Therapists in Chicago, IL
![Photo of Claire Quist, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50284a65-0ba2-4c99-a969-370930742f1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Claire has experience working with individuals, families and couples. She especially enjoys working with teens and young adults. Claire is committed to providing an encouraging, supportive and honest, judgement free space. She is passionate about supporting clients experiencing ADHD, cancer, chronic illness, anxiety, stress, divorce and self-esteem or body image issues, as well as assisting clients in processing and navigating various life stage transitions.
Claire has experience working with individuals, families and couples. She especially enjoys working with teens and young adults. Claire is committed to providing an encouraging, supportive and honest, judgement free space. She is passionate about supporting clients experiencing ADHD, cancer, chronic illness, anxiety, stress, divorce and self-esteem or body image issues, as well as assisting clients in processing and navigating various life stage transitions.
![Photo of Kathleen A Carter - Christian Telehealth Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/490e3221-e5ab-4825-99c3-21ea365ad2f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christian Telehealth Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611 (Online Only)
I offer guidance and compassionate counsel and am experienced in issues related to grief and loss, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, cancer, co-dependency, self-esteem, trauma, and dealing with adult children with mental health and addiction issues.
Life is hard! Every day we are faced with navigating difficult and seemingly insurmountable and impossible challenges. You are not alone! There is hope and together, through biblical and Christian counsel, we can navigate the issues you are facing. I am here to help you through this! God has a plan for You, and it is the best plan. Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. plans to give you hope and a future",
I offer guidance and compassionate counsel and am experienced in issues related to grief and loss, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, cancer, co-dependency, self-esteem, trauma, and dealing with adult children with mental health and addiction issues.
Life is hard! Every day we are faced with navigating difficult and seemingly insurmountable and impossible challenges. You are not alone! There is hope and together, through biblical and Christian counsel, we can navigate the issues you are facing. I am here to help you through this! God has a plan for You, and it is the best plan. Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. plans to give you hope and a future",
![Photo of Wendy Charness, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3900fd6a-a649-4a6f-a2fd-7493c3d88a01/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in working with individuals & families facing cancer & chronic medical illnesses.
Do you feel your life doesn't reflect your hopes and dreams? Do your relationships lack the satisfaction & warmth you wish and deserve? Are you finding it challenging to be the spouse or parent you want to be? Have you been diagnosed with a medical condition and struggling to adjust? Are you caring for a loved one with an illness and feeling the stress? As your partner and guide, I can help you remove unhealthy patterns and develop more constructive ways of coping. I can assist you in feeling happier, more resilient in the face of life challenges, developing stronger relationships and achieving your full potential.
I specialize in working with individuals & families facing cancer & chronic medical illnesses.
Do you feel your life doesn't reflect your hopes and dreams? Do your relationships lack the satisfaction & warmth you wish and deserve? Are you finding it challenging to be the spouse or parent you want to be? Have you been diagnosed with a medical condition and struggling to adjust? Are you caring for a loved one with an illness and feeling the stress? As your partner and guide, I can help you remove unhealthy patterns and develop more constructive ways of coping. I can assist you in feeling happier, more resilient in the face of life challenges, developing stronger relationships and achieving your full potential.
![Photo of Alexandra Brooke Mathewes, MEd, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b195f29-869d-4070-9b84-5283fee59370/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Brooke Mathewes
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples to address a range of concerns including mood disorders, substance use, eating disorders, cancer and chronic illness and trauma. My specialties include working with lawyers and law students, doctors, first responders and professional executives. I also specialize in working with patients and families going through cancer from onset of diagnosis to end of treatment. My role as a LCPC is to be an objective guide and source of support to the people I am working with; A voice to help clarify goals and make changes that have often felt out of reach. Please email for the fastest response time.
I work with individuals and couples to address a range of concerns including mood disorders, substance use, eating disorders, cancer and chronic illness and trauma. My specialties include working with lawyers and law students, doctors, first responders and professional executives. I also specialize in working with patients and families going through cancer from onset of diagnosis to end of treatment. My role as a LCPC is to be an objective guide and source of support to the people I am working with; A voice to help clarify goals and make changes that have often felt out of reach. Please email for the fastest response time.
![Photo of Audra K Eisin-Banazek, LCPC, ATR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bb0e830-9171-46ea-bedd-02cf683a5b3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Audra K Eisin-Banazek
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626
I am a Chicago native, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and Art Therapist. I strive to help my clients be better able to cope with all of life’s challenges. Whether you are interested in talking or using creative art therapy techniques, I have over 15 years experience to guide you into the transformation you hope to achieve. If you are navigating difficulties in your complex life, dealing with Anxiety or Depression, processing trauma, coping with diagnosis like Cancer and ALS, or the loss of someone you love, I can help.
I am a Chicago native, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and Art Therapist. I strive to help my clients be better able to cope with all of life’s challenges. Whether you are interested in talking or using creative art therapy techniques, I have over 15 years experience to guide you into the transformation you hope to achieve. If you are navigating difficulties in your complex life, dealing with Anxiety or Depression, processing trauma, coping with diagnosis like Cancer and ALS, or the loss of someone you love, I can help.
![Photo of Lisa Schneider, LCPC, CYI, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f4061f1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Schneider
Counselor, LCPC, CYI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
Previously the director at a cancer support center, I focus on life-change, illness ( cancer and chronic), end-of-life issues & grief.
I am licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been providing counseling to individuals and families since 2000. My personal intention for working with you, and all of my clients, is to approach therapy from a holistic perspective. A holistic perspective looks at the mind, body, and spirit with the goal of bringing these aspects of self into harmony. My primary goal is to help you foster your own inner strength to create the life you want. You may find that the therapy process cultivates more peace in your life or changes the way you want to live. I am currently focusing on individuals only.
Previously the director at a cancer support center, I focus on life-change, illness ( cancer and chronic), end-of-life issues & grief.
I am licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been providing counseling to individuals and families since 2000. My personal intention for working with you, and all of my clients, is to approach therapy from a holistic perspective. A holistic perspective looks at the mind, body, and spirit with the goal of bringing these aspects of self into harmony. My primary goal is to help you foster your own inner strength to create the life you want. You may find that the therapy process cultivates more peace in your life or changes the way you want to live. I am currently focusing on individuals only.
![Photo of Sarah K Rosenbloom - Sarah Rosenbloom, PhD & Associates, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e367d3d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer comprehensive care and support for a wide variety of emotional and health concerns, as well as specialized expertise for those dealing with medical issues such as infertility or cancer.
Are you experiencing an unusual amount of stress or discomfort? Have you noticed more negative feelings like sadness, anxiety, anger or guilt? Increased difficulty in your relationships or at work? Health problems? Or having trouble navigating a life event or transition? It can be difficult to know when to seek help, but I can offer assistance with these and other concerns. I work collaboratively with clients to help manage life's challenges while maximizing health and wellness. My background in health psychology highlights the integration of physical and psychological well-being, and encourages an awareness of factors that can affect both in our lives.
I offer comprehensive care and support for a wide variety of emotional and health concerns, as well as specialized expertise for those dealing with medical issues such as infertility or cancer.
Are you experiencing an unusual amount of stress or discomfort? Have you noticed more negative feelings like sadness, anxiety, anger or guilt? Increased difficulty in your relationships or at work? Health problems? Or having trouble navigating a life event or transition? It can be difficult to know when to seek help, but I can offer assistance with these and other concerns. I work collaboratively with clients to help manage life's challenges while maximizing health and wellness. My background in health psychology highlights the integration of physical and psychological well-being, and encourages an awareness of factors that can affect both in our lives.
![Photo of Amy Weider, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/353e310c-eb43-44a6-b221-99536ee0640b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Weider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of clinical strength include chronic illness, cancer, grief, life transitions, identity development, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
My areas of clinical strength include chronic illness, cancer, grief, life transitions, identity development, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
Major life changes, such as being diagnosed with a chronic illness, starting a new career path, losing a loved one, or becoming a caregiver, can be overwhelming. They can make us question our values, goals, and sense of self. In these pivotal moments, therapy becomes a powerful tool to navigate our journey, make meaning and find our authentic voices. It's time to give yourself permission to evolve and embrace the process of self-discovery.
![Photo of Peggy Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1689d21d-aa62-49ac-a354-b082b78f7c5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peggy Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
Many of life's events such as the diagnosis of cancer, chronic illness, divorce, death of a loved one, relationship issues, and life transitions can feel overwhelming with a roller-coaster of emotions.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
Many of life's events such as the diagnosis of cancer, chronic illness, divorce, death of a loved one, relationship issues, and life transitions can feel overwhelming with a roller-coaster of emotions.
Currently Accepting New Clients via Telehealth. It would be a privilege to work with you navigating through life's challenges and feelings of anxiety and sadness. My style is warm and supportive as I hope to help you feel less isolated and alone. I will help you discover alternative ways of thinking and offer a variety of coping skills. I will also incorporate humor. Together we will develop goals for growth and seek achievable solutions, alleviate distress, and improve your quality of life fostering a feeling of joy and happiness. I feel honored to be part of your journey.
![Photo of Stacey J. Feuer, PsyD, MLD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e1b6e1a-abb3-4505-a9c8-3a3ff0313db7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with chronic illness.
Dr. Feuer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Health Psychology at IPD/DMG. She completed the majority of her clinical training in medical hospitals and outpatient settings. She additionally works as an adjunct faculty member for the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Feuer’s areas of expertise include adults (18+) living with chronic medical illnesses, and has particular experience with clients diagnosed with cancer, cardiovascular, and transplant-related diagnoses. She also has experience working with caregivers of individuals living with chronic illness.
![Photo of Karen R. Chroniak, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b87c2d3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of specialization include body image/eating issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and women's health issues, such as sexual victimization, recovery from breast cancer, and assertiveness.
Compassion. Insight. Empowerment. I'm committed to blending clinical expertise with warmth and respect for each client's wisdom, to create a healing, growthful partnership. A hallmark of my approach is cultivating mindfulness: nonjudgmental, moment by moment awareness that promotes living more fully, less reactively, and making better use of one's resources. Whether addressing depression, anxiety, stress, past trauma or current relationships, I begin by creating a space of acceptance. Here, we cultivate insight: the ability to observe accurately, think clearly, and choose wisely. Together, we explore options, drawn from clinical scholarship, collective wisdom, and clients' evolving self-awareness.
My areas of specialization include body image/eating issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and women's health issues, such as sexual victimization, recovery from breast cancer, and assertiveness.
Compassion. Insight. Empowerment. I'm committed to blending clinical expertise with warmth and respect for each client's wisdom, to create a healing, growthful partnership. A hallmark of my approach is cultivating mindfulness: nonjudgmental, moment by moment awareness that promotes living more fully, less reactively, and making better use of one's resources. Whether addressing depression, anxiety, stress, past trauma or current relationships, I begin by creating a space of acceptance. Here, we cultivate insight: the ability to observe accurately, think clearly, and choose wisely. Together, we explore options, drawn from clinical scholarship, collective wisdom, and clients' evolving self-awareness.
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![Photo of Cassandra Kandah, MS, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f997380b-4d23-4b63-889d-408227d057c9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Your heart drops into your stomach and you are at a loss for words. Maybe you feel numb. Maybe you can't stop crying. No matter what your reaction is, your life as you know it has changed in one instance. You've been diagnosed with a terminal or chronic illness. A flood of questions comes to your mind: is this the beginning of the end, how will this effect my career, how do I tell my family? I have dedicated my life to guiding people through the emotional difficulties related to managing conditions such as: mild cognitive impairment, dementia, TBI, stroke, cancer, transplant, and pregnancy/fertility concerns.
Your heart drops into your stomach and you are at a loss for words. Maybe you feel numb. Maybe you can't stop crying. No matter what your reaction is, your life as you know it has changed in one instance. You've been diagnosed with a terminal or chronic illness. A flood of questions comes to your mind: is this the beginning of the end, how will this effect my career, how do I tell my family? I have dedicated my life to guiding people through the emotional difficulties related to managing conditions such as: mild cognitive impairment, dementia, TBI, stroke, cancer, transplant, and pregnancy/fertility concerns.
![Photo of Dr. Aisha Kazi, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2009e292-50e1-4e9e-9fd2-0a9c719a21c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have advanced training in working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, cancer, infertility, pregnancy loss, third-party reproduction, postpartum depression and anxiety, and grief.
I believe it's important to have a place where you can feel safe and comfortable when in therapy. I try to provide that for my clients. There is usually a point in everyone's life where they need a little extra help and guidance to deal with depression, anxiety or stressful life events. The best thing you can do for yourself and your family is to get that help and work on improving your quality of life. You won't regret making yourself a priority even with all the other demands on your time.
I have advanced training in working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, cancer, infertility, pregnancy loss, third-party reproduction, postpartum depression and anxiety, and grief.
I believe it's important to have a place where you can feel safe and comfortable when in therapy. I try to provide that for my clients. There is usually a point in everyone's life where they need a little extra help and guidance to deal with depression, anxiety or stressful life events. The best thing you can do for yourself and your family is to get that help and work on improving your quality of life. You won't regret making yourself a priority even with all the other demands on your time.
![Photo of Robin B Katz, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/910d562e-5e1a-40f8-b1db-e821cb5dadbc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robin B Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, health anxiety, working with cancer patients, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues, as well chronic illness.
The therapeutic experience is as unique as one’s thumb print. I strive to help you achieve your goals in navigating life’s transitions and challenges by creating a safe place for you to process your feelings and concerns. It takes courage and strength to reach out and ask for help. I work collaboratively with each client to establish the best treatment plan based on their needs at the time we meet. I am supportive, non-judgmental and warm - with a calm style… and some humor.
I specialize in depression, health anxiety, working with cancer patients, loss and grief, life transitions, relationship issues, as well chronic illness.
The therapeutic experience is as unique as one’s thumb print. I strive to help you achieve your goals in navigating life’s transitions and challenges by creating a safe place for you to process your feelings and concerns. It takes courage and strength to reach out and ask for help. I work collaboratively with each client to establish the best treatment plan based on their needs at the time we meet. I am supportive, non-judgmental and warm - with a calm style… and some humor.
![Photo of Brittany Trauthwein, PsyD, FT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa39f5f3-6a9a-4d0b-811a-d31f1de6d513/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also work with individuals, couples, and families around concerns of chronic illness, infertility, cancer, and navigating end-of-life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Bridgepoint Psychology Center and work with adults, children, and adolescents. I am honored to journey with you through challenging life transitions. My work is grounded in existential therapy, however I draw from narrative, trauma-informed, and grief focused therapies to meet the individual and unique needs of the clients in my care. Whether I am working with an adult or a child, I believe therapy should be transparent, genuine, and always collaborative. Pronouns (She/Her/Hers)
I also work with individuals, couples, and families around concerns of chronic illness, infertility, cancer, and navigating end-of-life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Bridgepoint Psychology Center and work with adults, children, and adolescents. I am honored to journey with you through challenging life transitions. My work is grounded in existential therapy, however I draw from narrative, trauma-informed, and grief focused therapies to meet the individual and unique needs of the clients in my care. Whether I am working with an adult or a child, I believe therapy should be transparent, genuine, and always collaborative. Pronouns (She/Her/Hers)
![Photo of Dr. Catherine Nwileh-Ibeagha, DSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec5ac85b-9032-4e6d-92c9-0b9ed3683711/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Catherine Nwileh-Ibeagha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625 (Online Only)
I view therapy as a collaborative process where we work together to achieve the wellness goals you set for yourself. I work with individuals and couples who are faced with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss and other life stage challenges. I have over 16 years experience, specializing in oncology care, and have worked with patients and caregivers at every stage of the cancer journey. I have good understanding of the impact of systemic oppression and marginalization on individuals and I carry out my work with empathy and compassion.
I view therapy as a collaborative process where we work together to achieve the wellness goals you set for yourself. I work with individuals and couples who are faced with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss and other life stage challenges. I have over 16 years experience, specializing in oncology care, and have worked with patients and caregivers at every stage of the cancer journey. I have good understanding of the impact of systemic oppression and marginalization on individuals and I carry out my work with empathy and compassion.
![Photo of Jessica Ransom - Dr. Jessica Ransom and Associates LLC, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d5097f1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jessica Ransom and Associates LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I am particularly interested in forensic matters as well as families coping with cancer or other terminal/chronic illnesses.
As a Prescribing Psychologist, I have the unique privilege to treat the totality of my patient's symptoms and fully support them along the way. I believe with the right support, each person can enhance his or her own interpersonal relationships. And sometimes, medication is a great option to enhance the progress made in therapy. I practice unconditional positive regard and attempt to balance humor with the occasional, yet necessary, curse word. Psychotherapy and psychopharmacology should not be a mystery and I try to make the process as comfortable and as real as possible.
I am particularly interested in forensic matters as well as families coping with cancer or other terminal/chronic illnesses.
As a Prescribing Psychologist, I have the unique privilege to treat the totality of my patient's symptoms and fully support them along the way. I believe with the right support, each person can enhance his or her own interpersonal relationships. And sometimes, medication is a great option to enhance the progress made in therapy. I practice unconditional positive regard and attempt to balance humor with the occasional, yet necessary, curse word. Psychotherapy and psychopharmacology should not be a mystery and I try to make the process as comfortable and as real as possible.
![Photo of Alexandra Kutnick, MA, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/474d33a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ar Morningside Counseling and Assessment, I provide therapy that is collaborative and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
Ar Morningside Counseling and Assessment, I provide therapy that is collaborative and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
![Photo of Wendy Joy Cohen, LCPC, MS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f5bbc56-3869-4a03-b358-33e5249a508d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have walked in the shoes of a single mother, breast cancer survivor, and co-head of a blended family.
No client is an island but a connected member of a family, so I practice therapy with individuals, couples, and families. My style is practical, focusing on solutions. I am creative and evaluate each client’s unique needs in therapy. I often use hands-on therapy, such as making art or playing, to help with self expression. Parenting does not come with instructions. It is mysterious. The smallest successes can produce a profound sense of accomplishment. Helping you find their way through counseling and walking along side of you through that journey is part of my mission. I provide Ketamine Assisted Therapy for those who qualify.
I have walked in the shoes of a single mother, breast cancer survivor, and co-head of a blended family.
No client is an island but a connected member of a family, so I practice therapy with individuals, couples, and families. My style is practical, focusing on solutions. I am creative and evaluate each client’s unique needs in therapy. I often use hands-on therapy, such as making art or playing, to help with self expression. Parenting does not come with instructions. It is mysterious. The smallest successes can produce a profound sense of accomplishment. Helping you find their way through counseling and walking along side of you through that journey is part of my mission. I provide Ketamine Assisted Therapy for those who qualify.
![Photo of Reagan Sword, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1b20838-e0eb-46ee-931f-1ef122bce395/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a pre-licensed counselor and hold a Master of Arts in Counseling: Art Therapy. My experience includes supporting clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. I have also worked considerably with older adults who are managing a cancer diagnosis or medical condition. I am particularly excited about expanding my work with adolescents, as I am interested in helping young people navigate their unique challenges and developmental stages.
I'm a pre-licensed counselor and hold a Master of Arts in Counseling: Art Therapy. My experience includes supporting clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. I have also worked considerably with older adults who are managing a cancer diagnosis or medical condition. I am particularly excited about expanding my work with adolescents, as I am interested in helping young people navigate their unique challenges and developmental stages.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Cancer Therapists
How does cancer affect mental health?
A cancer diagnosis is a major life event that can significantly influence the mental health of any individual. Being diagnosed with cancer often introduces a sense of uncertainty about the future, which can cause clients to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, and significant distress. Many cancer patients may also worry about the toll that their diagnosis may have on their family, their physical health, their job, and their financial situation. The compounding of such stressors can also decrease mental health in clients and may lead to additional symptoms that can influence mental health, such as sleeping difficulties or social withdrawal.
What is the best psychological therapy for cancer patients?
The best type of psychological therapy for cancer patients is highly dependent on the needs of the individual. The therapy type that a client benefits from may also depend on what stage of the cancer journey they are in. Recently diagnosed cancer patients, for instance, may benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which can help clients develop skills to manage the emotional distress that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Alternatively, cancer patients further along in their journey may benefit from therapies like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or other forms of mindfulness therapy to help manage symptoms or physical pain associated with treatment. Clients may also consider group therapy, which offers cancer patients an opportunity to receive support from other individuals dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
Are there any risks or drawbacks in going to therapy while dealing with cancer?
Although attending therapy while dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be helpful, one major concern for cancer patients can be the financial cost of seeking therapy. Many therapists are out-of-network, meaning they do not accept insurance, and thus clients are expected to pay the entirety of the session fee. Since many cancer patients may be out of work as a result of their diagnosis or cancer treatment regimen, the costs of therapy sessions can be substantial. Luckily, many cancer centers and local clinics may offer free or substantially reduced-cost counseling services to cancer patients and their families. In addition, cancer patients may be eligible for grants or other forms of funding from local agencies and nonprofits to seek therapy for their cancer diagnosis. Such opportunities can be very helpful for cancer patients, as they allow clients to obtain the benefits of therapy without the financial strain.
How long does cancer therapy typically last?
The length of cancer therapy depends on the needs of each client. In some cases, cancer patients may only require therapeutic support during the period following their initial diagnosis—to help manage the uncertainty and shock of a cancer diagnosis. In other cases, clients may choose to receive therapy throughout their treatment, and even following, their cancer journey. Pursuing therapy for a longer period of time can help clients develop a deeper relationship with their therapist and provide opportunity to process the challenges presented by cancer treatment, such as physical pain, and challenges associated with cancer survivorship, such as ongoing identity concerns, physical limitations, or relationship challenges.