Sexual Abuse Therapists in Melrose Park, IL

Roberta Stahnke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Melrose Park, IL 60160
I provide cognitive behavioral psychotherapy for education, support and management of symptoms of all mental disorders including depression, anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. I teach specific stress management, time management and other coping skills. I administer comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological testing batteries, including cognitive, memory, ADHD and projective testing. My areas of expertise include women's issues, geriatrics, veteran's issues and issues related to managing chronic medical illnesses and pain. My focus is on addressing each client's personal needs and problems.
I provide cognitive behavioral psychotherapy for education, support and management of symptoms of all mental disorders including depression, anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. I teach specific stress management, time management and other coping skills. I administer comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological testing batteries, including cognitive, memory, ADHD and projective testing. My areas of expertise include women's issues, geriatrics, veteran's issues and issues related to managing chronic medical illnesses and pain. My focus is on addressing each client's personal needs and problems.
(708) 218-9147 View (708) 218-9147
Photo of Almudena P Ruiz, LCPC, CADC, EMDR, certifi, Licensed Professional Counselor
Almudena P Ruiz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, EMDR, certifi
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Melrose Park, IL 60161  (Online Only)
Engaging in therapy can be a difficult decision for many people. Whether you are going through a life change, or you feel the need to put the past behind, or maybe simply wish to know yourself better, relate to your loved ones better, improve your academic or professional performance, face your fears, overcome a loss, or just wish to learn more efficient ways to deal with life stressors... these are all great reasons to engage in therapy. For me, genuineness, openness, and a non-judgmental approach are essential ingredients to connect with you, support you, and guide you in your journey.
Engaging in therapy can be a difficult decision for many people. Whether you are going through a life change, or you feel the need to put the past behind, or maybe simply wish to know yourself better, relate to your loved ones better, improve your academic or professional performance, face your fears, overcome a loss, or just wish to learn more efficient ways to deal with life stressors... these are all great reasons to engage in therapy. For me, genuineness, openness, and a non-judgmental approach are essential ingredients to connect with you, support you, and guide you in your journey.
(630) 413-9343 View (630) 413-9343

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristin R Davisson, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin R Davisson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I specialize in: Depression, Anxiety/Fear, Lack of Fulfillment, College/Graduate Student Issues, GLBTQ Issues, Multiculturalism, Grief and Loss, Family of Origin Issues, Sexual Issues, Relationship Concerns, as well as Sexual Abuse and Trauma.
Each of us encounters struggle in our lives: the essential element of my approach to psychotherapy involves the sharing of these struggles in a therapeutic relationship. Once this foundation has been laid, we progress toward mutually agreed upon goals. My patients often find that problems bringing them into therapy are connected to other parts of their lives. We work together to uncover these elements and open doors to greater satisfaction and self understanding.
I specialize in: Depression, Anxiety/Fear, Lack of Fulfillment, College/Graduate Student Issues, GLBTQ Issues, Multiculturalism, Grief and Loss, Family of Origin Issues, Sexual Issues, Relationship Concerns, as well as Sexual Abuse and Trauma.
Each of us encounters struggle in our lives: the essential element of my approach to psychotherapy involves the sharing of these struggles in a therapeutic relationship. Once this foundation has been laid, we progress toward mutually agreed upon goals. My patients often find that problems bringing them into therapy are connected to other parts of their lives. We work together to uncover these elements and open doors to greater satisfaction and self understanding.
(708) 726-9104 View (708) 726-9104
Photo of Dr. Adam Brown - Dr. Adam Brown-- Adults and Teens, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Adam Brown-- Adults and Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
For over a decade, I have been working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in working with those who are struggling with shame and frustration for things over which they feel powerless. For things they've done, for things done to them, for opportunities lost, and for feeling as if they have little control over how to make things better. If you're tired of feeling stuck and ready for help, I'd like to help you get where you want to go. Issues related to sex, anger, and control are areas in which I specialize.
For over a decade, I have been working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in working with those who are struggling with shame and frustration for things over which they feel powerless. For things they've done, for things done to them, for opportunities lost, and for feeling as if they have little control over how to make things better. If you're tired of feeling stuck and ready for help, I'd like to help you get where you want to go. Issues related to sex, anger, and control are areas in which I specialize.
(908) 663-5885 View (908) 663-5885
Photo of Jessica Punzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica Punzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of trauma/PTSD as well as complex PTSD. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have worked in a wide variety of settings treating trauma from prisons/jails, to community mental health centers, to the VA and various outpatient settings. I have worked with all types of survivors with various different traumatic experiences and symptom presentations and utilize several types of treatment approaches.
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of trauma/PTSD as well as complex PTSD. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have worked in a wide variety of settings treating trauma from prisons/jails, to community mental health centers, to the VA and various outpatient settings. I have worked with all types of survivors with various different traumatic experiences and symptom presentations and utilize several types of treatment approaches.
(708) 613-8682 View (708) 613-8682
Photo of Wendy Gutierrez, LCPC
Wendy Gutierrez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Hola! Buenos Días! My name is Wendy Gutierrez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with 10 years of clinical experience in working with a diverse population and Latin Community. I specialize in treatment for Depression, Grief, Relationship Stress, Anger Management, Trauma, Anxiety and Mood Disorders. My clinical approach aims to be culturally sensitive to the needs of the client. Counseling Treatment is based on a combination of a holistic approach, mindfulness, client centered approach, emotional regulation and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hola! Buenos Días! My name is Wendy Gutierrez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with 10 years of clinical experience in working with a diverse population and Latin Community. I specialize in treatment for Depression, Grief, Relationship Stress, Anger Management, Trauma, Anxiety and Mood Disorders. My clinical approach aims to be culturally sensitive to the needs of the client. Counseling Treatment is based on a combination of a holistic approach, mindfulness, client centered approach, emotional regulation and cognitive behavioral therapy.
(708) 847-6647 View (708) 847-6647
Photo of Mary H Case, PhD, Psychologist
Mary H Case
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
My practice specializes in helping clients heal from the complicated effects of trauma. For many individuals, the ability to trust and feel safe in their relationships, can present significant challenges. My focus is helping individuals and couples overcome these roadblocks and move forward in their lives. I also work with clients to understand how they can interact with family and children to break the cycle of generational trauma, a concern for many individuals who have suffered trauma. In a collaborative environment, clients are able to learn multiple approaches to healing and overcoming the effects of traumatic experiences.
My practice specializes in helping clients heal from the complicated effects of trauma. For many individuals, the ability to trust and feel safe in their relationships, can present significant challenges. My focus is helping individuals and couples overcome these roadblocks and move forward in their lives. I also work with clients to understand how they can interact with family and children to break the cycle of generational trauma, a concern for many individuals who have suffered trauma. In a collaborative environment, clients are able to learn multiple approaches to healing and overcoming the effects of traumatic experiences.
(630) 557-6609 View (630) 557-6609
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 Heidi Kon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Kon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Does every day feel like Groundhog's Day--like you are struggling with the same issues you always did? Do you feel like you're not "good enough" or that you're not living-up to your full potential? Does it seem like your past is preventing you from enjoying your present? YOU ARE NOT ALONE! At some point, we all experience these feelings. I believe that we are all capable of growth and transformation. Through a positive client-therapist relationship, we will identify and examine patterns so that you break self-defeating behaviors, create healthier relationships, heal from past trauma, and enhance personal growth.
Does every day feel like Groundhog's Day--like you are struggling with the same issues you always did? Do you feel like you're not "good enough" or that you're not living-up to your full potential? Does it seem like your past is preventing you from enjoying your present? YOU ARE NOT ALONE! At some point, we all experience these feelings. I believe that we are all capable of growth and transformation. Through a positive client-therapist relationship, we will identify and examine patterns so that you break self-defeating behaviors, create healthier relationships, heal from past trauma, and enhance personal growth.
(708) 613-8128 View (708) 613-8128
Photo of Kashara Renee Allen - Relationship Counseling & Psychotherapy Services, Pre-Licensed Professional
Relationship Counseling & Psychotherapy Services
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve emotional balance and peak performance through a compassionate and holistic approach. With a background in psychology and a passion for sports psychology, I specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, and enhancing sports performance. My goal is to help clients feel more in control of their emotions and find peace within themselves. Whether you're a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, optimizing your mental game is crucial for success. I specialize in sports psychology techniques to help you enhance focus, build confidence, manage performance anxiety, and develop resilience.
I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve emotional balance and peak performance through a compassionate and holistic approach. With a background in psychology and a passion for sports psychology, I specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, and enhancing sports performance. My goal is to help clients feel more in control of their emotions and find peace within themselves. Whether you're a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, optimizing your mental game is crucial for success. I specialize in sports psychology techniques to help you enhance focus, build confidence, manage performance anxiety, and develop resilience.
(708) 847-0141 View (708) 847-0141
Photo of Elizabeth Fotopoulos - Elizabeth Fotopoulos LLC, PhD, LCPC, ATR-BC, ATCS, Counselor
Elizabeth Fotopoulos LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist. I have 10 years of professional experience in providing individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. My experience is in out-patient services working with depressive and mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, parenting, and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist. I have 10 years of professional experience in providing individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. My experience is in out-patient services working with depressive and mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, parenting, and life transitions.
(847) 813-7481 View (847) 813-7481
Photo of Holly DeRosa Walejeski, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Holly DeRosa Walejeski
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
My approach as a therapist is warm, kind, and relatable. Recognizing that therapy can be a difficult step to make I strive to help you navigate through the problems that are causing stress or pain. Whether you are looking for help for yourself or your child I am dedicated to helping explore what is preventing you in moving forward in life. I work with individuals with a variety of issues ranging from anxiety and depression to parenting issues and childhood behavioral problems.
My approach as a therapist is warm, kind, and relatable. Recognizing that therapy can be a difficult step to make I strive to help you navigate through the problems that are causing stress or pain. Whether you are looking for help for yourself or your child I am dedicated to helping explore what is preventing you in moving forward in life. I work with individuals with a variety of issues ranging from anxiety and depression to parenting issues and childhood behavioral problems.
(773) 786-9156 View (773) 786-9156
Photo of Kate Hutson, LCPC, Counselor
Kate Hutson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
I am committed to creating a safe and healthy environment for clients to grow in self-awareness, curiosity, responsibility and authenticity. I use a variety of client-centered treatment modalities in my work depending on the individual client's needs, including Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Somatic Experiencing. I believe in the mind-body connection and work to incorporate the body's knowledge in treating a variety of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders and life transitions.
I am committed to creating a safe and healthy environment for clients to grow in self-awareness, curiosity, responsibility and authenticity. I use a variety of client-centered treatment modalities in my work depending on the individual client's needs, including Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Somatic Experiencing. I believe in the mind-body connection and work to incorporate the body's knowledge in treating a variety of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders and life transitions.
(331) 225-1218 View (331) 225-1218
Photo of Diana Jean-Louis, LCSW, MJ, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Jean-Louis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MJ
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
My ideal clients? They're a colorful bunch, representing diverse backgrounds and facing issues like past trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship twists, and the journey of self-discovery. They're on a mission for clarity, healing, and personal growth. They crave a therapist who's all about keeping it real, serving up those honest truths, and providing the answers, support, and guidance that'll help them conquer their struggles, transforming into even more resilient and empowered versions of themselves.
My ideal clients? They're a colorful bunch, representing diverse backgrounds and facing issues like past trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship twists, and the journey of self-discovery. They're on a mission for clarity, healing, and personal growth. They crave a therapist who's all about keeping it real, serving up those honest truths, and providing the answers, support, and guidance that'll help them conquer their struggles, transforming into even more resilient and empowered versions of themselves.
(312) 477-0400 View (312) 477-0400
Photo of Autumn Starks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Autumn Starks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
As a therapist, I provide the structure and support needed to deepen inner work. Have you been in therapy for a while and feel stuck? Many of us get through our initial experience in counseling and feel better, have healthier boundaries and feel more sure of ourselves. This is so incredible and many stop therapy here. For others, often therapists, creatives, spiritual seekers or those in helping professions, we have a sense that there is more to be uncovered here. That is my focus as a therapist. Inner work can feel murky. I provide a clarifying container to deepen in the midst of the unknown and the hunch that there is more to see.
As a therapist, I provide the structure and support needed to deepen inner work. Have you been in therapy for a while and feel stuck? Many of us get through our initial experience in counseling and feel better, have healthier boundaries and feel more sure of ourselves. This is so incredible and many stop therapy here. For others, often therapists, creatives, spiritual seekers or those in helping professions, we have a sense that there is more to be uncovered here. That is my focus as a therapist. Inner work can feel murky. I provide a clarifying container to deepen in the midst of the unknown and the hunch that there is more to see.
(708) 329-8118 View (708) 329-8118
Photo of Alexandra Denis, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Denis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Do you feel as though you are seen and understood in relationships? Or have you at times felt like you are "too much" or "not enough"? You are not alone. Many of us struggle to feel "normal" in a culture that pathologizes so much about who we are. This can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and the world around us. But here, in therapy, our relationship can offer a warm and affirming space to explore yourself and your wants and needs. Through mindfulness and somatic attunement, I will support you in strengthening the connections between your heart, body and mind so you can feel more grounded, connected, and aligned.
Do you feel as though you are seen and understood in relationships? Or have you at times felt like you are "too much" or "not enough"? You are not alone. Many of us struggle to feel "normal" in a culture that pathologizes so much about who we are. This can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and the world around us. But here, in therapy, our relationship can offer a warm and affirming space to explore yourself and your wants and needs. Through mindfulness and somatic attunement, I will support you in strengthening the connections between your heart, body and mind so you can feel more grounded, connected, and aligned.
(872) 278-5081 View (872) 278-5081
Photo of Ethan Israelsohn, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ethan Israelsohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305  (Online Only)
Is it difficult for you to achieve your goals because of depression, anxiety, panic, or fears? For over 25 years I have provided a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where results can be obtained quickly. Do you experience the overwhelming impact of chronic disease on you and your family? Do you or a loved one have physical or medical problems that just seem too stressful or confusing to manage? Many people seek my help with asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart, and other chronic diseases and achieve better treatment results and a higher level of control in their lives.
Is it difficult for you to achieve your goals because of depression, anxiety, panic, or fears? For over 25 years I have provided a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where results can be obtained quickly. Do you experience the overwhelming impact of chronic disease on you and your family? Do you or a loved one have physical or medical problems that just seem too stressful or confusing to manage? Many people seek my help with asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart, and other chronic diseases and achieve better treatment results and a higher level of control in their lives.
(708) 848-0112 View (708) 848-0112
Photo of Carolina Kuhl, LSW, MSW
Carolina Kuhl
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
The thought of starting therapy can be overwhelming, but I appreciate you for making the effort to figure out what's best for you! It's never late to start watering the wilted parts of yourself you've forgotten about. Sometimes you may need more guidance, a fresh perspective, or a chisme break. Whatever it is, we can sort through life's uncertainties together. As a multicultural queer Latina, I believe access and representation in therapy for the Latine community is crucial in eliminating mental health stigma. Aquí puedes tomar su tiempo, you can take your time here and find the pilas or batteries our people keep asking us to get.
The thought of starting therapy can be overwhelming, but I appreciate you for making the effort to figure out what's best for you! It's never late to start watering the wilted parts of yourself you've forgotten about. Sometimes you may need more guidance, a fresh perspective, or a chisme break. Whatever it is, we can sort through life's uncertainties together. As a multicultural queer Latina, I believe access and representation in therapy for the Latine community is crucial in eliminating mental health stigma. Aquí puedes tomar su tiempo, you can take your time here and find the pilas or batteries our people keep asking us to get.
(872) 250-2426 x34 View (872) 250-2426 x34
Photo of Donna Cotton-Cornelius - Transcend Challenges, LLC, PsyD, LCPC
Transcend Challenges, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
My therapeutic approach creates an environment in sessions where clients are able to transcend their challenges by finding new strengths they did not realize they had, and by rediscovering those strengths that may have been forgotten. By redefining your sense of self, you develop insights and skills that enable you to reclaim who you are. As I partner with you on this transformative journey, you will identify the patterns of thought and behaviors that often interfere with more positive outcome. The best client comes to treatment realizing the rewards that come with putting forth effort to obtain desired results.
My therapeutic approach creates an environment in sessions where clients are able to transcend their challenges by finding new strengths they did not realize they had, and by rediscovering those strengths that may have been forgotten. By redefining your sense of self, you develop insights and skills that enable you to reclaim who you are. As I partner with you on this transformative journey, you will identify the patterns of thought and behaviors that often interfere with more positive outcome. The best client comes to treatment realizing the rewards that come with putting forth effort to obtain desired results.
(708) 762-1316 View (708) 762-1316
Photo of Michele Revsine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Revsine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60635
My primary goal in working with clients is to provide a compassionate, accepting, mindful space to create an opportunity for clients to work towards the person they would like to be. I support individuals and families who are chronically distressed with a commitment to honesty and compassion. I am experienced with depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, adjustment difficulties, family conflict, and trauma. My training is in psychodynamic and family systems therapy, and I utilize modern approaches as well to individualize treatment to client's needs.
My primary goal in working with clients is to provide a compassionate, accepting, mindful space to create an opportunity for clients to work towards the person they would like to be. I support individuals and families who are chronically distressed with a commitment to honesty and compassion. I am experienced with depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, adjustment difficulties, family conflict, and trauma. My training is in psychodynamic and family systems therapy, and I utilize modern approaches as well to individualize treatment to client's needs.
(708) 249-3760 View (708) 249-3760

See more therapy options for Melrose Park

Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.