Toddler Therapists in Oak Park, IL

Photo of Mary Lou Friedman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Lou Friedman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with more than two decades of experience treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, biological families, foster families and adoptive families. I provide home-based and in office therapeutic services. I have found that the home is a wonderful place to observe, diagnose and treat interpersonal dynamics and conflicts. Home-based therapy is also beneficial for individuals who feel more comfortable addressing personal issues in the comfort and privacy of a home setting, are homebound due to illness or disability, have limited transportation options or have young children at home.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with more than two decades of experience treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, biological families, foster families and adoptive families. I provide home-based and in office therapeutic services. I have found that the home is a wonderful place to observe, diagnose and treat interpersonal dynamics and conflicts. Home-based therapy is also beneficial for individuals who feel more comfortable addressing personal issues in the comfort and privacy of a home setting, are homebound due to illness or disability, have limited transportation options or have young children at home.
(708) 716-0585 View (708) 716-0585
Photo of Dennis R. Verville, PsyD, Psychologist
Dennis R. Verville
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of behavior problems in children and adolescents, as well as depression and anxiety in individuals of all ages. I also specialize in the treatment of relationship problems and the psychological management of acute and chronic medical disorders, particularly cardiovascular disorders and encopresis. I help people gain insights into their difficulties and teach them skills that will facilitate the resolution of their difficulties. When requested, I confer with attending physicians and, in the case of minors, with their teachers and/or school social workers. I am on the medical staff of Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of behavior problems in children and adolescents, as well as depression and anxiety in individuals of all ages. I also specialize in the treatment of relationship problems and the psychological management of acute and chronic medical disorders, particularly cardiovascular disorders and encopresis. I help people gain insights into their difficulties and teach them skills that will facilitate the resolution of their difficulties. When requested, I confer with attending physicians and, in the case of minors, with their teachers and/or school social workers. I am on the medical staff of Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge.
(708) 231-0598 View (708) 231-0598
Photo of Dawn La Brose - Autism & Anxiety Therapists, INC., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Autism & Anxiety Therapists, INC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Individualized goals are developed for each client and family. Therapy sessions are tailored to match these goals, as well as the unique interpersonal and organizational needs of each client. A variety of treatment strategies are used to target these goals, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies, the use of structure to promote organization and the development of new skills, social problem- solving strategies, and perspective taking strategies.
Individualized goals are developed for each client and family. Therapy sessions are tailored to match these goals, as well as the unique interpersonal and organizational needs of each client. A variety of treatment strategies are used to target these goals, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies, the use of structure to promote organization and the development of new skills, social problem- solving strategies, and perspective taking strategies.
(708) 406-6590 View (708) 406-6590
Photo of Adam James Selkirk, PsyD, Psychologist
Adam James Selkirk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
I approach my clinical work with a grounding in my deeply-held belief that all human beings have infinite worth. My goal for all individuals with whom I work is to support each person's path towards experiencing that worth within themselves. Having worked in the mental health field for the past 16 years with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I have utilized this philosophy to guide the process of therapy with individuals having a wide range of challenges, from autism spectrum disorders to struggles with mood and anxiety to relationship problems.
(773) 825-5078 View (773) 825-5078
Photo of Kenisha Adams, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenisha Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
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 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) 866-1695 View (708) 866-1695
Photo of Dr. Carla Beatrici - Smart Love Family Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Smart Love Family Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Smart Love Family Services is a team of experienced psychologists, social workers, and professional counselors providing supportive relationship-based psychotherapy. Our approach recognizes that all people are born with an innate potential and desire to be happy, to feel good about themselves, and to experience close, positive loving relationships, but often times learned self-sabotaging patterns can get in the way. We help people create the kind of life that they want for themselves by turning away from self-sabotaging behaviors, and turning towards self-caretaking and constructive coping choices for a more fulfilling life.
Smart Love Family Services is a team of experienced psychologists, social workers, and professional counselors providing supportive relationship-based psychotherapy. Our approach recognizes that all people are born with an innate potential and desire to be happy, to feel good about themselves, and to experience close, positive loving relationships, but often times learned self-sabotaging patterns can get in the way. We help people create the kind of life that they want for themselves by turning away from self-sabotaging behaviors, and turning towards self-caretaking and constructive coping choices for a more fulfilling life.
(773) 378-9293 x4 View (773) 378-9293 x4
Photo of Dr. Katie Hejna, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Katie Hejna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, parental divorce, making friends, or challenges that come with an Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you a young adult experiencing a life transition, relationship difficulties or grief and loss? If so, psychotherapy can help. My goal is not to provide strategies that simply lead to short term relief, but to work with you or your child to reduce symptoms quickly, while creating long-lasting change- a process that I believe only occurs in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
(312) 663-8317 View (312) 663-8317
Photo of Felicia M Owens - Higher Ground Wellness Group, PsyD, MFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Higher Ground Wellness Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Higher Ground Wellness Group’s mission is to provide a safe therapeutic space for all people, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our vision is to end stigma in BIPOC communities regarding seeking mental health services, by increasing awareness and access to mental health resources. It is a courageous choice to seek therapy and with over 50 years of combined experience, Higher Ground Wellness Group is committed to providing extensive, high quality therapeutic services for individuals, couples, families in a safe and non-judgmental environment that reinforces emotional, physical, and mental wellness.
Higher Ground Wellness Group’s mission is to provide a safe therapeutic space for all people, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our vision is to end stigma in BIPOC communities regarding seeking mental health services, by increasing awareness and access to mental health resources. It is a courageous choice to seek therapy and with over 50 years of combined experience, Higher Ground Wellness Group is committed to providing extensive, high quality therapeutic services for individuals, couples, families in a safe and non-judgmental environment that reinforces emotional, physical, and mental wellness.
(708) 340-0963 View (708) 340-0963
Photo of Lisa Wiersema, LCPC
Lisa Wiersema
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Does your life seem to be less fulfilling and you do not know why? Look no further. Your best life is waiting. I work to provide a safe space and collaborate with clients on finding their inner strengths to utilize them in building resiliency. I work to guide children ages four and older, adolescents, adults, couples, and first responders to reach their goals and experience a happier life. Given my experience working in emergency rooms, outpatient, residential and schools, I understand how the impact of these challenges can often leave people feeling unable to participate in life roles that lead to life satisfaction.
Does your life seem to be less fulfilling and you do not know why? Look no further. Your best life is waiting. I work to provide a safe space and collaborate with clients on finding their inner strengths to utilize them in building resiliency. I work to guide children ages four and older, adolescents, adults, couples, and first responders to reach their goals and experience a happier life. Given my experience working in emergency rooms, outpatient, residential and schools, I understand how the impact of these challenges can often leave people feeling unable to participate in life roles that lead to life satisfaction.
(708) 564-3227 View (708) 564-3227
Photo of Alexander Serrano, MS Ed, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Serrano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS Ed, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
(312) 586-9395 View (312) 586-9395
Photo of Colin A. Brietzke, PsyD, Psychologist
Colin A. Brietzke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Dr. Brietzke is the owner of Chicagoland Neuropsychology. Our team focuses on correct diagnosis, but in our hearts, we all know that you don't treat a diagnosis. You treat a person. So, the real value of understanding how your brain works is knowing what treatments will actually help. To make that happen, we combine cutting-edge neuroimaging with traditional neuropsychological tests - and we just spend a lot of time talking to you to understand your experience. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out and say hi.
Dr. Brietzke is the owner of Chicagoland Neuropsychology. Our team focuses on correct diagnosis, but in our hearts, we all know that you don't treat a diagnosis. You treat a person. So, the real value of understanding how your brain works is knowing what treatments will actually help. To make that happen, we combine cutting-edge neuroimaging with traditional neuropsychological tests - and we just spend a lot of time talking to you to understand your experience. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out and say hi.
(708) 320-1441 View (708) 320-1441
Photo of Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
(630) 491-4239 View (630) 491-4239
Photo of Marie Burke, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marie Burke
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Let’s change the way you approach therapy. I work with clients to uncover their thoughts, feelings, patterns, and behaviors that might be disrupting resilience and self-development. I shift the focus away from an over-identification of an illness model in order to use a lens that allows us to see the beauty within your own personal wellness journey.
Let’s change the way you approach therapy. I work with clients to uncover their thoughts, feelings, patterns, and behaviors that might be disrupting resilience and self-development. I shift the focus away from an over-identification of an illness model in order to use a lens that allows us to see the beauty within your own personal wellness journey.
(708) 809-2629 View (708) 809-2629
Photo of Margot Gay Mahan, PsyD, Psychologist
Margot Gay Mahan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
(773) 417-5418 View (773) 417-5418
Photo of Leslie Frame-Crowley, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Frame-Crowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Leslie Frame-Crowley is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Simmons University in Boston. Leslie approaches the therapeutic relationship from a client-centered perspective, believing that the client is the expert of their experience. Being a social worker, Leslie also maintains a person-in-environment perspective, meaning we are shaped by and always affecting the ecosystems of which we are a part. In her spare time, Leslie enjoys walking, socializing, community-making, writing, performance art, and exploring her hometown of Chicago.
Leslie Frame-Crowley is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Simmons University in Boston. Leslie approaches the therapeutic relationship from a client-centered perspective, believing that the client is the expert of their experience. Being a social worker, Leslie also maintains a person-in-environment perspective, meaning we are shaped by and always affecting the ecosystems of which we are a part. In her spare time, Leslie enjoys walking, socializing, community-making, writing, performance art, and exploring her hometown of Chicago.
(708) 742-7823 View (708) 742-7823
Photo of Courtney Bledsoe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Bledsoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
You are feeling overwhelmed & frustrated by your child's tears, yelling, and fearfulness. You want to experience joy with your child & feel hopeful about the future. But, you're worried about your child's reactions to disappointments & frustration. Even mealtimes, bedtimes, and going to school feel like power struggles. You notice your child seems unhappy or angry, but are not sure what is going on. It's tough to balance everything when your child needs so much and it's affecting your sleep, work and other relationships. You love your child more than anything, but it's just so hard right now.
You are feeling overwhelmed & frustrated by your child's tears, yelling, and fearfulness. You want to experience joy with your child & feel hopeful about the future. But, you're worried about your child's reactions to disappointments & frustration. Even mealtimes, bedtimes, and going to school feel like power struggles. You notice your child seems unhappy or angry, but are not sure what is going on. It's tough to balance everything when your child needs so much and it's affecting your sleep, work and other relationships. You love your child more than anything, but it's just so hard right now.
(708) 740-2717 View (708) 740-2717
Photo of Rose Mary Spizzirri, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rose Mary Spizzirri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Everyone goes through times of struggle and needs someone to listen, reflect and help them move forward. We specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 25 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
Everyone goes through times of struggle and needs someone to listen, reflect and help them move forward. We specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 25 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
(708) 697-8009 View (708) 697-8009
Photo of Noami Hernandez, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Noami Hernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
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 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 Jaida McDowell, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaida McDowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Therapy is an incredible honor of journeying alongside clients as they work towards healing and empowerment in their everyday lives. I partner with my clients in a compassionate manner where they can feel heard, valued, and encouraged to create meaningful change. I believe all clients have a unique and complex story to tell and that all can benefit from taking time to focus on their emotional/mental well-being. I am committed to helping clients learn about themselves in new ways so as to be able to tap into their own unique abilities to overcome life’s obstacles and stressors.
Therapy is an incredible honor of journeying alongside clients as they work towards healing and empowerment in their everyday lives. I partner with my clients in a compassionate manner where they can feel heard, valued, and encouraged to create meaningful change. I believe all clients have a unique and complex story to tell and that all can benefit from taking time to focus on their emotional/mental well-being. I am committed to helping clients learn about themselves in new ways so as to be able to tap into their own unique abilities to overcome life’s obstacles and stressors.
(708) 578-5679 View (708) 578-5679
Photo of Kate Giandonato - Kate Giandonato & Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Giandonato & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Very rarely in our lives are we given the opportunity and the space to truly look at ourselves, where we have been, and the person we are looking to become. At Kate Giandonato & Associates, we create an environment where you can safely look at yourself, relationships, and potential barriers to achieving your goals. Our relationship-based training in Social Work + Child Development has given us the background to notice and work through the conflicting messages, thoughts and emotions present not only in the parent-child relationship, but in every relationship. We work with our clients to better understand and negotiate these most important relationships.
Very rarely in our lives are we given the opportunity and the space to truly look at ourselves, where we have been, and the person we are looking to become. At Kate Giandonato & Associates, we create an environment where you can safely look at yourself, relationships, and potential barriers to achieving your goals. Our relationship-based training in Social Work + Child Development has given us the background to notice and work through the conflicting messages, thoughts and emotions present not only in the parent-child relationship, but in every relationship. We work with our clients to better understand and negotiate these most important relationships.
(773) 888-4992 View (773) 888-4992
1
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.