Strength-Based Therapists in Chicago, IL
Matthew Partridge
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622 (Online Only)
I seek to build a strong therapeutic relationship through active listening and collaboration. My role as your therapist is to appreciate the complexity and nuances of your concerns. I believe you have the innate ability to heal from pain and dysfunction, and my role is to meet you where you are and provide perspective to your situation. In the early stages of our work together, I emphasize establishing trust through clear communication and active listening. As we get to know each other, my style adapts to your needs.
I seek to build a strong therapeutic relationship through active listening and collaboration. My role as your therapist is to appreciate the complexity and nuances of your concerns. I believe you have the innate ability to heal from pain and dysfunction, and my role is to meet you where you are and provide perspective to your situation. In the early stages of our work together, I emphasize establishing trust through clear communication and active listening. As we get to know each other, my style adapts to your needs.
Stuck in a rut? Anxiety paralyzing you from living your fullest? Having the same arguments over and over again with your partner? Want more from life but not sure what steps to take? Haven't found the right therapist yet to make any meaningful changes in your life? Whatever brought you here today, know that you don't have to search for the answers on your own. Together, we can take the necessary steps towards discovery, growth, healing, and wholeness.
Stuck in a rut? Anxiety paralyzing you from living your fullest? Having the same arguments over and over again with your partner? Want more from life but not sure what steps to take? Haven't found the right therapist yet to make any meaningful changes in your life? Whatever brought you here today, know that you don't have to search for the answers on your own. Together, we can take the necessary steps towards discovery, growth, healing, and wholeness.
Dr. Amber C Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643 (Online Only)
Deciding to come to therapy can be very scary. Sharing your most intimate thoughts with someone can be even more frightening. This is why I make sure that I create a very safe, caring, positive, and secure place where you can feel comfortable and know that you are with someone who truly cares about your well-being.
Deciding to come to therapy can be very scary. Sharing your most intimate thoughts with someone can be even more frightening. This is why I make sure that I create a very safe, caring, positive, and secure place where you can feel comfortable and know that you are with someone who truly cares about your well-being.
Thrive for Life Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW clients. Wendy Galyen & the counseling TEAM at Thrive for Life offer VIDEO &PHONE-based counseling. Online counseling services are great for busy professionals, college students, stay-at-home moms, retirees, or other clients who do not have time for traditional in-person sessions but who would benefit from counseling support in their daily lives. Free consultation available to determine if this type of counseling can meet your unique needs. Some insurances accepted or private pay from $75-$150/session. IL team includes: Wendy Galyen, Marilyn Verbiscer (couples), Emma Flores, & Lindsey Welch (life coach).
Accepting NEW clients. Wendy Galyen & the counseling TEAM at Thrive for Life offer VIDEO &PHONE-based counseling. Online counseling services are great for busy professionals, college students, stay-at-home moms, retirees, or other clients who do not have time for traditional in-person sessions but who would benefit from counseling support in their daily lives. Free consultation available to determine if this type of counseling can meet your unique needs. Some insurances accepted or private pay from $75-$150/session. IL team includes: Wendy Galyen, Marilyn Verbiscer (couples), Emma Flores, & Lindsey Welch (life coach).
Jada is a licensed social worker who earned her bachelor of arts and science in psychology with a minor in sociology from Quinnipiac University. Jada also holds a master’s of arts in social work from the University of Chicago. Prior to joining Willis Counseling and Consulting, Jada worked supervising a mental health support and suicide prevention text line for teens. At WCC, Jada hopes to work with those age seven and older who struggle with addiction, anger, anxiety, body dysmorphia (BDD), boundaries, dating and relationships, decision making, depression and domestic violence.
Jada is a licensed social worker who earned her bachelor of arts and science in psychology with a minor in sociology from Quinnipiac University. Jada also holds a master’s of arts in social work from the University of Chicago. Prior to joining Willis Counseling and Consulting, Jada worked supervising a mental health support and suicide prevention text line for teens. At WCC, Jada hopes to work with those age seven and older who struggle with addiction, anger, anxiety, body dysmorphia (BDD), boundaries, dating and relationships, decision making, depression and domestic violence.
Candace Kulczycki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors, as well as related anxiety, stress, depression, body image, relationships, family dynamics, and self esteem concerns. I have experience treating eating disorders at the residential, partial hospitalization, and outpatient levels of care. If you are finding yourself or your child consumed with anxiety around eating, withdrawing from others, and/or preoccupied with body image, I have the experience to help you take control of these issues and reclaim happiness and peace.
I specialize in treating eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors, as well as related anxiety, stress, depression, body image, relationships, family dynamics, and self esteem concerns. I have experience treating eating disorders at the residential, partial hospitalization, and outpatient levels of care. If you are finding yourself or your child consumed with anxiety around eating, withdrawing from others, and/or preoccupied with body image, I have the experience to help you take control of these issues and reclaim happiness and peace.
Nicole Middleton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, MHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
Are you struggling with feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or facing challenges that seem too big to tackle alone? If you’re seeking meaningful, healthy change and a supportive space to explore your creativity, strengths, and resilience, I’m here to help. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or just need a sounding board, we can work together to navigate these difficulties. If you’re open-minded and ready to collaborate on setting achievable goals, let’s start your journey of transformation and growth.
Are you struggling with feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or facing challenges that seem too big to tackle alone? If you’re seeking meaningful, healthy change and a supportive space to explore your creativity, strengths, and resilience, I’m here to help. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or just need a sounding board, we can work together to navigate these difficulties. If you’re open-minded and ready to collaborate on setting achievable goals, let’s start your journey of transformation and growth.
Are you struggling with feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, or self-doubt? Therapy can be a powerful space to explore your emotions and find relief. I’m here to create a supportive, trusting environment where you feel seen and understood. By meeting you where you are and being genuinely present, I help you reconnect with yourself and address the challenges you face. Together, we can explore your challenges, uncover your strengths, and work towards meaningful change. I’m here to support you every step of the way as we build a path to healing, growth, and personal fulfillment.
Are you struggling with feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, or self-doubt? Therapy can be a powerful space to explore your emotions and find relief. I’m here to create a supportive, trusting environment where you feel seen and understood. By meeting you where you are and being genuinely present, I help you reconnect with yourself and address the challenges you face. Together, we can explore your challenges, uncover your strengths, and work towards meaningful change. I’m here to support you every step of the way as we build a path to healing, growth, and personal fulfillment.
Melissa Richardson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Both personally and professionally, I feel a natural inclination to connect with and help others. I believe that, because nobody’s life is perfect, we all need some extra support at times. This perspective is what keeps me motivated and driven to do the work that I do. With an approach that is trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based, I strive to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I believe in collaboration and working with clients to identify areas in which they seek change and to learn how to develop and use personal strengths and resources to make positive change possible.
Both personally and professionally, I feel a natural inclination to connect with and help others. I believe that, because nobody’s life is perfect, we all need some extra support at times. This perspective is what keeps me motivated and driven to do the work that I do. With an approach that is trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based, I strive to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I believe in collaboration and working with clients to identify areas in which they seek change and to learn how to develop and use personal strengths and resources to make positive change possible.
Dr. LaKisha C Hudson
Counselor, LCPC, CST, CRC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Dr. KiKi's ideal clients seek holistic growth, facing challenges such as intimacy issues, trust concerns, infidelity, anxiety, sexual challenges, or navigating their identity within the LGBTQIA+ and kink communities. They desire a non-judgmental space to explore their mind, body, and spirit, aiming to build healthier relationships, enhance self-awareness, and achieve emotional balance. Dr. KiKi specializes in partner therapy, individual and couples counseling, focusing on intimacy, trust, infidelity, anxiety, and sexual challenges.
Welcome! Dr. KiKi's ideal clients seek holistic growth, facing challenges such as intimacy issues, trust concerns, infidelity, anxiety, sexual challenges, or navigating their identity within the LGBTQIA+ and kink communities. They desire a non-judgmental space to explore their mind, body, and spirit, aiming to build healthier relationships, enhance self-awareness, and achieve emotional balance. Dr. KiKi specializes in partner therapy, individual and couples counseling, focusing on intimacy, trust, infidelity, anxiety, and sexual challenges.
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!
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Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker who honors and celebrates the uniqueness of your life experiences, stories, and identity. My specialization includes providing support to the queer population, individuals aged 60 and above, those experiencing job burnout, parents/guardians, PLWH, adult children of substance users, and creatives.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker who honors and celebrates the uniqueness of your life experiences, stories, and identity. My specialization includes providing support to the queer population, individuals aged 60 and above, those experiencing job burnout, parents/guardians, PLWH, adult children of substance users, and creatives.
Lauren LaBlance
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I am especially passionate about working with couples and adults who are seeking support for concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and relational conflict. For me, helping people navigate the challenges they face and the difficulties in their relationships is an incredibly fulfilling journey. I believe that empathy and kindness are the most important things we bring to our relationships, and it is my goal that my clients feel heard, supported, and cared for.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I am especially passionate about working with couples and adults who are seeking support for concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and relational conflict. For me, helping people navigate the challenges they face and the difficulties in their relationships is an incredibly fulfilling journey. I believe that empathy and kindness are the most important things we bring to our relationships, and it is my goal that my clients feel heard, supported, and cared for.
If you’re from an environment that didn’t encourage talking about feelings, starting therapy is probably awkward and foreign to you. But there should be no shame or embarrassment about therapy. Many of us suffer from anxiety, depression, stressful life transitions, and relationship issues, etc., and could use a safe space to let out the stress and process the many things we have going on. With self-empowerment, exploring your identity & emotions, and identifying patterns of behavior and their triggers, I can help you prioritize yourself and in turn, find healthy ways to thrive in your personal, social, and professional life.
If you’re from an environment that didn’t encourage talking about feelings, starting therapy is probably awkward and foreign to you. But there should be no shame or embarrassment about therapy. Many of us suffer from anxiety, depression, stressful life transitions, and relationship issues, etc., and could use a safe space to let out the stress and process the many things we have going on. With self-empowerment, exploring your identity & emotions, and identifying patterns of behavior and their triggers, I can help you prioritize yourself and in turn, find healthy ways to thrive in your personal, social, and professional life.
Nancy Little
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60641 (Online Only)
There are many reasons why people seek therapy. You may be working through problems at home or at work. Grappling with feelings of anxiety, anger, or depression. Or maybe searching for purpose in your life. You may be frustrated with relationships with friends, family, or chosen family. You may be thinking, "this is not how I imagined my life would be". As a therapist with over 30 years of experience, I believe the answers to changing your life are within you—and that you can find them through a safe therapeutic relationship.
There are many reasons why people seek therapy. You may be working through problems at home or at work. Grappling with feelings of anxiety, anger, or depression. Or maybe searching for purpose in your life. You may be frustrated with relationships with friends, family, or chosen family. You may be thinking, "this is not how I imagined my life would be". As a therapist with over 30 years of experience, I believe the answers to changing your life are within you—and that you can find them through a safe therapeutic relationship.
I believe in therapy as a space for exploration and discovery of the narratives we wish to protect and those we wish to discard as we write the story of our life. This requires vulnerability and honesty which we will co-create over time. As an invitation for you to build this trust in the space, I strive to show up as my most authentic self. This includes bringing my intersecting identities as an immigrant, queer, Latina, theater-maker.
I believe in therapy as a space for exploration and discovery of the narratives we wish to protect and those we wish to discard as we write the story of our life. This requires vulnerability and honesty which we will co-create over time. As an invitation for you to build this trust in the space, I strive to show up as my most authentic self. This includes bringing my intersecting identities as an immigrant, queer, Latina, theater-maker.
Dr. Nakshabandi draws from 10 years of psychiatric training experience across a wide range of settings including Harvard Medical School, The University of Chicago, The Department of Veterans Affairs and over 40 different sites across two continents. Dr. Nakshabandi has extensive knowledge on a wide array of therapeutic techniques, medication management algorithms, and complementary approaches to treatment. His treatment approach is rooted in empathy and strives to heal by evoking it.
Dr. Nakshabandi draws from 10 years of psychiatric training experience across a wide range of settings including Harvard Medical School, The University of Chicago, The Department of Veterans Affairs and over 40 different sites across two continents. Dr. Nakshabandi has extensive knowledge on a wide array of therapeutic techniques, medication management algorithms, and complementary approaches to treatment. His treatment approach is rooted in empathy and strives to heal by evoking it.
I strive to empower my clients through radical compassion, curiosity, collaboration and gentle redirection to help them feel confident in navigating life’s challenges. I aim to create a soft landing place and an opportunity for those who experience the brunt of systemic oppression—BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color), poor, women, queer, trans, diversely abled, and in larger bodies to name a few —who’ve felt rejected, judged, misunderstood, invisible, and outcasted because of their identities—to lay down their armor, tend to the wounds they’ve sustained, and further uncover who they are when they aren’t in survival mode.
I strive to empower my clients through radical compassion, curiosity, collaboration and gentle redirection to help them feel confident in navigating life’s challenges. I aim to create a soft landing place and an opportunity for those who experience the brunt of systemic oppression—BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color), poor, women, queer, trans, diversely abled, and in larger bodies to name a few —who’ve felt rejected, judged, misunderstood, invisible, and outcasted because of their identities—to lay down their armor, tend to the wounds they’ve sustained, and further uncover who they are when they aren’t in survival mode.
Lauren Trinca
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Every person deserves the space to be heard and process what is important to them. Therapy should be a safe space to work on the goals important to each individual. This is what I strive to provide each of my clients. I have found my ability to create that space through my warm, understanding, and empathetic manner has been beneficial to clients. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and young adults. I enjoy being a part of their journey towards change.
Every person deserves the space to be heard and process what is important to them. Therapy should be a safe space to work on the goals important to each individual. This is what I strive to provide each of my clients. I have found my ability to create that space through my warm, understanding, and empathetic manner has been beneficial to clients. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and young adults. I enjoy being a part of their journey towards change.
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.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Strength-Based Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Maywood
- Norridge
- North Riverside
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Riverside