Female Therapists in Pontiac, IL

Photo of Amy Kay Duffy, LCPC, Counselor
Amy Kay Duffy
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pontiac, IL 61764
Do you feel overwhelmed with problems, grief, depression, or anxiety? Do you feel like you just can't get ahead of things or you have no one to help you? I have over 27 years of experience as mental health therapist in helping people cope with these types of problems. Life is too short to not live it to the fullest and I believe I can help you. Kind Living Therapy, LLC was established to work with children, teens, adults, couples, families, and older adults to find their strengths and create effective coping skills in dealing with life and promoting happiness.
Do you feel overwhelmed with problems, grief, depression, or anxiety? Do you feel like you just can't get ahead of things or you have no one to help you? I have over 27 years of experience as mental health therapist in helping people cope with these types of problems. Life is too short to not live it to the fullest and I believe I can help you. Kind Living Therapy, LLC was established to work with children, teens, adults, couples, families, and older adults to find their strengths and create effective coping skills in dealing with life and promoting happiness.
(815) 286-4553 View (815) 286-4553
Photo of Ashley Frizzell, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Frizzell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Pontiac, IL 61764
Waitlist for new clients
Taking the first step reaching out to a counselor can be difficult, however, Ashley loves meeting new people and quickly is able to put people at ease. She finds great enjoyment hearing other people’s stories. Her approach with children and teens includes a lot of humor and is lighthearted with lots of play and silliness. Her approach with adults is unconditional positive regard seeing them through the lens of grace. She always offers encouragement and hope with a side of gentle challenging of unhealthy patterns.
Taking the first step reaching out to a counselor can be difficult, however, Ashley loves meeting new people and quickly is able to put people at ease. She finds great enjoyment hearing other people’s stories. Her approach with children and teens includes a lot of humor and is lighthearted with lots of play and silliness. Her approach with adults is unconditional positive regard seeing them through the lens of grace. She always offers encouragement and hope with a side of gentle challenging of unhealthy patterns.
(309) 928-0466 View (309) 928-0466
Photo of Jayme E Bradshaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jayme E Bradshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pontiac, IL 61764
Our lives are very busy; therefore, my hours are flexible to work with your schedule. We will work together to create a treatment that is unique to your own needs. I have over 15 years of fieldwork and have been able to help people with many backgrounds and needs. I will listen to you and help guide you to where you want to be.
Our lives are very busy; therefore, my hours are flexible to work with your schedule. We will work together to create a treatment that is unique to your own needs. I have over 15 years of fieldwork and have been able to help people with many backgrounds and needs. I will listen to you and help guide you to where you want to be.
(815) 205-1566 View (815) 205-1566
Photo of Adriana Franco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adriana Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pontiac, IL 61764
Welcome! I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Counselor with over 17 years of experience. Currently, my main focus is providing therapy to young adults and adults, for a wide range of concerns including, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, anger, domestic violence, and parenting. My role as a therapist is to understand you as an individual, listen, provide a non-judgmental safe space, guide, advocate, advice, and educate those in need as they find their voices and healthier lifestyles, meeting them where they are at – believing that clients are the experts of their lives.
Welcome! I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Counselor with over 17 years of experience. Currently, my main focus is providing therapy to young adults and adults, for a wide range of concerns including, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, anger, domestic violence, and parenting. My role as a therapist is to understand you as an individual, listen, provide a non-judgmental safe space, guide, advocate, advice, and educate those in need as they find their voices and healthier lifestyles, meeting them where they are at – believing that clients are the experts of their lives.
(773) 694-9531 View (773) 694-9531
Photo of Tamara Montealegre, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Montealegre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pontiac, IL 61764
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my MSW from the University of Northern Iowa in 2018, where I specialized in trauma processing and trauma-informed care. I am a trained EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist and work with depression, anxiety, anger management, and addiction, among other issues. I like to use an eclectic style in my treatment modalities, and I believe there is no “one-size-fits-all” in therapy. I think people are the experts on their own experiences, so I enjoy working with individuals to tailor their mental health services to meet their needs.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my MSW from the University of Northern Iowa in 2018, where I specialized in trauma processing and trauma-informed care. I am a trained EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist and work with depression, anxiety, anger management, and addiction, among other issues. I like to use an eclectic style in my treatment modalities, and I believe there is no “one-size-fits-all” in therapy. I think people are the experts on their own experiences, so I enjoy working with individuals to tailor their mental health services to meet their needs.
(708) 847-9647 View (708) 847-9647
Photo of Ann Crumpler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Crumpler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pontiac, IL 61764
Ann Crumpler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of clinical experience in assisting individuals with emotional trauma. She specializes in psychotherapeutic treatment for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Ann is also an experienced family and couples therapy practitioner. She received her Master of Science in Social Work degree from the University of Louisville's Kent School of Social Work in 1989, with a concentration in comprehensive health while working in the public sector providing child protective services.
Ann Crumpler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of clinical experience in assisting individuals with emotional trauma. She specializes in psychotherapeutic treatment for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Ann is also an experienced family and couples therapy practitioner. She received her Master of Science in Social Work degree from the University of Louisville's Kent School of Social Work in 1989, with a concentration in comprehensive health while working in the public sector providing child protective services.
(217) 394-1967 View (217) 394-1967
Photo of Michelle Rolley, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Michelle Rolley
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pontiac, IL 61764
When we are in emotional pain, discovering the path to peace can feel elusive. Have you recently felt like anxious thoughts are making it difficult for you to get through your days? Are you experiencing traumatic memories that interfere with your emotional and physical health, and frequently get in your way? Do you find yourself distracted and overwhelmed? You may be feeling you will “never be enough" based on past rejections, or struggling to find your voice within your relationships. If you are feeling lost and uncertain what to do next, I am here to help you find meaningful relief with compassion and non-judgment.
When we are in emotional pain, discovering the path to peace can feel elusive. Have you recently felt like anxious thoughts are making it difficult for you to get through your days? Are you experiencing traumatic memories that interfere with your emotional and physical health, and frequently get in your way? Do you find yourself distracted and overwhelmed? You may be feeling you will “never be enough" based on past rejections, or struggling to find your voice within your relationships. If you are feeling lost and uncertain what to do next, I am here to help you find meaningful relief with compassion and non-judgment.
(217) 262-1612 View (217) 262-1612

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa M D'Innocenzo, ATR, LCPC
Lisa M D'Innocenzo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Sometimes people aren't sure what to work on in therapy. That's okay! We will work collaboratively to identify core concerns, and decide together how to address them. Some issues I've helped people work through include depression, grief, pregnancy loss, life transitions, creative blocks, self-esteem, disempowerment, and spiritual alienation. My approach is insight oriented and psychodynamic, and while I am an art therapist, my work is not always art-based. However, as an artist, I've found that my understanding of the creative process illuminates many life situations that benefit from creative problem-solving.
Sometimes people aren't sure what to work on in therapy. That's okay! We will work collaboratively to identify core concerns, and decide together how to address them. Some issues I've helped people work through include depression, grief, pregnancy loss, life transitions, creative blocks, self-esteem, disempowerment, and spiritual alienation. My approach is insight oriented and psychodynamic, and while I am an art therapist, my work is not always art-based. However, as an artist, I've found that my understanding of the creative process illuminates many life situations that benefit from creative problem-solving.
(847) 796-6796 View (847) 796-6796
Photo of Sarah Suzuki, LCSW, CRADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Suzuki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Tired of just coping and ready to start improving your life? I understand, and my collaborative, interactive approach can help. As a solution-focused therapist, I skip lengthy analysis and focus on your goals to efficiently find practical solutions. In just eight compassionate sessions or less, you'll feel understood and leave each week with immediate strategies and a customized game plan providing concrete next steps tailored to you. I don't just stop at counseling - as your short-term concierge, I recommend tailored follow-up resources for you to pursue once our work is complete.
Tired of just coping and ready to start improving your life? I understand, and my collaborative, interactive approach can help. As a solution-focused therapist, I skip lengthy analysis and focus on your goals to efficiently find practical solutions. In just eight compassionate sessions or less, you'll feel understood and leave each week with immediate strategies and a customized game plan providing concrete next steps tailored to you. I don't just stop at counseling - as your short-term concierge, I recommend tailored follow-up resources for you to pursue once our work is complete.
(312) 487-4842 x1 View (312) 487-4842 x1
Photo of Elizabeth Tulsky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Tulsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I believe the therapeutic relationship is a crucial and transformative vehicle and I work hard to build a trusting relationship where you feel deeply seen, heard and valued. I believe each person knows themselves best and I will honor your individuality and work collaboratively with you to help you attain your goals for healing, change, and growth. Some of my areas of focus include trauma, relational (friend, family, dating, romantic, etc.) stressors, attachment styles, parenting support, life transitions, work burnout, generalized stress, identity development and identifying and unpacking biases. I am LQBTQIA+ affirming.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is a crucial and transformative vehicle and I work hard to build a trusting relationship where you feel deeply seen, heard and valued. I believe each person knows themselves best and I will honor your individuality and work collaboratively with you to help you attain your goals for healing, change, and growth. Some of my areas of focus include trauma, relational (friend, family, dating, romantic, etc.) stressors, attachment styles, parenting support, life transitions, work burnout, generalized stress, identity development and identifying and unpacking biases. I am LQBTQIA+ affirming.
(872) 201-3647 View (872) 201-3647
Photo of Dina Shiner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dina Shiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenview, IL 60025
I love working with teens, parents and adults who are looking to improve their resiliency, communication and coping skills. There are many challenges and demands that families must face, and I can build strong supportive relationships to help others navigate the obstacles and transitions that life brings. I strive to help clients feel understood and safe so they can work towards examining their feelings and needs while looking to gain calmness, confidence and clarity.
I love working with teens, parents and adults who are looking to improve their resiliency, communication and coping skills. There are many challenges and demands that families must face, and I can build strong supportive relationships to help others navigate the obstacles and transitions that life brings. I strive to help clients feel understood and safe so they can work towards examining their feelings and needs while looking to gain calmness, confidence and clarity.
(224) 549-2771 View (224) 549-2771
Photo of Brooke Wine, MA, LCPC, LASOP, Counselor
Brooke Wine
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LASOP
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Hi there! I am a forensic psychotherapist in practice with Naperville Counseling Center. I aim to provide support and encouragement as individuals work on their mental health. Building a strong rapport is essential to build trust and I love developing a healthy connection with each client. I enjoy integrating humor into therapy to break up some of the heaviness emotional processing can be. Coming from a forensic background, I have experience working with intense areas of need, support, and planning. I also have a passion for assisting clients in building and/or re-building their relationships with sexual health and sexual identity.
Hi there! I am a forensic psychotherapist in practice with Naperville Counseling Center. I aim to provide support and encouragement as individuals work on their mental health. Building a strong rapport is essential to build trust and I love developing a healthy connection with each client. I enjoy integrating humor into therapy to break up some of the heaviness emotional processing can be. Coming from a forensic background, I have experience working with intense areas of need, support, and planning. I also have a passion for assisting clients in building and/or re-building their relationships with sexual health and sexual identity.
(630) 333-4105 x104 View (630) 333-4105 x104
Photo of Eleni Clavijo, MA, LPC, Reiki, Master, Teacher, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleni Clavijo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, Reiki, Master, Teacher
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
What circumstances shifted you into this specific moment in time...to bring this bio into your awareness? Was it the guilt that has consumed you since morning of how you didn’t show up exactly how you envisioned being the best parent...or that you have become conscious to the burden of unrealistic expectations upon self and have decided to courageously dive into the depths of your shadows? Perhaps you have questions about self you never have had before and feeling like no one can relate. All you would like is for someone to hold space while you allow emotions like sadness or anger to flow and feel you are able to cry without shame!
What circumstances shifted you into this specific moment in time...to bring this bio into your awareness? Was it the guilt that has consumed you since morning of how you didn’t show up exactly how you envisioned being the best parent...or that you have become conscious to the burden of unrealistic expectations upon self and have decided to courageously dive into the depths of your shadows? Perhaps you have questions about self you never have had before and feeling like no one can relate. All you would like is for someone to hold space while you allow emotions like sadness or anger to flow and feel you are able to cry without shame!
(872) 241-2564 View (872) 241-2564
Photo of Natalie Dulin, MS, ALMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Natalie Dulin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I have the honor of working with individuals, romantic relationships, and families navigating complex life transitions. Some of my clinical specialities include anxiety, grief, intimacy, parenting, and identity development. My goal is to partner with you in your path toward healing. I lead with warmth, empathy, and authenticity to foster a nonjudgmental therapeutic space. I weave in humor, creativity, and curiosity to help create a nurturing experience for introspection and connection. I integrate multiple therapeutic models to fit my clients' needs to achieve the desired change in their lives.
I have the honor of working with individuals, romantic relationships, and families navigating complex life transitions. Some of my clinical specialities include anxiety, grief, intimacy, parenting, and identity development. My goal is to partner with you in your path toward healing. I lead with warmth, empathy, and authenticity to foster a nonjudgmental therapeutic space. I weave in humor, creativity, and curiosity to help create a nurturing experience for introspection and connection. I integrate multiple therapeutic models to fit my clients' needs to achieve the desired change in their lives.
View
Photo of Dominique Clemons - Wholistically Therapeutic, LLC, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Wholistically Therapeutic, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calumet City, IL 60409  (Online Only)
Does your past seem to keep showing up uninvited in your present? Do you feel really misunderstood? Are you having a hard time getting out of your own way? Do you need support getting through the growth process? Are you seeking clarity on your purpose in life? If you are seeking support as you work to master yourself, improve interactions with others, or navigate life's challenges I can help you.
Does your past seem to keep showing up uninvited in your present? Do you feel really misunderstood? Are you having a hard time getting out of your own way? Do you need support getting through the growth process? Are you seeking clarity on your purpose in life? If you are seeking support as you work to master yourself, improve interactions with others, or navigate life's challenges I can help you.
(708) 419-3113 View (708) 419-3113
Photo of Tracy Gilmore, MA, MFA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Gilmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MFA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I think I work best with clients whose goals are both large and realistic: working with depth enough for deep healing and growth, but with an eye to the practical, and with clear communication back and forth. Clients who need to tackle embarrassing, painful and difficult issues may appreciate my gently direct, understanding and non-judgmental approach. Those who have been frustrated with cookie-cutter approaches may appreciate my close listening, collaboration, and inventiveness based on extensive training and experience. I find I work well with a variety of symptoms and presenting problems in adults, children and relationships.
I think I work best with clients whose goals are both large and realistic: working with depth enough for deep healing and growth, but with an eye to the practical, and with clear communication back and forth. Clients who need to tackle embarrassing, painful and difficult issues may appreciate my gently direct, understanding and non-judgmental approach. Those who have been frustrated with cookie-cutter approaches may appreciate my close listening, collaboration, and inventiveness based on extensive training and experience. I find I work well with a variety of symptoms and presenting problems in adults, children and relationships.
(312) 626-4404 View (312) 626-4404
Photo of Morgan Claire Filmer, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Morgan Claire Filmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Shame and stigma can permeate every aspect of our lives and make pleasure, love and work challenging, painful and sometimes impossible. Shame and stigma often mask something special and remarkable about a person; talents, identities, ways of living or loving that are unappreciated, misunderstood and even repudiated. Deviance and difference should not be requisites for pain and failure; those qualities can be empowering and liberating. Often, it is a dominant culture that pulls the veil of shame over our eyes and hearts. Our stories and ourselves are worthy of dignity and care, regardless of what we learn from the dominant discourse.
Shame and stigma can permeate every aspect of our lives and make pleasure, love and work challenging, painful and sometimes impossible. Shame and stigma often mask something special and remarkable about a person; talents, identities, ways of living or loving that are unappreciated, misunderstood and even repudiated. Deviance and difference should not be requisites for pain and failure; those qualities can be empowering and liberating. Often, it is a dominant culture that pulls the veil of shame over our eyes and hearts. Our stories and ourselves are worthy of dignity and care, regardless of what we learn from the dominant discourse.
(773) 692-0017 View (773) 692-0017
Photo of Erica D Drzonek-Edwards, PsyD, Psychologist
Erica D Drzonek-Edwards
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I provide client-centered and creative therapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, and families who present with interpersonal challenges, trauma, grief, developmental life transitions, neurocognitive conditions, anxiety, depression, stress, personality disorders, and other behavioral and learning difficulties. I also administer psycho-educational assessments, consultations, and school services for elementary, secondary, and college-aged students.
I provide client-centered and creative therapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, and families who present with interpersonal challenges, trauma, grief, developmental life transitions, neurocognitive conditions, anxiety, depression, stress, personality disorders, and other behavioral and learning difficulties. I also administer psycho-educational assessments, consultations, and school services for elementary, secondary, and college-aged students.
(630) 796-4066 View (630) 796-4066
Photo of Carla Gehle, LCPC, Counselor
Carla Gehle
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Elmhurst, IL 60126
I have over a decade of experience helping motivate clients from many different backgrounds with a range of counseling needs using a solution-focused-client-centered approach to overcome their struggles in life. Using my skill set in cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing to guide my clients to their desired change. Her education includes a Masters in Counseling, Certified Behavior Change Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. I have also completed levels 1 and 2 of Gottman’s Relationship Method Therapy training.
I have over a decade of experience helping motivate clients from many different backgrounds with a range of counseling needs using a solution-focused-client-centered approach to overcome their struggles in life. Using my skill set in cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing to guide my clients to their desired change. Her education includes a Masters in Counseling, Certified Behavior Change Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. I have also completed levels 1 and 2 of Gottman’s Relationship Method Therapy training.
(872) 204-2533 View (872) 204-2533
Photo of Lauren Juarez-Duran, LMSW
Lauren Juarez-Duran
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
As your therapist, I will create a safe, warm, and uplifting space that gives you room to heal and explore what can be. My approach to therapy is person-centered, meaning I will meet you where you are at in your journey and with the understanding that you are the expert on your lived experience. I believe that the most powerful change during therapy comes from being able to show up as you are and for me to hold space for you to navigate life’s challenges and disruptions. My style involves theory based solutions such as narrative therapy while also incorporating mindfulness and other holistic work.
As your therapist, I will create a safe, warm, and uplifting space that gives you room to heal and explore what can be. My approach to therapy is person-centered, meaning I will meet you where you are at in your journey and with the understanding that you are the expert on your lived experience. I believe that the most powerful change during therapy comes from being able to show up as you are and for me to hold space for you to navigate life’s challenges and disruptions. My style involves theory based solutions such as narrative therapy while also incorporating mindfulness and other holistic work.
(505) 658-0646 View (505) 658-0646

See more therapy options for Pontiac

Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.