Surest Therapists in Illinois

I am originally from Florida and the Valedictorian of my high school who graduated and played football for Stanford University and The University of Michigan. After creating a nonprofit called Empire For The Youth, I have developed a curriculum for building wholistic life success and have worked in over 20 different schools throughout the united states. I work with all youth from ages 8-80 in helping them identify their life purpose and motivation for why they wake up and live every day. I help to mold daily habits to keep my clients living life full of HOPE...Having Only Positive Energy!

With over 30 years of experience, I have a broad and deep experience helping my clients explore their lives to make powerful and meaningful changes that determine how mental health challenges affect their lives. I bring a unique level of warmth, compassion, energy, and enthusiasm into my clinical work. I am a firm believer in “it takes a village” mindset, where together we build a stronger existence. Life can be overwhelming, reaching out for help, guidance and direction is one of our greatest strengths.

I work with clients experiencing relationship challenges, interpersonal difficulties, marriage conflicts and individuals with stress, depression, and anxiety. Clients need space to be heard, feel validated and challenged in a safe environment. My goals for clients are to aid them in finding internal resources that can help them be at peace with their own challenges as well as to help them in their relationships with others. Couples’ work is focused on finding areas to increase satisfaction, finding areas of need within yourself, and learning to 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 have worked with aging adults, end of life issues, and grief. I am working with couples and individuals with relationship issues as well as life stressors. If you are experiencing challenges in your love life, difficulty with your day-to-day functioning or are experiencing work/life stressors call me to schedule a time to complete an assessment and we can build a plan that best supports you and your family.

I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology/Argosy University in Chicago. I believe the most essential element of therapy is developing a trusting, therapeutic alliance in order to facilitate change. I specialize in integrated treatments for addressing co-occurring disorders, offering genuine compassion, honesty, and humor, along with a trauma informed care approach to treatment. I work independently running a private practice and my experiences include working as an outpatient mental health therapist at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, serving those struggling with mental health issues as well as psychiatric disorders in the community. I have also provided psychotherapy at Family Guidance Centers, assisting those with substance use and psychiatric disorders after completing my internship with Rosecrance Treatment Center working as a substance abuse counselor.

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 18 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 over 3 decades of experience working in the fields of mental health and social work. I work with youth, adults, families, and couples who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and school refusal. Prior to private practice, I worked in academia as an administrator of social work programs and as a medical social worker.

Hello! I'm Christine Manuel, LCSW, a Client centered and goal oriented Therapist. I earned my Masters Degree from the University of Chicago, and I have been in this field for over 16 years. I work with Adolescents and Adults who are struggling with stress and anxiety, the effects of trauma, attachment issues, and Parenting concerns. I have an Individualized approach that allows me to join with Clients on their journey toward growth and healing.

My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. I serve my community as a counselor, therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from primarily underserved populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American cities. I have encountered child, adolescent and adult challenges ranging from trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the soft and more concrete changes you are looking to achieve in your life. My style is open, supportive and person centered, we will choose the approach for your situation using a variety of theories and concepts including art, movement, and EMDR.

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 20 years and have a wide variety of experiences working with clients. I am certified in DBT and have training in ACT, motivational interviewing and trauma treatment. I find great fulfillment in partnering with clients in order to help them find the life they wish to live. I focus on what the client seeks and work to develop practical skills to help improve emotional balance, better relationships and more awareness of the present moment.

Hi there, I’m Rupa. Are you living the authentic life you envision for yourself? Does your dream match your reality? I help individuals of all ages to discover who they truly are. Together, we will explore your strengths and passions. We will also identify any obstacles which may be holding you back from reaching your full potential. I incorporate a variety of interventions into sessions to help process deep feelings- with the goal of building strength and resilience as you begin writing your next chapter. Whether it's anxiety, trauma, or other issues that are keeping you from fully living your life, I am here to provide support. I bring more than 15 years of clinical experience in non-profit, private practice and hospital settings. A strong focus has been on work with marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA+, special needs, and BIPOC individuals.

Hello, I’m erica! Whether we find ourselves at our stressed out breaking point, ready to process old wounds, or simply seeking to understand ourselves more deeply in order to build a life that we desire, each of us needs a place to lay down our stressors and talk out the problems that we face that feels safe, warm, and non-judgmental. For many of us, one of those places is with a trusted therapist. It can feel daunting to explore the idea of starting therapy; and yet, to even be sifting through therapists online shows already a level of hope, care for, and dedication to yourself and your wellbeing - what a meaningful moment! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois, and earned my master’s degree in clinical social work from The University of Chicago. In my years of practice I have worked with adults who are struggling with the pressures of the world and the pain or trauma they have endured, are processing current or upcoming moments or seasons of change, and are overall seeking to find their own healing, hope, and beliefs. Most often my clients are looking to address anxiety and depression, trauma, perinatal mental health, self image and confidence, education and career direction and development, sexuality and sexual or gender identity, and cultural experience and identity. Regardless of what specifically you are seeking and carrying, I am honored to be invited to walk alongside you on your unique journey of healing and discovery. I seek to always offer warmth and a gentle and empathetic presence where you can feel free to explore whatever is on your mind or in your heart and know that it will be met not with judgment, but rather with compassion and care.

As a veteran and therapist, I bring a grounded, compassionate approach to helping others heal. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and supporting women who are navigating the lasting effects of trauma. I work with individuals dealing with chronic worry, panic attacks, social anxiety, and specific phobias. I believe that healing is most powerful when it includes the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I often integrate nature-based practices, movement like running or walking therapy, and conversations around nutrition and wellness into my work. I’ve seen how connecting with animals and spending time outdoors can offer grounding, clarity, and emotional balance, especially when processing deep pain or stress. My approach is rooted in evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. These tools help clients better understand the roots of their anxiety and trauma responses while building practical strategies for long-term healing and relief. I offer a calm, supportive space where women feel seen, heard, and empowered. My focus is on helping you regain confidence, restore a sense of control, and move forward with greater strength and resilience. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful progress—and real, lasting change.

Hello Potential Client! Welcome to my Practice. My name is Amanda Strobel and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC). I have had an opportunity to practice behavioral health therapy in many settings over the last 25+ years. My overall goal is to support my clients through their therapeutic journey including supporting them through life transitions, stressful or overwhelming situations, grief or loss issues or executive counseling for career advancement. You will find that I have worked in a variety of therapy settings including: private practice both in person and virtual, inpatient/outpatient, corporate settings, residential, therapeutic day schools, mentally ill substance abuse and oncology wellness centers. In those setting I provided therapy on a variety of mental health issues. I spent the first 15 years of my career working with children, adolescents and young adults working through: physical/sexual and neglect issues, anxiety/panic/OCD, depression, bi-polar disorder, suicidal ideation and actions, family conflicts, boundary setting and substance abuse issues. I have also worked with the overall family unit to address family conflict, parenting issues and relationship building. In more recent years my focus has been on grief/loss issues, coping skills, self care, executive consulting and counseling, life transitional issues and working through major life changes and choices. I would love to support you as you take your first steps towards achieving your goals-please reach out and schedule an appointment.

Hello, my name is Matt Marder. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and how I might support you on your personal journey. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I offer behavioral therapy to improve and maintain your emotional well-being. I focus on building a trusting relationship with my clients, allowing you to be heard and understood. Initially, we begin where you are and build a treatment plan specifically to meet your needs. My approaches allow you to recognize yourself, think about others, and identify strategies for navigating the daily roller-coaster of life. You may have gone through a loss or be experiencing trouble managing whatever life has thrown your way. I am available to listen and help you succeed in improving yourself, your relationships, or your family life. No matter who you are, or what circumstances you’ve endured, your emotional health and well-being are most important. Feel free to reach out to me for assistance.

Right now you are probably scared. You know something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start. You don't know if this works and you're at the point where you are afraid that nothing will work. We have all been there, me included. I understand and I do not judge. I have been a clinical therapist for the past 20 years. In my time I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, geriatric patients, and LGBTIQQ individuals. What I have discovered in all my years of practice is that people all want the same things. We want to know that we are loved, valued and respected. I can promise you that when you speak to me you will be the only person that matters. You will not find judgement and you will not find blame. We will work together, at your own pace. I will help you find hope, unwavering support and the motivation to change the things in your life that you feel need to be changed. Together, we can improve your life. I'm here whenever you're ready.

Hi! I'm Shannon Aldridge, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families both online as well as in my private practice. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Augustana College in 1998. Shortly thereafter I worked for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services helping families to address and ameliorate issues impacting the safety and well being of children. I achieved my Master's Degree in Social Work from Aurora University in 2005 while continuing to work with DCFS. My work in child welfare provided vast opportunities to work with populations struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD and Addictions. It was through this experience that I found passion in strengthening families and advocating for education, treatment and community supports. I ultimately shifted my career to private practice where I have enjoyed the ability to connect and effect change with individuals and families through a therapeutic alliance.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has over 30 years in the mental health field working in psychiatric hospitals and private practice. I work with clients individually (ages 13-17; 18- 65+); Couples and Families who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, marriage/divorce issues, grief issues, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, domestic violence (victims) and substance use. I am passionate about what I do and truly care about each of my clients.

Hi, I’m Mel B! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree from Aurora University in Social Work. For the past 10 years, I’ve helped young adults in their 20s feel more confident, less stressed, and more in control of their lives—and I absolutely love it! My goal is to support you in becoming the best version of yourself. I believe therapy should feel comfortable, safe, and real. I’ll meet you where you are, without judgment, and we’ll find what works best for you. I like to keep things flexible, using a mix of humor, practical tools, and mindset shifts. So, what is my mission? I specialize in working with millennials and Gen Z adults who struggle with: Big Life Decisions – Career changes, moving, grad school, and other major transitions. Relationship Anxiety – Dating, breakups, commitment fears, and finding healthy connections. Confidence & Overthinking – Trusting yourself, making decisions, and quieting self-doubt. Self-Care & Self-Compassion – Taking care of YOU in ways that actually feel good. When I’m not helping clients, I’m a wife and a cat mom to three adorable fur babies. I’m a huge Swiftie, an iced coffee addict, and I love reading young-adult romance books with dashes of humor and magic. I enjoy going for walks, planning future trips, and spending time with family and friends. I’m also a big dreamer—I love setting goals and going after them! If you’re looking for a therapist who is warm, supportive, and will truly listen, I’d love to connect with you. Let’s work together to create a life that feels right for you!

I am an Army Veteran and LCPC with a certification as a national certified counselor through the NBCC and have accumulated over 6 years of direct individual/group practice as a licensed counselor. Overall, my experience spans over 10 years working as a crisis, substance use, and mental health counselor in the field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and substance use. I also have assisted many clients who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is very welcoming and inviting. I believe in honoring the values of respect, sensitivity, compassion, empathy and embracing a holistic point of view to promote mental wellness. It takes courage to make the steps towards a more fulfilling and happier life and embrace change. If you are ready to take that leap into a healthier mind, body, and spirit, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you in your new journey!

Greetings! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in Illinois. With a Master's from The Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago, I bring 9 years of social work experience, including 7 years in private practice. My therapeutic approach focuses on addressing the root causes of symptoms, empowering clients to live fulfilling lives free from mental health concerns. I'm dedicated to achieving lasting healing for many common disorders.

I love working with my clients in a collaborative therapeutic relationship built upon trauma-informed care. I believe that safety, choice, collaboration, trustworthiness, and empowerment are the bedrock to build a strong therapeutic rapport. I do my best to show up for my clients in a non-judgmental and compassionate way to help them identify, explore, and take valued action toward their own healing and well-being. I love what I do!

My name is Stacey Dinkelman, and I'm a licensed clinical professional counselor with more than fifteen years of expertise. I am attentive to each client's specific needs. I believe that every person has the potential to overcome their challenges in life, and with the right support and tools, we can make that happen. Whether you’re having a hard time adjusting to changes in life or you need help learning that your challenges don’t have to be roadblocks, I am here to help.

Hi, My name is Sandi Cross. I hold a BS and MSW, both from the University of Illinois. I also have a Type 73 Certification in School Social Work. I have spent my entire adult life working with children and families and am passionate about helping people identify and fulfill their goals, while confronting the struggles along the way. Many of the struggles include anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, anger-management, and low self-esteem.

Welcome! Therapy is an invitation for healing and change, so congratulate yourself for actively seeking transformation in your life. My name is Bridget, founder Mind Move Therapy that provides psychotherapy, somatic movement therapy and physical health coaching. I approach therapy from a holistic- emotional, physical, cognitive perspective. I specialize in Somatics- emphasizing that the body holds emotions, trauma responses and stress so healing includes the body. My clients report positive results from therapy with me. You can overcome symptoms of trauma and stress, heal from the past and live happier and more meaningfully. I specialize in treating various traumas, including childhood trauma, abuse, loss, and PTSD. I specialize in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. I work with clients with Borderline Personality tendencies or those impacted by BPD. I work with clients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder and other somatic issues. I support clients with addiction issues. Every client walks a unique path and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I create a safe, therapeutic environment where clients have the opportunity to explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors in which to gain insight, experience shifts in emotional states and find a renewed sense of mental and physical well-being.

Are you avoiding some of life’s most significant moments? Are you overwhelmed or stuck? Is life passing you by with nothing left? Give yourself a little space by taking some time to begin a journey that will help you. In my formal education, I have acquired various certifications and licenses that allow me to provide high-quality clinical services to adults including: 1. Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC): This license enables me to practice as a professional counselor in the state of Illinois. It demonstrates my competency and adherence to ethical standards. 2. Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Addictions Counselor (CAADC): This certification signifies my specialization in helping individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. It demonstrates my expertise in treating addiction-related issues. 3. Certified Co-Occurring Disorder Professional (CODP I): This certification further emphasizes my proficiency in working with clients who have co-occurring mental health disorders and substance abuse issues. It allows me to provide comprehensive care and support to individuals with dual diagnoses. 4. Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-Level 1): This certification validates my knowledge and skills in providing trauma-informed care to clients who have experienced significant psychological distress or trauma. 5. Certified Clinical Complex Trauma Professional (CCTP): This certification recognizes my specialized training and expertise in working with individuals who have endured multiple or ongoing traumas that have deeply impacted their psychological well-being. 6. Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS): This designation indicates that I have met rigorous standards of expertise and experience in providing clinical supervision to aspiring or practicing counselors. It demonstrates my ability to guide and mentor other professionals in the field. These qualifications enable me to provide effective evidence-based therapy while also equipping me with the skills and knowledge to train and support future counselors.