Psychodynamic Therapists in Rockford, IL

Photo of Ashley Ice, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Ice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
I am certified in TF-CBT as well as a Registered Yoga Teacher, and regularly utilize these modalities in combination with other psychodynamic and skill based approaches.
I believe everyone has the narrative to their own story and the answer they seek is within; sometimes it just needs a little compassionate digging. Because therapy isn't a life time based resource, I believe in empowering individuals to discover their own inner resource pool and teach new coping techniques to continue to build resilience and self compassion. My approach is race informed, trauma informed, and LGBTQIA+ friendly. The systems built around us exacerbate the amount of trauma we experience and further damage our capacity for recovery.
I am certified in TF-CBT as well as a Registered Yoga Teacher, and regularly utilize these modalities in combination with other psychodynamic and skill based approaches.
I believe everyone has the narrative to their own story and the answer they seek is within; sometimes it just needs a little compassionate digging. Because therapy isn't a life time based resource, I believe in empowering individuals to discover their own inner resource pool and teach new coping techniques to continue to build resilience and self compassion. My approach is race informed, trauma informed, and LGBTQIA+ friendly. The systems built around us exacerbate the amount of trauma we experience and further damage our capacity for recovery.
(815) 569-0155 View (815) 569-0155
Photo of Dr. George J Didier, PsyD, DMin, MA, Psychologist
Dr. George J Didier
Psychologist, PsyD, DMin, MA
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
My treatment approach is tailored to each individual with a wholistic approach that draws from a diverse array of modalities including, cognitive-behavorial approaches, clinical and interpersonal psychology, mind-body wellness, psychodynamic and Jungian psychoanalysis and spirituality.
Welcome! I believe that one of the essential ingredients of change and transformative psychotherapy is the relationship between the individual and the therapist. Feeling understood and comfortable not only helps reduce one's symptoms, encouraging self-acceptance, but also leads toward deeper work which promotes lasting change and a deeper experience of one's unique self.
My treatment approach is tailored to each individual with a wholistic approach that draws from a diverse array of modalities including, cognitive-behavorial approaches, clinical and interpersonal psychology, mind-body wellness, psychodynamic and Jungian psychoanalysis and spirituality.
Welcome! I believe that one of the essential ingredients of change and transformative psychotherapy is the relationship between the individual and the therapist. Feeling understood and comfortable not only helps reduce one's symptoms, encouraging self-acceptance, but also leads toward deeper work which promotes lasting change and a deeper experience of one's unique self.
(815) 661-2630 View (815) 661-2630
Photo of Daniel E Sommer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel E Sommer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, my primary role is attending to, understanding, and supporting the emotions seeking your attention - even those that may be confusing, painful, or unwanted.
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
As a psychodynamic psychotherapist, my primary role is attending to, understanding, and supporting the emotions seeking your attention - even those that may be confusing, painful, or unwanted.
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
(815) 916-4215 View (815) 916-4215
Photo of Kayla A. Clayton, MSW, LCSW, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla A. Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I believe in an integrated approach to evidenced based therapy including CBT, Solution Focused, Client Centered, Group Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and trained in EMDR Therapy to teach clients how to overcome emotional distress.
If you are feeling sad, alone, hopeless, anxious, overwhelmed or a mix of emotions, I am here to help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois and an Advanced Practice Social Worker in the State of Wisconsin. I work with individuals, groups, and couples who are having a wide range of emotions or concerns. I enjoy working with a diverse population including young children, adolescents, adults and geriatric individuals. I also provide therapeutic services in the homes of older adults who are homebound and in retirement facilities.
I believe in an integrated approach to evidenced based therapy including CBT, Solution Focused, Client Centered, Group Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and trained in EMDR Therapy to teach clients how to overcome emotional distress.
If you are feeling sad, alone, hopeless, anxious, overwhelmed or a mix of emotions, I am here to help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois and an Advanced Practice Social Worker in the State of Wisconsin. I work with individuals, groups, and couples who are having a wide range of emotions or concerns. I enjoy working with a diverse population including young children, adolescents, adults and geriatric individuals. I also provide therapeutic services in the homes of older adults who are homebound and in retirement facilities.
(815) 669-4250 View (815) 669-4250
Photo of Stephanie Yates, MA, LCPC, NCC
Stephanie Yates
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
Among the approaches I use most often are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Person Centered therapy.
Recent years have taken a toll on individual mental health as well as relationships. Connection and attachment have become a struggle as we all try to discover this new "normal" we find ourselves in. Stress is a common companion, values are being tested, and many are on a journey for increased self-awareness. My approach is to help you find a sense of security, safety, and direction through a collaborative and strengths based approach. I use a combination of approaches to ensure that I am meeting clients where they are without judgment.
Among the approaches I use most often are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic, and Person Centered therapy.
Recent years have taken a toll on individual mental health as well as relationships. Connection and attachment have become a struggle as we all try to discover this new "normal" we find ourselves in. Stress is a common companion, values are being tested, and many are on a journey for increased self-awareness. My approach is to help you find a sense of security, safety, and direction through a collaborative and strengths based approach. I use a combination of approaches to ensure that I am meeting clients where they are without judgment.
(815) 743-2344 x101 View (815) 743-2344 x101
Photo of Danielle M. McQuay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle M. McQuay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
I utilize a wide-range of theoretical orientations including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systemic evidence based practices.
Do you ever wonder is there more to life, more happiness, fulfillment? I have worked with a variety of populations including children and adults that are in crisis in the community, involved with the foster care system of Illinois (DCFS), struggle with self-esteem, confidence and feelings of loneliness. I’m known for cultivating self development, self care and determination; specializing in helping you connect with your fullest potential. As a team we will begin shifting your paradigm, developing a new attitude with new results, you desire.
I utilize a wide-range of theoretical orientations including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systemic evidence based practices.
Do you ever wonder is there more to life, more happiness, fulfillment? I have worked with a variety of populations including children and adults that are in crisis in the community, involved with the foster care system of Illinois (DCFS), struggle with self-esteem, confidence and feelings of loneliness. I’m known for cultivating self development, self care and determination; specializing in helping you connect with your fullest potential. As a team we will begin shifting your paradigm, developing a new attitude with new results, you desire.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Diana Kotis-Harber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Kotis-Harber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, and Family Systems Therapy, and I am comfortable with utilizing any spiritual practice in our collaborative work.
Hello, my name is Diana Kotis-Harber, LCSW. I have over 21 years of providing mental health services, including all areas of practice. I prefer to build rapport with my clients by allowing them to share what their treatment goals and focuses are while reminding them they are the experts and partners in our therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to helping people grow and become their most successful and authentic selves.
My treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, and Family Systems Therapy, and I am comfortable with utilizing any spiritual practice in our collaborative work.
Hello, my name is Diana Kotis-Harber, LCSW. I have over 21 years of providing mental health services, including all areas of practice. I prefer to build rapport with my clients by allowing them to share what their treatment goals and focuses are while reminding them they are the experts and partners in our therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to helping people grow and become their most successful and authentic selves.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Debra Tomlinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Tomlinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
I draw from various evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness, to tailor treatment plans that meet each client's unique needs.
As a therapist with an eclectic approach and 17 years of experience, I am dedicated to providing personalized and effective mental health care.
I draw from various evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness, to tailor treatment plans that meet each client's unique needs.
As a therapist with an eclectic approach and 17 years of experience, I am dedicated to providing personalized and effective mental health care.
(872) 270-4258 View (872) 270-4258
Photo of Tiffany Williams-Velte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Williams-Velte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
Are you struggling with communicating at home, in the workplace, or in social settings? Do you often find yourself in a mental rut that you just can't seem to get out of? If you have difficulty understanding your emotions, asking for what you need, or putting yourself first as a priority, then finding an outlet through talk therapy with me may be just what you need to make a change in your life.
Are you struggling with communicating at home, in the workplace, or in social settings? Do you often find yourself in a mental rut that you just can't seem to get out of? If you have difficulty understanding your emotions, asking for what you need, or putting yourself first as a priority, then finding an outlet through talk therapy with me may be just what you need to make a change in your life.
(779) 228-4134 View (779) 228-4134
Photo of Stephanie Calato - Live Well 815, LCPC, Counselor
Live Well 815
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
Are you feeling overwhelmed by sadness or anxiety? Overwhelmed by family issues? Gripped by job stressors? Are you struggling with a divorce? Having conflicts in your relationship or going through a break-up? Getting triggered by old traumas? The people that I work with want more from life: joy, peace, and satisfaction. I can help you achieve your goals & find a better way of living.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by sadness or anxiety? Overwhelmed by family issues? Gripped by job stressors? Are you struggling with a divorce? Having conflicts in your relationship or going through a break-up? Getting triggered by old traumas? The people that I work with want more from life: joy, peace, and satisfaction. I can help you achieve your goals & find a better way of living.
(815) 745-4038 View (815) 745-4038
Photo of Elizabeth Rhyne, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Rhyne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107  (Online Only)
Does your life, or at least some pieces of it, seem completely overwhelming? Have you felt like you don't have the answers or you're unsure where to go from here? That's where I come in. I work with my clients by meeting them where they are emotionally. We develop and discuss goals and then work toward meeting those goals - together. I want to help you by making things seem more manageable - whether that means relationships, work, family, health related scenarios. I will help you develop individual skills that you can utilize and work with you to grow into the person and/or life that you desire.
Does your life, or at least some pieces of it, seem completely overwhelming? Have you felt like you don't have the answers or you're unsure where to go from here? That's where I come in. I work with my clients by meeting them where they are emotionally. We develop and discuss goals and then work toward meeting those goals - together. I want to help you by making things seem more manageable - whether that means relationships, work, family, health related scenarios. I will help you develop individual skills that you can utilize and work with you to grow into the person and/or life that you desire.
(618) 408-1506 View (618) 408-1506
Photo of Cristina Gloria, LCPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina Gloria
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
Life isn't easy and we are not born all knowing. Throughout our life span, we face exciting and terrifying situations that impact the way we function every day and how we interact with others. Then, we feel like we are the only ones suffering, and feelings of loneliness emerge. Our first reaction is to hide and portray that we are doing fine. Then we try dealing with the problem on our own. Later, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed. We start experiencing extreme difficulties just trying to deal with simple daily life tasks. This is where I come in!
Life isn't easy and we are not born all knowing. Throughout our life span, we face exciting and terrifying situations that impact the way we function every day and how we interact with others. Then, we feel like we are the only ones suffering, and feelings of loneliness emerge. Our first reaction is to hide and portray that we are doing fine. Then we try dealing with the problem on our own. Later, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed. We start experiencing extreme difficulties just trying to deal with simple daily life tasks. This is where I come in!
(815) 281-5273 View (815) 281-5273
Photo of Andrea K Olson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea K Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a broad range of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults. I am committed to assisting individuals, couples, and families in their unique life circumstances. I believe that I can best help others by being a warm, welcoming and sincere person. I treat issues such as depression, anxiety, abuse and trauma. I also work with children and adolescents who are having behavior problems in school. I tend to have an eclectic approach, often using cognitive behavioral and solution focused counseling techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a broad range of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults. I am committed to assisting individuals, couples, and families in their unique life circumstances. I believe that I can best help others by being a warm, welcoming and sincere person. I treat issues such as depression, anxiety, abuse and trauma. I also work with children and adolescents who are having behavior problems in school. I tend to have an eclectic approach, often using cognitive behavioral and solution focused counseling techniques.
(815) 844-8052 View (815) 844-8052
Photo of Braden Norton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Braden Norton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
I primarily work with adults and older teenagers, however have enjoyed working clients of all ages. I have worked with countless clients who were struggling with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, phase of life problems, marital conflict, work issues, anger, and self-esteem to name a few. I find the therapeutic relationship most beneficial when clients are willing to engage during session and implement therapeutic skills and strategies into their daily lives.
I primarily work with adults and older teenagers, however have enjoyed working clients of all ages. I have worked with countless clients who were struggling with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, phase of life problems, marital conflict, work issues, anger, and self-esteem to name a few. I find the therapeutic relationship most beneficial when clients are willing to engage during session and implement therapeutic skills and strategies into their daily lives.
(815) 240-0558 View (815) 240-0558
Photo of Gabriella Cote, LCPC, Counselor
Gabriella Cote
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
Hi I am Gaby, a licensed clinical professional counselor, I earned my master’s degree in Community Counseling at Loyola University Chicago. I realized I wanted to become a therapist during a serendipitous summer camp experience—40 feet in the air on the high ropes course, I learned that I loved helping people process challenging experiences in creative ways. I have been doing individual therapy with teens and adults of all ages since 2020. Previously, I worked as a clinical consultant, clinical director, and clinical supervisor in specialized mental health rehabilitation settings.
Hi I am Gaby, a licensed clinical professional counselor, I earned my master’s degree in Community Counseling at Loyola University Chicago. I realized I wanted to become a therapist during a serendipitous summer camp experience—40 feet in the air on the high ropes course, I learned that I loved helping people process challenging experiences in creative ways. I have been doing individual therapy with teens and adults of all ages since 2020. Previously, I worked as a clinical consultant, clinical director, and clinical supervisor in specialized mental health rehabilitation settings.
(224) 701-3060 View (224) 701-3060
Photo of Victoria Hominick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Hominick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
I am an experienced Therapist with a long-standing reputation for establishing and maintaining a safe and trusting environment where an Individual/Couple/Family and/or Group can give voice to their past and present narratives, identify Strengths and Vulnerabilities and address the Body/Mind Connection. Over the years, Ive found that making the decision to talk about what is heavy on your mind/heart will put you on the path to self-awareness and the opportunity to develop a true relationship with yourself and in turn, with others.
I am an experienced Therapist with a long-standing reputation for establishing and maintaining a safe and trusting environment where an Individual/Couple/Family and/or Group can give voice to their past and present narratives, identify Strengths and Vulnerabilities and address the Body/Mind Connection. Over the years, Ive found that making the decision to talk about what is heavy on your mind/heart will put you on the path to self-awareness and the opportunity to develop a true relationship with yourself and in turn, with others.
(779) 207-3153 View (779) 207-3153
Photo of Rachel Rothermel, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Rothermel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, graduated from Northern Illinois University with a Master's Degree in Applied Child and Family Studies with a Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. I enjoy working with children, families, and individuals. I utilize a strength based and family systemic approach when working with youth, families, and individuals . I also utilize play therapy, expressive therapy, CBT, DBT, and AAIT to help people better develop skills to manage difficult problems. I believe in providing a healthy and safe environment to encourage internal growth.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, graduated from Northern Illinois University with a Master's Degree in Applied Child and Family Studies with a Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. I enjoy working with children, families, and individuals. I utilize a strength based and family systemic approach when working with youth, families, and individuals . I also utilize play therapy, expressive therapy, CBT, DBT, and AAIT to help people better develop skills to manage difficult problems. I believe in providing a healthy and safe environment to encourage internal growth.
(815) 401-1458 View (815) 401-1458
Photo of Matthew Clayton, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life and having difficulty coping with a mix of emotions, I am here to help! I am Matthew Clayton, a Rockford native and Licensed Social Worker with a wealth of experience offering tailored therapy to individuals, couples, and families facing diverse mental health challenges. Alongside my wife, Kayla Clayton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, we have over 25 years of combined expertise in mental health. I specialize in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and person-centered therapy, ensuring each client receives customized care.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life and having difficulty coping with a mix of emotions, I am here to help! I am Matthew Clayton, a Rockford native and Licensed Social Worker with a wealth of experience offering tailored therapy to individuals, couples, and families facing diverse mental health challenges. Alongside my wife, Kayla Clayton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, we have over 25 years of combined expertise in mental health. I specialize in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and person-centered therapy, ensuring each client receives customized care.
(815) 859-8769 View (815) 859-8769
Photo of Jeffrey Zajkowski - Phoenix Counseling and Recovery, LLC, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Phoenix Counseling and Recovery, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
My name is Jeff Zajkowski and for the past 18 years I have dedicated myself to helping individuals with mental health, addiction and substance abuse issues. I utilize multiple treatment techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, client-centered therapy, rational emotive behavioral therapy and psychoanalytic theory. I also have specific training in rapport building, breakthrough techniques and in pinpointing crucial onset events. I work with adults and adolescents. For your convenience I also use HIPPA compliant video chat for sessions.
My name is Jeff Zajkowski and for the past 18 years I have dedicated myself to helping individuals with mental health, addiction and substance abuse issues. I utilize multiple treatment techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, client-centered therapy, rational emotive behavioral therapy and psychoanalytic theory. I also have specific training in rapport building, breakthrough techniques and in pinpointing crucial onset events. I work with adults and adolescents. For your convenience I also use HIPPA compliant video chat for sessions.
(815) 286-4533 View (815) 286-4533
Photo of William C Edleman, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William C Edleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
Since I've received my master's degree I have provided mental health services in the Northern IL and Suburban Chicago as a Licensed Social Worker for over 30 years. I use cognitive/ behavioral therapy to provide, I found most current studies indicate that cognitive/ behavioral therapy is to be most effective for many mood disorders and panic disorders. I listen,interact, and provide you with the proper "tools" and education to help you help yourself to a more efficient, happier lifestyle.
Since I've received my master's degree I have provided mental health services in the Northern IL and Suburban Chicago as a Licensed Social Worker for over 30 years. I use cognitive/ behavioral therapy to provide, I found most current studies indicate that cognitive/ behavioral therapy is to be most effective for many mood disorders and panic disorders. I listen,interact, and provide you with the proper "tools" and education to help you help yourself to a more efficient, happier lifestyle.
(815) 290-0668 x1 View (815) 290-0668 x1
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Psychodynamic Therapists

Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?

Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?

Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?

Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?

Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.