoting emotional well-being. I am dedicated to creating a professional, trusting, and collaborative environment where you feel heard and understood. Together, we will assess your current situation and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. My approach emphasizes self-awareness, empathy, and practical strategies to effectively address life's challenges. Additionally, I am an ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and have completed Level 1 training of the Gottman Method. If you are experiencing personal challenges or difficulties in managing various aspects of your life, I am here to offer support and guidance. My goal is to assist you in improving your well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. Your emotional health and well-being are my highest priorities, regardless of your background or circumstances. I look forward to providing the support you need and deserve.

Hello! My name is John Benton, LCSW from Illinois. I have been a licensed therapist since 2007 working 19 years in a community mental health center. Prior to that I was counseling in group homes for adolescent boys and girls who had serious behavior and emotional problems. I have treated many mental health issues in various ethnicities and age groups. I have also supervised staff in properly applying counseling techniques and behavior modifications to help youth successfully reintegrate to their homes of origin, foster homes, and in society in general.

Hi, I’m Brian If you feel stuck, and unable to change things, I can help you to start moving again. We can join together and create a strategy for working through the event or dilemma that is stressing you out. Together we will work to restore or surpass your previous level of productivity and satisfaction. I want to hear your story. I will listen. I will not judge. For the last 19 years, I have helped individuals, families and couples resolve problematic situations. Their experiences often instilled insight, confidence, serenity and hope. My holistic mission is to: • listen empathetically, without judgement • Ease suffering and improve functionality • Teach you to persist when fear and doubt are present • Be equal partners working together to create and implement strategies to resolve, accept and overcome the obstacles that impede your progress I want to • Help you find insight, meaning and purpose • Provide support as you proceed in the direction of your choosing • Teach you how to live more effectively • Create the opportunity for you to smile when it is most needed and least expected I take the time to educate you about the conditions that you experience and the treatment you receive. I believe that self-empowerment begins with self-understanding. I will help you understand why you do what you do and feel what you feel. I have extensive experience treating addicted people in residential in patient treatment, outpatient and aftercare facilities. I advise and treat families struggling to with parents, children and siblings that are addicted

I have lived in Chicago for the past 10 years and have been a therapist and social worker during that time. I got my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Kansas. For hobbies, I love playing soccer, reading, speaking Spanish, and gardening. My therapeutic orientation is born out of my desire to answer life's big questions and love of philosophy.

Robert Goodwin, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with clarity, compassion, and practical support. With experience in counseling, leadership, and crisis care, Robert provides a calm and supportive environment where clients can work through anxiety, stress, grief, relationship challenges, burnout, emotional exhaustion, and major life transitions. Robert’s counseling approach is grounded in evidence-based practices while remaining approachable, relational, and client-centered. He works collaboratively with clients to develop practical coping strategies, improve emotional wellbeing, strengthen relationships, and build resilience for everyday life. Known for his steady and compassionate presence, Robert helps clients feel heard, understood, and supported as they pursue healing, personal growth, and healthier patterns of living. His goal is to create a safe and professional space where clients can gain insight, develop practical tools, and move toward lasting emotional health and wellness.

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 maximum 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 and fair perspective towards themselves and other significant people and events in their lives.

Hi there, I'm Tom. Are you feeling stuck in your journey of development and improvement? I walk alongside men and women and provide thoughtful insights and an empathetic, non-judgemental ear to help identify and work through roadblocks to growth. I believe in treating, in addition to the symptom, the cause of our pain to help promote healing. Additionally, I have experience working with Internal Family Systems, OCD, couples therapy and faith-based issues, alongside other therapeutic methods. I look forward to hearing your story.

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

You may be the person everyone relies on—the one who keeps showing up, handles responsibilities, and appears to have everything under control. But underneath that, you may feel anxious, emotionally exhausted, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or unsure how to prioritize yourself without feeling guilty. I’m Steve, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 15 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, self-esteem, difficult life transitions, and the pressure of constantly having to be “the strong one.” My style is warm, authentic, and direct. I’ll support you without judgment, but I’ll also respectfully challenge you, help you recognize patterns, and hold you accountable to the goals you set for yourself. Therapy with me is collaborative, practical, and tailored to who you are. Together, we’ll work toward healthier boundaries, greater confidence, stronger relationships, and meaningful changes that extend beyond the therapy session.

Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.

Are you wanting to make change in life, but are struggling to escape the same old patterns? Looking to empower yourself and create change in your life? I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has spent my career assisting men in achieving their goals, making lasting and fulfilling relationships, and facing life's challenges head-on. I have worked with adults across the lifespan to address concerns about relationships, behaviors, substance use, and more.

Hi, I'm Gerald Are you at a point in life where your ready to make some much needed changes, but need support? I'm here for you, and together we can come up with a realistic plan to start doing things differently in order to live a more satisfying, meaningful life. I have lived in a number of places and have had many positive experiences working with diverse clients. I enjoy helping people help themselves and look forward to meeting you.

Hiram Kirkendall is a U.S Army veteran. Client's who are stuck or at risk and need to make positive changes in their life are the clients that I help the most. Clients will learn skills to make positive changes. Clients who are stuck will learn to remove the anchors from their live. Clients will learn to be forward thinking instead of living in the past. I have a master degree from Chicago state. I have practiced as mental health counselor since 2012.

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.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois. I have experience working with clients with a wide variety of mental health issues. I received my Masters degree from Clark Atlanta University and have been practicing for around 3 years. I work primarily with adults who are looking for ways to manage stress and improve their mental wellbeing.

Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker located in Chicago, Illinois. I work with people who desire a better understanding of who they are, who their authentic self is and integrating that self with their identity structure. I also work with people making life transition(s) and require a caring and listening ear to help guide them through the process. I provide individual, couples and family counseling.

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.

I’m Jarom “Jay” Matheson, MSW, LCSW, a licensed clinical psychotherapist based in Chicago. I help individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and major life transitions with compassion, curiosity, and practical support. My approach is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth, blending CBT, DBT skills, trauma-informed care, and EMDR to create a space where clients feel truly seen and supported. Together, we focus on building effective coping tools, strengthening resilience, and creating meaningful, lasting emotional growth—one step at a time. I am Deaf and use American Sign Language (ASL). I have over 10 years of experience working with both Deaf/Hard of Hearing and hearing clients. For hearing clients, a qualified ASL interpreter is provided at no cost, and all interpreters are bound by strict professional confidentiality standards. Confidentiality and client privacy are always protected, ensuring a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for everyone.

My name is Marc Genson and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and I have been a counselor for over 15 years. Counseling is a passion of mine as this alllows a client to really learn about themselves and who they are and want to become. You are taking a brave step to seek help and I am happy to help you along your journey. We all have something we want to change and I am here to help with that. We all have areas in our lives that we can grow in and learn from and I am here to help you in those areas. No one is perfect but we often tell ourselves we have to be and that's not fair to us. Sometimes our thinking causes us to not be our best self and we make mistakes. I am here to help correct these mistakes moving forward through improved cognition, awareness and decision making via CBT, ACT and DBT techniques. I know how important my job is and I want my clients to know I will be there to listen, support and guide but not tell them how to live their lives. I welcome the chance to help a new client become the best version of themselves.

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Florida, Virginia, Illinois and Massachusetts , with experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. I specialize in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly explore yours thoughts and emotions. I use evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness based techniques. I am passionate about supporting clients through times of change and personal growth.

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 Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 35 years' experience in helping individuals and couples overcome their issues and obtain their goals. I have a master's degree in counseling, and I am also a Forensic Expert Witness for the Federal Government. I am a Christian Counselor who will assist you through client centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also work as a sports motivator and can help athletes develop their ability to focus.

Congratulations! You have taken the first steps in the journey to your goal(s). I am extremely grateful you are considering me to partner up with. I consider my relationships as instrumental in learning who I am. The relationships that most speak to who I am include being a spouse, father, brother, son, colleague, and friend. My grandparents are deceased. Through these relationships I have learned a great deal.

My name is Jim Neumann and i am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing for more that twenty five years. My work experience covers many different cultures and client backgrounds. I am very client oriented and focus my efforts on client goals and ideas of what they think is important during the therapy process. My approach as a therapist is non directive and I believe that therapy is a cooperative effort between the client and therapist to fulfill the needs of the client that originally brought them to pursue therapy.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work with over 40 years of clinical experience in healthcare and provided clinical interventions targeted with patients who are interested in a journey of personal growth through therapeutic interventions to assist with healing and good mental health. I specialize in HIV/AIDS, LGBTQI concerns, oncology, HIV/AIDS, end of life and life transitions. I am licensed in Florida and Illinois.

Hi there, I am Sammy a Licensed Clinical professional counselor. If you are reading this, you may be exploring options to relieve some stress or tackle some of life’s challenges. I am here to support you with whatever it is you are experiencing. I am committed to helping you walk away from each session with support, care, empathic unconditional understanding, and of course a tablespoon of chuckles as well. I have experience in multiple settings treating a wide range of issues using evidence-based practice and can also support you. Make the call you will not regret. I am also a couples therapist helping you create safety with the people who matter most. Reach out to me and I would be more than happy to find time options that work for you. I use EFT to assist you to identify the inner emotional turmoil and to help you make sense of and understand your partner.

Hello, I'm Josh. I am a practicing therapist with the Dept of Veterans Affairs. I specialize in working with veterans and their families toward living better lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I earned my master's in clinical social work from the University of Utah, and my undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa. I've been in practice for five years. I am married, I love to play the guitar and piano, I have a cat named Cashmere. I enjoy science, learning, and I believe in living each day as fully as we can. I am excited to see what we can accomplish together!

I'm a board-licensed therapist with extensive experience working with teens and adults. I believe that therapy is characterized by safety, trust, respect, and an emphasis on education and self-discovery. I have had the pleasure of conducting therapy with people of various ages and backgrounds. I have served in various clinical settings (e.g., inpatient psychiatric, outpatient counseling, addictions, etc.). My specializations include working with those who have experienced life-altering anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, substance use, and chronic stress.

Hello, I’m Tim. Do you ever feel that tasks of modern life leave you with limited space and energy to focus on your emotional and mental well-being? When people are maxed out emotionally, they sometimes notice a change in their behaviors and relationships. Life demands can lead to imbalances that might manifest as discord with your significant other or family members, feeling the general sensation of stress or fatigue, or not feeling motivated to engage in mood-regenerating practices. If these experiences resonate with you, I would welcome the opportunity to collaboratively explore the underlying causes, and work toward rebuilding emotional equilibrium. Sometimes people will view therapy and self-care as too much of a time commitment during their already busy schedules; however, I take the stance that it is an essential part of any self-maintenance plan. A practice of working toward better self-understanding and self-compassion is always a return on the investment of time.

I earned my doctorate and post-graduate master's degrees in psychology and my master's degree in counseling from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. Professionally, I retired from the United States Air Force as a senior non-commissioned officer, and since retiring, have worked in several different behavioral health settings. In addition to my private practice, I am a graduate-level adjunct professor of counseling psychology.

Dr. Gerald McCallum, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of experience. He completed his training through APA-accredited programs at the University of Illinois, the University of Memphis, the University of Arkansas–Arkansas Children's Hospital, and the University of Tennessee–Health Science Center. He is affiliated with the American Psychological Association, the Illinois Psychological Association, and the National Register of Health Service Psychologists. He is licensed in Illinois. Dr. McCallum specializes in working with adolescents, adults, and families, focusing on emotional and adjustment concerns, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 35 years of experience treating male and female clients ages 16-80 in individual and couples therapies. Treatment includes a broad range of issues relating to anxiety, depression, communicaton, life transitions, and improving self-esteem. My assessments include evaluating the clients Mind, Body, and Spirit and improving their lives to function at the highest level they ever have in their life.

I’m a licensed therapist who works with people navigating anxiety, stress, and life transitions. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, helping clients build skills to relate differently to difficult thoughts and emotions while moving toward what matters most to them. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where change feels possible and sustainable. I work to understand people''s experiences and how those experiences impact people.

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.

I love life even when it is difficult, uncertain, and unpredictable. I experience it as a precious gift and live in constant awe of the quiet miracle of existence. I believe in hope, believe in kindness and compassion, and hold an essentially optimistic view of the human spirit. As a practicing professional, I am continually moved by the beauty and depth of psychotherapy. The psyche remains a mystery that can never be fully captured, and yet it endlessly inspires me. For me, psychotherapy is not only a profession—it is a philosophy, a spiritual path, and a way of living with attention, humility, and devotion to inner truth.

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.

Hi everyone, welcome to my profile. I am glad that you are engaged in this journey of self-help and interested in learning more about therapy. I recognize that, for many, therapy, is a big step in trying to improve their lives, and people can be nervous or unfamiliar with therapy, at first. Regardless of any stigmas attached to therapy, I firmly believe in the importance of therapy and that this process has helped many people. I strive to make the therapeutic environment a comfortable and non-judgmental place where clients feel they can fully express themselves. I am originally from New York- born and raised. I moved to Chicago in June of 2025 and I am living and experiencing a new city. I have worked with a variety of clients, including those of different ages and backgrounds. My areas of focus, include, but not limited to, 1) Grief and Loss 2) Family and personal relationships, including divorce, marriage, and romantic relationships 3) Emotional Regulation and anger management, 4) Anxiety and stress 5) Life Transitions.

Welcome! I'm Douglas and I would appreciate the opportunity to help you get on track and stay on track. You want to be heard. You want to be understood. You want to be respected. You want someone on your side to help you in your life journey. You are always my priority. Research tells us that the top predictor of excellent clinical outcomes is therapeutic rapport. That means that a great clinical relationship with your therapist is more important than any particular treatment theory. I have experience with adult clients across a wide range of racial, ethnic, gender and socioeconomic spectrums, and have demonstrated the ability to make every client feel heard and understood on their terms. Mixing evidence-based methods and humor, we will address your priorities in a manner to help you make progress and help you to enjoy the journey. In my practice, we fight. I want to help you become a mental health warrior.

Hello, I'm Jack Richey, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 20 years of experience helping adults, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa, with a specialization in Interpersonal Communication and Change. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, stress, grief and loss, divorce recovery, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, relationship difficulties, and family conflicts. I also help individuals facing workplace stress, social anxiety, communication challenges, men's issues, midlife transitions, and questions about purpose and direction in life. My counseling approach is rooted in respect, empathy, and collaboration. I utilize evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Together, we will identify practical strategies to help you overcome obstacles, build resilience, and move toward your goals. I have a particular passion for helping individuals and couples strengthen relationships and improve communication. Whether you are working through marital concerns, recovering from a divorce, navigating family dynamics, or seeking healthier patterns in your relationships, I provide a supportive environment where meaningful change can occur. For clients who desire it, I ethically integrate Christian values and biblical principles into the counseling process while maintaining professional standards of care. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and respect each person's unique beliefs and experiences. Seeking help is a courageous first step. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can gain insight, develop effective coping skills, and create lasting positive change. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

I tend to thrive in crisis. Ideal with the toughest cases of trauma, shootings, cults abductions, and domestic violence. I have been able to help so many veterans as well over the past 12+ years in my positions with US Service Animals, Simple, Practice, Grow Therapy and other telehealth platforms. I was an early adopter of telehealth and I have seen it. Make such a difference for so many people because of the comfort that is brought by being able to open up in an environment you know is safe, your own home/space. I take a solutions focused and a client centered approach. I am also insight oriented. I have a lot of insight when it comes to dealing with physical pain and disabilities as I have a visual disability since very young and suffered a TBI at age 24. I like to focus on what issues you are having and come up with coping mechanisms that will work for you. Dealing with the struggles I have had throughout my life has helped me work with people and develop creative and effective coping mechanisms for their specific issues. I have now lived and worked in several states with varying cultures and have benefited from all of these experiences. I have spent a lot of time in a hospital and work well with nurses and medical professionals as well. Please reach out if you think I can help and I will meet you where you are and see where we can go from here.

John Swails is an ordained minister, a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Certified DBT Therapist, and Marine Corp Veteran, with military mental-health practice experience addressing traumatic stress, separation, family grief, and relationship issues, and civilian experience addressing physical and sexual abuse, single-mothers with dual diagnosed children, and group therapy for middle-school and teens to develop resiliency. As a therapist, John utilizes proven DBT, Strategic, CBT-Family, Solution-Focused, and other systemic techniques to address individual, couple, and family issues. As a minister John is sensitive to the beliefs of the client and is ready to explore spiritual solutions to any issue.

My first career includes 17 years of retail management. I worked in multiple divisions, environments, and roles within the retail management industry. Most of my experience was in big-box retail environments or corporate offices, so I understand the expectations and stressors of P&L management, marketing, staff performance/recruitment/training & development, shrinkage, O.S.H.A. compliance, and merchandising. I transitioned from the retail management industry to the human services industry in March 2010 after earning my Master’s degree in Human Services, with a specialty in Mental Health Counseling. I recently obtained a doctoral degree in Human and Social Services. This information is pertinent for adults who need assistance to cope with work-life balance, corporate industry standards, stressful work environments, conflict management with co-workers, and work performance due to compassion fatigue or inappropriate time management.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than thirty years of experience supporting individuals and families across schools, hospitals, substance use programs, homeless shelters, and community mental health settings. I’ve also supervised master’s‑level clinicians as they developed their skills and professional identities. I approach therapy with curiosity, openness, and deep respect for each person’s story. My work is compassionate and individualized, honoring both psychological insight and the spiritual depth many people bring to their healing. Together, we create a space where growth feels grounded, meaningful, and genuinely your own.

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or facing a major life transition? I provide a safe, supportive space where adults can slow down, gain clarity, and develop practical strategies for moving forward. Throughout my extensive career, I've helped people navigate life's challenges both as a licensed clinical therapist and as a healthcare executive leading major hospital systems. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, grief, or a major life transition, I provide a supportive space to gain clarity, build resilience, and move forward with confidence. Raised in Chicago’s Rogers Park and influenced by my father’s resilience as a Holocaust survivor, I bring a strong foundation of empathy and perspective to my work. I hold a master's in clinical social work from Loyola University and am licensed in Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, New Mexico and West Virginia. I also earned a master's degree in business administration from North Park University and an executive management certification from University of Southern California. Having lived and worked across the United States and internationally, I bring a broad, culturally informed perspective to my practice. My therapeutic philosophy emphasizes positivity, confidence, and persistence.