Art Therapy in Oak Forest, IL

I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults of all backgrounds coping with a wide range of concerns ranging from depression and anxiety, to trauma and PTSD. I believe that one of the most powerful approaches to overcoming life’s tricky obstacles is resilience, and that working with my clients from a genuine and supportive place of connection is the key to overcoming even the most difficult of times.

My primary focus is to empower individuals on their therapeutic journeys by utilizing artistic practices and expression. Life isn’t one size fits all so it’s only fair that your therapy ought not be. My approach is integrative and includes elements of trauma and culturally informed practices, IFS, EMDR, DBT, feminist/Queer relational, psychodynamic, and client centered modalities. As a practicing interdisciplinary artist l utilize a variety of approaches to art making in my personal practice. Embodying a creative approach to healing that centers both empowerment and agency is at the center of my clinical practice.

You won't hear "It's going to be okay, I know how you feel, you will get over it" when you come to me. I understand that the hour you pay for is your hour and you will get the chance to say whatever it is that you want to say guilt-free. Saying things out loud to a trained listener will help you understand your world view in a different way. In turn, you will develop insight and coping skills.

There are times in life that one’s feelings are beyond words. Those times when it feels difficult for you to strive for understanding and feel heard. It is my privilege to create a safe place to honor these feelings and process them in a non-judgmental way for you so together we may best explore the inner richness of you and your life. Through this process, and journey of self discovery, I will help you express yourself and garnish more creative and healthier ways to transcend obstacles in your life and ultimately lead a most fulfilling and rich life.

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist I promote talk therapy and creative expression as methods for healing, empowerment and life enhancement. My focus is to be a conduit for compassion, grace, and healing. In therapy sessions, clients use talk therapy and/or art materials and techniques to explore emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects in order to access their innate wisdom and healing potential. By providing a safe and non-judgmental space for clients there is an invitation to enter a path into curiosity, discovery, and enrichment which presents openings for change and growth.

When life happens, things can get hard and it is okay to ask for help. Sometimes one simply needs the space to be able to share those feelings and to learn how to manage and cope with support from another. Therapy is a normal part of that process, part of our wellness and simple put: taking care of ourselves. Life throws curveballs and sometimes when that happens, we don't know how to respond or process those moments which is how therapy can help.

Therapy is a time for you! Be heard, express your thoughts and feelings in a safe environment, and gain insight and understanding. I work to help clients achieve these things as well as their individual goals for treatment. Holding a dual degree in Art therapy and counseling I work with clients not only to verbally express themselves but also creatively. I am a Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I believe in meeting each client where they are at, and using the most effective treatment modality in order to help clients achieve their personal goals for treatment.

During my 20 years of servicing children and families, I have supported clients who were experiencing trauma related to grief and loss, sexual assault, first generation related responsibilities, low self-esteem, cultural expectations, dating violence, gun violence and major life transitions. Often, their goals were to manage their circumstances or become empowered to lift themselves out of their uncomfortable experience they were encountering. Their desire was to find tangible ways to not only cope with their stress, but to resolve the impact it had on their wellbeing and mental health.

The Center for Psychological Services is dedicated to assisting adults, adolescents, and children to achieve their goals and thrive at each stage of life. We view problems as opportunities for change. Our treatment approach is grounded in our respect for the strong link between mind and body, and proven therapeutic methodologies tailored to each person's unique needs, circumstances, and goals. We assist you in making desired changes in practical ways that will have lasting results. Due to the wide variety of therapists at our center, we cover about 90% of the specialties below.

I believe healing and growth thrive within a trusting and collaborative relationship. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, confused, or uninspired, I can help guide you towards clarity and meaning. I will encourage you to be reflective about your experiences, support new explorations, and compassionately challenge you to help you reach your definition wellness. I work in a variety of modalities that support the healing of trauma. I am a Registered Art Therapist. I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and I'm in the process of earning AASECT-approved Certification in Sex Therapy (CST).

I have an interest in working with teenagers and young adults who are experiencing difficulties, along with people who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ population, but also work with all age groups and anyone interested in art therapy. My specialties include emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, stress management, identity exploration, trauma and grief work, and body image and self-esteem. I have experience working with teenagers, parents, and young adults who are dealing with stress, trauma, self-esteem, transitions, and emotional regulation along with depression and anxiety.

There are times when we all need extra support and to know that we are not alone with our pain. It's my hope to provide a therapeutic environment in which you feel nurtured and respected and know that your thoughts and feelings matter. My approach to therapy is holistic, humanistic, and strengths-based. I treat the whole person and believe we should not be labeled by our problems. I practice a non-judgmental and empathic approach; supporting individuals as they confront their issues and helping them realize their unique strengths.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist primarily working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I believe it is imperative that therapy is a collaborative process where your unique strengths and perspective is at the center of my work. I place your autonomy, self-awareness, and personal growth at the forefront of every session. With a deep respect for the uniqueness of each individual, I frequently utilize art therapy to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you are encouraged to explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences through creative expression.

The Experienced Clinicians at Fraser Vaselakos & Associates strive to work collaboratively with every patient who comes to us for therapy. Our goal is to do comprehensive therapy, a therapeutic intervention that is long lasting, not just a "quick fix." We take the time we need to hear each patient's concerns and to work together with specific goals in mind, to empower each patient, to give hope, and to highlight and build on each patient's strengths, knowledge and desire to change. Our approach results in patient healing and thriving, leading to contentment in one's life.