Photo of Azita Afshar, PsyD, Psychologist
Azita Afshar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
Most recently, the bulk of my work is trauma-informed, relying heavily on attachment-based models of therapy, as well as sensorimotor, mindfulness, and neurologically informed interventions.
I consider myself to be a trauma-informed therapist. I believe that each experience in one's life leaves an imprint on the mind & body; thus, informing how one responds to the world. There is a rhyme & reason to these responses, and none of it is about being "wrong," "damaged," or "not good enough" (words I often hear from individuals in my practice). The goal of therapy with me is to help you learn to compassionately connect with, soothe and heal these hurting parts, so that you may be able to let go, engage, and thrive in your personal and professional life. I believe healing is possible for anyone willing to work at it.
Most recently, the bulk of my work is trauma-informed, relying heavily on attachment-based models of therapy, as well as sensorimotor, mindfulness, and neurologically informed interventions.
I consider myself to be a trauma-informed therapist. I believe that each experience in one's life leaves an imprint on the mind & body; thus, informing how one responds to the world. There is a rhyme & reason to these responses, and none of it is about being "wrong," "damaged," or "not good enough" (words I often hear from individuals in my practice). The goal of therapy with me is to help you learn to compassionately connect with, soothe and heal these hurting parts, so that you may be able to let go, engage, and thrive in your personal and professional life. I believe healing is possible for anyone willing to work at it.
(773) 669-5985 View (773) 669-5985
Photo of Michael R Milco, PhD, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael R Milco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
There are many stresses in life that catch us by surprise. Whether they are lingering self issues, spiritual frustrations, unresolved marital issues or you just need a check up, I want to help you improve the quality of your emotional health as best as possible. You don't have to feel frustrated by these issues. I have almost 30 years of helping individuals and couples work through, understand and gain insight for navigating life's challenges.
There are many stresses in life that catch us by surprise. Whether they are lingering self issues, spiritual frustrations, unresolved marital issues or you just need a check up, I want to help you improve the quality of your emotional health as best as possible. You don't have to feel frustrated by these issues. I have almost 30 years of helping individuals and couples work through, understand and gain insight for navigating life's challenges.
(773) 825-5732 View (773) 825-5732
Photo of Gabriel Garcia, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabriel Garcia
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60644
I base my work on the belief that everyone can reach their potential with support. I am a Chicago native and use "he, him" pronouns. My clinical training encompasses holistic integrations of therapeutic modalities in treating the whole person. I work with my clients using a relational approach to develop a tailored mental health plan for each person. Collaboratively I work with clients to address the roots of their mental health status, promote healing, and lean into empowerment with the goal that his clients will recognize their full potential, step into their superpowers day after day, and lead a life of purpose and peace."
I base my work on the belief that everyone can reach their potential with support. I am a Chicago native and use "he, him" pronouns. My clinical training encompasses holistic integrations of therapeutic modalities in treating the whole person. I work with my clients using a relational approach to develop a tailored mental health plan for each person. Collaboratively I work with clients to address the roots of their mental health status, promote healing, and lean into empowerment with the goal that his clients will recognize their full potential, step into their superpowers day after day, and lead a life of purpose and peace."
(708) 797-6849 View (708) 797-6849
Photo of Crystal Reynolds - The Family Institute at Northwestern University, Psychologist
The Family Institute at Northwestern University
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
Through research, education and clinical services, The Family Institute at Northwestern University is one of the nation's leading relationship-based behavioral health organizations committed to strengthening and healing the whole family system by bringing together the right partners to support children, adults, couples and families across the lifespan. As researchers, educators and therapists, we work with our clients and PARTNER TO SEE CHANGE. By weaving together 175 therapists and therapists-in-training, we create a high quality, collaborative system of behavioral health care. One that gets results.
Through research, education and clinical services, The Family Institute at Northwestern University is one of the nation's leading relationship-based behavioral health organizations committed to strengthening and healing the whole family system by bringing together the right partners to support children, adults, couples and families across the lifespan. As researchers, educators and therapists, we work with our clients and PARTNER TO SEE CHANGE. By weaving together 175 therapists and therapists-in-training, we create a high quality, collaborative system of behavioral health care. One that gets results.
(847) 733-4300 x263 View (847) 733-4300 x263
Photo of Matthew Boltz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Boltz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I am currently accepting new clients. I provide counseling for adults on the Northside of Chicago and throughout all of Illinois. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, autism, career issues, depression, executive functioning difficulties, family issues, life change & transitions, LGBTQIA+ related issues, relationship issues, school/work stressors, and stress. I provide a safe and collaborative environment to help all the individuals I work with move toward their values, goals, and desired growth.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I am currently accepting new clients. I provide counseling for adults on the Northside of Chicago and throughout all of Illinois. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, autism, career issues, depression, executive functioning difficulties, family issues, life change & transitions, LGBTQIA+ related issues, relationship issues, school/work stressors, and stress. I provide a safe and collaborative environment to help all the individuals I work with move toward their values, goals, and desired growth.
(872) 206-9718 View (872) 206-9718
Photo of Virginia Torres Ryan, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Torres Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Las sesiones de terapia estan disponibles en espanol. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working with individuals and families who have direct and indirect experiences with domestic violence and/or family separation. I am also an attorney with over nine years of litigation experience in family courts representing parents or children as a GAL. My combined experiences working with legal clients and therapy clients provides a hollistic clinical perspective to individuals and families. I provide clinical supervision as a graduate internship site and to therapists seeking their LCSW or LCPC.
Las sesiones de terapia estan disponibles en espanol. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working with individuals and families who have direct and indirect experiences with domestic violence and/or family separation. I am also an attorney with over nine years of litigation experience in family courts representing parents or children as a GAL. My combined experiences working with legal clients and therapy clients provides a hollistic clinical perspective to individuals and families. I provide clinical supervision as a graduate internship site and to therapists seeking their LCSW or LCPC.
(773) 207-3440 View (773) 207-3440
Photo of Patricia Aguado, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Aguado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I am a bilingual (Spanish speaking) and bicultural clinician with over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and adults in hospital-based clinic settings and mental health community agency settings. My areas of treatment include but are not limited to; trauma, intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, identity formation and conflict, Latino/a/x concerns, multicultural issues, first-generation acculturation conflict, and physical health-related issues and adjustment.
I am a bilingual (Spanish speaking) and bicultural clinician with over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and adults in hospital-based clinic settings and mental health community agency settings. My areas of treatment include but are not limited to; trauma, intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, identity formation and conflict, Latino/a/x concerns, multicultural issues, first-generation acculturation conflict, and physical health-related issues and adjustment.
(309) 326-5264 View (309) 326-5264
Photo of Kate Penkethman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Penkethman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Sometimes our brain can be a scary place to live in. Sometimes our bodies feel disconnected from us, or we just feel a bit ‘off.’ And sometimes the life around us is too hard, too much, too painful. These thoughts, feelings, and sensations can be isolating, and that’s where therapy comes in. My hope is for you to feel a little less alone as you unpack the complexities of your life and move towards healing. Through our work, your thoughts and feelings will be centered and we will learn alongside one another about how to best work through the issues you're facing. Welcome!
Sometimes our brain can be a scary place to live in. Sometimes our bodies feel disconnected from us, or we just feel a bit ‘off.’ And sometimes the life around us is too hard, too much, too painful. These thoughts, feelings, and sensations can be isolating, and that’s where therapy comes in. My hope is for you to feel a little less alone as you unpack the complexities of your life and move towards healing. Through our work, your thoughts and feelings will be centered and we will learn alongside one another about how to best work through the issues you're facing. Welcome!
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Photo of Shira E. Saville - Shira E. Saville, PSY.D, Psychologist
Shira E. Saville, PSY.D
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Psychotherapy is an effective way for individuals to make significant personal life changes. I partner with my clients to identify the concerns and experiences that have led them to seek psychotherapy. Together we create a treatment plan that identifies ideals and sets goals and realistic expectations for change. Fostering resilience in the face of adversity, through a confidential therapeutic relationship we collaborate to break unhealthy patterns and create newer, more adaptive coping skills. With mutual commitment, honesty, trust, and humor, psychological, emotional, and functional personal change is achievable and sustainable.
Psychotherapy is an effective way for individuals to make significant personal life changes. I partner with my clients to identify the concerns and experiences that have led them to seek psychotherapy. Together we create a treatment plan that identifies ideals and sets goals and realistic expectations for change. Fostering resilience in the face of adversity, through a confidential therapeutic relationship we collaborate to break unhealthy patterns and create newer, more adaptive coping skills. With mutual commitment, honesty, trust, and humor, psychological, emotional, and functional personal change is achievable and sustainable.
(773) 295-0214 View (773) 295-0214
Photo of Bethany Cook, PsyD, HSP, MT-BC, PsyPact, Psychologist
Bethany Cook
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP, MT-BC, PsyPact
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
Through raw, real and relatable communication I help others find the greatness within themselves. I offer practical, hands-on guidance with a trademark unconventional approach that brims with bold candor, spicy humor, and an F-bomb (or two). My clients benefit from my relentlessly upbeat, contagiously positive outlook and refreshing departure from the stuffy, overly-clinical methodology that distinguish my uniquely relatable style. I bring real-world guidance to individuals and families of all socioeconomic and mental health backgrounds, based on over 20-plus years of clinical experience in the field.
Through raw, real and relatable communication I help others find the greatness within themselves. I offer practical, hands-on guidance with a trademark unconventional approach that brims with bold candor, spicy humor, and an F-bomb (or two). My clients benefit from my relentlessly upbeat, contagiously positive outlook and refreshing departure from the stuffy, overly-clinical methodology that distinguish my uniquely relatable style. I bring real-world guidance to individuals and families of all socioeconomic and mental health backgrounds, based on over 20-plus years of clinical experience in the field.
(872) 215-9164 View (872) 215-9164
Photo of Steven Nakisher - Nakisher Psychological Services, Psychologist
Nakisher Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Dr. Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and get out your own way. He works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
Dr. Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and get out your own way. He works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
(773) 417-5450 View (773) 417-5450
Photo of Tracey Bell-Hodgman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracey Bell-Hodgman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I aim to provide a non-judgemental holding space fueled by curiosity for your experiences. We are in a particularly interesting time where community and support is needed more than ever to help us navigate the world. Therapy is one piece of the puzzle to more sustainable wellness overall. In therapy we are allowed space to explore the meaning we’ve made from past experiences, societal expectations, and world views. I’ve worked in residential facilities for young families and community mental health with ages throughout the lifespan.
I aim to provide a non-judgemental holding space fueled by curiosity for your experiences. We are in a particularly interesting time where community and support is needed more than ever to help us navigate the world. Therapy is one piece of the puzzle to more sustainable wellness overall. In therapy we are allowed space to explore the meaning we’ve made from past experiences, societal expectations, and world views. I’ve worked in residential facilities for young families and community mental health with ages throughout the lifespan.
(312) 872-3630 View (312) 872-3630
Photo of Holly Chuang, MA, LCPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Chuang
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For people hoping for their relationship with their parents to change, their future to be less lonely, or their anxiety to quiet down: I am one of Agave Studio's professional counselors and a trauma therapist, trained as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. Somatic Experiencing works to heal trauma through accessing the nervous system and allowing the body to complete physiological responses that got stuck in the body during a traumatic event, or over time, as is the case for racial and childhood trauma.
For people hoping for their relationship with their parents to change, their future to be less lonely, or their anxiety to quiet down: I am one of Agave Studio's professional counselors and a trauma therapist, trained as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. Somatic Experiencing works to heal trauma through accessing the nervous system and allowing the body to complete physiological responses that got stuck in the body during a traumatic event, or over time, as is the case for racial and childhood trauma.
(312) 818-2646 View (312) 818-2646
Photo of DeVona Alleyne, LPC, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
DeVona Alleyne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Clients come to me and receive compassionate care without negative judgment as a means to make meaning of the events of their lives. That new understanding, gained in a supportive coaching relationship with the therapist, becomes the foundation for positive change. Open and self-aware clients tend to want validation of their thoughts and challenges to what hasn't worked. Skeptical clients tend to desire safety and assurance that someone is on their side. Regardless of the category, clients tend to get what they need from one session to the next.
Clients come to me and receive compassionate care without negative judgment as a means to make meaning of the events of their lives. That new understanding, gained in a supportive coaching relationship with the therapist, becomes the foundation for positive change. Open and self-aware clients tend to want validation of their thoughts and challenges to what hasn't worked. Skeptical clients tend to desire safety and assurance that someone is on their side. Regardless of the category, clients tend to get what they need from one session to the next.
(312) 967-9076 View (312) 967-9076
Photo of DeKhari J L Dixon, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
DeKhari J L Dixon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited, Black man of trans experience, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to celebrate yourself and your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited, Black man of trans experience, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to celebrate yourself and your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
(773) 900-7154 View (773) 900-7154
Photo of Peter Robichaux, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Robichaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I work best with clients ready to take action and needing support to face the anxiety and depressive thinking beyond old trauma. The people who care about you want to see you build an inner strength to face challenges directly. Over the last 13 years, my clients have improved their relationships, careers and deepened the release of past pain. Prepare for facing directly your stress and symptoms, recognizing internal versus external barriers, holding yourself accountable toward healthy choices, and understanding barriers you face. Our work will support your growth and awaken the motivating force inside you.
I work best with clients ready to take action and needing support to face the anxiety and depressive thinking beyond old trauma. The people who care about you want to see you build an inner strength to face challenges directly. Over the last 13 years, my clients have improved their relationships, careers and deepened the release of past pain. Prepare for facing directly your stress and symptoms, recognizing internal versus external barriers, holding yourself accountable toward healthy choices, and understanding barriers you face. Our work will support your growth and awaken the motivating force inside you.
(312) 635-4817 View (312) 635-4817
Photo of Rosey Puloka, LCPC, GLCMA
Rosey Puloka
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, GLCMA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
Welcome, folks. I'm a licensed clinical professional counselor, trained dance/movement therapist, and empowerment coach. I specialize in the treatment and training of trauma work. Over the past eleven years, I've worked with diverse populations in a number of different settings including residential rehabilitation, Cook County Jail, and community mental health. As a therapist who is grateful for the therapy I've received, I can confidently say I get it from both sides. Therapy is a vulnerable process. That's why I pride myself on providing a nonjudgmental, compassionate, and authentic space that is tailored to the individual.
Welcome, folks. I'm a licensed clinical professional counselor, trained dance/movement therapist, and empowerment coach. I specialize in the treatment and training of trauma work. Over the past eleven years, I've worked with diverse populations in a number of different settings including residential rehabilitation, Cook County Jail, and community mental health. As a therapist who is grateful for the therapy I've received, I can confidently say I get it from both sides. Therapy is a vulnerable process. That's why I pride myself on providing a nonjudgmental, compassionate, and authentic space that is tailored to the individual.
(607) 498-3267 View (607) 498-3267
Photo of Stephanie Mcsharry, LCSW, CADC, GL-CMA, WPCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Mcsharry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, GL-CMA, WPCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Whole Person Certified Coach (WPCC) and a Creative Arts Therapist. I have worked in several agencies around Chicago providing a range of therapeutic services as well as clinical supervision. I have done extensive work with individual and group therapy and find great joy in helping others. I utilize both verbal counseling and creative arts techniques when working with clients. My experience includes helping individuals deal with personal stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, low self-esteem, life adjustments and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Whole Person Certified Coach (WPCC) and a Creative Arts Therapist. I have worked in several agencies around Chicago providing a range of therapeutic services as well as clinical supervision. I have done extensive work with individual and group therapy and find great joy in helping others. I utilize both verbal counseling and creative arts techniques when working with clients. My experience includes helping individuals deal with personal stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, low self-esteem, life adjustments and relationship issues.
(773) 823-0885 View (773) 823-0885
Photo of Susan Stern, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
As a most caring and empathetic person and therapist, I am dedicated in helping children, teens, adolescents, young adults and parents to feel better; connected to themselves and to others in a healthy way. I see parents individually. -- All therapy, is a collaborative approach; together with you, I can help you (young or parent), to feel better. When we feel really bad emotionally, depressed, anxious-- it is often parts of our self that we do not know very well. I will help to guide you to illuminate the unconscious parts of yourself and see what is there. I am here for you! The individual sessions have worked well virtually!
As a most caring and empathetic person and therapist, I am dedicated in helping children, teens, adolescents, young adults and parents to feel better; connected to themselves and to others in a healthy way. I see parents individually. -- All therapy, is a collaborative approach; together with you, I can help you (young or parent), to feel better. When we feel really bad emotionally, depressed, anxious-- it is often parts of our self that we do not know very well. I will help to guide you to illuminate the unconscious parts of yourself and see what is there. I am here for you! The individual sessions have worked well virtually!
(847) 693-4066 View (847) 693-4066
Photo of Kyla R. Dannelke, MA, LCPC
Kyla R. Dannelke
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
You ask yourself, are you finally ready to start therapy? Yes! But - oh no, what it’s going to be like? What do I talk about?! It's okay to be unsure what it's all about or how to get the conversation going. My primary goal is to provide you with a comfortable space where we can explore your concerns together. I find traditional approaches are most effective when personalized in coordination with other mediums like art and music. Throughout our therapeutic journey I will tailor my approach to meet you where you are at. ! For Quickest Response Time Please Email !
You ask yourself, are you finally ready to start therapy? Yes! But - oh no, what it’s going to be like? What do I talk about?! It's okay to be unsure what it's all about or how to get the conversation going. My primary goal is to provide you with a comfortable space where we can explore your concerns together. I find traditional approaches are most effective when personalized in coordination with other mediums like art and music. Throughout our therapeutic journey I will tailor my approach to meet you where you are at. ! For Quickest Response Time Please Email !
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Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.