Photo of Steve Thorpe, Counselor in Evanston, IL
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 Kristina Erland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Kristina Erland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I am further experienced in working with adolescents and adults with mood and anxiety issues, relationship issues, life transitions, family of origin issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and general life stressors.
My goal is to provide you with a safe and comfortable space where together we can cultivate a path toward greater fulfillment. I will honor your individuality and capitalize on what is already working for you, so you can utilize this as your foundation for building greater insight and more effective skills. My style is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental. I consider it an honor to sit with my clients during their hardest times and witness their journey toward wellness.
I am further experienced in working with adolescents and adults with mood and anxiety issues, relationship issues, life transitions, family of origin issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and general life stressors.
My goal is to provide you with a safe and comfortable space where together we can cultivate a path toward greater fulfillment. I will honor your individuality and capitalize on what is already working for you, so you can utilize this as your foundation for building greater insight and more effective skills. My style is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental. I consider it an honor to sit with my clients during their hardest times and witness their journey toward wellness.
(224) 204-0574 View (224) 204-0574
Photo of Martin McCarthy Jr., Psychologist in Evanston, IL
Martin McCarthy Jr.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
(847) 562-5895 View (847) 562-5895
Photo of Daniel Serpa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Daniel Serpa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Life is complicated and seldom straightforward. We are often left facing challenges that are surprising and difficult to navigate. It may be a new role, a disappointment at work, a problem in a relationship, or some lasting echoes from the past that still show up, that causes us to feel anxious, angry, sad, confused and “stuck”. We try our best to manage by using coping strategies that turn out to be more problematic than helpful. We are then left thinking, what happened? Will I ever feel like my old self? Why can't I just get over this? If you are anxious, struggling to focus, overwhelmed by work or family, I am trained to help
Life is complicated and seldom straightforward. We are often left facing challenges that are surprising and difficult to navigate. It may be a new role, a disappointment at work, a problem in a relationship, or some lasting echoes from the past that still show up, that causes us to feel anxious, angry, sad, confused and “stuck”. We try our best to manage by using coping strategies that turn out to be more problematic than helpful. We are then left thinking, what happened? Will I ever feel like my old self? Why can't I just get over this? If you are anxious, struggling to focus, overwhelmed by work or family, I am trained to help
(224) 204-0870 View (224) 204-0870
Photo of Kayla Mason, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Kayla Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
Additionally in my work with clients, I tend to zoom in on things like emotional intelligence+regulation, generational trauma, codependency, family of origin, grief+loss, and relationships or attachment issues.
Have you been feeling stuck, stressed, or disconnected? Are you here now because you are searching for someone to begin your therapy journey - or pick up where you once left off? I'm here for those ready to take the deep dive into their journey toward wellness. I provide insight-oriented therapy to older teens and adults who are interested in making core level changes, breaking generational cycles, and developing deeper connections with self and others.
Additionally in my work with clients, I tend to zoom in on things like emotional intelligence+regulation, generational trauma, codependency, family of origin, grief+loss, and relationships or attachment issues.
Have you been feeling stuck, stressed, or disconnected? Are you here now because you are searching for someone to begin your therapy journey - or pick up where you once left off? I'm here for those ready to take the deep dive into their journey toward wellness. I provide insight-oriented therapy to older teens and adults who are interested in making core level changes, breaking generational cycles, and developing deeper connections with self and others.
(224) 218-5592 View (224) 218-5592
Photo of Jodi Keller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Jodi Keller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
My areas of focus include life transitions, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, adolescent struggles, and relationship issues.
Life can be full of transitions, challenge, and change. Sometimes it helps to have a safe and nonjudgmental place to work through what’s been on your mind. I strive to provide a caring, compassionate environment for that process. I’ll partner with you to help you come to your own insights, and we’ll work on noticing patterns and what is behind them. We’ll also work on identifying your unique strengths and how those can help you move toward positive change.
My areas of focus include life transitions, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, adolescent struggles, and relationship issues.
Life can be full of transitions, challenge, and change. Sometimes it helps to have a safe and nonjudgmental place to work through what’s been on your mind. I strive to provide a caring, compassionate environment for that process. I’ll partner with you to help you come to your own insights, and we’ll work on noticing patterns and what is behind them. We’ll also work on identifying your unique strengths and how those can help you move toward positive change.
(847) 637-5353 View (847) 637-5353
Photo of Dr. Plamena Daskalova, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
Dr. Plamena Daskalova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60208  (Online Only)
Welcome! I specialize in addressing mood concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression), family-of-origin difficulties, and relational traumas. I have over a decade of experience working in different settings, including community and hospital clinics, three university counseling centers, and private practice. I work with individuals and couples across the lifespan, and I have particular expertise in supporting undergraduate and graduate students, as well as early career professionals. Given my research and clinical training in career development, I frequently work with clients navigating work transitions and high-stress occupations.
Welcome! I specialize in addressing mood concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression), family-of-origin difficulties, and relational traumas. I have over a decade of experience working in different settings, including community and hospital clinics, three university counseling centers, and private practice. I work with individuals and couples across the lifespan, and I have particular expertise in supporting undergraduate and graduate students, as well as early career professionals. Given my research and clinical training in career development, I frequently work with clients navigating work transitions and high-stress occupations.
(312) 872-8164 View (312) 872-8164
Photo of Siegal Eli-Gers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Siegal Eli-Gers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have focused my career on working with adolescents ,young adults, parents and families. Over the last 10 + years, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in the North Shore. I work with clients to help them find a safe space to express, explore and make positive changes. Over the years I have learned that every individual and family is unique and need treatment to be flexible and supportive of their needs. I work to create opportunities and to teach tangible skills, so long lasting change is possible. I am a gender affirming clinician.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have focused my career on working with adolescents ,young adults, parents and families. Over the last 10 + years, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in the North Shore. I work with clients to help them find a safe space to express, explore and make positive changes. Over the years I have learned that every individual and family is unique and need treatment to be flexible and supportive of their needs. I work to create opportunities and to teach tangible skills, so long lasting change is possible. I am a gender affirming clinician.
(847) 562-5696 View (847) 562-5696
Photo of Hayley Beth Van Serke, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
Hayley Beth Van Serke
Psychologist, MSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing care for those who are living with chronic health issues (such as diabetes, HIV, or chronic pain), clients who identify as LGBTQ, those working to build a family, along with clients working through trauma, depression, anxiety and substance misuse.
I am an experienced clinician with over 15 years of experience working with clients across gender, ethnic, generational & religious differences. I am dedicated to establishing an authentic connection and creating a safe space for you to begin or continue your process of growth and healing. I tailor my approach to each client and their values and goals. In meeting you exactly where you are with empathy, we will work towards exploring what is at the core of your struggle and develop the insight and tools needed to help you improve your overall wellbeing.
I specialize in providing care for those who are living with chronic health issues (such as diabetes, HIV, or chronic pain), clients who identify as LGBTQ, those working to build a family, along with clients working through trauma, depression, anxiety and substance misuse.
I am an experienced clinician with over 15 years of experience working with clients across gender, ethnic, generational & religious differences. I am dedicated to establishing an authentic connection and creating a safe space for you to begin or continue your process of growth and healing. I tailor my approach to each client and their values and goals. In meeting you exactly where you are with empathy, we will work towards exploring what is at the core of your struggle and develop the insight and tools needed to help you improve your overall wellbeing.
(708) 694-8902 View (708) 694-8902
Photo of Merari E Fernandez Castro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Merari E Fernandez Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I am here to help you navigate complex family dynamics as a result of these traumatic experiences given the fact post traumatic experiences can manifest in oneself and in relationships to others.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to look at your deepest fears and face them with the support of an experienced and trusted therapist. At the Healing Journey Psychotherapy, I am committed to work with you and support you through a style that is relational, inquisitive, compassionate and challenging. My areas of expertise include surviving sexual abuse, domestic violence, chronic pain and the after effects of traumatic experiences in relationships.
I am here to help you navigate complex family dynamics as a result of these traumatic experiences given the fact post traumatic experiences can manifest in oneself and in relationships to others.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to look at your deepest fears and face them with the support of an experienced and trusted therapist. At the Healing Journey Psychotherapy, I am committed to work with you and support you through a style that is relational, inquisitive, compassionate and challenging. My areas of expertise include surviving sexual abuse, domestic violence, chronic pain and the after effects of traumatic experiences in relationships.
(312) 257-3683 View (312) 257-3683
Photo of Anthony Ward Jr., Counselor in Evanston, IL
Anthony Ward Jr.
Counselor, MSCP, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I would love the opportunity to work with you and your family.
I view counseling and therapy as a conversation. It is my goal to help my clients identify and define what they value in life. Most negative emotions that we experience in life are due to frustrated efforts at achieving the things we value. Often we stand in the way of our own happiness due to unexamined expectations. I believe progress comes through increased awareness and understanding of one's core beliefs about self, others, and the world. I purpose to serve as a sounding board to this growth in awareness and understanding.
I would love the opportunity to work with you and your family.
I view counseling and therapy as a conversation. It is my goal to help my clients identify and define what they value in life. Most negative emotions that we experience in life are due to frustrated efforts at achieving the things we value. Often we stand in the way of our own happiness due to unexamined expectations. I believe progress comes through increased awareness and understanding of one's core beliefs about self, others, and the world. I purpose to serve as a sounding board to this growth in awareness and understanding.
(708) 377-4876 View (708) 377-4876
Photo of Leah Schwartz, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Leah Schwartz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Whether you are feeling sad, stressed, overwhelmed or seeking treatment for a loved one, my goals is to guide and empower you to achieve the change you desire in your life. I provide individual, and family therapy to adults and adolescents. I strive to create a compassionate environment where treatment is structured to your unique needs.
Whether you are feeling sad, stressed, overwhelmed or seeking treatment for a loved one, my goals is to guide and empower you to achieve the change you desire in your life. I provide individual, and family therapy to adults and adolescents. I strive to create a compassionate environment where treatment is structured to your unique needs.
(847) 999-4168 x2 View (847) 999-4168 x2
Photo of Jill A Sisler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Jill A Sisler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I often use a combination of psycho dynamic, client centered, DBT and family systems.
I have been treating adolescents and adults for over 25 years who have presented with substance use, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, trauma and mood disorders. I have a special interest is in working with young adults who are navigating life transition issues. Prior to going into private practice I worked within a variety of different settings including; psychiatric units, substance abuse treatment facilities, eating disorder treatment programs, and managed care.
I often use a combination of psycho dynamic, client centered, DBT and family systems.
I have been treating adolescents and adults for over 25 years who have presented with substance use, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, trauma and mood disorders. I have a special interest is in working with young adults who are navigating life transition issues. Prior to going into private practice I worked within a variety of different settings including; psychiatric units, substance abuse treatment facilities, eating disorder treatment programs, and managed care.
(847) 416-0916 View (847) 416-0916
Photo of Chris Dominguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Chris Dominguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who find themselves struggling with: depression, anxiety, addiction, managing stress, life transitions, and family conflict.
Choosing to pursue therapy can be a big step to take, and allowing yourself to be vulnerable with a stranger is no easy task. My goal is to meet you where you are. My work with you is focused on working collaboratively to explore your authentic self, using your strengths to help empower you to live a life that aligns with your needs and your values. My multicultural background allows me to be sensitive to and understand how culture and race can impact our mental health.
I specialize in working with individuals who find themselves struggling with: depression, anxiety, addiction, managing stress, life transitions, and family conflict.
Choosing to pursue therapy can be a big step to take, and allowing yourself to be vulnerable with a stranger is no easy task. My goal is to meet you where you are. My work with you is focused on working collaboratively to explore your authentic self, using your strengths to help empower you to live a life that aligns with your needs and your values. My multicultural background allows me to be sensitive to and understand how culture and race can impact our mental health.
(224) 267-9271 View (224) 267-9271
Photo of Nicole J. Howell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Nicole J. Howell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
School and work difficulty from trauma, ADHD, anxiety, self injury, loss, as well as family/work struggles and life transitions often bring a child, teen, or adult to my office.
For over 15 years I have worked with children, teens and adults managing difficulties with social, emotional and behavioral difficulties. The diverse experience with each age has given me insight to share in the therapy room with you. I address each challenge with great care and energy to help move toward growth with you or your child to find understanding and greater ways of coping, being in relationships and thriving.
School and work difficulty from trauma, ADHD, anxiety, self injury, loss, as well as family/work struggles and life transitions often bring a child, teen, or adult to my office.
For over 15 years I have worked with children, teens and adults managing difficulties with social, emotional and behavioral difficulties. The diverse experience with each age has given me insight to share in the therapy room with you. I address each challenge with great care and energy to help move toward growth with you or your child to find understanding and greater ways of coping, being in relationships and thriving.
(312) 548-7742 View (312) 548-7742
Photo of Unify Counseling Inc: Individual & Couples , Marriage & Family Therapist in Evanston, IL
Unify Counseling Inc: Individual & Couples
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
We offer a diverse team of kind, gracious, skilled and licensed Marriage & Family Therapists and Social Workers.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, confused, frustrated, discouraged, disappointed, lost, anxious, sad or angry, you are not alone. Most of us experience those feelings at some point in our lives. We care about the people we serve, and we believe every person is individual, authentic, and unique. We use evidence-based practice (EBP) methods for mental health to help children, pre-teens, teenagers, adults, couples, and families to live their best lives. We understand that therapy can seem scary and intimidating, though we know that finding the support you need is the key to starting the self- healing process.
We offer a diverse team of kind, gracious, skilled and licensed Marriage & Family Therapists and Social Workers.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, confused, frustrated, discouraged, disappointed, lost, anxious, sad or angry, you are not alone. Most of us experience those feelings at some point in our lives. We care about the people we serve, and we believe every person is individual, authentic, and unique. We use evidence-based practice (EBP) methods for mental health to help children, pre-teens, teenagers, adults, couples, and families to live their best lives. We understand that therapy can seem scary and intimidating, though we know that finding the support you need is the key to starting the self- healing process.
(773) 985-3761 View (773) 985-3761
Photo of Preston Rice, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Preston Rice
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Preston has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults in college settings, outpatient mental health clinics, and private practice. His clinical interests include working with underserved communities, mood disorders, substance use, relationship and family challenges, trauma, and systemic challenges related to diversity and inclusion.
Preston has clinical experience working with adolescents and adults in college settings, outpatient mental health clinics, and private practice. His clinical interests include working with underserved communities, mood disorders, substance use, relationship and family challenges, trauma, and systemic challenges related to diversity and inclusion.
(773) 672-2798 x102 View (773) 672-2798 x102
Photo of Meghan Llanes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Meghan Llanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Being a child, an adolescent, an adult, is not easy. School, working, navigating relationships, parenting, family life, finding time for yourself, coping with loss, stress- We all face times that are challenging. Everyone deserves a safe space to share their story, feelings, & experiences & have their truth be heard & held. I am passionate about helping children & adults as they navigate difficult moments in their lives. I am skilled at listening, providing support, guidance, & compassion as individuals strive to make meaning, heal, connect, problem solve, successfully participate, & find joy in their lives. Change is possible.
Being a child, an adolescent, an adult, is not easy. School, working, navigating relationships, parenting, family life, finding time for yourself, coping with loss, stress- We all face times that are challenging. Everyone deserves a safe space to share their story, feelings, & experiences & have their truth be heard & held. I am passionate about helping children & adults as they navigate difficult moments in their lives. I am skilled at listening, providing support, guidance, & compassion as individuals strive to make meaning, heal, connect, problem solve, successfully participate, & find joy in their lives. Change is possible.
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Photo of Emily N Halliday, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Emily N Halliday
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
We can offer individual, couple, family, and child therapy.
As a trauma informed therapist, I aim provide culturally sensitive and empowerment focused therapy when working with individuals, couples, and families. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Earlham College and Master of Arts in Counseling from Illinois School of Professional Psychology. I utilizes empathic listening and supportive techniques to help explore concerns and goals.
We can offer individual, couple, family, and child therapy.
As a trauma informed therapist, I aim provide culturally sensitive and empowerment focused therapy when working with individuals, couples, and families. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Earlham College and Master of Arts in Counseling from Illinois School of Professional Psychology. I utilizes empathic listening and supportive techniques to help explore concerns and goals.
(224) 205-4591 View (224) 205-4591
Photo of Sarah A. Schroeder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Sarah A. Schroeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
It's important that you find a therapist that is a right fit for you. I strive to create a safe holding environment where clients feel understood and encouraged to take their next step. I utilize a developmental framework and family systems approach, while viewing each client as a unique individual. I specialize in working with young children and families, providing individual, family, couples, and group treatment.
It's important that you find a therapist that is a right fit for you. I strive to create a safe holding environment where clients feel understood and encouraged to take their next step. I utilize a developmental framework and family systems approach, while viewing each client as a unique individual. I specialize in working with young children and families, providing individual, family, couples, and group treatment.
(872) 244-6873 View (872) 244-6873

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.