Strength-Based Therapists in Wheaton, IL

Photo of Barry Tan, LCPC, Counselor
Barry Tan
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I am a licensed clinical counselor with 5 years of clinical counseling experience working with individuals and couples. I focus on issues such as substance use, addiction, LGBTQIA+ issues, and life transitions. I also address career concerns, stress over life decisions, relationships, boundaries, and healthy habits for overall wellness. I draw from motivational interviewing, strength-based, trauma-focused solution-focused brief (SFBT), and psychodynamic modalities. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become the force of change they want to be.
I am a licensed clinical counselor with 5 years of clinical counseling experience working with individuals and couples. I focus on issues such as substance use, addiction, LGBTQIA+ issues, and life transitions. I also address career concerns, stress over life decisions, relationships, boundaries, and healthy habits for overall wellness. I draw from motivational interviewing, strength-based, trauma-focused solution-focused brief (SFBT), and psychodynamic modalities. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become the force of change they want to be.
(331) 244-2103 View (331) 244-2103
Photo of Alexandra DeRivera, LCPC, NCC, CDVP, Counselor
Alexandra DeRivera
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CDVP
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60189
I aid clients in navigating their individual healing journeys and goals through strength-based approach to counseling.
I have been a therapist for 5 years working in hospice, domestic violence, and private practice. I am a trauma informed therapist and have increased my education on being more kink aware and sex positive. I understand it may be difficult for clients to discuss what they have been through or currently going through. For some, it is the first time they have ever openly discussed the topic. I do my best to provide an open, nonjudgmental space for my clients to be vulnerable in and be truly heard. I understand the healing journey is long, frustrating, and slow at times; however, it can also be rewarding, brave, and life-changing.
I aid clients in navigating their individual healing journeys and goals through strength-based approach to counseling.
I have been a therapist for 5 years working in hospice, domestic violence, and private practice. I am a trauma informed therapist and have increased my education on being more kink aware and sex positive. I understand it may be difficult for clients to discuss what they have been through or currently going through. For some, it is the first time they have ever openly discussed the topic. I do my best to provide an open, nonjudgmental space for my clients to be vulnerable in and be truly heard. I understand the healing journey is long, frustrating, and slow at times; however, it can also be rewarding, brave, and life-changing.
(331) 837-7912 View (331) 837-7912
Photo of Jean K Lee, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jean K Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Jean offers strength-based and individualized therapy to help clients navigate concerns using an integrative approach incorporating Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Solution-Focused Therapies.
Jean strives to provide holistic care with multicultural sensitivity to help clients cope with various personal and relational challenges. Her areas of specialty are anxiety, depression, anger management, self-harm, self-esteem, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships. Jean is working under the supervision of Kary Pekarek, LCSW.
Jean offers strength-based and individualized therapy to help clients navigate concerns using an integrative approach incorporating Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Solution-Focused Therapies.
Jean strives to provide holistic care with multicultural sensitivity to help clients cope with various personal and relational challenges. Her areas of specialty are anxiety, depression, anger management, self-harm, self-esteem, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships. Jean is working under the supervision of Kary Pekarek, LCSW.
(630) 357-2456 x159 View (630) 357-2456 x159
Photo of Christina Maki, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Maki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
Christina is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a near decade of experience. She is honored to work with kids, tweens, teens, parents, and families who have courageously chosen to seek help during times of struggle. She has spent time working in the foster care system, community mental health clinics, and private practice. In each of these settings, her primary aim is to help our most vulnerable population navigate some of life’s challenges and support the parent/guardian as you guide them. Christina’s style of therapy is relational, strength-based, evidence-based, and integrative.
Christina is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a near decade of experience. She is honored to work with kids, tweens, teens, parents, and families who have courageously chosen to seek help during times of struggle. She has spent time working in the foster care system, community mental health clinics, and private practice. In each of these settings, her primary aim is to help our most vulnerable population navigate some of life’s challenges and support the parent/guardian as you guide them. Christina’s style of therapy is relational, strength-based, evidence-based, and integrative.
(331) 210-0417 View (331) 210-0417
Photo of Barbara Giordan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Giordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60189
Barb Giordan, MSW, LCSW, is gentle, compassionate and open. Her life is shaped by a passion to help others, and she is honored and privileged to listen to people's stories and come along side those who are suffering. Barb received an MSW from the University of Connecticut and a BA from Fairfield University. With over 20 years experience in the mental health field, Barb worked in an inpatient hospital, a day school program, and several private practice settings, including a Christian counseling center.
Barb Giordan, MSW, LCSW, is gentle, compassionate and open. Her life is shaped by a passion to help others, and she is honored and privileged to listen to people's stories and come along side those who are suffering. Barb received an MSW from the University of Connecticut and a BA from Fairfield University. With over 20 years experience in the mental health field, Barb worked in an inpatient hospital, a day school program, and several private practice settings, including a Christian counseling center.
(331) 244-5225 View (331) 244-5225
Photo of Kathy McNulty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy McNulty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I provide the best service possible I can to every client. I work well with individuals and families dealing with a variety of concerns and issues.
I provide the best service possible I can to every client. I work well with individuals and families dealing with a variety of concerns and issues.
(708) 274-7077 View (708) 274-7077
Photo of Jennifer S Stein, LCPC, NCC
Jennifer S Stein
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Are you considering therapy but unsure if it's right for you? Rest assured, it's natural to have questions and concerns before starting therapy. Investing in your mental health is a decision you have every right to make. As a therapist, I create a safe and comforting space where we can navigate through any difficulties you're experiencing. Together, we will establish goals, explore solutions, and utilize your strengths to facilitate personal growth.
Are you considering therapy but unsure if it's right for you? Rest assured, it's natural to have questions and concerns before starting therapy. Investing in your mental health is a decision you have every right to make. As a therapist, I create a safe and comforting space where we can navigate through any difficulties you're experiencing. Together, we will establish goals, explore solutions, and utilize your strengths to facilitate personal growth.
(630) 931-2357 View (630) 931-2357
Photo of Toni Thill, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toni Thill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Thinking about starting therapy can feel overwhelming, uncomfortable, and maybe even scary. Whatever has brought you to this place of considering asking for help, I want you to know I am here for you. My goal is to assist you in making the changes in your life in order to feel more confident, less anxious, and more hopeful about the future. Therapy is designed around you, your goals, at your pace. I am here to partner with you and provide you with a safe space and the coping skills necessary to help you feel empowered and supported.
Thinking about starting therapy can feel overwhelming, uncomfortable, and maybe even scary. Whatever has brought you to this place of considering asking for help, I want you to know I am here for you. My goal is to assist you in making the changes in your life in order to feel more confident, less anxious, and more hopeful about the future. Therapy is designed around you, your goals, at your pace. I am here to partner with you and provide you with a safe space and the coping skills necessary to help you feel empowered and supported.
(630) 349-6169 View (630) 349-6169
Photo of Holly S Heighway, MA, LCPC
Holly S Heighway
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Are you new to therapy and looking for change, but not sure where to start? Or maybe you need some extra support at this time in your life. Hello, I have been in practice for 10 years, treating individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, and all things self-worth. I work well with any family/adult who is motivated to change. I personalize treatment based on each client's needs and situation, motivating one's ability to pursue real change in their life. Please be curious about your potential for change and reach out today.
Are you new to therapy and looking for change, but not sure where to start? Or maybe you need some extra support at this time in your life. Hello, I have been in practice for 10 years, treating individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, and all things self-worth. I work well with any family/adult who is motivated to change. I personalize treatment based on each client's needs and situation, motivating one's ability to pursue real change in their life. Please be curious about your potential for change and reach out today.
(630) 912-8338 View (630) 912-8338
Photo of Hilary Gilway, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Hilary Gilway
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I am passionate about providing counseling to new moms, women and teen girls who need support with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship concerns, life transitions and more. I am trauma-informed and work to build safe and positive relationships with clients focusing on each client's strengths and goals. I talk with clients about how they relate to and interact with others, find and process their deeper emotions and figure out a path to healing, making changes and feeling better.
I am passionate about providing counseling to new moms, women and teen girls who need support with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship concerns, life transitions and more. I am trauma-informed and work to build safe and positive relationships with clients focusing on each client's strengths and goals. I talk with clients about how they relate to and interact with others, find and process their deeper emotions and figure out a path to healing, making changes and feeling better.
(708) 290-7077 View (708) 290-7077
Photo of Dr. Juliet Cáceres, PsyD, CEDS, CEDS-S, Psychologist
Dr. Juliet Cáceres
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Now accepting new clients. I seek to provide a haven where clients can feel safe to explore whatever surfaces in their present challenges, transitions and internal experience. Many times thoughts, emotions, behaviors and experiences are understood, and personal truths can surface, particularly because of the safety and trust found in the therapeutic relationship. Ultimately this place of trust and non judgement is the core of healing and where personal growth occurs. While there are many models of treatment this is the essence of what I seek to offer and value most.
Now accepting new clients. I seek to provide a haven where clients can feel safe to explore whatever surfaces in their present challenges, transitions and internal experience. Many times thoughts, emotions, behaviors and experiences are understood, and personal truths can surface, particularly because of the safety and trust found in the therapeutic relationship. Ultimately this place of trust and non judgement is the core of healing and where personal growth occurs. While there are many models of treatment this is the essence of what I seek to offer and value most.
(630) 912-8942 View (630) 912-8942
Photo of Natalie Adair, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Adair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Do you feel exhausted by the worry or sadness you have been carrying? Is there a past hurt or broken relationship you know you need to deal with but don’t know how? Do you desire greater joy, peace and purpose for your life but it feels out of reach? Reaching out for help shows such strength and courage. I have been helping people for 18+ years find hope and healing. I have seen clients conquer fears and reach goals. I have rejoiced with them as they have moved from brokenness to freedom. You will find my style to be warm, engaged and empowering.
Do you feel exhausted by the worry or sadness you have been carrying? Is there a past hurt or broken relationship you know you need to deal with but don’t know how? Do you desire greater joy, peace and purpose for your life but it feels out of reach? Reaching out for help shows such strength and courage. I have been helping people for 18+ years find hope and healing. I have seen clients conquer fears and reach goals. I have rejoiced with them as they have moved from brokenness to freedom. You will find my style to be warm, engaged and empowering.
(630) 407-1731 View (630) 407-1731
Photo of Chelsea Ragsdale, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Ragsdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Waitlist for new clients
We live in a society in which perfection is not just encouraged; it is rewarded and reinforced across many areas in life. We are flooded with conflicting messages that can lead to increased anxiety, low self-worth, and increased self-doubt. How do I both be a standout employee and also prioritize healthy work/life boundaries? How can I be a supportive partner, parent or caregiver and also prioritize my own self care? The toll of chasing perfection can be exhausting.
We live in a society in which perfection is not just encouraged; it is rewarded and reinforced across many areas in life. We are flooded with conflicting messages that can lead to increased anxiety, low self-worth, and increased self-doubt. How do I both be a standout employee and also prioritize healthy work/life boundaries? How can I be a supportive partner, parent or caregiver and also prioritize my own self care? The toll of chasing perfection can be exhausting.
(630) 250-5851 View (630) 250-5851
Photo of Kristin Padera, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kristin Padera
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Everyone deserves a caring, non-judgmental space to process, reflect, and find healing! As a therapist, I have a warm, compassionate, and honest relational style. I take pride in my ability to connect easily with clients to help them feel comfortable quickly. My specialty is in assisting my clients with uncovering the root of unhelpful patterns, addressing the symptoms of these patterns, and creating meaningful changes in their lives. Through my knowledge, experience, and passion, I can assist you in finding greater confidence, healing, and insight.
Everyone deserves a caring, non-judgmental space to process, reflect, and find healing! As a therapist, I have a warm, compassionate, and honest relational style. I take pride in my ability to connect easily with clients to help them feel comfortable quickly. My specialty is in assisting my clients with uncovering the root of unhelpful patterns, addressing the symptoms of these patterns, and creating meaningful changes in their lives. Through my knowledge, experience, and passion, I can assist you in finding greater confidence, healing, and insight.
(630) 756-5925 View (630) 756-5925
Photo of Joan L Fefferman, MS , LCPC, CADC, NCC, Counselor
Joan L Fefferman
Counselor, MS , LCPC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I enjoy helping patients improve their lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I specialize in depression and anxiety that stems from relationship issues, peer issues, work problems, and school issues. Through education, life experiences, a family of my own, and a great deal of empathy, I feel that I can offer unique and confidential treatment. I have worked within private practices, hospitals, trauma centers, hospices and schools. Before counseling, I worked in academics, teaching, and financial institutions. I aim to provide my patients with the highest quality of care possible.
I enjoy helping patients improve their lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I specialize in depression and anxiety that stems from relationship issues, peer issues, work problems, and school issues. Through education, life experiences, a family of my own, and a great deal of empathy, I feel that I can offer unique and confidential treatment. I have worked within private practices, hospitals, trauma centers, hospices and schools. Before counseling, I worked in academics, teaching, and financial institutions. I aim to provide my patients with the highest quality of care possible.
(630) 315-0945 View (630) 315-0945
Photo of Maria S. Ritchey, LCPC, CCATPCA, Counselor
Maria S. Ritchey
Counselor, LCPC, CCATPCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Everyone hits highs and lows in their lives. We all wish to be heard, understood, and accepted, which is why I value each and every experience shared. I believe in the notion of “putting yourself in ones’ shoes” to fully accept and understand others exactly how they are and what they are experiencing. I am passionate about giving voice to those who struggle making theirs heard and encouraging them to make positive changes in their lives. Each and every individual, child and adult, has the internal power to be the person they wish to be, through understanding, acceptance, and creating their unique meaning and purpose in life.
Everyone hits highs and lows in their lives. We all wish to be heard, understood, and accepted, which is why I value each and every experience shared. I believe in the notion of “putting yourself in ones’ shoes” to fully accept and understand others exactly how they are and what they are experiencing. I am passionate about giving voice to those who struggle making theirs heard and encouraging them to make positive changes in their lives. Each and every individual, child and adult, has the internal power to be the person they wish to be, through understanding, acceptance, and creating their unique meaning and purpose in life.
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Photo of Laura Van Dame, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Van Dame
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I work with a wide array of issues and concerns, but most of my clients are in need of a compassionate ear to help them make sense of their own world. They want to know they are heard and valued and that the clinician will be a supportive resource in their journey. Many clients these days struggle with asking for help, and allowing themselves to receive it. That is where therapy can come in and offer skills and support to help move forward.
I work with a wide array of issues and concerns, but most of my clients are in need of a compassionate ear to help them make sense of their own world. They want to know they are heard and valued and that the clinician will be a supportive resource in their journey. Many clients these days struggle with asking for help, and allowing themselves to receive it. That is where therapy can come in and offer skills and support to help move forward.
(630) 349-5920 View (630) 349-5920
Photo of Molly Westfall - Roots to Branches Counseling Services, MA, LCPC, RPT, Counselor
Roots to Branches Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I'm Molly, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, and owner/founder of Roots to Branches Counseling Services. Therapists at Roots to Branches counseling specialize in working with children ages 2-12 years old, and their families. Our treatment approach is rooted in creating change through combining a warm therapeutic relationship with a deep understanding of nervous system functioning, interpersonal neurobiology, attachment, and child development. We are now accepting new clients- learn more about us at www.roots2branchescounseling.org
I'm Molly, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, and owner/founder of Roots to Branches Counseling Services. Therapists at Roots to Branches counseling specialize in working with children ages 2-12 years old, and their families. Our treatment approach is rooted in creating change through combining a warm therapeutic relationship with a deep understanding of nervous system functioning, interpersonal neurobiology, attachment, and child development. We are now accepting new clients- learn more about us at www.roots2branchescounseling.org
(331) 208-5677 View (331) 208-5677
Photo of Angie Young, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
(630) 524-4362 View (630) 524-4362
Photo of Elsie Rojas, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elsie Rojas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Growing up, mental health is not something I heard of or talked about often. Being raised Mexican for me meant that the chances of having a conversation about mental health was not likely, much less learning how to express my emotions and stress in healthy ways. The older I get, the more I learn, the more people I meet--the more I strive to help bring mental health awareness and education to not only the Latinx community but to anyone willing and ready to learn.
Growing up, mental health is not something I heard of or talked about often. Being raised Mexican for me meant that the chances of having a conversation about mental health was not likely, much less learning how to express my emotions and stress in healthy ways. The older I get, the more I learn, the more people I meet--the more I strive to help bring mental health awareness and education to not only the Latinx community but to anyone willing and ready to learn.
(630) 593-7541 View (630) 593-7541
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Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.