Emotionally Focused Therapists in River Forest, IL

Photo of Building Resiliency Counseling Services , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Building Resiliency Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who brings over a decade of experience in outpatient mental health. I graduated with a Master's in social work from Dominican University. Since 2013, I have been serving individuals and families.Specializing in the well-being of children, adolescents, and older adults. My extensive background includes working with clients with anxiety disorders, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress disorder, and major life changes.
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who brings over a decade of experience in outpatient mental health. I graduated with a Master's in social work from Dominican University. Since 2013, I have been serving individuals and families.Specializing in the well-being of children, adolescents, and older adults. My extensive background includes working with clients with anxiety disorders, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress disorder, and major life changes.
(708) 581-7765 View (708) 581-7765
Photo of Deborah L Borman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Deborah L Borman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Waitlist for new clients
Adult life is complex, full of many responsibilities and accompanying stressors. Difficulties balancing work and home, communicating with others, tensions between relationships and personal goals and achievements. These complex feelings can lead to anxiety, depression, and feeling overwhelmed. I work with adults in all career settings and relationships, as well as with young adults transitioning from adolescence to college and navigating steep life changes. Together we will examine your early life experiences for insight into who you are and to shape your personal values toward realizing contentment.
Adult life is complex, full of many responsibilities and accompanying stressors. Difficulties balancing work and home, communicating with others, tensions between relationships and personal goals and achievements. These complex feelings can lead to anxiety, depression, and feeling overwhelmed. I work with adults in all career settings and relationships, as well as with young adults transitioning from adolescence to college and navigating steep life changes. Together we will examine your early life experiences for insight into who you are and to shape your personal values toward realizing contentment.
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Photo of Michelle Stahley, Counselor in River Forest, IL
Michelle Stahley
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist you feel connected to and understood by is the key to a successful therapy experience. I pride myself on being an authentic, non-judgmental therapist, who is down-to-Earth & not afraid to use humor or a gentle nudge in my approach. Therapy is a partnership and my style is active, collaborative, and empowering. We will focus on finding solutions together by utilizing your strengths and fostering insight in a relaxed and safe environment. I especially love working with & empowering introverts and Highly Sensitive People!
Finding a therapist you feel connected to and understood by is the key to a successful therapy experience. I pride myself on being an authentic, non-judgmental therapist, who is down-to-Earth & not afraid to use humor or a gentle nudge in my approach. Therapy is a partnership and my style is active, collaborative, and empowering. We will focus on finding solutions together by utilizing your strengths and fostering insight in a relaxed and safe environment. I especially love working with & empowering introverts and Highly Sensitive People!
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Photo of Tina Shrader, Marriage & Family Therapist in River Forest, IL
Tina Shrader
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Do you consider family time a dreaded activity? Do you avoid going home because you know your child is acting out and on your last nerve, your teen is spending more time in their room and becoming quiet and withdrawn, and your partner is distant and unconcerned? Maybe you've tried reaching out for help but couldn't seem to find the right therapist.
Do you consider family time a dreaded activity? Do you avoid going home because you know your child is acting out and on your last nerve, your teen is spending more time in their room and becoming quiet and withdrawn, and your partner is distant and unconcerned? Maybe you've tried reaching out for help but couldn't seem to find the right therapist.
(872) 666-9904 View (872) 666-9904
Photo of Madigan Kent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Madigan Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, SSP, Coach
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Hello! And welcome to my practice. I have a couple of specialities. First, I help sufferers of trauma become safely emobodied after years of disconnection and fear of feeling. Second, I help clients build nervous system regulation and secure attachment so they may feel safer and more free in the world. Third, I coach clients make room for their true 'selves' in their lives, without sacrificing family or connection, blending individuation/exploration with secure attachment. And finally, I help clients remove barriers between them and their goals so they may lead more purpose driven lives for themselves and those around them.
Hello! And welcome to my practice. I have a couple of specialities. First, I help sufferers of trauma become safely emobodied after years of disconnection and fear of feeling. Second, I help clients build nervous system regulation and secure attachment so they may feel safer and more free in the world. Third, I coach clients make room for their true 'selves' in their lives, without sacrificing family or connection, blending individuation/exploration with secure attachment. And finally, I help clients remove barriers between them and their goals so they may lead more purpose driven lives for themselves and those around them.
(872) 225-2150 View (872) 225-2150
Photo of Heidi Kon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Heidi Kon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Does every day feel like Groundhog's Day--like you are struggling with the same issues you always did? Do you feel like you're not "good enough" or that you're not living-up to your full potential? Does it seem like your past is preventing you from enjoying your present? YOU ARE NOT ALONE! At some point, we all experience these feelings. I believe that we are all capable of growth and transformation. Through a positive client-therapist relationship, we will identify and examine patterns so that you break self-defeating behaviors, create healthier relationships, heal from past trauma, and enhance personal growth.
Does every day feel like Groundhog's Day--like you are struggling with the same issues you always did? Do you feel like you're not "good enough" or that you're not living-up to your full potential? Does it seem like your past is preventing you from enjoying your present? YOU ARE NOT ALONE! At some point, we all experience these feelings. I believe that we are all capable of growth and transformation. Through a positive client-therapist relationship, we will identify and examine patterns so that you break self-defeating behaviors, create healthier relationships, heal from past trauma, and enhance personal growth.
(708) 613-8128 View (708) 613-8128
Photo of Blair Barbour, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Blair Barbour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Waitlist for new clients
People with stressful lives, who have been trying their best to deal with anxiety, self esteem, relationship issues -- all reasons people contact me initially. You may have noticed feeling or behaving in ways that are self-defeating, or you are disappointed that you don't feel more authentic with others, or fully engaged in your life. Crises such as divorce or loss, challenges in parenting or work pressures can serve as catalysts for reevaluating the way we've been living. Psychotherapy offers a unique opportunity to discover what I believe is inherent in everyone: the ability to change and grow and heal.
People with stressful lives, who have been trying their best to deal with anxiety, self esteem, relationship issues -- all reasons people contact me initially. You may have noticed feeling or behaving in ways that are self-defeating, or you are disappointed that you don't feel more authentic with others, or fully engaged in your life. Crises such as divorce or loss, challenges in parenting or work pressures can serve as catalysts for reevaluating the way we've been living. Psychotherapy offers a unique opportunity to discover what I believe is inherent in everyone: the ability to change and grow and heal.
(708) 232-0997 View (708) 232-0997
Photo of Dr. Colleen Duffy Cira, Psychologist in River Forest, IL
Dr. Colleen Duffy Cira
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
To schedule sessions, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh. Oftentimes women, especially working mothers, walk around feeling like something is wrong with them. We’re overwhelmed, stressed to the max, have too much on our plates, not enough support, we exhaust ourselves trying to keep up and we feel like we’re the only ones struggling. But we aren’t. As a CEO, mother and wife, Dr. Cira understands what so many women and mothers are struggling with on a day-to-day basis. And when women begin to understand that they are not the problem, life gets a lot easier.
To schedule sessions, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh. Oftentimes women, especially working mothers, walk around feeling like something is wrong with them. We’re overwhelmed, stressed to the max, have too much on our plates, not enough support, we exhaust ourselves trying to keep up and we feel like we’re the only ones struggling. But we aren’t. As a CEO, mother and wife, Dr. Cira understands what so many women and mothers are struggling with on a day-to-day basis. And when women begin to understand that they are not the problem, life gets a lot easier.
(312) 967-9204 View (312) 967-9204
Photo of Julie Gerut, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Julie Gerut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
I help individuals and couples develop clear strategies to reduce feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. Those coping with marital or relationship difficulties, career transitions and parenting issues find my gentle directness helpful in improving the quality of their lives. In a calm, neutral environment, I offer clients the opportunity to understand themselves in a manner that leads to more satisfying family, marital and work relationships. I utilize family systems and cognitive behavioral therapy to help individuals and couples improve their communication skills and navigate the uncertain waters of change.
I help individuals and couples develop clear strategies to reduce feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. Those coping with marital or relationship difficulties, career transitions and parenting issues find my gentle directness helpful in improving the quality of their lives. In a calm, neutral environment, I offer clients the opportunity to understand themselves in a manner that leads to more satisfying family, marital and work relationships. I utilize family systems and cognitive behavioral therapy to help individuals and couples improve their communication skills and navigate the uncertain waters of change.
(312) 789-5420 View (312) 789-5420
Photo of Vince Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Vince Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
In my psychotherapy practice, I believe in five components: honesty, authenticity, creativity, humor and empathy. As a whole, I believe in developing authentic connections and utilizing innovative approaches, asking questions of what each individual is seeking in their lives and how can they get there.
In my psychotherapy practice, I believe in five components: honesty, authenticity, creativity, humor and empathy. As a whole, I believe in developing authentic connections and utilizing innovative approaches, asking questions of what each individual is seeking in their lives and how can they get there.
(773) 757-5117 View (773) 757-5117
Photo of Theresa Wier, Psy.D., Psychologist in River Forest, IL
Theresa Wier, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Hello. You are probably reading this as a result of an issue that has been on your mind and are hoping to find some peace or come to a resolution. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a personable, down-to-earth approach willing to partner with you through your current struggle. I support a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to discuss the thoughts and feelings that may be troubling for you. I have helped individuals, couples, and families with a vast array of mental health issues using a psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, or a family systems approach.
Hello. You are probably reading this as a result of an issue that has been on your mind and are hoping to find some peace or come to a resolution. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a personable, down-to-earth approach willing to partner with you through your current struggle. I support a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to discuss the thoughts and feelings that may be troubling for you. I have helped individuals, couples, and families with a vast array of mental health issues using a psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, or a family systems approach.
(708) 669-0746 View (708) 669-0746
Photo of Linda Small, Psychologist in River Forest, IL
Linda Small
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305  (Online Only)
I work best with clients who are troubled by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, losses or trauma, and life transition issues. I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of treatment techniques including cognitive, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapies as well as behavior management strategies. My research on coping with traumatic life events has prepared me well to work with clients who have experienced trauma and crisis. A life crisis can be debilitating at first, but can lead to a search for meaning and dramatic new growth. It is exciting for me to accompany clients in this process!
I work best with clients who are troubled by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, losses or trauma, and life transition issues. I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of treatment techniques including cognitive, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapies as well as behavior management strategies. My research on coping with traumatic life events has prepared me well to work with clients who have experienced trauma and crisis. A life crisis can be debilitating at first, but can lead to a search for meaning and dramatic new growth. It is exciting for me to accompany clients in this process!
(630) 313-6319 View (630) 313-6319
Photo of Jessica B Sittig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Jessica B Sittig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
My specialty is providing therapeutic services to children and adults. I utilize a client centered approach to join with my clients in the therapeutic process and offer gentle, non-judgmental support through the journey of therapy. I meet you where you are.
My specialty is providing therapeutic services to children and adults. I utilize a client centered approach to join with my clients in the therapeutic process and offer gentle, non-judgmental support through the journey of therapy. I meet you where you are.
(708) 949-4682 View (708) 949-4682
Photo of Jessica Punzo, Psychologist in River Forest, IL
Jessica Punzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Waitlist for new clients
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of psychological trauma. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have extensive experience in evidence based treatments for PTSD and have been successful in treating a wide variety of individuals. I have also completed specialized training in maternal mental health. I treat women dealing with mental health issues that come up during and after pregnancy, such as anxiety, depression, and OCD. I also help women navigate pregnancy loss, infertility, and traumatic births. As a mother myself, I am passionate about working with other mothers struggling with mental health issues related to pregnancy or the postpartum period.
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of psychological trauma. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have extensive experience in evidence based treatments for PTSD and have been successful in treating a wide variety of individuals. I have also completed specialized training in maternal mental health. I treat women dealing with mental health issues that come up during and after pregnancy, such as anxiety, depression, and OCD. I also help women navigate pregnancy loss, infertility, and traumatic births. As a mother myself, I am passionate about working with other mothers struggling with mental health issues related to pregnancy or the postpartum period.
(708) 613-8682 View (708) 613-8682
Photo of Deb Clause, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Deb Clause
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Life is filled with transitions, both good and painful, and it is our attention to those transitions that help us build joy and fulfillment in our lives. I believe that therapy is about a good match between the therapist and the person seeking assistance and that this partnership forms the basis for a real opportunity for self knowledge and growth. In our work together I provide a thoughtful, caring and safe space to attend to the life issues that are most in the forefront for you. With focused attention to those issues, surprising and hopeful things begin to occur.
Life is filled with transitions, both good and painful, and it is our attention to those transitions that help us build joy and fulfillment in our lives. I believe that therapy is about a good match between the therapist and the person seeking assistance and that this partnership forms the basis for a real opportunity for self knowledge and growth. In our work together I provide a thoughtful, caring and safe space to attend to the life issues that are most in the forefront for you. With focused attention to those issues, surprising and hopeful things begin to occur.
(708) 733-5405 View (708) 733-5405
Photo of Amanda Jenkins, Counselor in River Forest, IL
Amanda Jenkins
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
(708) 887-2960 View (708) 887-2960
Photo of Rick B. Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in River Forest, IL
Rick B. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305  (Online Only)
Our most important relationships are also often those we struggle with. I am an expert listener, advisor, and facilitator and, working together, we’ll turn struggles into opportunity and strife into increased connection.
Our most important relationships are also often those we struggle with. I am an expert listener, advisor, and facilitator and, working together, we’ll turn struggles into opportunity and strife into increased connection.
(708) 406-2745 View (708) 406-2745
Photo of Sarah Basler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Forest, IL
Sarah Basler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
My name is Sarah Basler, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. Therapy is a big step. I am happy you are looking for a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I have over 20 years of experience providing counseling to adolescents and adults. I have experience treating substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. My goal is to help you on your path to healing. I like to meet you where you are and help you be the best version of yourself. Transitions and life can be hard. I am here to guide you through life's challenges.
My name is Sarah Basler, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. Therapy is a big step. I am happy you are looking for a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I have over 20 years of experience providing counseling to adolescents and adults. I have experience treating substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. My goal is to help you on your path to healing. I like to meet you where you are and help you be the best version of yourself. Transitions and life can be hard. I am here to guide you through life's challenges.
(773) 694-4991 View (773) 694-4991
Photo of Kate Hutson, Counselor in River Forest, IL
Kate Hutson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
I am committed to creating a safe and healthy environment for clients to grow in self-awareness, curiosity, responsibility and authenticity. I use a variety of client-centered treatment modalities in my work depending on the individual client's needs, including Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Somatic Experiencing. I believe in the mind-body connection and work to incorporate the body's knowledge in treating a variety of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders and life transitions.
I am committed to creating a safe and healthy environment for clients to grow in self-awareness, curiosity, responsibility and authenticity. I use a variety of client-centered treatment modalities in my work depending on the individual client's needs, including Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Somatic Experiencing. I believe in the mind-body connection and work to incorporate the body's knowledge in treating a variety of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders and life transitions.
(331) 225-1218 View (331) 225-1218
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in River Forest, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612

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Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is for couples who are emotionally distressed, stuck in an unsatisfying relationship pattern or feeling deeply alienated. They may even believe the relationship is beyond repair. Very often, the partners display intense anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal in the relationship. In addition, EFT is helpful to couples and individuals who have difficulty expressing emotions and those who have trouble regulating emotions.

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

People need emotionally focused therapy because the need for others is built into the brain, but the pressures of daily life can erode feelings of love, and couples often do not have the skills to find their way back to the comfort of each other. Instead, they may be stuck in repetitive patterns of anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal. Emotionally focused therapy regards such strong negative feelings as expressions of protest over the loss of connection and turns them into pathways of reconnection.

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

Over the course of eight to 20 weekly sessions, couples de-escalate their negative emotional reactivity to one another so that they can listen to each other and be responsive to each other’s needs. Then the deep emotional and physical bond is restored, giving partners a sense of comfort and security, which they can use to solve whatever problems come their way. The therapist plays an active role, helping partners understand how anger and withdrawal are actually misguided cries for connection.

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

EFT is designed to help couples stuck in dysfunctional relationship patterns regain closeness and rebuild their relationship. Typically, such couples experience considerable distress, with partners feeling alienated and distrustful of one another, not certain their relationship can survive. EFT is also helpful to individuals experiencing attachment-related fears of loss; it helps them learn to use their fears as a way of eliciting the closeness they desire.