Strength-Based Therapists in Elmwood Park, IL

Photo of Nancy Gordon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
INSIGHT, SKILLS, SUPPORT. Strength-based. Solution focused. I work with clients of all ages using cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies along with guided imagery, dreamwork, and art. I believe that mindfulness can help to reduce negative thinking, worrying and self-criticism. These are bad habits - and they can be changed. I am skilled at teaching children/adults how to be more mindful instead of getting caught up in harmful, unproductive thoughts that lead to self defeating actions.
INSIGHT, SKILLS, SUPPORT. Strength-based. Solution focused. I work with clients of all ages using cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies along with guided imagery, dreamwork, and art. I believe that mindfulness can help to reduce negative thinking, worrying and self-criticism. These are bad habits - and they can be changed. I am skilled at teaching children/adults how to be more mindful instead of getting caught up in harmful, unproductive thoughts that lead to self defeating actions.
(773) 234-3943 View (773) 234-3943
Photo of Ken Aaron Burnstein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Aaron Burnstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
Welcome; I enjoy helping people cope with anxiety, depression, anger management, couple relationships, and life transitions. (divorce, loss, career change, family relationships) I have a directive, practical approach that balances understanding and support with guidance and direction. I believe that in order for therapy to be meaningful, it is important to work together and create an individualized approach which is a unique match for your concerns and style. Many people who have felt little or no progress in therapy before, have made positive changes with my active, engaged approach.
Welcome; I enjoy helping people cope with anxiety, depression, anger management, couple relationships, and life transitions. (divorce, loss, career change, family relationships) I have a directive, practical approach that balances understanding and support with guidance and direction. I believe that in order for therapy to be meaningful, it is important to work together and create an individualized approach which is a unique match for your concerns and style. Many people who have felt little or no progress in therapy before, have made positive changes with my active, engaged approach.
(708) 406-6651 View (708) 406-6651
Photo of Dawn Stewart-Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Stewart-Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60635
Is your child experiencing feelings of sadness or anxiety that have begun to impact everyday life and activities? Is your child stressed about school, avoiding school or having trouble with friendships? Do they struggle with focus and attention to the point that it impacts grades as well as relationships? I can help with identifying and managing strong emotions through the development of new coping tools and strategies. I offer a positive and encouraging space to support my clients in acquiring new skills, adapting to and managing life’s changes and bringing out strengths and abilities.
Is your child experiencing feelings of sadness or anxiety that have begun to impact everyday life and activities? Is your child stressed about school, avoiding school or having trouble with friendships? Do they struggle with focus and attention to the point that it impacts grades as well as relationships? I can help with identifying and managing strong emotions through the development of new coping tools and strategies. I offer a positive and encouraging space to support my clients in acquiring new skills, adapting to and managing life’s changes and bringing out strengths and abilities.
(708) 726-8858 View (708) 726-8858
Photo of Abraham Diaz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abraham Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
I help adults who have experienced symptoms related to depression, anxiety and adjustment disorder, amongst other things. I provide a safe space for those who are hoping to gain insight into their experiences and develop adaptive coping skills to adjust to their struggles. Among the other issues I have assisted clients with are: Struggles with ADHD and other learning disabilities, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, sexual abuse, adjustment disorder, issues related to struggles in the work force such as burnout and Vicarious Trauma, working through relationship issues, and issues related to systemic oppression.
I help adults who have experienced symptoms related to depression, anxiety and adjustment disorder, amongst other things. I provide a safe space for those who are hoping to gain insight into their experiences and develop adaptive coping skills to adjust to their struggles. Among the other issues I have assisted clients with are: Struggles with ADHD and other learning disabilities, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, sexual abuse, adjustment disorder, issues related to struggles in the work force such as burnout and Vicarious Trauma, working through relationship issues, and issues related to systemic oppression.
(773) 207-3273 View (773) 207-3273
Photo of Morgan Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I’ve worked with various populations since 2015, when I worked as an advocate for domestic violence survivors. I’ve worked with children and adults dealing with life-changing situations, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and ADHD. My most utilized approaches with clients are client-centered and solution-focused therapies. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy. I believe therapy is a team effort that works best when we’re both invested in its success.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I’ve worked with various populations since 2015, when I worked as an advocate for domestic violence survivors. I’ve worked with children and adults dealing with life-changing situations, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and ADHD. My most utilized approaches with clients are client-centered and solution-focused therapies. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy. I believe therapy is a team effort that works best when we’re both invested in its success.
(872) 267-9276 View (872) 267-9276
Photo of Kary Ream, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kary Ream
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elmwood Park, IL 60707  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
“The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness." - Abraham Maslow
“The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness." - Abraham Maslow
(708) 818-6922 View (708) 818-6922
Photo of Tania E Nunez, LCPC , Counselor
Tania E Nunez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60707  (Online Only)
I have experience in working with adults and adolescents that have experienced trauma, anxiety and depression. Most of my clients that I have supported have been uncomfortable with their daily lifestyle and are seeking to make active changes to improve their quality of life.
I have experience in working with adults and adolescents that have experienced trauma, anxiety and depression. Most of my clients that I have supported have been uncomfortable with their daily lifestyle and are seeking to make active changes to improve their quality of life.
(708) 377-6168 View (708) 377-6168
Photo of Alithea Wayer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alithea Wayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
In my therapy practice, I believe in an individualized treatment approach, realizing that all clients have varying needs and perspectives. These differences are always respected and acknowledged and as a result, my treatment focus is adaptive, utilizing various treatment models customized according to the individual qualities, needs and goals of each client. I maintain a strengths-based perspective on treatment and believe that every client has the potential to experience greater self-awareness, emotional healing and growth, and personal achievement.
In my therapy practice, I believe in an individualized treatment approach, realizing that all clients have varying needs and perspectives. These differences are always respected and acknowledged and as a result, my treatment focus is adaptive, utilizing various treatment models customized according to the individual qualities, needs and goals of each client. I maintain a strengths-based perspective on treatment and believe that every client has the potential to experience greater self-awareness, emotional healing and growth, and personal achievement.
(773) 840-7411 View (773) 840-7411
Photo of Dasi Ginnis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dasi Ginnis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. You might feel stuck in patterns of thoughts or behaviors that are making it hard for you to fully engage in life. I can help you move through this challenging time and emerge feeling happier, stronger and more like yourself. Together we will discover the tools and skills you have within you to support healing, growth, and change in your life. You and I will uncover a happier and more peaceful you.
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. You might feel stuck in patterns of thoughts or behaviors that are making it hard for you to fully engage in life. I can help you move through this challenging time and emerge feeling happier, stronger and more like yourself. Together we will discover the tools and skills you have within you to support healing, growth, and change in your life. You and I will uncover a happier and more peaceful you.
(773) 328-8760 View (773) 328-8760
Photo of Audrey Gerdt, LCSW, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Gerdt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
My passion is helping people to find peace and fulfillment in their lives. You deserve to experience happiness, relaxation, confidence and connection. I have expertise in stress and anxiety, self-confidence and self-esteem, trauma recovery, and adapting to changes in your life or identity. In addition to helping you to better understand yourself and your challenges, I can teach you techniques to more effectively manage your difficulties and increase your ability to fully experience the joys of life.
My passion is helping people to find peace and fulfillment in their lives. You deserve to experience happiness, relaxation, confidence and connection. I have expertise in stress and anxiety, self-confidence and self-esteem, trauma recovery, and adapting to changes in your life or identity. In addition to helping you to better understand yourself and your challenges, I can teach you techniques to more effectively manage your difficulties and increase your ability to fully experience the joys of life.
(708) 469-6352 View (708) 469-6352
Photo of Carli Cinquegrani, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carli Cinquegrani
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60635
I enjoy working with individuals who have walked diverse paths. I have a strong affinity for those with trauma histories, recognizing the importance of healing and resilience. Clients dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and/or neurodivergence will discover practical tools and healing modalities to manage their mental health. Personally, as a breast cancer survivor, I'm attuned to the complexities of illness and its impact on one's emotional well-being. I also work closely with couples who are struggling, providing them with the guidance and tools they need to navigate their relationship challenges.
I enjoy working with individuals who have walked diverse paths. I have a strong affinity for those with trauma histories, recognizing the importance of healing and resilience. Clients dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and/or neurodivergence will discover practical tools and healing modalities to manage their mental health. Personally, as a breast cancer survivor, I'm attuned to the complexities of illness and its impact on one's emotional well-being. I also work closely with couples who are struggling, providing them with the guidance and tools they need to navigate their relationship challenges.
(773) 923-3868 View (773) 923-3868
Photo of Lauren Farina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Farina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois with two decades of experience, specializing in stress management, anxiety, life transitions, low self-esteem, career coaching and professional burnout.  My mission is to partner with my clients in their personal and professional growth using an approach that attends to the mind, body and spirit. My focus is on serving those who seek balance and meaning in the diverse roles they play throughout the lifespan, from parenthood to professional life and everywhere in between.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois with two decades of experience, specializing in stress management, anxiety, life transitions, low self-esteem, career coaching and professional burnout.  My mission is to partner with my clients in their personal and professional growth using an approach that attends to the mind, body and spirit. My focus is on serving those who seek balance and meaning in the diverse roles they play throughout the lifespan, from parenthood to professional life and everywhere in between.
(815) 427-4443 View (815) 427-4443
Photo of Amanda Jenkins, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Amanda Jenkins
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
(708) 887-2960 View (708) 887-2960
Photo of Katarina Berin, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katarina Berin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elmwood Park, IL 60707
Welcome and best wishes on your search for help. Please know that therapy is a good option that has helped many others in difficult times. I offer a compassionate, calm and supportive environment for clients to talk about their experiences, organize their thoughts and understand their emotions. You may be struggling with behaviours that you feel are unhealthy, or emotional difficulties that are impacting functioning. Maybe it’s thoughts that are not serving you well or life events that are hard to process. You do not have to go through it alone.
Welcome and best wishes on your search for help. Please know that therapy is a good option that has helped many others in difficult times. I offer a compassionate, calm and supportive environment for clients to talk about their experiences, organize their thoughts and understand their emotions. You may be struggling with behaviours that you feel are unhealthy, or emotional difficulties that are impacting functioning. Maybe it’s thoughts that are not serving you well or life events that are hard to process. You do not have to go through it alone.
(872) 231-3268 View (872) 231-3268

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Hamza, LSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Hamza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
We all deserve a space that is exclusively ours. A non-judgmental, accepting, and healing space where we can transform our minds, feelings, and experiences. A space to reflect and grow. I provide holistic therapy that is person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed. My approach to therapy is eclectic - I incorporate various treatment modalities and approaches into my work (mindfulness, CBT, DBT, etc.) and provide anti-oppressive, anti-racist and culturally responsive therapy. The identities you carry are seen, valued, and celebrated. I consider all aspects of your life, including the systems and environments that impact us.
We all deserve a space that is exclusively ours. A non-judgmental, accepting, and healing space where we can transform our minds, feelings, and experiences. A space to reflect and grow. I provide holistic therapy that is person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed. My approach to therapy is eclectic - I incorporate various treatment modalities and approaches into my work (mindfulness, CBT, DBT, etc.) and provide anti-oppressive, anti-racist and culturally responsive therapy. The identities you carry are seen, valued, and celebrated. I consider all aspects of your life, including the systems and environments that impact us.
(630) 593-7474 View (630) 593-7474
Photo of Mary Paterkiewicz, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mary Paterkiewicz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60634
Congratulations on taking such a significant step forward to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Whether you are here for your own well-being, or interested on behalf of your child, I look forward to being a supportive and compassionate therapist to you. I have a strong passion for working with children, teens, and young adults to address barriers to success in various areas of life in order to enhance their overall wellness. I am passionate about working with those who are struggling with self image, emotion regulation, frustration tolerance, anxiety, or feelings of depression and self esteem issues.
Congratulations on taking such a significant step forward to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Whether you are here for your own well-being, or interested on behalf of your child, I look forward to being a supportive and compassionate therapist to you. I have a strong passion for working with children, teens, and young adults to address barriers to success in various areas of life in order to enhance their overall wellness. I am passionate about working with those who are struggling with self image, emotion regulation, frustration tolerance, anxiety, or feelings of depression and self esteem issues.
(708) 847-9184 View (708) 847-9184
Photo of Margaret McGonegal, MA, LCPC
Margaret McGonegal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
I use both mindfulness and strength-based approaches to help ease feelings of anxiety, depression, and distress while addressing unhelpful habits that are acting as barriers to your navigating the surrounding chaos.
Life’s challenges happen suddenly. Without warning it feels like you can’t navigate through with confidence and calm. Instead, you are plagued with worry, hesitation, anxiety, and depression. At times, life feels like a ticking time bomb, and you are desperately searching for an effective means to diffuse it. But your coping skills aren’t working well enough, or maybe they weren’t that healthy in the first place. How are you supposed to get comfortable with the challenges you are experiencing, let alone feel you are responding in a healthy way, when everything around you – maybe even your person – can be so unpredictable?
I use both mindfulness and strength-based approaches to help ease feelings of anxiety, depression, and distress while addressing unhelpful habits that are acting as barriers to your navigating the surrounding chaos.
Life’s challenges happen suddenly. Without warning it feels like you can’t navigate through with confidence and calm. Instead, you are plagued with worry, hesitation, anxiety, and depression. At times, life feels like a ticking time bomb, and you are desperately searching for an effective means to diffuse it. But your coping skills aren’t working well enough, or maybe they weren’t that healthy in the first place. How are you supposed to get comfortable with the challenges you are experiencing, let alone feel you are responding in a healthy way, when everything around you – maybe even your person – can be so unpredictable?
(312) 262-5173 View (312) 262-5173
Photo of Noami Hernandez, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Noami Hernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I approach therapy through a humanistic, strength-based, trauma-sensitive lens.
I specialize in working with children, teen and young adults with Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and has knowledge working with clients who experience trauma, have been impacted by an active DCFS case, and survivors of domestic violence. I work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, physical/sexual/emotional/financial abuse, self-harm, suicidal ideation, family separations and dynamics, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I want to to meet clients where they are at in their journey and work alongside them to achieve their goals. Your mental health matters!
I approach therapy through a humanistic, strength-based, trauma-sensitive lens.
I specialize in working with children, teen and young adults with Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and has knowledge working with clients who experience trauma, have been impacted by an active DCFS case, and survivors of domestic violence. I work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, physical/sexual/emotional/financial abuse, self-harm, suicidal ideation, family separations and dynamics, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I want to to meet clients where they are at in their journey and work alongside them to achieve their goals. Your mental health matters!
(708) 726-0913 View (708) 726-0913
Photo of Sadiyah Hill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sadiyah Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Do you have a case of "Monkey Mind” over thinking or can’t stop thinking? Do you believe you are not enough? Are you feeling stuck and not sure how to move forward? Do you struggle with the funky blahs? I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Self Mastery Coach, and I am dedicated to helping women facilitate powerful change through joyful self-realization that aligns with their values and dreams. I support women who find themselves in this space and together we identify the root cause of unconscious storylines that shape beliefs, behaviors, and patterns of thinking that limit wellness and healing.
Do you have a case of "Monkey Mind” over thinking or can’t stop thinking? Do you believe you are not enough? Are you feeling stuck and not sure how to move forward? Do you struggle with the funky blahs? I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Self Mastery Coach, and I am dedicated to helping women facilitate powerful change through joyful self-realization that aligns with their values and dreams. I support women who find themselves in this space and together we identify the root cause of unconscious storylines that shape beliefs, behaviors, and patterns of thinking that limit wellness and healing.
(708) 787-8620 View (708) 787-8620
Photo of Brenda Flores - Building Resiliency Counseling Services , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Building Resiliency Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
My approach is trauma-informed, and my primary treatment methods are strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and family systems.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from Dominican University. I have ten years of experience as a therapist. I was raised in the city of Chicago, bicultural, Spanish-speaking, and culturally sensitive. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. My background includes working with complex trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, major life changes, and the LGBTQ community.
My approach is trauma-informed, and my primary treatment methods are strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and family systems.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from Dominican University. I have ten years of experience as a therapist. I was raised in the city of Chicago, bicultural, Spanish-speaking, and culturally sensitive. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. My background includes working with complex trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, major life changes, and the LGBTQ community.
(708) 960-9451 View (708) 960-9451

See more therapy options for Elmwood Park

Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.