Experiential Therapy in Chicago, IL

Photo of Andi Mandel in Chicago, IL
Andi Mandel
MA-MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60659  (Online Only)
I use Experiential therapy including Satir’s Transformational Systemic Therapy (STST), & Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) from a systemic & feminist lens, to help clients process current & past events in their lives.
Relationships can be difficult. Whether it is familial, romantic or platonic, each of us is the sum of all the experiences, communities, and cultures we have been involved in and around our entire lives. We often struggle to understand how to effectively communicate, as well as making and keeping connections.
I use Experiential therapy including Satir’s Transformational Systemic Therapy (STST), & Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) from a systemic & feminist lens, to help clients process current & past events in their lives.
Relationships can be difficult. Whether it is familial, romantic or platonic, each of us is the sum of all the experiences, communities, and cultures we have been involved in and around our entire lives. We often struggle to understand how to effectively communicate, as well as making and keeping connections.
(773) 832-5954 View (773) 832-5954
Photo of Louise Sherman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Louise Sherman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, CCTP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607
Louise is dedicated to renewing lives and supporting the recovery of those struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, low self-worth and trauma. Louise strives to enhance an individual's quality of life and relationship with self, understanding that when met with adequate support, we can all find healing and fulfillment in life. Louise utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach, including Insight Oriented Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Attachment-Based Theory, Experiential Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Psycho-Education and EMDR Therapy.
Louise is dedicated to renewing lives and supporting the recovery of those struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, low self-worth and trauma. Louise strives to enhance an individual's quality of life and relationship with self, understanding that when met with adequate support, we can all find healing and fulfillment in life. Louise utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach, including Insight Oriented Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Attachment-Based Theory, Experiential Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Psycho-Education and EMDR Therapy.
(312) 564-4432 View (312) 564-4432
Photo of Jaclyn Driscoll, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Chicago, IL
Jaclyn Driscoll
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, BA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Drawing from Experiential Therapy and Feminist Family Theory, I take a holistic approach that extends beyond individual perspectives.
My passion lies in working with adolescents and young adults dealing with self-esteem challenges, self-harm, disordered eating, and substance abuse. Additionally, I am deeply interested in guiding individuals through various topics, including ethical non-monogamy/polyamory, divorce, uncoupling, infidelity, betrayal, sexual trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, boundary setting, transitions, and family dynamics. Through compassionate counseling, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling lives and cultivate healthier, more meaningful relationships.
Drawing from Experiential Therapy and Feminist Family Theory, I take a holistic approach that extends beyond individual perspectives.
My passion lies in working with adolescents and young adults dealing with self-esteem challenges, self-harm, disordered eating, and substance abuse. Additionally, I am deeply interested in guiding individuals through various topics, including ethical non-monogamy/polyamory, divorce, uncoupling, infidelity, betrayal, sexual trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, boundary setting, transitions, and family dynamics. Through compassionate counseling, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling lives and cultivate healthier, more meaningful relationships.
(773) 974-9351 View (773) 974-9351
Photo of Antionette Fisher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Antionette Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I will tailor my approach to meet your needs, pulling from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Experiential Therapy utilizing a client centered approach.
Are you navigating the challenges of addiction, trauma, depression, or low self-esteem? I specialize in working with adults facing these interconnected experiences and I’m here to help you. Together, we will work towards understanding the underlying factors that caused these challenges to arise, developing coping strategies, and fostering a path towards healing and resilience. I am committed to supporting you on your journey toward positive change. Your well-being is at the forefront of our collaborative work, and I look forward to assisting you in achieving a more balanced and fulfilling life.
I will tailor my approach to meet your needs, pulling from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Experiential Therapy utilizing a client centered approach.
Are you navigating the challenges of addiction, trauma, depression, or low self-esteem? I specialize in working with adults facing these interconnected experiences and I’m here to help you. Together, we will work towards understanding the underlying factors that caused these challenges to arise, developing coping strategies, and fostering a path towards healing and resilience. I am committed to supporting you on your journey toward positive change. Your well-being is at the forefront of our collaborative work, and I look forward to assisting you in achieving a more balanced and fulfilling life.
(708) 726-8048 View (708) 726-8048
Photo of Carrie Carren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Carrie Carren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60631  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist is essential in one's journey toward overcoming obstacles. I believe counseling is a collaborative and creative process where we join together to establish the change you desire. I utilize a direct, honest, and genuine communication style in our relationship. My approach combines psychotherapy and the use of experiential therapy as a means of building communication, trust, and decision-making through individual and family treatment. My treatment also involves the partnership of animal assisted therapy with my Labrador Retriever.
Finding the right therapist is essential in one's journey toward overcoming obstacles. I believe counseling is a collaborative and creative process where we join together to establish the change you desire. I utilize a direct, honest, and genuine communication style in our relationship. My approach combines psychotherapy and the use of experiential therapy as a means of building communication, trust, and decision-making through individual and family treatment. My treatment also involves the partnership of animal assisted therapy with my Labrador Retriever.
(847) 786-2659 View (847) 786-2659
Photo of Linda Osei, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Linda Osei
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
With a profound commitment to fostering resilience and growth, my approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Process Therapy, and Experiential Therapy.
Have you ever felt like you’re sinking into quicksand while grappling with the weight of depression and anxiety? If so, I am here to partner with you by offering a lifeline through the turbulent terrain of the mind. Not only will I serve as your therapist, I will also be a passionate guide on a mission to help pull you out of the quicksand and on to solid ground.
With a profound commitment to fostering resilience and growth, my approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Process Therapy, and Experiential Therapy.
Have you ever felt like you’re sinking into quicksand while grappling with the weight of depression and anxiety? If so, I am here to partner with you by offering a lifeline through the turbulent terrain of the mind. Not only will I serve as your therapist, I will also be a passionate guide on a mission to help pull you out of the quicksand and on to solid ground.
(708) 734-4066 View (708) 734-4066
Photo of Dr. Eleanor D Laser, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dr. Eleanor D Laser
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
(312) 465-4993 View (312) 465-4993
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
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.
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 Sophie B, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sophie B
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
In broad terms, anyone interested in Jungian psychology, the the theory and practice developed by Carl Jung, may resonate with my approach. We’ll talk through whatever you want, but I’ll also encourage you to delve beneath the surface. Specifically those who identify as Queer, those interested in the healing power of psychedelic medicines, those who identify as Christian and those interested in couple work may find value in my approach.
In broad terms, anyone interested in Jungian psychology, the the theory and practice developed by Carl Jung, may resonate with my approach. We’ll talk through whatever you want, but I’ll also encourage you to delve beneath the surface. Specifically those who identify as Queer, those interested in the healing power of psychedelic medicines, those who identify as Christian and those interested in couple work may find value in my approach.
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Photo of Aaron A. Lew, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Aaron A. Lew, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645
My approach highlights a relationship where an Individual embraces and affirms their unique, empowering, genuine and Authentic Self. A holistic journey of empathy, sustenance and safety. One where an Individual gains motivation to trust, risk, explore, develop, adapt and transcend. With recognition of very real difficulties, pains, strengths and capacities. And, via culturally sensitive strategies each Client understands, seeks and creates. I have experience helping Women and Men from diverse backgrounds spanning Age, Race, Religion, Economics, Ethnicity, Sexual Orientation, Health and Wellness.
My approach highlights a relationship where an Individual embraces and affirms their unique, empowering, genuine and Authentic Self. A holistic journey of empathy, sustenance and safety. One where an Individual gains motivation to trust, risk, explore, develop, adapt and transcend. With recognition of very real difficulties, pains, strengths and capacities. And, via culturally sensitive strategies each Client understands, seeks and creates. I have experience helping Women and Men from diverse backgrounds spanning Age, Race, Religion, Economics, Ethnicity, Sexual Orientation, Health and Wellness.
(773) 945-9968 View (773) 945-9968
Photo of Natasha Ceballos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Natasha Ceballos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Eroticism is adult play: ideally it is expansive, vibrant, joyful, and stress-free. Living in a sex-shaming society damages our ability to have a loving, easy relationship to our erotic, sensual, and sexual identities. That damage can lead to conflict and disconnection with ourselves and our intimate others. Our relational health is a necessary ingredient in our overall life satisfaction. Most of us long for our intimate relationships to be a safe haven from the stress, overwhelm, and chaos of our lives. When that isn’t the case, it can lead us to feel lost, uneasy, and wondering how to find our way back to a feeling of security.
Eroticism is adult play: ideally it is expansive, vibrant, joyful, and stress-free. Living in a sex-shaming society damages our ability to have a loving, easy relationship to our erotic, sensual, and sexual identities. That damage can lead to conflict and disconnection with ourselves and our intimate others. Our relational health is a necessary ingredient in our overall life satisfaction. Most of us long for our intimate relationships to be a safe haven from the stress, overwhelm, and chaos of our lives. When that isn’t the case, it can lead us to feel lost, uneasy, and wondering how to find our way back to a feeling of security.
(773) 985-4246 View (773) 985-4246
Photo of Winnie Landon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Winnie Landon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
As a black, mixed-race, pansexual, cisgender woman and part of other pleasure-focused communities, I know from experience how important it is to create a safe, empowering and affirming therapy space that will foster trust and allow us to acknowledge the nuances and beauties of your intersecting identities and unique inner self. I enjoy working with adults from diverse backgrounds and am committed to understanding your unique experience.
As a black, mixed-race, pansexual, cisgender woman and part of other pleasure-focused communities, I know from experience how important it is to create a safe, empowering and affirming therapy space that will foster trust and allow us to acknowledge the nuances and beauties of your intersecting identities and unique inner self. I enjoy working with adults from diverse backgrounds and am committed to understanding your unique experience.
(773) 694-9356 View (773) 694-9356
Photo of Monique Cleminson, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Monique Cleminson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Change is possible! My strength lies in helping you to grow personally and find emotional relief by providing support, insight, and opportunities for change within the context of a collaborative and warm therapeutic environment. My approach is genuine, encouraging, energetic, and insightful. I specialize in helping individuals gain resolution and clarity about distressing situations and emotions, uncover and develop personal strengths, generate healing of past and present wounds, and develop more personal freedom overall.
Change is possible! My strength lies in helping you to grow personally and find emotional relief by providing support, insight, and opportunities for change within the context of a collaborative and warm therapeutic environment. My approach is genuine, encouraging, energetic, and insightful. I specialize in helping individuals gain resolution and clarity about distressing situations and emotions, uncover and develop personal strengths, generate healing of past and present wounds, and develop more personal freedom overall.
(847) 416-0323 View (847) 416-0323
Photo of Mind Body Connections in Chicago, IL
Mind Body Connections
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
If you desire to build a healthier relationship to your bodymind, Self and others, you are in the right place. Perhaps you've tried traditional therapy and are hitting a block or it's challenging to put into words what's going on inside of you, or maybe you have a "loud body" that aches all the time in one way or another? The clinicians at MBC are trained in a variety of modalities to help you tap into your inner resources and find harmony with your body, mind and spirit. You will collaborate with one of our clinicians to begin on your path towards optimal health and well-being.
If you desire to build a healthier relationship to your bodymind, Self and others, you are in the right place. Perhaps you've tried traditional therapy and are hitting a block or it's challenging to put into words what's going on inside of you, or maybe you have a "loud body" that aches all the time in one way or another? The clinicians at MBC are trained in a variety of modalities to help you tap into your inner resources and find harmony with your body, mind and spirit. You will collaborate with one of our clinicians to begin on your path towards optimal health and well-being.
(312) 646-4414 View (312) 646-4414
Photo of Dawn Paquelet, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Chicago, IL
Dawn Paquelet
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MEd
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
We all yearn for fulfilling relationships with our partners, family, and other important people in our social circles. Sometimes we need help navigating the complexities of our connections. I believe the therapeutic experience can help clients better understand themselves and their relational needs. I am a Couple and Family Therapist intern and a second-year Ph.D. student in the Couple and Family Therapy program at Adler University in Chicago.
We all yearn for fulfilling relationships with our partners, family, and other important people in our social circles. Sometimes we need help navigating the complexities of our connections. I believe the therapeutic experience can help clients better understand themselves and their relational needs. I am a Couple and Family Therapist intern and a second-year Ph.D. student in the Couple and Family Therapy program at Adler University in Chicago.
(312) 313-1805 View (312) 313-1805
Photo of Private Practice Yoga Therapy, LLC, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Private Practice Yoga Therapy, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I offer an integration of psychotherapy and Yoga Therapy in tandem sessions. I am both a licensed health psychologist and a certified yoga therapist. My clients tend to be high functioning adults seeking private holistic therapy and pain relief. I assist with relationships, stress, back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, physical disabilities and medical conditions. Supported yoga postures, proper alignment, and longer holds facilitate deeper feeling, fuller opening, greater release. Yoga Therapy enhances rehabilitation of injuries naturally using gravity, tensegrity and breath to improve circulation and create more space in tight joints, relieving tension and fatigue, facilitating clarity and insight.
I offer an integration of psychotherapy and Yoga Therapy in tandem sessions. I am both a licensed health psychologist and a certified yoga therapist. My clients tend to be high functioning adults seeking private holistic therapy and pain relief. I assist with relationships, stress, back pain, neck pain, sports injuries, physical disabilities and medical conditions. Supported yoga postures, proper alignment, and longer holds facilitate deeper feeling, fuller opening, greater release. Yoga Therapy enhances rehabilitation of injuries naturally using gravity, tensegrity and breath to improve circulation and create more space in tight joints, relieving tension and fatigue, facilitating clarity and insight.
(312) 248-7204 View (312) 248-7204
Photo of Fabrice Robert Lubin, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Fabrice Robert Lubin
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Having been involved in the mental health field for over a decade, working across various setting (hospitals, VA, college) I now focus on those eager to enhance their creativity, community, and value-driven experiences. As the founder of an organization that has seen significant growth, my interest lies in supporting leaders—whether they are in creative roles, parenting, or mental health professions—who struggle with the demands of their work environments and the prioritization of their own healing. I believe relationships are formed in repair and I am useful to those seeking to deepen the interpersonal and cultural spaces.
Having been involved in the mental health field for over a decade, working across various setting (hospitals, VA, college) I now focus on those eager to enhance their creativity, community, and value-driven experiences. As the founder of an organization that has seen significant growth, my interest lies in supporting leaders—whether they are in creative roles, parenting, or mental health professions—who struggle with the demands of their work environments and the prioritization of their own healing. I believe relationships are formed in repair and I am useful to those seeking to deepen the interpersonal and cultural spaces.
(773) 786-9903 View (773) 786-9903
Photo of Juan David Velasquez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Juan David Velasquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
My ideal clients are those seeking to make a positive change in their lives currently and for the future. My typical clients start their therapeutic journey by seeking to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, emerging identities as well as life stressors. Our goal is to integrate parts of themselves previously unknown or unreachable and this is done by creating a safe and strong therapeutic bond. Although I work with a variety of folx, my passion lies in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community as well as BIPOC.
My ideal clients are those seeking to make a positive change in their lives currently and for the future. My typical clients start their therapeutic journey by seeking to alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, emerging identities as well as life stressors. Our goal is to integrate parts of themselves previously unknown or unreachable and this is done by creating a safe and strong therapeutic bond. Although I work with a variety of folx, my passion lies in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community as well as BIPOC.
(773) 786-9732 View (773) 786-9732
Photo of Heather Bell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Heather Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, RYT 200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
You may be spending a lot of time feeling bad or worrying about where you are at in your life. Telling yourself stories of why you’re not enough or comparing yourself to everyone else around you? You may have convinced yourself you cannot have what you want or don't feel good enough to get to where you want to be in your life. You may not even know where you learned to talk to yourself this way. When did this start? Have you become your last priority? Continuing to worry may be stopping you from doing the things you want the most or keeping you from having the close meaningful friendships or relationships you truly want.
You may be spending a lot of time feeling bad or worrying about where you are at in your life. Telling yourself stories of why you’re not enough or comparing yourself to everyone else around you? You may have convinced yourself you cannot have what you want or don't feel good enough to get to where you want to be in your life. You may not even know where you learned to talk to yourself this way. When did this start? Have you become your last priority? Continuing to worry may be stopping you from doing the things you want the most or keeping you from having the close meaningful friendships or relationships you truly want.
(872) 259-4576 View (872) 259-4576
Photo of Sylvia Chen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sylvia Chen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with setting boundaries with yourself and others? Do you feel like there is a gap between where you currently are and what you want in life? As a Licensed Social Worker, I am committed to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and live fulfilling lives. I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, racial and cultural identity, relationships, stress management, life transitions, setting boundaries, and self-esteem.
Are you struggling with setting boundaries with yourself and others? Do you feel like there is a gap between where you currently are and what you want in life? As a Licensed Social Worker, I am committed to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges and live fulfilling lives. I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, racial and cultural identity, relationships, stress management, life transitions, setting boundaries, and self-esteem.
(872) 278-3760 View (872) 278-3760
Experiential Therapy

How does experiential therapy work?

Experiential therapy works by allowing an individual to use their creativity to re-imagine themselves and their lives in an effort to process their emotions. Experiential therapy may take many forms, including engaging clients through art, re-enactments, role-playing, music, or forms of physical recreation. By focusing on these activities, experiential therapists help individuals identify the emotions they associate with previous experiences and work together to cope with negative reactions, like fear, anger, or shame.

Is experiential therapy evidence-based?

Experiential therapy incorporates many therapy modalities, some of which have been more closely researched than others. Music therapy, for example, has been shown to help with sleep problems. Some studies find that art therapy can be beneficial for those with eating disorders or personality disorders, while other research suggests that such approaches have little impact.

How long does experiential therapy last?

The duration of experiential therapy will depend on the type of therapy used as well as the severity of the challenges an individual faces. Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Art therapy may comprise 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Music therapy sessions generally last between 30 and 50 minutes and can be scheduled weekly or on an as-needed basis. For each therapy type, clients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

Does experiential therapy help with trauma?

Trauma is one area where experiential therapy may be useful. Traumatic experiences such as combat or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating visual art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. Listening to music can be relaxing, while making music as part of a group provides plenty of opportunities to connect with other people. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, or who have been physically or emotionally abused.