Toddler Therapists in Lake Forest, IL
![Photo of Laura M. Koerner Lcpc, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65e1d920-82cd-4262-82fa-889e78d27b70/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura M. Koerner Lcpc
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety "likes a plan" - my clients know this phrase well and we use this to develop an understanding of how the brain & body work, practice strategies for anxiety reduction and identify a path to balance, joy & peace. As a former Big 10 athlete, I am hard working and dedicated to my clients in counseling children, adolescents, adults and parents. I provide a supportive and safe environment with education about neuroscience, self-compassion, meditation and self-care.
Anxiety "likes a plan" - my clients know this phrase well and we use this to develop an understanding of how the brain & body work, practice strategies for anxiety reduction and identify a path to balance, joy & peace. As a former Big 10 athlete, I am hard working and dedicated to my clients in counseling children, adolescents, adults and parents. I provide a supportive and safe environment with education about neuroscience, self-compassion, meditation and self-care.
![Photo of Sophia Shlain - 360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad10e311-641c-4346-9b5f-5322fa78d0a7/2/320x400.png)
360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
![Photo of Maria Hwang, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea46fe20-cd19-454f-ba87-f8dc90f9107d/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and families, I work with individuals exhibiting a wide variety of psychological issues. These include: anxiety-related disorders (e.g., OCD, generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, social anxiety, separation anxiety, panic disorder, etc.), depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, and parenting concerns. With experience practicing in several settings (community mental health, academic medical center, university-affiliated outpatient clinic, and private practice), I have worked with a diverse client base.
As a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and families, I work with individuals exhibiting a wide variety of psychological issues. These include: anxiety-related disorders (e.g., OCD, generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, social anxiety, separation anxiety, panic disorder, etc.), depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, and parenting concerns. With experience practicing in several settings (community mental health, academic medical center, university-affiliated outpatient clinic, and private practice), I have worked with a diverse client base.
![Photo of Justin William Schloer - Changing Phases, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b391492d-12d6-4273-bee9-bdab5c5204a0/3/320x400.jpeg)
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
![Photo of Taylor Cohen, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9affc4d-6402-430d-844d-38c9547f5004/2/320x400.png)
Taylor Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Hello there! I am a warm, and empathetic therapist who has a passion for helping children, adolescents, young adults, and adults tackle a variety of behavioral and psychological obstacles that life throws their way. Throughout our therapeutic journey, expect tons of laughter, tears, and most importantly.. personal growth! From experience, I’ve learned that we all struggle to identify and communicate our needs, which can manifest in behavioral challenges as well as emotional dysregulation, sometimes making it really hard at home, school, and with relationships.
Hello there! I am a warm, and empathetic therapist who has a passion for helping children, adolescents, young adults, and adults tackle a variety of behavioral and psychological obstacles that life throws their way. Throughout our therapeutic journey, expect tons of laughter, tears, and most importantly.. personal growth! From experience, I’ve learned that we all struggle to identify and communicate our needs, which can manifest in behavioral challenges as well as emotional dysregulation, sometimes making it really hard at home, school, and with relationships.
![Photo of Brooke K. Magers - Dr. Brooke K. Magers, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45be0004-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe individuals manage the best they can, but these efforts do not always naturally translate to happiness or self-fulfillment. Oftentimes, situations cause us pain and in response, we spend considerable energy safeguarding our vulnerabilities at the expense of our well-being. Managing emotional distress alone can feel overwhelming, which is why we often need help from a sensitive, knowledgeable professional.
I believe individuals manage the best they can, but these efforts do not always naturally translate to happiness or self-fulfillment. Oftentimes, situations cause us pain and in response, we spend considerable energy safeguarding our vulnerabilities at the expense of our well-being. Managing emotional distress alone can feel overwhelming, which is why we often need help from a sensitive, knowledgeable professional.
![Photo of Lisa Kaye Duran, LSW, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c90f1710-1f6f-4d2f-8241-98c8942d0c1d/1/320x400.png)
Lisa Kaye Duran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, PEL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045 (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to provide a nurturing and attentive approach. I strive to create a calm and secure environment to help clients discover and achieve their personal goals. My main goal in this professional relationship is to offer steadfast support, allowing my clients to experience the ultimate fulfillment in reaching their therapeutic goals. I firmly believe that progressive changes in behavior are key to creating balance in relationships and personal lives, and I carry a deep-rooted passion for helping those struggling with complex mental health and addiction issues.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a nurturing and attentive approach. I strive to create a calm and secure environment to help clients discover and achieve their personal goals. My main goal in this professional relationship is to offer steadfast support, allowing my clients to experience the ultimate fulfillment in reaching their therapeutic goals. I firmly believe that progressive changes in behavior are key to creating balance in relationships and personal lives, and I carry a deep-rooted passion for helping those struggling with complex mental health and addiction issues.
![Photo of Dr. Eitan D Schwarz, MD, DLFAPA, FAACAP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/822fcf31-c7b8-445c-99c9-670c46a1fea2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with folks of all ages who may be reacting to stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. A psychiatrist therapist is just that. Before the first visit, I will first send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can remain thorough and focused only on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
I work with folks of all ages who may be reacting to stresses at work, school, or in relationships, or unhappy with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. A psychiatrist therapist is just that. Before the first visit, I will first send you medical and other questionnaires to bring with you so we can remain thorough and focused only on your needs. You can usually count on some relief and a clear plan when you leave. Most of my patients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first week or two and sustained improvement thereafter.
![Photo of Char Slezak - SamaraCare Counseling, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b6373c6-fa85-4cdd-9004-bb0e4919d26e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our experienced and diverse team of counselors are ready to work with anyone and everyone who’s looking for things like clarity, understanding, acceptance, calm, courage, hope and change. Counselors use a wide variety of client-focused and goal-oriented therapy techniques in a broad range of specialty areas, so you’re sure to find a counselor who suits your needs.
Our experienced and diverse team of counselors are ready to work with anyone and everyone who’s looking for things like clarity, understanding, acceptance, calm, courage, hope and change. Counselors use a wide variety of client-focused and goal-oriented therapy techniques in a broad range of specialty areas, so you’re sure to find a counselor who suits your needs.
![Photo of Patricia Roy - The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a684ce0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
![Photo of Gurnee Counseling Center - Gurnee Counseling Center](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/479a783f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our goal is simple. To offer people a center that is dedicated to the wellness of the mind, body and spirit. We are focused on solutions that build healthy skills to last a lifetime.
Our goal is simple. To offer people a center that is dedicated to the wellness of the mind, body and spirit. We are focused on solutions that build healthy skills to last a lifetime.
![Photo of Natalie Pollard, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/879c5bb7-fd0a-4600-b15f-8b3c1b08ba53/1/320x400.png)
Natalie Pollard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
My approach is remarkably empathic, attentive, accepting and nonjudgmental. With such approach, I'm able to create a safe and trusting space for patients to openly express themselves. I'm passionate about treating patients from all populations, having worked with patients from birth to 90+ years of age. I'm especially experienced, passionate and devoted to helping individuals come to terms with and find recovery with addictions.
My approach is remarkably empathic, attentive, accepting and nonjudgmental. With such approach, I'm able to create a safe and trusting space for patients to openly express themselves. I'm passionate about treating patients from all populations, having worked with patients from birth to 90+ years of age. I'm especially experienced, passionate and devoted to helping individuals come to terms with and find recovery with addictions.
![Photo of Alexis Walich, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cbe9ea7-a878-46c2-bd7e-8a36be1fdf2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Walich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
My approach comes from a patient-centered standpoint. I believe the patient/therapist relationship is based on safety, trust, and honesty. You are the expert on your own life and I will be there for support and guidance. You do not always have control over your emotions and thoughts, but you have the power to change those thoughts from negative to positive. You gain insight and become self-aware when you are doing what you are comfortable with. I enjoy incorporating expressive arts into counseling, when appropriate, because there are many ways for patients to express their own thoughts and emotions.
My approach comes from a patient-centered standpoint. I believe the patient/therapist relationship is based on safety, trust, and honesty. You are the expert on your own life and I will be there for support and guidance. You do not always have control over your emotions and thoughts, but you have the power to change those thoughts from negative to positive. You gain insight and become self-aware when you are doing what you are comfortable with. I enjoy incorporating expressive arts into counseling, when appropriate, because there are many ways for patients to express their own thoughts and emotions.
![Photo of Lori Ashbaugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a320f0a-f6ba-4be4-93b2-bfd850e109c5/1/320x400.png)
Lori Ashbaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045 (Online Only)
We all experience trauma in our lives, and sometimes severe life stressors leave us feeling stuck. As an ally, teacher, and therapist, Lori collaborates with you to go from surviving to thriving. She understands that healing is dynamic, and provides a mind-body-spirit approach to treatment. Therapy is an opportunity to honor our experience and become friends with ourselves. Lori uses a combination of holistic modalities including EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and movement to tackle core issues.
We all experience trauma in our lives, and sometimes severe life stressors leave us feeling stuck. As an ally, teacher, and therapist, Lori collaborates with you to go from surviving to thriving. She understands that healing is dynamic, and provides a mind-body-spirit approach to treatment. Therapy is an opportunity to honor our experience and become friends with ourselves. Lori uses a combination of holistic modalities including EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and movement to tackle core issues.
![Photo of Jane Ballis, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c531e65-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat children, adolescents, couples and family in a variety of therapeutic means. I have used cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, EMDR, behavioral, and eclectic therapies in addition to others. I also have experience working with behavioral, mood, anxiety, conduct and other specialties. I appreciate diversity and love working with others of various cultures, abilities and races.
I treat children, adolescents, couples and family in a variety of therapeutic means. I have used cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, EMDR, behavioral, and eclectic therapies in addition to others. I also have experience working with behavioral, mood, anxiety, conduct and other specialties. I appreciate diversity and love working with others of various cultures, abilities and races.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Lindsay Soto, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f5d5c1d-adc8-4858-964b-43b7ad2c450e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Change and struggle are universal inevitabilities, and everyone deserves guidance and relief. Whether you are facing everyday stressors or significant life obstacles, you are not alone. I believe everything we do serves a function, and it is important to gain understanding of those that might not be healthy or helpful. My training and clinical experience with court-involved individuals and families guides my work with clients spanning the toddler years to middle adulthood.
Change and struggle are universal inevitabilities, and everyone deserves guidance and relief. Whether you are facing everyday stressors or significant life obstacles, you are not alone. I believe everything we do serves a function, and it is important to gain understanding of those that might not be healthy or helpful. My training and clinical experience with court-involved individuals and families guides my work with clients spanning the toddler years to middle adulthood.
![Photo of Sandy Wolff, MA, EdD, EdS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e756d49a-7772-447e-9295-1b11dcf66dfc/2/320x400.png)
I have over 20 years of testing experience as a Licensed Diagnostician, Educational Psychologist, and School Psychologist. I specialize in psychoeducational & neuro/psychological testing for children, teens, college students, and adults. I evaluate for ADHD, executive functioning, anxiety, mood, developmental concerns, social anxiety, social difficulties, personality traits, adjustment issues, 504/IEP, learning challenges, college & graduate school testing, college career assessment profiles, & more. I worked with many school districts as a child advocate/consultant/school psychologist, including North Shore, Lincolnwood, & NSSED
I have over 20 years of testing experience as a Licensed Diagnostician, Educational Psychologist, and School Psychologist. I specialize in psychoeducational & neuro/psychological testing for children, teens, college students, and adults. I evaluate for ADHD, executive functioning, anxiety, mood, developmental concerns, social anxiety, social difficulties, personality traits, adjustment issues, 504/IEP, learning challenges, college & graduate school testing, college career assessment profiles, & more. I worked with many school districts as a child advocate/consultant/school psychologist, including North Shore, Lincolnwood, & NSSED
![Photo of Madelynn Rudd, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/259c655c-9e7a-4273-8bd7-dd481b27467d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I consider being a therapist my calling, one that is drawn from my personal experiences. I know firsthand how challenging the process of seeking the right therapist to meet your individual needs can be. I understand how uncomfortable it can be to tell a stranger what is bothering you, but I admire the bravery it takes to make that first step. I am driven by a commitment to creating an empathetic, supportive, and creative space that encourages individuals to be themselves without judgment.
I consider being a therapist my calling, one that is drawn from my personal experiences. I know firsthand how challenging the process of seeking the right therapist to meet your individual needs can be. I understand how uncomfortable it can be to tell a stranger what is bothering you, but I admire the bravery it takes to make that first step. I am driven by a commitment to creating an empathetic, supportive, and creative space that encourages individuals to be themselves without judgment.
![Photo of Soledad M Melgar, MSW, MA, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bf25e74-0488-48c4-9ea3-8cfe9b678bdc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, adults, and families that have emotional distress and mental health issues. I have also worked in the foster care system with the Department of Children and Family Services and the court systems. Tengo más de 30 años de experiencia trabajando con personas, adultos y familias que tienen angustia emocional y problemas de salud mental. También he trabajado en el sistema de cuidado de crianza con el Departamento de Servicios para Niños y Familias y los sistemas judiciales.
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, adults, and families that have emotional distress and mental health issues. I have also worked in the foster care system with the Department of Children and Family Services and the court systems. Tengo más de 30 años de experiencia trabajando con personas, adultos y familias que tienen angustia emocional y problemas de salud mental. También he trabajado en el sistema de cuidado de crianza con el Departamento de Servicios para Niños y Familias y los sistemas judiciales.
![Photo of Kelly Goldstein, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c6ea78-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
With over 20 years experience, I am dedicated to assisting children, adolescents and adults in developing and strengthening interpersonal skills, recognizing and regulating their emotional states, creating healthier relationships and achieving new and positive goals.
With over 20 years experience, I am dedicated to assisting children, adolescents and adults in developing and strengthening interpersonal skills, recognizing and regulating their emotional states, creating healthier relationships and achieving new and positive goals.
See more therapy options for Lake Forest
Nearby Toddler Therapists Searches for Lake Forest
- Buffalo Grove
- Deerfield
- Glencoe
- Highland Park
- Lake Bluff
- Libertyville
- Lincolnshire
- Mundelein
- Northbrook
- Vernon Hills
- Waukegan
- Wheeling
Toddler Therapists
What are the behavioral signs indicating a toddler might need counseling?
Common behavioral signs that a child may need counseling include high levels of emotional distress or anxiety, learning challenges, interpersonal conflict, anger, or social withdrawal. Any drastic changes in toddler behavior or self-esteem can be indicative that a child may benefit from therapy. Seeing a therapist at the early stages of any behavioral changes can be most impactful on behavior, as well as helpful to caregivers who may receive guidance on what symptoms to look for in their child in the future, even if therapy is not warranted at that time.
Can a two-year-old see a psychologist?
Children and adults of all ages can see psychologists and other forms of mental health professionals, such as counselors, psychiatrists, and social workers. Families seeking therapy for their toddler should just be aware that any guidance they seek should come from a professional who has specific experience working with young children, as well as the specific modalities that are appropriate for young children, such as play therapy.
What is the most effective type of therapy for toddlers and preschoolers?
In general, play therapy is the most effective and common form of therapy for young children. Play therapy helps facilitate behavior change by offering an age-appropriate way for children to express their emotions and develop more effective coping strategies. Toddlers with specific concerns may benefit from more specialized forms of therapy, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for toddlers in families in which there is significant parent-child relational conflict.
What happens during therapy sessions for toddlers?
What occurs in therapy sessions for toddlers depends on the therapeutic approach being used by the therapist. Most toddler therapists will use some form of play therapy in sessions to encourage toddler engagement. In play therapy sessions, children are encouraged to use toys within the therapy setting to express their emotions; subsequent responses by the therapist and/or family members can help guide toddler behavior and behavior change. Toddler therapy sessions can also involve family therapy or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which can help improve parenting behaviors and reduce strain on families.