Trauma Focused Therapists in Montgomery, IL

Keren Cardenas has experience in providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families who are struggling to overcome barriers in life. She provides therapeutic cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and strategies to promote the psychological health and wholeness of the clients. Over the years, she has helped individuals achieve their goals by instilling hope. She values collaboration and communication when fostering a therapeutic relationship and believes each client requires personalized treatment. Keren specializes in treating clients with depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, ADHD, and traumas.

Hello! I'm really glad you are here. It shows you are ready to take a step forward in your healing journey. I believe no two clients are alike therefore each session with me will be a unique experience. During our time together, you are in control and I’m merely a guide assisting you on your journey. I am there to light the way by not only providing support and validation but also to share the tools I’ve picked up along the way.

I'm Sam (she/her). I am a licensed clinical social worker in the Chicago-land area with 7 years of experience. I have provided individual, family, and group counseling as well as having extensive experience with crisis intervention. Throughout my career I have worked with clients during all stages of the lifespan. I am especially passionate about working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma and life transitions. I tend to gravitate towards interventions that integrate mind and body, but I fundamentally believe that each client requires an individualized approach.

I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.

Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Aurora understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.

You have the power to shape your own life. I believe that every client has a unique story that deserves to be heard and respected. I have a passion for helping others achieve their goals and overcome their challenges, which stems from my own experience as a competitive athlete. I use a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy, which means that I focus on your existing resources and abilities, and I collaborate with you to find the best solutions for your needs. You can count on me to be your ally and advocate throughout your therapeutic journey.

It feels hopeless. It is intimidating. It may even feel insurmountable. It is the pain of life, and it is real. But, what if I told you it is not hopeless? That you hold the key to making things better. Seeking help can feel equally daunting, but it is the first step of breaking through the negative cloud of despair. I meet my clients where they are in their life’s journey and I consider myself a “fellow traveler.” I join them it that journey to help them gain insight, to provide perspective, and to collaborate and determine the best course of treatment to regain the direction of their destination.

I passionately believe in the transformative power of embracing one's inner shine and strength. With warmth and empathy, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through a strengths-based approach, I help individuals recognize their unique talents, resilience, and capacity for growth. My therapeutic style is grounded in authenticity and compassion, creating a calm space for clients to explore challenges, recognize their inherent strengths, and move toward solutions. I work to help clients embrace their authenticity, shine brightly in their lives, and harness their inner strength to overcome obstacles.

In today's world there can be many conflicting thoughts and feelings; my hope is to meet each client where they are in the confusion. Let's build a plan together to address the needs and struggles that have brought you to my Bio. I strive to model grace, and compassion first. No matter what brings you to Compassion Connection Counseling, I hope to help by building a plan that facilitates compassion, clarity, calm, bringing into focus your creativity and connectedness for change! It is my heart to encourage others to see change as less threatening, as life can be full of them. I have experience working with all ages and stages.

If you are experiencing increased stress, negative beliefs about yourself, tend to worry frequently, are struggling with past painful experiences, are having difficulty sleeping, have a low mood, are struggling with a relationship, and/or generally want to improve your life, we may be a great fit. At Trinity Wellness Counseling, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective interventions to help you heal. I work with adults of all ages.

I believe that every individual is on their own unique journey. At times we may get caught up in life’s challenges, transitions, or struggles and need assistance in getting back to a state of optimal health and well-being. With a blend of traditional and holistic approaches, I empower clients with the tools and skills needed to continue on their current path or help them find the strength and courage to create a new one. As a Certified Integrative Mental Health Medicine Provider, I also can perform comprehensive well being assessments and health plans at the client's request.

I have 15 years of experience in assessing, treating, and advocating for people with emotional difficulties and feel strongly that each individual can make positive strides toward mental wellness with the proper, gentle approach. I also believe that the majority of treatment success stems from the therapeutic relationship built in a compassionate, trusting, and safe environment where clients feel comfortable to explore and resolve both short and long-term life struggles.

You've been through some Crap with a capital C (hello, trauma and anxiety!). That's nothing new; you've done it all your life and you know you're pretty damn resilient. But somewhere along the way, you stopped dealing so well and now look forward to constant slow burn anxiety and self-doubt that has you running on empty with no energy to do things you used to love. You’re tired of past and present problems dominating your life. You're not sure what "better" even looks like, but you know you want to get there and just need to figure out HOW.

I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.