Music Therapy in Chicago, IL
As a queer, creative, and trauma responsive therapist, I am passionate about nurturing an affirming space for LGBTQIA+ adults and youth, artists, and cnm clients where you can experience therapy as a brave space to continue exploring identity, sex, imagination, relationships, and everyday life. Trauma influences the body, and brain in complex ways and therefore sometimes in therapy we need to talk, and sometimes to pause, move, or create. As a musician, and with music therapy training, I understand the regulatory power of art and invite you to integrate expressive elements. I also offer music-centered & songwriting focused sessions.
As a queer, creative, and trauma responsive therapist, I am passionate about nurturing an affirming space for LGBTQIA+ adults and youth, artists, and cnm clients where you can experience therapy as a brave space to continue exploring identity, sex, imagination, relationships, and everyday life. Trauma influences the body, and brain in complex ways and therefore sometimes in therapy we need to talk, and sometimes to pause, move, or create. As a musician, and with music therapy training, I understand the regulatory power of art and invite you to integrate expressive elements. I also offer music-centered & songwriting focused sessions.
Ashley Allcorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Waitlist for new clients
I work from a client-centered theoretical approach and practice from a post-modern and philosophically informed lens. My clinical interests include: artistic expression, mindfulness, sexual and gender identity exploration, sex positive approaches, existential questioning, trauma recovery, couples therapy, harm reduction, religious trauma, and body image. I work with individuals and couples. I have also offered groups centering on consent, sexuality, and relationships in local high schools and I have facilitated workshops on music therapy and media literacy.
I work from a client-centered theoretical approach and practice from a post-modern and philosophically informed lens. My clinical interests include: artistic expression, mindfulness, sexual and gender identity exploration, sex positive approaches, existential questioning, trauma recovery, couples therapy, harm reduction, religious trauma, and body image. I work with individuals and couples. I have also offered groups centering on consent, sexuality, and relationships in local high schools and I have facilitated workshops on music therapy and media literacy.
Melissa Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MT-BC, SBD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
I have also worked in mental health and wellness as a music therapist since 2007 with experience working in adult and pediatric hospice, inpatient and outpatient behavioral health, medical music therapy and senior wellness.
I specialize in supporting children ages 5-10 who struggle with big emotions, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and more. I use a child centered play therapy model in working with children. Fred Rogers said, "Play is really the work of childhood." I meet children in this work, providing therapeutic support, to help build emotional intelligence and vocabulary, process life events, build self-esteem and self-trust. I am a parent of two children and one Angel baby. My life experience deepens my passion to support parents through challenges beginning in the prenatal period of life.
I have also worked in mental health and wellness as a music therapist since 2007 with experience working in adult and pediatric hospice, inpatient and outpatient behavioral health, medical music therapy and senior wellness.
I specialize in supporting children ages 5-10 who struggle with big emotions, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and more. I use a child centered play therapy model in working with children. Fred Rogers said, "Play is really the work of childhood." I meet children in this work, providing therapeutic support, to help build emotional intelligence and vocabulary, process life events, build self-esteem and self-trust. I am a parent of two children and one Angel baby. My life experience deepens my passion to support parents through challenges beginning in the prenatal period of life.
Utilizing a recovery based model of therapeutic interventions including: client-centered therapy, ACT therapy, faith based counseling, and music therapy; Nina strives to be with you in the moment providing an abundance of counseling to adolescents, young adults, couples, and families.
Nina is a seasoned clinician with an MA in Mental Health & Community Counseling specializing in trauma recovery, with over 10 years in the field Her work includes; crisis and trauma intervention with adolescents, young adults, couples and families as well as providing counseling to individuals who are struggling with life complications that result in depression, anxiety, and stress. Nina has extensive experience collaborating with other entities such as Social Services, Group Therapeutic Programs, Psychiatrists, and other community providers.Nina is passionate in supporting her community and individuals of all walks of life.
Utilizing a recovery based model of therapeutic interventions including: client-centered therapy, ACT therapy, faith based counseling, and music therapy; Nina strives to be with you in the moment providing an abundance of counseling to adolescents, young adults, couples, and families.
Nina is a seasoned clinician with an MA in Mental Health & Community Counseling specializing in trauma recovery, with over 10 years in the field Her work includes; crisis and trauma intervention with adolescents, young adults, couples and families as well as providing counseling to individuals who are struggling with life complications that result in depression, anxiety, and stress. Nina has extensive experience collaborating with other entities such as Social Services, Group Therapeutic Programs, Psychiatrists, and other community providers.Nina is passionate in supporting her community and individuals of all walks of life.
Rene Stockton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60649 (Online Only)
My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. It is my honor to serve our community as a counselor/therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from a wide range of populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American States. I have encountered a range of adolescent and adult challenges ranging from mental health and trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the concrete change you are looking to achieve in your life.
My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. It is my honor to serve our community as a counselor/therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from a wide range of populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American States. I have encountered a range of adolescent and adult challenges ranging from mental health and trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the concrete change you are looking to achieve in your life.
David D. Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
Ready to transform your life? I’m David Robertson, a PhD student in Social Work, therapist, and courage researcher with clinical training from Columbia University’s School of Social Work. I specialize in guiding individuals through childhood trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. My practice celebrates diversity, offering dedicated support to faith-based communities, the queer community, and marginalized populations. I also provide focused care for premarital clients, caregivers, and startup founders. Let’s start your journey toward personal growth and healing—
Ready to transform your life? I’m David Robertson, a PhD student in Social Work, therapist, and courage researcher with clinical training from Columbia University’s School of Social Work. I specialize in guiding individuals through childhood trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. My practice celebrates diversity, offering dedicated support to faith-based communities, the queer community, and marginalized populations. I also provide focused care for premarital clients, caregivers, and startup founders. Let’s start your journey toward personal growth and healing—
Do you struggle to balance life roles, find it difficult to be kind to yourself, or feel depleted by stress and anxiety? Are looking for a way to safely explore difficult thoughts and emotions. Perhaps you are curious about your relationship to yourself and others, and long to make meaning in life? Imagine feeling less overwhelmed, having confidence in life’s direction, and increasing your connection with others. Change is possible! I invite you to put on your detective hat as you get to know yourself, explore your experiences, and forge your journey.
Do you struggle to balance life roles, find it difficult to be kind to yourself, or feel depleted by stress and anxiety? Are looking for a way to safely explore difficult thoughts and emotions. Perhaps you are curious about your relationship to yourself and others, and long to make meaning in life? Imagine feeling less overwhelmed, having confidence in life’s direction, and increasing your connection with others. Change is possible! I invite you to put on your detective hat as you get to know yourself, explore your experiences, and forge your journey.
Olivia Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
Olivia has worked with clients of all ages with various levels of trauma experiences, narcissistic/ sexual/ physical abuse survivors, attachment difficulties, life transitions, codepedency, depression, anxiety, grief, and familial/peer relationship concerns. Practicing both personally and professionally from an anti-racist/ anti-oppressive lens and being LGBTQIA+ affirming, Olivia honors the intersectionalities of identities, lived experiences, and the ways in which these experiences are held in our bodies. She uses movement and expression to promote holistic healing that can aid with how these experiences show up in our bodies.
Daunte Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
“people start to heal the moment they feel heard” is a guiding principle of my practice. Therapy is a place where your story is centered. In this space, you are allowed to be vulnerable and completely as you are. We co-create change through the therapeutic process by holding space for life’s biggest challenges. Though the process feels lonely at times, you have a trusted professional guiding you and holding space with you every step of the way. Thank you for taking the next step in your journey. I am excited to be with you on your journey.
“people start to heal the moment they feel heard” is a guiding principle of my practice. Therapy is a place where your story is centered. In this space, you are allowed to be vulnerable and completely as you are. We co-create change through the therapeutic process by holding space for life’s biggest challenges. Though the process feels lonely at times, you have a trusted professional guiding you and holding space with you every step of the way. Thank you for taking the next step in your journey. I am excited to be with you on your journey.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
Amber Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, RYT-200, CODP I, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Amber Reed is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Aurora University. Those who know Amber best would describe her as outgoing, funny, empathetic, authentic, and direct. Amber believes that therapy can provide individuals opportunity for growth, guidance through uncomfortable emotions, and a space to reflect and find a deeper connection with the self. Ultimately, she wants to use empathy and motivation to inspire and guide those who have been struggling or feel alone with their thoughts or emotions.
Amber Reed is a licensed clinical social worker who earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Aurora University. Those who know Amber best would describe her as outgoing, funny, empathetic, authentic, and direct. Amber believes that therapy can provide individuals opportunity for growth, guidance through uncomfortable emotions, and a space to reflect and find a deeper connection with the self. Ultimately, she wants to use empathy and motivation to inspire and guide those who have been struggling or feel alone with their thoughts or emotions.
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One of the hardest steps of the therapeutic process is what you’re going through now. Searching to find the counselor that aligns with your needs can feel daunting. I commend you for taking the first steps. My long experience with finding a therapist with shared identities and values was the catalyst to me entering the counseling profession. I value creating a space where transformation can occur through exchanges of knowledge from your life experience and my education. The theories I intend to integrate into the space are Psychodynamic and Adlerian. I remain open to other theories according to what best meets your needs.
One of the hardest steps of the therapeutic process is what you’re going through now. Searching to find the counselor that aligns with your needs can feel daunting. I commend you for taking the first steps. My long experience with finding a therapist with shared identities and values was the catalyst to me entering the counseling profession. I value creating a space where transformation can occur through exchanges of knowledge from your life experience and my education. The theories I intend to integrate into the space are Psychodynamic and Adlerian. I remain open to other theories according to what best meets your needs.
I believe in cultivating a strong therapeutic relationship that honors your authentic self and promotes healing. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen and heard, as you are the expert on your own life. I aim to be a dedicated ally, broadening your awareness and skills while facilitating open collaboration as we work together towards your goals.
I believe in cultivating a strong therapeutic relationship that honors your authentic self and promotes healing. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen and heard, as you are the expert on your own life. I aim to be a dedicated ally, broadening your awareness and skills while facilitating open collaboration as we work together towards your goals.
Susan Pagels
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
We all struggle with obstacles that seem insurmountable but I believe everyone has the power within themselves to reach for the stars. Sometimes it takes baby steps and often we need someone we can trust to lend a helping hand.
We all struggle with obstacles that seem insurmountable but I believe everyone has the power within themselves to reach for the stars. Sometimes it takes baby steps and often we need someone we can trust to lend a helping hand.
I have been working with children and families for over 25 years in various capacities including as a Psychotherapist, Early Childhood Special Ed Teacher, Early Childhood Music Teacher, Professional Children’s Entertainer, and Pediatric Medical Clown. I have dedicated my practice to supporting children and families impacted by conflict, developmental, neurological, behavioral and relational issues. I am passionate about and have unique gifts in working with young children ages 2—7. Throughout therapy, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore issues, challenging situations, and relationships.
I have been working with children and families for over 25 years in various capacities including as a Psychotherapist, Early Childhood Special Ed Teacher, Early Childhood Music Teacher, Professional Children’s Entertainer, and Pediatric Medical Clown. I have dedicated my practice to supporting children and families impacted by conflict, developmental, neurological, behavioral and relational issues. I am passionate about and have unique gifts in working with young children ages 2—7. Throughout therapy, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore issues, challenging situations, and relationships.
Embark Behavioral Health Virtual IOP
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
We know how tough it is to watch your teen or young adult struggle with severe mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Our virtual intensive outpatient program (VIOP) is here to help teens, young adults, and college students ages 12-34. We provide flexible, accessible online therapy in Illinois and other states across the U.S. that fits seamlessly into the busy academic schedules of young people and families and helps them achieve lasting change.
We know how tough it is to watch your teen or young adult struggle with severe mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Our virtual intensive outpatient program (VIOP) is here to help teens, young adults, and college students ages 12-34. We provide flexible, accessible online therapy in Illinois and other states across the U.S. that fits seamlessly into the busy academic schedules of young people and families and helps them achieve lasting change.
Dr. Nakshabandi draws from 10 years of psychiatric training experience across a wide range of settings including Harvard Medical School, The University of Chicago, The Department of Veterans Affairs and over 40 different sites across two continents. Dr. Nakshabandi has extensive knowledge on a wide array of therapeutic techniques, medication management algorithms, and complementary approaches to treatment. His treatment approach is rooted in empathy and strives to heal by evoking it.
Dr. Nakshabandi draws from 10 years of psychiatric training experience across a wide range of settings including Harvard Medical School, The University of Chicago, The Department of Veterans Affairs and over 40 different sites across two continents. Dr. Nakshabandi has extensive knowledge on a wide array of therapeutic techniques, medication management algorithms, and complementary approaches to treatment. His treatment approach is rooted in empathy and strives to heal by evoking it.
I view the world through the lens of curiosity and wonder. As a person and a therapist, I have always been interested in learning more about people and their stories. I’m a relational therapist, specializing in working with couples, families, and individuals. I love working with queer couples, folks navigating non-monogamy, and neurodivergent families. As someone who’s experienced chronic pain, I’m particularly passionate about working with people experiencing pelvic pain or chronic illness and the impact this has on ourselves, our relationships, and our sex lives.
I view the world through the lens of curiosity and wonder. As a person and a therapist, I have always been interested in learning more about people and their stories. I’m a relational therapist, specializing in working with couples, families, and individuals. I love working with queer couples, folks navigating non-monogamy, and neurodivergent families. As someone who’s experienced chronic pain, I’m particularly passionate about working with people experiencing pelvic pain or chronic illness and the impact this has on ourselves, our relationships, and our sex lives.
My approach to therapy is both practical and positive. I work primarily with adults who are looking to make changes in their lives and are unsure of where to begin. I enjoy the process of connecting with my clients, who often experience anxiety/depression, and developing a relationship that supports movement and acceptance. Specializing in addiction and trauma work I incorporate evidence-based strategies to facilitate healing. I have a mind and body approach that I believe promotes patience and encourages understanding to all aspects of a persons life.
My approach to therapy is both practical and positive. I work primarily with adults who are looking to make changes in their lives and are unsure of where to begin. I enjoy the process of connecting with my clients, who often experience anxiety/depression, and developing a relationship that supports movement and acceptance. Specializing in addiction and trauma work I incorporate evidence-based strategies to facilitate healing. I have a mind and body approach that I believe promotes patience and encourages understanding to all aspects of a persons life.
Hi, I'm Jennifer! I consider myself as a warm, empathetic therapist who offers a personalized approach to therapy. Utilizing a strengths-based perspective and techniques like CBT and mindfulness, I help clients explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to foster personal growth. With a passion for connection and a belief in the mind-body-soul connection, I create a safe and supportive space for clients to heal and thrive!
Hi, I'm Jennifer! I consider myself as a warm, empathetic therapist who offers a personalized approach to therapy. Utilizing a strengths-based perspective and techniques like CBT and mindfulness, I help clients explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to foster personal growth. With a passion for connection and a belief in the mind-body-soul connection, I create a safe and supportive space for clients to heal and thrive!
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How does music therapy work?
A music therapist will begin by assessing the client’s specific needs and getting a sense of their musical ability and interests. Musical training is not required, and clients of all ages can benefit from this type of therapy. The therapist will then make a plan for how to achieve the client’s therapeutic goal(s) using a range of receptive (e.g., listening to a song) and active (e.g., drumming in a group) music therapy techniques.
What are some common music therapy techniques?
Music therapy usually involves listening to music (either live or recorded). Music therapy clients may also make music on popular instruments, such as the piano, guitar, and hand drum, or sing. Sometimes music therapy can include guided imagery. A music therapist may ask clients to improvise on the spot or even compose their own songs. Dancing or moving to music can be an effective intervention to help clients feel more fully grounded in their bodies and remain in the present moment.
How does music therapy help with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
Music therapy can be a valuable creative outlet for clients with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who have trouble putting their painful feelings into words. Listening to music can be relaxing while making music as part of a group provides plenty of opportunities to connect with other people. In addition to its mood-boosting effects, music therapy can help clients build resilience and overcome PTSD symptoms that may interfere with their daily lives.
How long does music therapy take?
Music therapy sessions generally last between 30 and 50 minutes. They can be scheduled in advance (for example, once a week) or can be done on an as-needed basis. Some clients will only require a handful of music therapy sessions to achieve their goals, while others may need months or longer, depending on their specific concern.