Feminist Therapists in Sangamon County, IL
Aleksandar Kajmakoski
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
I am informed by strengths-based, trauma responsive, feminist, queer, and relational theories.
We are all the sum of our parts, made up of all the little pieces we have collected from the world, from others, and from ourselves throughout our lives. And while we continually craft our ever-evolving lives, some of these pieces may not fit together the way they used to or the way we want them to. In these moments, it can be incredibly difficult to know where we want to go or how to get there. As a queer, trans non-binary, first-generation Macedonian-American, I firmly believe that showing up as your authentic self is an incredibly radical act that can enhance your capacity to learn, heal, love, and grow.
I am informed by strengths-based, trauma responsive, feminist, queer, and relational theories.
We are all the sum of our parts, made up of all the little pieces we have collected from the world, from others, and from ourselves throughout our lives. And while we continually craft our ever-evolving lives, some of these pieces may not fit together the way they used to or the way we want them to. In these moments, it can be incredibly difficult to know where we want to go or how to get there. As a queer, trans non-binary, first-generation Macedonian-American, I firmly believe that showing up as your authentic self is an incredibly radical act that can enhance your capacity to learn, heal, love, and grow.
Sarah Hairston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
I operate from a feminist, abolitionist lens and adapt evidence-based modalities, including TF-CBT, DBT and CPT to fit each individual as needed.
It takes a lot of strength and self-kindness to seek support and therapy–thank you for being here and for considering me as part of your process. I have worked with folks with a number of experiences andspecialize in trauma and trauma-related disorders. CPTSD, Religious abuse/trauma and grief are my primary areas of treatment. My aim is to help understand where folx are, as well as what their hopes and goals may be. We work together to find growth and change in the ways that works best for you.
I operate from a feminist, abolitionist lens and adapt evidence-based modalities, including TF-CBT, DBT and CPT to fit each individual as needed.
It takes a lot of strength and self-kindness to seek support and therapy–thank you for being here and for considering me as part of your process. I have worked with folks with a number of experiences andspecialize in trauma and trauma-related disorders. CPTSD, Religious abuse/trauma and grief are my primary areas of treatment. My aim is to help understand where folx are, as well as what their hopes and goals may be. We work together to find growth and change in the ways that works best for you.
Kristal Perry- Gutierrez
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I offer caring, unconditional support in a relaxed atmosphere for clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD. I also treat clients going through life adjustments, or those with relationship issues, and stress or health related problems. In addition, I am experienced in treating children for a variety of issues, including grief and loss, foster care and adoption issues, attachment and developmental trauma. I provide services for couples and families, and I include parents when working with children. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in personal growth and development.
I offer caring, unconditional support in a relaxed atmosphere for clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD. I also treat clients going through life adjustments, or those with relationship issues, and stress or health related problems. In addition, I am experienced in treating children for a variety of issues, including grief and loss, foster care and adoption issues, attachment and developmental trauma. I provide services for couples and families, and I include parents when working with children. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in personal growth and development.
Robert Gomez
Counselor, NCC, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704 (Online Only)
I identify as a queer person of color and hope to best serve those communities who feel underrepresented in professional fields. Common areas that I work with are trauma, gender identity and expression, career related difficulties, couples/interpersonal relationship issues, and mood/anxiety disorders. I work heavily with the linguistic ways we approach "problems" and through a narrative and solutions focused approach we would work on restoring your sense freedom as you navigate life's difficulties.
I identify as a queer person of color and hope to best serve those communities who feel underrepresented in professional fields. Common areas that I work with are trauma, gender identity and expression, career related difficulties, couples/interpersonal relationship issues, and mood/anxiety disorders. I work heavily with the linguistic ways we approach "problems" and through a narrative and solutions focused approach we would work on restoring your sense freedom as you navigate life's difficulties.
Shanna Shrum
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Hello! I’m Shanna (she/her) and I will be accepting new clients in May 2024. I am drawn to working with people who have experienced systemic, interpersonal, financial, and work-related trauma, women, couples, LGBTQ+ folks and anyone who wishes to heal their heart amidst the challenges of the world. I strive to co-create a safe container with clients, so they feel open to explore and embrace all the parts of themselves, both light and dark. My style can best be described as playful, embodied, mindful, compassionate, and creative with a side of humor!
Hello! I’m Shanna (she/her) and I will be accepting new clients in May 2024. I am drawn to working with people who have experienced systemic, interpersonal, financial, and work-related trauma, women, couples, LGBTQ+ folks and anyone who wishes to heal their heart amidst the challenges of the world. I strive to co-create a safe container with clients, so they feel open to explore and embrace all the parts of themselves, both light and dark. My style can best be described as playful, embodied, mindful, compassionate, and creative with a side of humor!
Sam Lunde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
In some way, life hasn't turned out exactly as you planned but you're not ready to give up. I've often found that, no matter the diagnosis, the folks I work with feel disconnected, dissatisfied, and struggle to create a meaningful life. You might worry so much about the future that you lie awake at night or miss out on special moments. You're overwhelmed and end up scrolling, numb with food or substances, or can't finish a book. You're keeping up on basic responsibilities but what you're doing isn't working long-term. Life has lost it's vibrancy. You may doubt that you can change and yet, here you are, taking that first step.
In some way, life hasn't turned out exactly as you planned but you're not ready to give up. I've often found that, no matter the diagnosis, the folks I work with feel disconnected, dissatisfied, and struggle to create a meaningful life. You might worry so much about the future that you lie awake at night or miss out on special moments. You're overwhelmed and end up scrolling, numb with food or substances, or can't finish a book. You're keeping up on basic responsibilities but what you're doing isn't working long-term. Life has lost it's vibrancy. You may doubt that you can change and yet, here you are, taking that first step.
Laura Oreilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I like to think of therapy as a time to gain perspective. I think people can gain a "bird's eye view" view of their life from therapy. Most individuals that I have helped come to therapy because they are "stuck". People get stuck in patterns of behaviors or thoughts, or stuck in relationship patterns. Therapy is a turning point in becoming "unstuck"; it is a time of growth and self-discovery and perspective. I welcome the opportunity to talk with you more about my approach and how we can work together.
I like to think of therapy as a time to gain perspective. I think people can gain a "bird's eye view" view of their life from therapy. Most individuals that I have helped come to therapy because they are "stuck". People get stuck in patterns of behaviors or thoughts, or stuck in relationship patterns. Therapy is a turning point in becoming "unstuck"; it is a time of growth and self-discovery and perspective. I welcome the opportunity to talk with you more about my approach and how we can work together.
Dr Sara Bahn Behavioral Health Center Of Illinois
Psychologist, PsyD, MAAT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703 (Online Only)
I 've worked over 30 years working and consulting with children, adolescents, parents, couples, families, adults, corporations and military personnel. My focus encompasses a holistic, integrative, and strength based perspective and worldview. Through a combination of various healing modalities and psychotherapeutic approaches I focus on research based setting with each individual's specific needs and goals. I help individuals with personal growth, health and wellness, and the journey of self examination as well as symptom relief. View community education by Dr. Bahn on Channel 17, Channel 20 local news, and Mind, Body, Radio.
I 've worked over 30 years working and consulting with children, adolescents, parents, couples, families, adults, corporations and military personnel. My focus encompasses a holistic, integrative, and strength based perspective and worldview. Through a combination of various healing modalities and psychotherapeutic approaches I focus on research based setting with each individual's specific needs and goals. I help individuals with personal growth, health and wellness, and the journey of self examination as well as symptom relief. View community education by Dr. Bahn on Channel 17, Channel 20 local news, and Mind, Body, Radio.
Stephanie A Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Whether you have hit a rough patch, realize the need to address old wounds, or feel as if you have lost your way, a mental health therapist can help guide you back and create a new path forward. Many people face seemingly insurmountable obstacles that may be rooted in personal life stories or internal or external forces that seem to be working against them. I am passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them develop a path forward to a healthier and more fulfilling life. I believe all people possess strengths and the ability to effect change in their lives.
Whether you have hit a rough patch, realize the need to address old wounds, or feel as if you have lost your way, a mental health therapist can help guide you back and create a new path forward. Many people face seemingly insurmountable obstacles that may be rooted in personal life stories or internal or external forces that seem to be working against them. I am passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them develop a path forward to a healthier and more fulfilling life. I believe all people possess strengths and the ability to effect change in their lives.
J. Graham Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703 (Online Only)
I am the only fully Certified Gottman Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gottman therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
I am the only fully Certified Gottman Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gottman therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
Compassionate Healing Therapy Center, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, PEL
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
Welcome! (Bienvenido/a!). My name is Jess and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe that every person has the right to be heard, to heal, and to grow. I approach therapy from a place of kindness and compassion, openness and curiosity. My work with clients begins from a strengths based place, to ensure that you are seen and understood, taking into account your inherent strengths as well as your areas for growth. I also believe that people are deeply impacted by the world around them and therefore, I focus my work with clients to identify and unpack oppressive forces in their lives.
Welcome! (Bienvenido/a!). My name is Jess and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe that every person has the right to be heard, to heal, and to grow. I approach therapy from a place of kindness and compassion, openness and curiosity. My work with clients begins from a strengths based place, to ensure that you are seen and understood, taking into account your inherent strengths as well as your areas for growth. I also believe that people are deeply impacted by the world around them and therefore, I focus my work with clients to identify and unpack oppressive forces in their lives.
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Caitlin Marie Shea
Jada Choate
Evette Addai
Molly M. McLay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704 (Online Only)
I know that taking the step to begin therapy can be really hard, because... feelings. We have them, whether we want to or not. Understanding our thoughts and behaviors can also be hard. And making changes to improve our lives may be the hardest of all. My job is to acknowledge that this is hard, and to validate your feelings, whatever they are. I will sit in those feelings with you. I will also get to know you and your story, the people and things that are important to you, and help you set goals around what you want to focus on (such as learning skills, moving through difficult experiences, or utilizing therapeutic techniques).
I know that taking the step to begin therapy can be really hard, because... feelings. We have them, whether we want to or not. Understanding our thoughts and behaviors can also be hard. And making changes to improve our lives may be the hardest of all. My job is to acknowledge that this is hard, and to validate your feelings, whatever they are. I will sit in those feelings with you. I will also get to know you and your story, the people and things that are important to you, and help you set goals around what you want to focus on (such as learning skills, moving through difficult experiences, or utilizing therapeutic techniques).
Guadalupe Quintana Salgado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
Living as your authentic self is sometimes a struggle with who you expect to be and who others expect you to be. Changing habits can be very difficult but I want you to know that you have the ability to start over and be the best version of yourself. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist, I use a holistic approach to support clients to meet their behavioral health goals.
Living as your authentic self is sometimes a struggle with who you expect to be and who others expect you to be. Changing habits can be very difficult but I want you to know that you have the ability to start over and be the best version of yourself. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist, I use a holistic approach to support clients to meet their behavioral health goals.
Midwest Asian Health Association
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62706
The Midwest Asian Health Association's Community Mental Health Clinic (CMHC) was established in 2015 with the vision to provide linguistically appropriate, culturally sensitive, and financially affordable mental health services to underserved Asian American & Pacific Islander, Asian immigrants, and other low-income minority populations in the Midwest. The counselors and staff at the CMHC are dedicated to creating community in which all people, regardless of language or ability to pay, will be able to access mental health services to improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
The Midwest Asian Health Association's Community Mental Health Clinic (CMHC) was established in 2015 with the vision to provide linguistically appropriate, culturally sensitive, and financially affordable mental health services to underserved Asian American & Pacific Islander, Asian immigrants, and other low-income minority populations in the Midwest. The counselors and staff at the CMHC are dedicated to creating community in which all people, regardless of language or ability to pay, will be able to access mental health services to improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Kevin Harris
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
The therapy space is a sacred one and it is an honor to sit in that space with clients. I believe that every individual that comes to therapy arrives not as a broken person but as a perfect and whole person seeking to be recognized and heard. I operate in collaboration with the client as I believe that each person holds the keys to being the hero and author of their own story.
The therapy space is a sacred one and it is an honor to sit in that space with clients. I believe that every individual that comes to therapy arrives not as a broken person but as a perfect and whole person seeking to be recognized and heard. I operate in collaboration with the client as I believe that each person holds the keys to being the hero and author of their own story.
Caitlin Marie Shea
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701
Have you experienced being in a high control religious environment? Have you left a religious institution and find yourself not sure how to trust yourself, experience healthy community or connect with your spirituality? Religious trauma and leaving religious communities can increase feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness as people move away from spaces that feel unhealthy. I believe that in these transitory moments there is great potential for healing, connection and thriving and I am here to support you on this journey of healing from religious trauma, exploring your spirituality and developing healthy connections.
Have you experienced being in a high control religious environment? Have you left a religious institution and find yourself not sure how to trust yourself, experience healthy community or connect with your spirituality? Religious trauma and leaving religious communities can increase feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness as people move away from spaces that feel unhealthy. I believe that in these transitory moments there is great potential for healing, connection and thriving and I am here to support you on this journey of healing from religious trauma, exploring your spirituality and developing healthy connections.
Jada Choate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701
Jada is a licensed social worker who earned her bachelor of arts and science in psychology with a minor in sociology from Quinnipiac University. Jada also holds a master’s of arts in social work from the University of Chicago. Prior to joining Willis Counseling and Consulting, Jada worked supervising a mental health support and suicide prevention text line for teens. At WCC, Jada hopes to work with those age seven and older who struggle with addiction, anger, anxiety, body dysmorphia (BDD), boundaries, dating and relationships, decision making, depression and domestic violence.
Jada is a licensed social worker who earned her bachelor of arts and science in psychology with a minor in sociology from Quinnipiac University. Jada also holds a master’s of arts in social work from the University of Chicago. Prior to joining Willis Counseling and Consulting, Jada worked supervising a mental health support and suicide prevention text line for teens. At WCC, Jada hopes to work with those age seven and older who struggle with addiction, anger, anxiety, body dysmorphia (BDD), boundaries, dating and relationships, decision making, depression and domestic violence.
Shannon Lawton-O'Boyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
I have an appreciation for complexity and understand that most of us live a life full of contradictions - striving for goodness, happiness, prosperity, low drama, and quality relationships. I get to witness clients create a foundation of safety from which they can pursue their personal and relational goals. I have a passion for working with both traditional relationships and alternative lifestyle clients, as individuals or couples. My clients are often unraveling past traumatic and toxic relationships or simply navigating the unknown with the goals of creating new, healthy patterns of communication, safety, and intimacy.
I have an appreciation for complexity and understand that most of us live a life full of contradictions - striving for goodness, happiness, prosperity, low drama, and quality relationships. I get to witness clients create a foundation of safety from which they can pursue their personal and relational goals. I have a passion for working with both traditional relationships and alternative lifestyle clients, as individuals or couples. My clients are often unraveling past traumatic and toxic relationships or simply navigating the unknown with the goals of creating new, healthy patterns of communication, safety, and intimacy.
Denton Woodfern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62708 (Online Only)
I focus on trauma, life transitions, LGBTQIA issues, and how adverse experiences impact an individual's ability to effectively respond to life's many difficulties. Depression and anxiety manifest often as a result of dealing with challenges and it is necessary to reconnect with an innate, authentic sense of self in order to experience a fulfilling life. Each person deserves to live a life of purpose and meaning. I strive to help clients increase their sense of agency, feel more connected with themselves, and become better attuned to the world around them.
I focus on trauma, life transitions, LGBTQIA issues, and how adverse experiences impact an individual's ability to effectively respond to life's many difficulties. Depression and anxiety manifest often as a result of dealing with challenges and it is necessary to reconnect with an innate, authentic sense of self in order to experience a fulfilling life. Each person deserves to live a life of purpose and meaning. I strive to help clients increase their sense of agency, feel more connected with themselves, and become better attuned to the world around them.
Tyler Goldsberry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701
You feel stuck. You want aspects of your life to be different, but are unsure how to make that happen. A major life transition within your relationships, parenting, health, or career may have you feeling lost and overwhelmed. Maybe you're at a point where you don't know where to go from here. You’re questioning yourself or your purpose. You don’t have to navigate this time in your life alone. Therapy with me offers you a place of support and connection while you explore the challenges you’re facing and work toward your goals.
You feel stuck. You want aspects of your life to be different, but are unsure how to make that happen. A major life transition within your relationships, parenting, health, or career may have you feeling lost and overwhelmed. Maybe you're at a point where you don't know where to go from here. You’re questioning yourself or your purpose. You don’t have to navigate this time in your life alone. Therapy with me offers you a place of support and connection while you explore the challenges you’re facing and work toward your goals.
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Feminist Therapists
How does feminist therapy work?
Feminist therapy sessions are not only personal but often cultural or political in nature, as the approach is based on the belief that people are affected by, and often struggle with, cultural and societal norms and biases, and need to move beyond those external pressures or stressors to tap their own confidence and engage more fully in their own identity. Sessions may therefore include discussions of sexism, diversity, and gender issues and talk of steps toward greater empowerment for patients who believe they have been silenced and seek to raise their voices.
What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?
Along with traditional talk therapy and analysis, a feminist therapist may employ techniques such as role-playing and assertiveness training to help clients build their self-esteem so that they feel they can act freely, and not based on cultural expectations or gender roles dictated by others. A feminist therapist may also engage in bibliotherapy, offering suggested readings on gender identity or social power inequities as they work toward viewing mental-health concerns through a broad cultural lens before focusing on how they affect the individual. Somatic therapy techniques, with an emphasis on body awareness, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices are also often part of feminist therapist practice.
How long does feminist therapy last?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for feminist therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. It may take some time to become comfortable discussing personal issues, but once a client feels they can do so, they could expect therapy to last for a number of months, typically including at least 12 sessions.
Does feminist therapy work?
As a relatively recent therapeutic technique, there is not yet a body of evidence proving the efficacy of feminist therapy. However, the approach is based on proven core principles of talk therapy, with a particular emphasis on developing a therapeutic relationship based on equality and authentic connection between therapist and client and discovering and building on clients’ personal strengths to help them gain a greater sense of personal power and agency.