Photo of Pooja Shah, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Pooja Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I know finding a therapist can be overwhelming, so I welcome you on this journey! My approach is client centered which combines treatment methods of Humanism, CBT, Mindfulness, Attachment Theory, and other interpersonal theories. During our work together, I will focus on understanding your story, values, and goals to help you in finding coping strategies that promote self-awareness, self-compassion, and overall, an improved quality of life.
I know finding a therapist can be overwhelming, so I welcome you on this journey! My approach is client centered which combines treatment methods of Humanism, CBT, Mindfulness, Attachment Theory, and other interpersonal theories. During our work together, I will focus on understanding your story, values, and goals to help you in finding coping strategies that promote self-awareness, self-compassion, and overall, an improved quality of life.
(773) 302-1412 View (773) 302-1412
Photo of Biana Mavasheva, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Biana Mavasheva
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate practical tools for clarifying and strengthening my client's existing strengths, including mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral approaches.
I’m grateful to have this opportunity to connect with you. The therapeutic process is a sacred journey. Here we can share in a safe, non-judgmental place. If we have suffered addiction, anxiety, depression or trauma we can uncover the aspects of ourselves that need healing. The quality of our lives is directly connected to the quality of our relationships - with ourselves and with others. When our relationships are suffering, everything is impacted. For that reason, in our therapy sessions we explore whatever is unfolding in your relationships and we discover how to bring awareness and skill to these crucial connections.
I incorporate practical tools for clarifying and strengthening my client's existing strengths, including mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral approaches.
I’m grateful to have this opportunity to connect with you. The therapeutic process is a sacred journey. Here we can share in a safe, non-judgmental place. If we have suffered addiction, anxiety, depression or trauma we can uncover the aspects of ourselves that need healing. The quality of our lives is directly connected to the quality of our relationships - with ourselves and with others. When our relationships are suffering, everything is impacted. For that reason, in our therapy sessions we explore whatever is unfolding in your relationships and we discover how to bring awareness and skill to these crucial connections.
(847) 886-4371 View (847) 886-4371
Photo of Tricia Sybesma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Tricia Sybesma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
I incorporate psychodynamic theory, CBT techniques, values exploration, self-compassion, and others.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Maybe you’ve experienced a recent life change or event that is causing distress or discomfort. Maybe you’ve struggled with issues for a long time and have decided you have the desire and capacity to deal with it now. Maybe you’re looking for a place to process and reflect on the stressors that are part of daily life. Whatever your motivation for seeking support at this time, I’m glad you’re here and eager to learn more about how I can help.
I incorporate psychodynamic theory, CBT techniques, values exploration, self-compassion, and others.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Maybe you’ve experienced a recent life change or event that is causing distress or discomfort. Maybe you’ve struggled with issues for a long time and have decided you have the desire and capacity to deal with it now. Maybe you’re looking for a place to process and reflect on the stressors that are part of daily life. Whatever your motivation for seeking support at this time, I’m glad you’re here and eager to learn more about how I can help.
(312) 818-1432 View (312) 818-1432
Photo of Melanie J Thakkar, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Melanie J Thakkar
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
My training in cognitive behavioral and psychoanalytic theory and practice has allowed me to formulate individualized and comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the presenting problems of each patient.
A positive working alliance between a psychologist and patient is crucial for growth and development within the clinical context. Therefore, it is key for each patient to seek out a psychologist whom they feel comfortable and connected with. I offer an initial consultation at no charge in order to determine if the right fit exists. If after a consultation it does not feel like a good fit, then I will help you find a clinician who provides one. As a licensed clinical psychologist, with more than seven years of clinical experience, I have an extensive background working with adolescents, adults, and families.
My training in cognitive behavioral and psychoanalytic theory and practice has allowed me to formulate individualized and comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the presenting problems of each patient.
A positive working alliance between a psychologist and patient is crucial for growth and development within the clinical context. Therefore, it is key for each patient to seek out a psychologist whom they feel comfortable and connected with. I offer an initial consultation at no charge in order to determine if the right fit exists. If after a consultation it does not feel like a good fit, then I will help you find a clinician who provides one. As a licensed clinical psychologist, with more than seven years of clinical experience, I have an extensive background working with adolescents, adults, and families.
(312) 646-4557 View (312) 646-4557
Photo of Lauren Michelle Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lauren Michelle Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
She uses an integrative approach, encompassing Existential Theory with Gestalt techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychoanalytic techniques.
To LIVE after Trauma and Grief was the smartest choice I've made Learning to LOVE as a Parent and Single Woman, feels freeing Having LIFE with Relational Purpose is a class all Its own After 35 years of life experience, 7 years of experience in field of mental health, 4 years as a Licensed Therapist, and continuing education as a 5th year doctoral student I have been able to create a program that eases the stigma of seeing a therapist. Through the recognition of new self-awareness, clients will work towards their goals through her directive and active guidance.
She uses an integrative approach, encompassing Existential Theory with Gestalt techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychoanalytic techniques.
To LIVE after Trauma and Grief was the smartest choice I've made Learning to LOVE as a Parent and Single Woman, feels freeing Having LIFE with Relational Purpose is a class all Its own After 35 years of life experience, 7 years of experience in field of mental health, 4 years as a Licensed Therapist, and continuing education as a 5th year doctoral student I have been able to create a program that eases the stigma of seeing a therapist. Through the recognition of new self-awareness, clients will work towards their goals through her directive and active guidance.
(312) 386-5314 View (312) 386-5314
Photo of Latifat Cabirou, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Latifat Cabirou
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608  (Online Only)
I also regularly incorporate techniques and interventions from CBT, DBT, and ACT to achieve therapy goals.
I offer a warm, empathic, and collaborative therapy space that reflects my passion for helping clients build fuller and more authentic lives. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan with various concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, identity, education/career, and family-of-origin. I also have specialized training in working with college students, immigrants, and trauma survivors. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, my culture-centered approach allows me to attend to the intersections of your cultural identities and how it impacts your experience of the world.
I also regularly incorporate techniques and interventions from CBT, DBT, and ACT to achieve therapy goals.
I offer a warm, empathic, and collaborative therapy space that reflects my passion for helping clients build fuller and more authentic lives. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan with various concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, identity, education/career, and family-of-origin. I also have specialized training in working with college students, immigrants, and trauma survivors. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, my culture-centered approach allows me to attend to the intersections of your cultural identities and how it impacts your experience of the world.
(312) 376-0954 View (312) 376-0954
Photo of Maira Gomez, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Maira Gomez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I utilize a relational, client-centered approach as the foundation to my therapy and pull on interventions from feminist, psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, multicultural, and anti-racist/anti-oppressive theories and approaches.
Taking the first step to begin therapy can be a challenging one, and finding the right therapist is an important piece. I take a supportive, non-judgmental approach to therapy and start off by creating a safe space to allow a strong therapeutic relationship to form. I give my clients the space to describe their challenges and hardships. Along the way, I help clients develop coping skills as well as awareness into their patterns and behaviors, and systemic factors, in order to create positive changes in their lives. I support all parts of clients’ histories, inviting honest exploration into the complexities of their experiences.
I utilize a relational, client-centered approach as the foundation to my therapy and pull on interventions from feminist, psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, multicultural, and anti-racist/anti-oppressive theories and approaches.
Taking the first step to begin therapy can be a challenging one, and finding the right therapist is an important piece. I take a supportive, non-judgmental approach to therapy and start off by creating a safe space to allow a strong therapeutic relationship to form. I give my clients the space to describe their challenges and hardships. Along the way, I help clients develop coping skills as well as awareness into their patterns and behaviors, and systemic factors, in order to create positive changes in their lives. I support all parts of clients’ histories, inviting honest exploration into the complexities of their experiences.
(773) 207-3436 View (773) 207-3436
Photo of Meredyth Brook, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Meredyth Brook
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
Some of my training includes EMDR, CBT, psychodynamic approaches, and person centered.
I believe that therapy is a healthy and proactive way to facilitate healing, growth, and wellness. I am a dedicated and compassionate counselor who is committed to helping people find individualized solutions to personal challenges. I work within the holistic framework that encompasses many different approaches in order to build trust and ensure you are empowered in your journey. Often we come in for therapy to address a specific concern and through that begin to discover other areas of our lives that we want to make meaningful change in. I am dedicated to to providing you a safe and collaborative space to do this.
Some of my training includes EMDR, CBT, psychodynamic approaches, and person centered.
I believe that therapy is a healthy and proactive way to facilitate healing, growth, and wellness. I am a dedicated and compassionate counselor who is committed to helping people find individualized solutions to personal challenges. I work within the holistic framework that encompasses many different approaches in order to build trust and ensure you are empowered in your journey. Often we come in for therapy to address a specific concern and through that begin to discover other areas of our lives that we want to make meaningful change in. I am dedicated to to providing you a safe and collaborative space to do this.
(773) 377-9812 View (773) 377-9812
Photo of Jeremy Bergen, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jeremy Bergen
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
If you have been feeling unusually down or overly stressed lately, therapy may be the answer. My expertise is in helping people deal with a variety of life issues such as decreasing stress, gaining motivation, managing relationships, and finding a greater sense of work/life balance. My primary work is with professional adults, both as individuals and couples. I combine an empathetic and individualized approach that focuses on gaining insight into your thoughts, feelings and behavior, and I use an integrated theoretical style with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral techniques (CBT).
If you have been feeling unusually down or overly stressed lately, therapy may be the answer. My expertise is in helping people deal with a variety of life issues such as decreasing stress, gaining motivation, managing relationships, and finding a greater sense of work/life balance. My primary work is with professional adults, both as individuals and couples. I combine an empathetic and individualized approach that focuses on gaining insight into your thoughts, feelings and behavior, and I use an integrated theoretical style with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral techniques (CBT).
(773) 796-3940 View (773) 796-3940
Photo of Ed Rhodes, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ed Rhodes
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
My approach is eclectic, drawing from a number of perspectives (Cognitive-Behavioral, Existential, Psychodynamic, and Evolutionary Psychology), as well as pragmatic and honest, focused on insight, meaning, and the ways in which our experiences shape our views of the relations between self and other, the world, and our place therein.
Stories have always fascinated me. They have the power to move us emotionally, to educate and instruct, to entertain us, and to cultivate true compassion and empathy through the act of sharing a story with another. They are also a powerful vehicle for how we perceive, interpret, define and live our lives, yet sometimes it can be easy to forget that we can be the authors of our story, not just a character proceeding along some previously determined narrative.
My approach is eclectic, drawing from a number of perspectives (Cognitive-Behavioral, Existential, Psychodynamic, and Evolutionary Psychology), as well as pragmatic and honest, focused on insight, meaning, and the ways in which our experiences shape our views of the relations between self and other, the world, and our place therein.
Stories have always fascinated me. They have the power to move us emotionally, to educate and instruct, to entertain us, and to cultivate true compassion and empathy through the act of sharing a story with another. They are also a powerful vehicle for how we perceive, interpret, define and live our lives, yet sometimes it can be easy to forget that we can be the authors of our story, not just a character proceeding along some previously determined narrative.
(312) 313-0272 View (312) 313-0272
Photo of Victor Spatafora Psy. D., Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Victor Spatafora Psy. D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I have specialized training in providing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, which is an effective approach both researched and supported in the treatment of depression and anxiety.
My counseling approach emphasizes how all individuals have the capabilities to live life authentically and with reduced stress. My goal is to help you utilize your strengths to achieve positive self-change and growth through the many transitions in life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and older adults experiencing depression, low self esteem, anxiety, parental difficulties, relationship problems, substance abuse, anger, and stress related symptoms. I have training in teaching relaxation techniques and anger management skills including deep breathing and systematic desensitization.
I have specialized training in providing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, which is an effective approach both researched and supported in the treatment of depression and anxiety.
My counseling approach emphasizes how all individuals have the capabilities to live life authentically and with reduced stress. My goal is to help you utilize your strengths to achieve positive self-change and growth through the many transitions in life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and older adults experiencing depression, low self esteem, anxiety, parental difficulties, relationship problems, substance abuse, anger, and stress related symptoms. I have training in teaching relaxation techniques and anger management skills including deep breathing and systematic desensitization.
(773) 717-2945 View (773) 717-2945
Photo of Alison Levy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Alison Levy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
I will collaborate with you, utilizing cognitive-behavioral and other evidence based techniques while exploring your stories, identity, and worldview.
You do not need to wait for life to become unmanageable before seeking help to take the steps to find balance and serenity in your life. I pride myself on my ability to see each person as an individual while considering the context of the situations, environments, and relationships that make up your stories. Together we can create a path toward an empowered understanding of your lived experiences and your hopes for the future.
I will collaborate with you, utilizing cognitive-behavioral and other evidence based techniques while exploring your stories, identity, and worldview.
You do not need to wait for life to become unmanageable before seeking help to take the steps to find balance and serenity in your life. I pride myself on my ability to see each person as an individual while considering the context of the situations, environments, and relationships that make up your stories. Together we can create a path toward an empowered understanding of your lived experiences and your hopes for the future.
(773) 249-2921 View (773) 249-2921
Photo of Meredith Patterson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Meredith Patterson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60628  (Online Only)
My name is Meredith Patterson. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and started practicing in 2017. I received my master's degree in Community Counseling from National Louis University. I have experience in working with adolescents and adults utilizing Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). The goal is to help clients overcome the barriers that keep them from living the life they want to live. I am passionate about helping clients see their full potential and move past the things that have kept them stuck.
My name is Meredith Patterson. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and started practicing in 2017. I received my master's degree in Community Counseling from National Louis University. I have experience in working with adolescents and adults utilizing Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). The goal is to help clients overcome the barriers that keep them from living the life they want to live. I am passionate about helping clients see their full potential and move past the things that have kept them stuck.
(773) 389-1287 View (773) 389-1287
Photo of Rose Carol, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Rose Carol
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Whatever the obstacle - fear to move forward, nagging self-doubt, or a harsh inner critic that tells you that you can't do it, I'm here to help you get unstuck! I'm passionate about working with adults affected by anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma as well as those wanting to focus on personal growth and relational issues. I have a background in Executive Functioning Coaching and Holistic Health Coaching, and expertise in a variety of approaches including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Depth Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Inner Child Healing, Somatic/Body Work, and Meditation.
Whatever the obstacle - fear to move forward, nagging self-doubt, or a harsh inner critic that tells you that you can't do it, I'm here to help you get unstuck! I'm passionate about working with adults affected by anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma as well as those wanting to focus on personal growth and relational issues. I have a background in Executive Functioning Coaching and Holistic Health Coaching, and expertise in a variety of approaches including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Depth Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Inner Child Healing, Somatic/Body Work, and Meditation.
(312) 376-2805 View (312) 376-2805
Photo of Jamison Kidd, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jamison Kidd
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I specialize in Existential Therapy and use a variety of behavioral and cognitive insight-driven techniques.
How we relate to people, ideas, and emotions reflects our ability to live our most authentic and genuine lives. Using empathy and compassion, my clients and I create a space to share freely, build insight, and craft and solidify mechanisms to heal, connect with ourselves, and develop the type of relationships that matter the most. We will work together on identifying and implementing your strengths and values while we craft new skills to experience the healing that will contribute to moving forward.
I specialize in Existential Therapy and use a variety of behavioral and cognitive insight-driven techniques.
How we relate to people, ideas, and emotions reflects our ability to live our most authentic and genuine lives. Using empathy and compassion, my clients and I create a space to share freely, build insight, and craft and solidify mechanisms to heal, connect with ourselves, and develop the type of relationships that matter the most. We will work together on identifying and implementing your strengths and values while we craft new skills to experience the healing that will contribute to moving forward.
(773) 839-4628 View (773) 839-4628
Photo of Jennifer (Kamprath) Parrado, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jennifer (Kamprath) Parrado
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I utilize various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I believe in striving to meet clients wherever they are along their journey and working together to create a treatment plan that utilizes a holistic therapeutic approach. Together, we will tailor your care to meet your specific needs and address your concerns. My background in trauma-focused therapy allows me to take proven techniques from this branch of therapy and apply them across the board to each client’s unique needs, whether trauma related or not.
I utilize various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Mindfulness.
I believe in striving to meet clients wherever they are along their journey and working together to create a treatment plan that utilizes a holistic therapeutic approach. Together, we will tailor your care to meet your specific needs and address your concerns. My background in trauma-focused therapy allows me to take proven techniques from this branch of therapy and apply them across the board to each client’s unique needs, whether trauma related or not.
(872) 252-7906 View (872) 252-7906
Photo of Valerie Honan, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Valerie Honan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646  (Online Only)
I am an experienced clinician who provides individual therapy for clients ages 18 and up. My areas of special interest are anxiety, depression, infertility, life changes and trauma. I also enjoy working with first responders. My counseling approach is person-centered utilizing techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy. I encourage clients to engage in self-reflection and help promote personal growth. I am passionate about my work and enjoy being a support for others. I feel honored to be able to help clients improve their mental health and wellness.
I am an experienced clinician who provides individual therapy for clients ages 18 and up. My areas of special interest are anxiety, depression, infertility, life changes and trauma. I also enjoy working with first responders. My counseling approach is person-centered utilizing techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy. I encourage clients to engage in self-reflection and help promote personal growth. I am passionate about my work and enjoy being a support for others. I feel honored to be able to help clients improve their mental health and wellness.
(872) 206-9164 View (872) 206-9164
Photo of Sarah Lerch-Halliday, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sarah Lerch-Halliday
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60620
I'll work with you to help find effective coping strategies that match your needs, often using cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavioral therapy interventions.
Hello! My name is Sarah Lerch-Halliday and I've been working as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for 12 years. I provide therapy to people experiencing increased symptoms related to stress, relationships, depression, anxiety, and more. I’ll work with you as a compassionate and trauma-informed therapist, using evidenced-based coping strategies to help you move towards improved mental health. I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are facing problems at school, work, in relationships, recent loss, and just general life stressors.
I'll work with you to help find effective coping strategies that match your needs, often using cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavioral therapy interventions.
Hello! My name is Sarah Lerch-Halliday and I've been working as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for 12 years. I provide therapy to people experiencing increased symptoms related to stress, relationships, depression, anxiety, and more. I’ll work with you as a compassionate and trauma-informed therapist, using evidenced-based coping strategies to help you move towards improved mental health. I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are facing problems at school, work, in relationships, recent loss, and just general life stressors.
(773) 207-3177 View (773) 207-3177
Photo of Ashley Coleman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ashley Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Ashley’s therapeutic style is collaborative and person-centered, using a combination of art therapy, existential therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Emotion Focused Family Therapy, through a multicultural and trauma informed lens. Ashley specializes in anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADD/ADHD, depression, general life stressors, and life transitions.
Ashley’s therapeutic style is collaborative and person-centered, using a combination of art therapy, existential therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Emotion Focused Family Therapy, through a multicultural and trauma informed lens. Ashley specializes in anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADD/ADHD, depression, general life stressors, and life transitions.
(312) 229-5317 View (312) 229-5317
Photo of Marla Nelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Marla Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I use a person-centered approach to establish a rapport and incorporate many counseling tools, including CBT, ACT, mindfulness, REBT, Grief work, Focused Solution techniques, and trauma-informed care.
Hi! I'm Marla Nelson, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I believe the counseling relationship is a cooperative partnership between you and me. It's your session. I am flexible in my counseling process, depending on your needs and preferences. I use many therapeutic modalities with clients that have proven very effective. I look forward to meeting you! I treat adults, teens, and pre-teens for depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorders, stage-of-life difficulties, trauma, social skills, career counseling, and substance use disorders.
I use a person-centered approach to establish a rapport and incorporate many counseling tools, including CBT, ACT, mindfulness, REBT, Grief work, Focused Solution techniques, and trauma-informed care.
Hi! I'm Marla Nelson, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I believe the counseling relationship is a cooperative partnership between you and me. It's your session. I am flexible in my counseling process, depending on your needs and preferences. I use many therapeutic modalities with clients that have proven very effective. I look forward to meeting you! I treat adults, teens, and pre-teens for depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorders, stage-of-life difficulties, trauma, social skills, career counseling, and substance use disorders.
(773) 900-6547 View (773) 900-6547
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists

How does cognitive behavioral therapy work?

Cognitive behavioral therapy works by exploring how your thoughts affect your emotions and experiences. CBT helps you identify distortions in your thinking. For example, you may tend to jump to the worst case scenario catastrophizing or think in extremes (all-or-nothing thinking). A therapist can teach you how to push back against those thoughts to ultimately change your feelings and behavior for the better. They can also provide coping skills to better deal with stressors and challenges.

When do I know to seek treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy?

It’s reasonable to consider cognitive behavioral therapy if you struggle to manage difficult emotions or behaviors to such an extent that you are not getting the most out of life on a day-to-day basis. If you want a shorter term, concrete, skills-based approach, CBT is a great option. (By contrast, other types of therapy may devote more time to exploring your past and its effects.) The decision to seek CBT also depends on the condition you’re treating; CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other disorders.

How can I find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else?

To find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else, you may want to begin by discussing the person’s problem, researching cognitive behavioral therapy, and assessing whether the approach is the right fit. You could then reach out to a few cognitive behavioral therapists in this directory, explain the scenario, have a consultation with those available, and determine who could be a good match.

Why is CBT such a popular form of therapy?

CBT has become a popular form of therapy because it is effective and accessible. Robust research has demonstrated that CBT is an effective treatment for many mental health conditions. And CBT can be learned in relatively few sessions, which means that many people can engage in the process, afford it, and see results quickly. It involves learning concrete skills such as disputing unhelpful thoughts; these skills can also be taught and spread widely.