Therapists in Chicago, IL
![Photo of Leslie Damaso, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb0121a2-dca8-49b2-92e0-fede7fbe9a13/1/320x400.png)
As a Licensed Social Worker, Leslie specializes in treating depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions.
Leslie’s ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards self-improvement and personal growth. Leslie’s therapeutic practice focuses on helping individuals develop healthy ways to process depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions. Leslie engages clients through an empathetic and relational approach to help individuals achieve a balanced and healthy life for themselves.
As a Licensed Social Worker, Leslie specializes in treating depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions.
Leslie’s ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards self-improvement and personal growth. Leslie’s therapeutic practice focuses on helping individuals develop healthy ways to process depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions. Leslie engages clients through an empathetic and relational approach to help individuals achieve a balanced and healthy life for themselves.
![Photo of Ari Goldstein - Cognitive Solutions Learning Center, Inc., MA, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54fa8d9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cognitive Solutions Learning Center in Chicago, Illinois offers a staff composed of highly educated trained specialists from a variety of disciplines. Our focus is on proper diagnosis and research based treatment for individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, Learning Disabilities (Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia), Autism, Anxiety, PTSD, and Depression. In addition to comprehensive psychoeducational and neuropsychological testing, our programs include EEG neurofeedback, educational therapy, psychotherapy, tutoring, and executive functioning skills training.
Cognitive Solutions Learning Center in Chicago, Illinois offers a staff composed of highly educated trained specialists from a variety of disciplines. Our focus is on proper diagnosis and research based treatment for individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, Learning Disabilities (Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia), Autism, Anxiety, PTSD, and Depression. In addition to comprehensive psychoeducational and neuropsychological testing, our programs include EEG neurofeedback, educational therapy, psychotherapy, tutoring, and executive functioning skills training.
![Photo of Crystal F. Clair - THA Therapy Group, Inc , LCPC, Crystal, Clair, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11b35187-4f78-4b80-bc5c-175bc3470500/2/320x400.jpeg)
THA Therapy Group, Inc
Counselor, LCPC, Crystal, Clair
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Depression Anxiety, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Anger management, Grief, All addictions and Co-dependency, Eating Disorders, Sleep problems, ADD/ADHD, OCD, Divorce recovery, LGBTQ Friendly, All things relational.
As of August 2021, Terry Hefter Associates, L.L.C. is delighted to join CFC Therapy and their family of psychotherapists. Together, we bring more than four decades of experience helping clients transform relationships, tackle roadblocks, and achieve their fullest potential. We look forward to empowering you as we embark on this exciting partnership! At THA Therapy Group, we believe in possibilities—and we empower you to realize yours. Working with our team of experienced therapists, you’ll gain the strength to navigate life’s challenges, confront what’s holding you back, and achieve your fullest potential.
Depression Anxiety, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Anger management, Grief, All addictions and Co-dependency, Eating Disorders, Sleep problems, ADD/ADHD, OCD, Divorce recovery, LGBTQ Friendly, All things relational.
As of August 2021, Terry Hefter Associates, L.L.C. is delighted to join CFC Therapy and their family of psychotherapists. Together, we bring more than four decades of experience helping clients transform relationships, tackle roadblocks, and achieve their fullest potential. We look forward to empowering you as we embark on this exciting partnership! At THA Therapy Group, we believe in possibilities—and we empower you to realize yours. Working with our team of experienced therapists, you’ll gain the strength to navigate life’s challenges, confront what’s holding you back, and achieve your fullest potential.
![Photo of Rachel Shapiro, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/477eff52-22b5-4f13-a447-dc500208ef1b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel works with individuals who do not fit in, do not want to fit in, or have been harmed by trying to fit into societal, social, or familial ‘norms’ or expectations; which often leaves them feeling less than enough. Rachel helps clients find their truth, their most authentic selves, and the life that fits them. She often helps individuals with dysfunctional family dynamics, anxiety, low self-esteem and negative self-talk, perfectionism, depression, alternative viewpoints, and neurodivergence. If you want to dig deeper to understand yourself, the world, and your place in it, Rachel is here for you!
Rachel works with individuals who do not fit in, do not want to fit in, or have been harmed by trying to fit into societal, social, or familial ‘norms’ or expectations; which often leaves them feeling less than enough. Rachel helps clients find their truth, their most authentic selves, and the life that fits them. She often helps individuals with dysfunctional family dynamics, anxiety, low self-esteem and negative self-talk, perfectionism, depression, alternative viewpoints, and neurodivergence. If you want to dig deeper to understand yourself, the world, and your place in it, Rachel is here for you!
![Photo of Leila Toshie Yabiku, MS, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d62c82a6-62f0-48e6-956e-186cb378bd4c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Through a psychoanalytic experience we explore the underlying causes of symptoms like depression, anxiety, dissociation, and anger.
Everything has felt meaningless lately. Another week sleepwalking through the motions at work and dreading your time at home. Since that event, you’re not even sure what any of it is for. The people around you have noticed a change in your behavior; you’ve stopped socializing and have become gloomier. You had no idea how devastating this loss/change would be or how much it would change your life. Now, nights are spent restlessly staring at the ceiling. You barely eat and can’t remember the last time you exercised. Painful thoughts flood in without warning and overwhelm you. Life has become colorless, and you don’t see a way forward.
Through a psychoanalytic experience we explore the underlying causes of symptoms like depression, anxiety, dissociation, and anger.
Everything has felt meaningless lately. Another week sleepwalking through the motions at work and dreading your time at home. Since that event, you’re not even sure what any of it is for. The people around you have noticed a change in your behavior; you’ve stopped socializing and have become gloomier. You had no idea how devastating this loss/change would be or how much it would change your life. Now, nights are spent restlessly staring at the ceiling. You barely eat and can’t remember the last time you exercised. Painful thoughts flood in without warning and overwhelm you. Life has become colorless, and you don’t see a way forward.
![Photo of Lisa Marie Carlson - Carlson Counseling Connection, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47494080-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carlson Counseling Connection
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
We use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for depression, anxiety, insomnia, eating disorders, bi-polar disorder, and trauma.
We have immediate in-person and virtual openings! Our clients struggle with a variety of mood disorders and mental health needs. They want and need to feel and function better and we work with them to achieve their goals. We see clients of all ages, developmental stages, identities, and backgrounds and tailor our treatment modalities to fit our client's needs. All of our clients are matched with a clinician who will best fit you needs and personality. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones reach your mental health goals and live your best life. Come see how much better you can feel!
We use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for depression, anxiety, insomnia, eating disorders, bi-polar disorder, and trauma.
We have immediate in-person and virtual openings! Our clients struggle with a variety of mood disorders and mental health needs. They want and need to feel and function better and we work with them to achieve their goals. We see clients of all ages, developmental stages, identities, and backgrounds and tailor our treatment modalities to fit our client's needs. All of our clients are matched with a clinician who will best fit you needs and personality. Our goal is to help you and your loved ones reach your mental health goals and live your best life. Come see how much better you can feel!
![Photo of Lizzie Loring, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84ee6f8d-46db-4928-afb4-e971259a63b7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lizzie Loring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
Just because you carry it well, does not mean it is not heavy. I am here to help take some weight off of your shoulders. Over my years in the field I have worked with a variety of clients with a multitude of diagnoses and issues, ranging from but not limited to addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and depression. I also have experience working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and LGBTQ teens. I am here to meet you where you are at and work with you to get unstuck. I offer a safe, confidential and supportive place for you to work through your struggles to find happiness and success.
Just because you carry it well, does not mean it is not heavy. I am here to help take some weight off of your shoulders. Over my years in the field I have worked with a variety of clients with a multitude of diagnoses and issues, ranging from but not limited to addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and depression. I also have experience working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and LGBTQ teens. I am here to meet you where you are at and work with you to get unstuck. I offer a safe, confidential and supportive place for you to work through your struggles to find happiness and success.
![Photo of Robert Stoner - Chicago Personal Growth Institute, LCSW, LCPC, ATR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42463c87-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are dedicated to helping people improve emotional, physical and spiritual well-being by focusing on personal growth. Our team of highly qualified therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including relationship issues, depression and anxiety. However, we don't dwell on what isn't working; we help you build upon what IS working. Our approach is empowering, empathetic and non-judgmental. We help you identify and release unhealthy behavior patterns, which may interfere with your ability to experience a deeper sense of peace and serenity. We look forward to working with you and in accompanying you upon your journey.
We are dedicated to helping people improve emotional, physical and spiritual well-being by focusing on personal growth. Our team of highly qualified therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including relationship issues, depression and anxiety. However, we don't dwell on what isn't working; we help you build upon what IS working. Our approach is empowering, empathetic and non-judgmental. We help you identify and release unhealthy behavior patterns, which may interfere with your ability to experience a deeper sense of peace and serenity. We look forward to working with you and in accompanying you upon your journey.
![Photo of Katherine Wheeler, EdS, LCPC, EMDR-T, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b4a5169-6274-49c5-978a-1340ec80d71a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine is a dedicated Mental Health Therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma. She understands how life’s challenges, including early experiences and stressors, can lead individuals to chase perfection, often at the cost of their well-being. These issues can significantly impact relationships and career, creating a complex web of stress and pressure. Katherine offers a nurturing space to work through these impacts, helping you find clarity and balance
Katherine is a dedicated Mental Health Therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma. She understands how life’s challenges, including early experiences and stressors, can lead individuals to chase perfection, often at the cost of their well-being. These issues can significantly impact relationships and career, creating a complex web of stress and pressure. Katherine offers a nurturing space to work through these impacts, helping you find clarity and balance
![Photo of Tyler Fortman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dbfe5a0-af89-4d8e-ae55-ac3a4f4a6ba4/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Fortman serves as clinical faculty at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and in full-time private practice. A former member of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) and staff psychologist at the Center on Halsted, he continues to provide supervision to graduate students. He trained at The Ohio State University, University of Virginia, and Sarah Lawrence College and has worked onsite at Google and Uber. Dr. Fortman is experienced in helping people who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, low self esteem, LGBT related issues, grief, abuse & neglect, and trauma.
Dr. Fortman serves as clinical faculty at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and in full-time private practice. A former member of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) and staff psychologist at the Center on Halsted, he continues to provide supervision to graduate students. He trained at The Ohio State University, University of Virginia, and Sarah Lawrence College and has worked onsite at Google and Uber. Dr. Fortman is experienced in helping people who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, low self esteem, LGBT related issues, grief, abuse & neglect, and trauma.
![Photo of Christopher Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98f73a8c-ce90-43c4-be44-cfc2ad003df4/1/320x400.jpeg)
He is LGBTQIA+ affirming and has experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Adjustment Issues, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Substance Use, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenia.
Christopher Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. Christopher completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology at Purdue University and his Master's degree from the Indiana University School of Social Work at IUPUI. He has experience working with a variety of populations including individuals spanning from teens to geriatric patients, substance use disorders, college students, couples, and older adults. Christopher has worked in a variety of environments including private practice, inpatient, outpatient clinic, schools, and community-based treatments.
He is LGBTQIA+ affirming and has experience in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Adjustment Issues, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Substance Use, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenia.
Christopher Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. Christopher completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology at Purdue University and his Master's degree from the Indiana University School of Social Work at IUPUI. He has experience working with a variety of populations including individuals spanning from teens to geriatric patients, substance use disorders, college students, couples, and older adults. Christopher has worked in a variety of environments including private practice, inpatient, outpatient clinic, schools, and community-based treatments.
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![Photo of Melody Chen - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c60447be-b607-4c9f-bacc-6c1b70b02568/2/320x400.jpeg)
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
![Photo of Svetlana Burak, LCPC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7437604-52a5-4bf6-bda2-d243c276ecaf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of feeling sad, anxious, and lonely? Do you yearn for a joy, connection, and meaning-filled life? I work with women who are experiencing depression or anxiety. You may be struggling in a relationship with a significant other, or looking for a fulfilling relationship. You may be seeking guidance while in an open / non-monogamous relationship. You may be in the midst of a life transition, feeling lost and overwhelmed, needing compassionate support and direction. Sadness and worry are normal reactions to these struggles, but they don't have to define your reality. I am here to help you find the light in the darkness.
Are you tired of feeling sad, anxious, and lonely? Do you yearn for a joy, connection, and meaning-filled life? I work with women who are experiencing depression or anxiety. You may be struggling in a relationship with a significant other, or looking for a fulfilling relationship. You may be seeking guidance while in an open / non-monogamous relationship. You may be in the midst of a life transition, feeling lost and overwhelmed, needing compassionate support and direction. Sadness and worry are normal reactions to these struggles, but they don't have to define your reality. I am here to help you find the light in the darkness.
![Photo of Kathleen M Pendergast, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52750a12-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
My goal is to provide each client with an emotionally safe environment where they feel comfortable exploring even the biggest challenges, whether it is how to manage overwhelming emotions such as anxiety or depression, rebuild a more honest sense of identity, learn to recognize and fight unhealthy or toxic patterns in life & relationships, confront past trauma or abuse, or other flavors of struggle. Many of my clients battle mood disorders, daunting life transitions, relationship issues, as well as cultural issues, LGBTQ integration struggles, grief/loss, trauma, & body image discomfort/disordered eating.
![Photo of Amit Kakkar, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e5b6a2d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with New Insights Behavioral Health Services. I have fifteen years of specialized experience in providing therapy in English and Spanish to children, adolescents, and adults. I bring with me a wealth of expertise in multiple outpatient/inpatient settings including: community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, college counseling centers, residential treatment centers for adolescents, and EAP companies. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety/panic, self-esteem, dating/relationship issues, trauma, and multicultural issues. Our practice has two locations. Our Jefferson Park and Logan Square offices are both conveniently located close to the CTA Blue Line. Se habla español.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with New Insights Behavioral Health Services. I have fifteen years of specialized experience in providing therapy in English and Spanish to children, adolescents, and adults. I bring with me a wealth of expertise in multiple outpatient/inpatient settings including: community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, college counseling centers, residential treatment centers for adolescents, and EAP companies. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety/panic, self-esteem, dating/relationship issues, trauma, and multicultural issues. Our practice has two locations. Our Jefferson Park and Logan Square offices are both conveniently located close to the CTA Blue Line. Se habla español.
![Photo of Heather L McRoberts, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c58da5a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
If you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or experiencing increased life stressors due to work, family or other responsibilities, psychotherapy can help. Strengthening your interpersonal, behavioral and relational strategies will bring you relief. Together, we will explore how the complex patterns of your experiences are affecting your current life challenges, emotions, and behaviors. Whether working with children, adolescents, teens or adults, my approach is to be compassionate and attuned to your unique set of needs, providing a space for you to feel understood, appreciated and learn self-acceptance, ultimately achieving more effective strategies for dealing with life's stressors.
If you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or experiencing increased life stressors due to work, family or other responsibilities, psychotherapy can help. Strengthening your interpersonal, behavioral and relational strategies will bring you relief. Together, we will explore how the complex patterns of your experiences are affecting your current life challenges, emotions, and behaviors. Whether working with children, adolescents, teens or adults, my approach is to be compassionate and attuned to your unique set of needs, providing a space for you to feel understood, appreciated and learn self-acceptance, ultimately achieving more effective strategies for dealing with life's stressors.
![Photo of Tamara Gittelson, MA, LCPC, Analyst, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9941c569-0c63-4adc-9b53-2f20909f9573/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. Come talk about what matters to you most. Together, we walk. Explore. Meander. Clarify. I love what I do and will help you feel better. I can help with multicultural issues, relocation, or if you're struggling with addiction, overcoming trauma, relationships, questions about polyamory, depression or abuse. If life has lost its meaning and you’re missing adventure, intimacy, greater self-expression and passion, let’s go. If you don’t talk about it, it won’t get better. I’m supportive, alternative, warm and kind. You’ll feel comfortable, and challenge thoughts and perceptions preventing you from getting out of your own way.
Hi. Come talk about what matters to you most. Together, we walk. Explore. Meander. Clarify. I love what I do and will help you feel better. I can help with multicultural issues, relocation, or if you're struggling with addiction, overcoming trauma, relationships, questions about polyamory, depression or abuse. If life has lost its meaning and you’re missing adventure, intimacy, greater self-expression and passion, let’s go. If you don’t talk about it, it won’t get better. I’m supportive, alternative, warm and kind. You’ll feel comfortable, and challenge thoughts and perceptions preventing you from getting out of your own way.
![Photo of Joshua Boyd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2fee015-688c-4243-a3ec-ea00a98d92a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children to young adults to navigate things such as autism, trauma, anxiety & depression, identity, anger management, communication, eating disorders, and school/career decisions.
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
I specialize in working with children to young adults to navigate things such as autism, trauma, anxiety & depression, identity, anger management, communication, eating disorders, and school/career decisions.
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
![Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners Pllc - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58179b92-dc3e-4f6e-87f4-52539ecd9b06/2/320x400.jpeg)
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
We have worked with those experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem/body image, health and relationship issues, trauma, stress, work/life balance issues and loneliness.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have worked with those experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem/body image, health and relationship issues, trauma, stress, work/life balance issues and loneliness.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
![Photo of Beatrice Finkelstein, RN, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bd628f8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of particular interest and experience include working with adults and adolescents dealing with worry, anxiety, panic or fears; unhappiness, dissatisfaction, depression; relationship problems; shyness, self-consciousness, fear of social situations; eating disorders including binge eating; difficulty managing anger; bipolar disorder; Asperger's syndrome in adults (and their families).
Each person entering therapy has unique needs that demand an individual approach. Providing a warm, accepting and empathic environment, I draw from a variety of psychotherapeutic models tailored to the needs of each client. With many years of experience as a mental health professional, including over 20 years as a licensed clinical psychologist and a previous career as a psychiatric nurse, I have worked with many individuals and couples with a variety of issues. My clients can expect to emerge from therapy better equipped to address the challenges they face now and those they will confront in the future.
My areas of particular interest and experience include working with adults and adolescents dealing with worry, anxiety, panic or fears; unhappiness, dissatisfaction, depression; relationship problems; shyness, self-consciousness, fear of social situations; eating disorders including binge eating; difficulty managing anger; bipolar disorder; Asperger's syndrome in adults (and their families).
Each person entering therapy has unique needs that demand an individual approach. Providing a warm, accepting and empathic environment, I draw from a variety of psychotherapeutic models tailored to the needs of each client. With many years of experience as a mental health professional, including over 20 years as a licensed clinical psychologist and a previous career as a psychiatric nurse, I have worked with many individuals and couples with a variety of issues. My clients can expect to emerge from therapy better equipped to address the challenges they face now and those they will confront in the future.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Depression Therapists
What is the goal of therapy for depression?
Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.
What happens in therapy for depression?
Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.
What therapy types help with depression?
Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.
Can therapy for depression be done online?
Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.
How effective is therapy for depression?
Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.