Gottman Method Therapists in River Forest, IL

I work best with adult clients (18+) who hope to better manage anxiety and depression or cope with life transitions such as career changes, sudden loss/grief, pregnancy/postpartum, or relationship challenges. In addition to supporting individuals, I work with couples using the Gottman Method. I belong to a group practice (Wildflower Center for Emotional Health, LLC), where I receive ongoing training and consultation in evidence-based modalities, perinatal mental health, and couples therapy. I am also a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) Knowledgable Therapist and enjoy supporting people with this trait.

Feeling stuck? A Chicago Social Worker of the Year (National Association of Social Workers). Published, award-winning author in the field. 25+ yrs experience. English, Spanish. AAMFT clinical member/supervisor. Respectful, skilled, organized, friendly, approachable. Model based approach. LGBTQIA. Goal based, non-pathologizing strength-based model. Highly recommended as humanistic, safe, therapist, trainer and consultant. Popular TEDx Talk: Secrets of a Couples Counselor: 3 steps to Happier Relationships available to watch on Youtube, through my website or google Susan Adler TEDx. www.susanLadler.com

I help individuals and couples develop clear strategies to reduce feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. Those coping with marital or relationship difficulties, career transitions and parenting issues find my gentle directness helpful in improving the quality of their lives. In a calm, neutral environment, I offer clients the opportunity to understand themselves in a manner that leads to more satisfying family, marital and work relationships. I utilize family systems and cognitive behavioral therapy to help individuals and couples improve their communication skills and navigate the uncertain waters of change.

Our most important relationships are also often those we struggle with. I am an expert listener, advisor, and facilitator and, working together, we’ll turn struggles into opportunity and strife into increased connection.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.

Welcome. Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you feel alone, frustrated, or overwhelmed? Perhaps distance, criticism, or conflict have taken over and you no longer feel connected to yourself or your partner(s). You may worry that confusion, anger, grief, and loneliness are the new normal in your life. Perhaps you feel something special has been lost, and you want to find it again. Whether you are going through a major change like having a baby, struggling with your career and identity, or simply facing the challenges of everyday life, you may find yourself longing for a feeling of wholehearted, authentic connection.

Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.

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.

Are you tired and stressed out? Do you wish you could start feeling better now? I can help you figure out how! I support adults and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship distress, disordered eating, and life transitions.

Does anxiety interrupt the achievement of your goals? Is life too exhausting? Are you feeling out of balance or lonely in your relationships? Have you lost focus of your dreams? My goal is to assist you in identifying your needs and creating a life that is full and satisfying. I have over 20 years of experience with adolescents, adults and couples. My practice includes treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, postpartum and parenting issues, healthy relationships, and spiritual growth. I also specialize in working with persons with body image and/or weight issues.

The current national and global challenges have created unprecedented levels of ambiguity and distress for many of us. We must optimize our resilience and self-care to navigate our day and expand our coping strategies to successfully meet new demands. Thanks to my training and experience, I bring a unique skill set to help craft and implement solutions with maximal long-term viability. We can safely change reactions into actions and give you new insight over yourself and your environment. You can have fulfilling and life-enhancing relationships; you can parent mindfully and effectively.