Photo of Semillas Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Illinois
Semillas Counseling PLLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Our therapists incorporate a client-centered, trauma-focused, strengths-based, integrative approach, grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally focused, narrative and family systems theory.
Having difficulty communicating effectively - We Can Help Having the same fight, over and over again - We Can Help. If you're looking for a safe space to repair, restore and revitalize your relationship - We Can HELP! In sessions you'll practice new relationship skills, gain a greater sense of self-acceptance and self-awareness as you begin to eliminate communication patterns interfering with trust and intimacy. Together we explore the roadblocks in your relationship while strengthening a path toward greater intimacy, communication and relationship satisfaction.
Our therapists incorporate a client-centered, trauma-focused, strengths-based, integrative approach, grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally focused, narrative and family systems theory.
Having difficulty communicating effectively - We Can Help Having the same fight, over and over again - We Can Help. If you're looking for a safe space to repair, restore and revitalize your relationship - We Can HELP! In sessions you'll practice new relationship skills, gain a greater sense of self-acceptance and self-awareness as you begin to eliminate communication patterns interfering with trust and intimacy. Together we explore the roadblocks in your relationship while strengthening a path toward greater intimacy, communication and relationship satisfaction.
(847) 423-8215 View (847) 423-8215
Photo of Gigi Mary Clinard Borge, Counselor in Illinois
Gigi Mary Clinard Borge
Counselor, MA , NCC, LPC, EMDR
Not Verified Not Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I offer approaches focused on creating healthy relationships (IFS, EFT, Gottman), healing from trauma (EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, IFS, experiential therapy), and supporting clients in their pursuits (Strengths-based coaching, CBT, Mindfulness).
Whether you seek relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, PTSD, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I am excited to collaborate with clients who desire to live their unique lives fully, participate in their healing process and seek to establish genuine, compassionate relationship with themselves and others! I believe most of us are doing our best to become who we hope to be, and can benefit from seeking appropriate support. Therefore, I don’t see a diagnosis, but an amazing human who wants to thrive despite life’s many challenges.
I offer approaches focused on creating healthy relationships (IFS, EFT, Gottman), healing from trauma (EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, IFS, experiential therapy), and supporting clients in their pursuits (Strengths-based coaching, CBT, Mindfulness).
Whether you seek relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, PTSD, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I am excited to collaborate with clients who desire to live their unique lives fully, participate in their healing process and seek to establish genuine, compassionate relationship with themselves and others! I believe most of us are doing our best to become who we hope to be, and can benefit from seeking appropriate support. Therefore, I don’t see a diagnosis, but an amazing human who wants to thrive despite life’s many challenges.
(630) 407-1782 x328 View (630) 407-1782 x328
Photo of Kari Harrison, Counselor in Illinois
Kari Harrison
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am an emotionally focused sex and relational therapist with over 10 years of experience in both individual and relational work.
I believe that each client has a story to share, stemming from a diverse and unique background - and seek to hold clients in a safe, nurturing space that is truly their own. My conviction is that it is the relationship between the therapist and the client that is ultimately what heals, and when it works, it is immensely powerful. I am passionate about exploring ways to help clients discover their own resiliency and live more authentically in order to create the mental and emotional space to reach their fullest potential.
I am an emotionally focused sex and relational therapist with over 10 years of experience in both individual and relational work.
I believe that each client has a story to share, stemming from a diverse and unique background - and seek to hold clients in a safe, nurturing space that is truly their own. My conviction is that it is the relationship between the therapist and the client that is ultimately what heals, and when it works, it is immensely powerful. I am passionate about exploring ways to help clients discover their own resiliency and live more authentically in order to create the mental and emotional space to reach their fullest potential.
(773) 839-4563 View (773) 839-4563
Photo of Maryann DeMatthews Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois
Maryann DeMatthews Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Geneva, IL 60134
Theoretical models for healing include Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction, Somatic Psychotherapy, Transpersonal Psychology, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Parts Work, Voice Dialogue, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Structural, Bowenian, and Transgenerational Family Therapy, Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy, and Parent Support and Training.
Enjoy therapy. I provide in-depth, client specific psychotherapy. I help individuals face and overcome challenges, cultivate hope, and move forward. With comprehensive experience and deep theoretical understanding, I support my clients to move forward safely and securely. I treat clients who have challenges including Personality Disorders, Depression, Grief/Bereavement, Anxiety, Panic, Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. End-to-end encrypted telehealth therapy with secure email, video streaming, and intake system.
Theoretical models for healing include Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction, Somatic Psychotherapy, Transpersonal Psychology, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Parts Work, Voice Dialogue, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Structural, Bowenian, and Transgenerational Family Therapy, Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy, and Parent Support and Training.
Enjoy therapy. I provide in-depth, client specific psychotherapy. I help individuals face and overcome challenges, cultivate hope, and move forward. With comprehensive experience and deep theoretical understanding, I support my clients to move forward safely and securely. I treat clients who have challenges including Personality Disorders, Depression, Grief/Bereavement, Anxiety, Panic, Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. End-to-end encrypted telehealth therapy with secure email, video streaming, and intake system.
(331) 223-0330 View (331) 223-0330
Photo of Jason Singer, Pre-Licensed Professional in Illinois
Jason Singer
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Hello! I've joined Affiliates In Counseling so I can continue my work using emotionally focused strategies to work with adults & teens who suffer from anxiety, depression and stress, as well as those experiencing grief, life changes, job loss and isolation, in both the northern suburbs and in Chicago. As a couples & family counselor, I've had great success utilizing these same emotional tools to strengthen and enhance more effective and long-term communication skills, helping to build more fulfilling relationships. Finally, I had the honor working directly in both the post-deployment veteran and LGBTQ communities during my training.
Hello! I've joined Affiliates In Counseling so I can continue my work using emotionally focused strategies to work with adults & teens who suffer from anxiety, depression and stress, as well as those experiencing grief, life changes, job loss and isolation, in both the northern suburbs and in Chicago. As a couples & family counselor, I've had great success utilizing these same emotional tools to strengthen and enhance more effective and long-term communication skills, helping to build more fulfilling relationships. Finally, I had the honor working directly in both the post-deployment veteran and LGBTQ communities during my training.
(224) 365-8743 View (224) 365-8743
Photo of Douglas G Cater, Counselor in Illinois
Douglas G Cater
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60304
I am also trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy which, like Imago, seeks to help couples restore comfort and positive excitement to relationships which have "gotten offtrack.
Angry, anxious, confused, or depressed because of relationship problems? Feel your partner never listens to you? Keep having the same old fights over and over? Imago Relationship Therapy is very helpful in restoring connection, safety, and romance. As a Certified Imago Therapist I enable each partner to be heard and understood so the needs of each can be met. Usually couples experience some immediate relief from the pain of alienation and begin to rediscover the love that brought them together. If your spouse won't come for counseling, come alone! I also do individual therapy, including EMDR for trauma resolution..
I am also trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy which, like Imago, seeks to help couples restore comfort and positive excitement to relationships which have "gotten offtrack.
Angry, anxious, confused, or depressed because of relationship problems? Feel your partner never listens to you? Keep having the same old fights over and over? Imago Relationship Therapy is very helpful in restoring connection, safety, and romance. As a Certified Imago Therapist I enable each partner to be heard and understood so the needs of each can be met. Usually couples experience some immediate relief from the pain of alienation and begin to rediscover the love that brought them together. If your spouse won't come for counseling, come alone! I also do individual therapy, including EMDR for trauma resolution..
(708) 232-0318 View (708) 232-0318
Photo of Nicole Ileen Didier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Nicole Ileen Didier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
Waitlist for new clients
Greenberg), Emotionally Focused Therapy (S.
I have passion and experience working alongside youth, adults, and couples in navigating their overall mental health! Whether it's helping clients with depression decipher where their lack or misplaced motivation is coming from, finding ways to calm any level of anxiety (i.e. daily lingering anxiety to extreme levels where it feels crippling) that impacts a person on a daily life, understanding the levels of bi-polar and how to work with them, navigating familial issues such as divorce (teenage or adult children and parents), among other concerns!
Greenberg), Emotionally Focused Therapy (S.
I have passion and experience working alongside youth, adults, and couples in navigating their overall mental health! Whether it's helping clients with depression decipher where their lack or misplaced motivation is coming from, finding ways to calm any level of anxiety (i.e. daily lingering anxiety to extreme levels where it feels crippling) that impacts a person on a daily life, understanding the levels of bi-polar and how to work with them, navigating familial issues such as divorce (teenage or adult children and parents), among other concerns!
(815) 396-6810 View (815) 396-6810
Photo of Eric Cho, Counselor in Illinois
Eric Cho
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I have training/experience in a variety of treatment modalities including drama therapy and expressive arts therapy, DBT, ACT, EMDR, psychodynamic, and EFT.
Are you feeling stuck or unsure of yourself? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, work/life balance, relationship concerns, or how to achieve what you really want? I can help you find your authentic voice, connect to your inner strengths, discover new perspectives, and effectively assert yourself to make the positive changes you need. I will help you manage your self-critical voices and gain meaningful insights into your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I specialize in helping young and not so young adults who are struggling with self-confidence, relationships, trauma, life transitions, and issues of identity.
I have training/experience in a variety of treatment modalities including drama therapy and expressive arts therapy, DBT, ACT, EMDR, psychodynamic, and EFT.
Are you feeling stuck or unsure of yourself? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, work/life balance, relationship concerns, or how to achieve what you really want? I can help you find your authentic voice, connect to your inner strengths, discover new perspectives, and effectively assert yourself to make the positive changes you need. I will help you manage your self-critical voices and gain meaningful insights into your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I specialize in helping young and not so young adults who are struggling with self-confidence, relationships, trauma, life transitions, and issues of identity.
(773) 570-2331 View (773) 570-2331
Photo of Megan Fletcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Megan Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
I do sprinkle in some Cognitive Behavior approaches, EFT and DBT.
Welcome! Feeling overwhelmed and unsure on where to start? One thing about me, I am passionate about assisting my patients through life transitions and improving their quality of life. I am passionate about working with clients through life transitions and pursuing the journey of self-discovery and purpose in life. I am a trauma informed provider and take a select amount patients with a focus on PTSD, childhood experiences and attachment. I take a person-centered approach to my therapy, meaning assisting you as a partner in identifying and exploring what you want according to your likes, dislikes, and needs in therapy.
I do sprinkle in some Cognitive Behavior approaches, EFT and DBT.
Welcome! Feeling overwhelmed and unsure on where to start? One thing about me, I am passionate about assisting my patients through life transitions and improving their quality of life. I am passionate about working with clients through life transitions and pursuing the journey of self-discovery and purpose in life. I am a trauma informed provider and take a select amount patients with a focus on PTSD, childhood experiences and attachment. I take a person-centered approach to my therapy, meaning assisting you as a partner in identifying and exploring what you want according to your likes, dislikes, and needs in therapy.
(618) 591-2635 View (618) 591-2635
Photo of Rainn Villalpando, Counselor in Illinois
Rainn Villalpando
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
We will use Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy to guide our work.
It's normal to have difficulty with communication in relationships from time to time. Couple's therapy can help you get unstuck. I teach mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Theory to help my clients get unstuck whenever they find themselves feeling blocked in their relationships. This can look like feeling anxiety when approaching certain topics, or a lack of trust in your partner's words and actions. Sessions include psycho-education, emotional processing, and structured exercises to support you in developing new ways to communicate.
We will use Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy to guide our work.
It's normal to have difficulty with communication in relationships from time to time. Couple's therapy can help you get unstuck. I teach mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Theory to help my clients get unstuck whenever they find themselves feeling blocked in their relationships. This can look like feeling anxiety when approaching certain topics, or a lack of trust in your partner's words and actions. Sessions include psycho-education, emotional processing, and structured exercises to support you in developing new ways to communicate.
(773) 232-5345 View (773) 232-5345
Photo of Sheila Hynes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois
Sheila Hynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I work with couples, individuals, and families utilizing methods from Emotionally Focused Therapy. This scientifically proven approach, developed by Dr. Sue Johnson, helps people understand and improve their emotional connection with themselves and others. Couples learn how to reconnect through listening, validation, and empathy. The EFT process, backed by research, enables couples, families, and individuals to create secure attachments, leading to improvements in depression and anxiety. I offer faith-based counseling in my practice according to my client's preferences.
In my practice, I work with couples, individuals, and families utilizing methods from Emotionally Focused Therapy. This scientifically proven approach, developed by Dr. Sue Johnson, helps people understand and improve their emotional connection with themselves and others. Couples learn how to reconnect through listening, validation, and empathy. The EFT process, backed by research, enables couples, families, and individuals to create secure attachments, leading to improvements in depression and anxiety. I offer faith-based counseling in my practice according to my client's preferences.
(331) 701-2676 View (331) 701-2676
Photo of Rhonda N Goldman, Psychologist in Illinois
Rhonda N Goldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
EFT works to transform bad feelings that create pain and hold you back.
Having practiced psychotherapy and counseling for the past 20 years, I work to form an empathic relationship with clients and form a collaborative understanding of the difficulties that brought them to therapy, and how to best solve them. The goal is to find more satisfying relationships and fulfilling ways of being in the world. I work primarily from an Emotion-focused therapy (EFT) framework, although I have been trained in a variety of different psychotherapeutic methods. EFT is an empirically-supported approach that is flexible in that it allows the integration of other methods and techniques when necessary.
EFT works to transform bad feelings that create pain and hold you back.
Having practiced psychotherapy and counseling for the past 20 years, I work to form an empathic relationship with clients and form a collaborative understanding of the difficulties that brought them to therapy, and how to best solve them. The goal is to find more satisfying relationships and fulfilling ways of being in the world. I work primarily from an Emotion-focused therapy (EFT) framework, although I have been trained in a variety of different psychotherapeutic methods. EFT is an empirically-supported approach that is flexible in that it allows the integration of other methods and techniques when necessary.
(773) 839-6685 x634 View (773) 839-6685 x634
Photo of Angela Fitch, Counselor in Illinois
Angela Fitch
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
My clients benefit from evidenced based therapies such as psychodynamic and emotionally focused using attachment theory and energy psychology, as well as cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies.
Your relationship with family, friends, and, of course, yourself is of the most importance. I believe there is no good reason for you to be alone with grief, insecurity, low self-esteem, shame, loneliness, fear, worry, and anxiety. Reaching-out for help could be the most courageous gift you could give yourself. I would be honored to help you through these struggles. I would like to give you the very best individual psychotherapy or couples counseling. I do not offer a "band aid" approach to therapy, meaning, the process to feeling better is one that requires a confidential, authentic, and meaningful relationship with me.
My clients benefit from evidenced based therapies such as psychodynamic and emotionally focused using attachment theory and energy psychology, as well as cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies.
Your relationship with family, friends, and, of course, yourself is of the most importance. I believe there is no good reason for you to be alone with grief, insecurity, low self-esteem, shame, loneliness, fear, worry, and anxiety. Reaching-out for help could be the most courageous gift you could give yourself. I would be honored to help you through these struggles. I would like to give you the very best individual psychotherapy or couples counseling. I do not offer a "band aid" approach to therapy, meaning, the process to feeling better is one that requires a confidential, authentic, and meaningful relationship with me.
(847) 453-3657 View (847) 453-3657
Photo of Sandra Angelie Stevens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Sandra Angelie Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and couples in a person-centered approach and have training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. I also have a fine arts, music, dance, and psychodrama background. I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals. I have experience working with range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, extramarital affairs, relationship challenges, premarital, men's issues, and life adjustments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and couples in a person-centered approach and have training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. I also have a fine arts, music, dance, and psychodrama background. I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals. I have experience working with range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, extramarital affairs, relationship challenges, premarital, men's issues, and life adjustments.
(708) 762-8276 View (708) 762-8276
Photo of Andrea M. Kosten, Psychologist in Illinois
Andrea M. Kosten
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I work from an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) framework to help individuals manage difficult emotions.
Our emotions can get the best of us. I work with individuals looking to take control over heavy emotions, and those desiring a more positive outlook on life. Bad, painful feelings often keep us stuck. During therapy, I listen carefully to each client's unique story, helping them explore their emotions and beliefs in a more comfortable setting, and working toward emotional relief. Therapy is aimed at helping each client gain personal growth and lasting change.
I work from an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) framework to help individuals manage difficult emotions.
Our emotions can get the best of us. I work with individuals looking to take control over heavy emotions, and those desiring a more positive outlook on life. Bad, painful feelings often keep us stuck. During therapy, I listen carefully to each client's unique story, helping them explore their emotions and beliefs in a more comfortable setting, and working toward emotional relief. Therapy is aimed at helping each client gain personal growth and lasting change.
(630) 948-8346 View (630) 948-8346
Photo of Luke Thimmesch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Luke Thimmesch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy, emotionally-focused therapy (EFT) for couples, and I am also working towards an advanced degree in theology.
Do you feel like no one truly knows you? Do you feel like if people knew the REAL you that you wouldn't be accepted or loved? Depression, shame, and anxiety are all common experiences as we reflect on our unwanted behavior, relational discord, past trauma, and family of origin. The motivation to change becomes all that much harder when you seek it out alone. You want to believe there is hope for a brighter day. Let's work together as we honor your resiliency and work towards healing because the question "what would you prefer?" is worth asking. You want to live a life of freedom. Let's boldly walk into that freedom together.
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy, emotionally-focused therapy (EFT) for couples, and I am also working towards an advanced degree in theology.
Do you feel like no one truly knows you? Do you feel like if people knew the REAL you that you wouldn't be accepted or loved? Depression, shame, and anxiety are all common experiences as we reflect on our unwanted behavior, relational discord, past trauma, and family of origin. The motivation to change becomes all that much harder when you seek it out alone. You want to believe there is hope for a brighter day. Let's work together as we honor your resiliency and work towards healing because the question "what would you prefer?" is worth asking. You want to live a life of freedom. Let's boldly walk into that freedom together.
(630) 937-1212 View (630) 937-1212
Photo of Steve Thorpe, Counselor in Illinois
Steve Thorpe
Counselor, LCPC, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
We integrate traditional psychotherapy with Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Somatic work, Emotionally Focused Therapy, coaching, and other evidence-based approaches through teletherapy.
My approach to psychotherapy is to create a safe space where you can explore and heal the difficult and painful issues that are showing up in your life. Together we will move beyond problem-solving into releasing the deeply held mistaken beliefs and core unresolved issues behind your symptoms. My body-centered and somatic approach allows me to work directly with your nervous system to address symptoms like anxiety, racing thoughts, and irrational fears as well as feeling stuck, depressed and unavailable or unresponsive to life and relationships.
We integrate traditional psychotherapy with Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Somatic work, Emotionally Focused Therapy, coaching, and other evidence-based approaches through teletherapy.
My approach to psychotherapy is to create a safe space where you can explore and heal the difficult and painful issues that are showing up in your life. Together we will move beyond problem-solving into releasing the deeply held mistaken beliefs and core unresolved issues behind your symptoms. My body-centered and somatic approach allows me to work directly with your nervous system to address symptoms like anxiety, racing thoughts, and irrational fears as well as feeling stuck, depressed and unavailable or unresponsive to life and relationships.
(847) 558-7327 View (847) 558-7327
Photo of Ellie Paul, Pre-Licensed Professional in Illinois
Ellie Paul
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I am passionate about working with children & adolescents managing anxiety & depression; adults who are stressed or who have experienced trauma; OCD and ERP; and working with individuals or those involved in improving their relationships (couples or polycule therapy). I am proud to be an affirming clinician, supporting clients who identify as LGBTQIA+ & those from marginalized backgrounds. Working closely with parents as individuals or as part of a family system is also a specialty of mine. I understand the stress, pressure, love, & energy ever-present in parenting, & strive to help folx find methods, support, & balance.
I am passionate about working with children & adolescents managing anxiety & depression; adults who are stressed or who have experienced trauma; OCD and ERP; and working with individuals or those involved in improving their relationships (couples or polycule therapy). I am proud to be an affirming clinician, supporting clients who identify as LGBTQIA+ & those from marginalized backgrounds. Working closely with parents as individuals or as part of a family system is also a specialty of mine. I understand the stress, pressure, love, & energy ever-present in parenting, & strive to help folx find methods, support, & balance.
(872) 274-2134 View (872) 274-2134
Photo of Toria Plotner, Counselor in Illinois
Toria Plotner
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
Life can be hard, unfair, and hurtful at times. But at the end of any storm, there is always a rainbow. As a therapist, my job is to sit with you in the storm. One of the essential pieces to making a change is the relationship between counselor and client. In my practice, I work hard to create a safe and trusting environment where all clients feel comfortable in sharing a piece of their life experiences with me. I have experience working with various mental health disorders and life concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, ADD, oppositional defiant disorder, relationship conflict, LGBTQIA+, minority stress and many more.
Life can be hard, unfair, and hurtful at times. But at the end of any storm, there is always a rainbow. As a therapist, my job is to sit with you in the storm. One of the essential pieces to making a change is the relationship between counselor and client. In my practice, I work hard to create a safe and trusting environment where all clients feel comfortable in sharing a piece of their life experiences with me. I have experience working with various mental health disorders and life concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, ADD, oppositional defiant disorder, relationship conflict, LGBTQIA+, minority stress and many more.
(844) 918-0977 View (844) 918-0977
Photo of Alex Spooner, Pre-Licensed Professional in Illinois
Alex Spooner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
There are a lot of faces and information on these pages, (a bit intimidating) so go at your own pace and find what resonates! I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing symptoms related to sex and intimacy, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions, particularly as they impact their interpersonal relationships. I engage in a therapeutic approach that is person-centered and relational, with an application of anti-oppressive, attachment, and trauma-informed lenses. I am particularly interested in the therapeutic relationship and creating a collaborative space that gives a voice to the unique story each client carries.
There are a lot of faces and information on these pages, (a bit intimidating) so go at your own pace and find what resonates! I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing symptoms related to sex and intimacy, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions, particularly as they impact their interpersonal relationships. I engage in a therapeutic approach that is person-centered and relational, with an application of anti-oppressive, attachment, and trauma-informed lenses. I am particularly interested in the therapeutic relationship and creating a collaborative space that gives a voice to the unique story each client carries.
(773) 362-2686 View (773) 362-2686
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.