Alcohol Use Therapists in Chicago, IL
Hello! I am a counselor (in training) working with children, adolescents and young adults to adults, as well as LGBTQ+ and multicultural individuals! My therapeutic style is person-centered and holistic, with a focus on creating a nonjudgmental and safe environment where clients can be their authentic selves. I believe change happens within you and I view my role as walking alongside you as a guiding light on your journey. I believe in meeting each person exactly where they are, honoring their lived experiences and supporting them in navigating life.
Hello! I am a counselor (in training) working with children, adolescents and young adults to adults, as well as LGBTQ+ and multicultural individuals! My therapeutic style is person-centered and holistic, with a focus on creating a nonjudgmental and safe environment where clients can be their authentic selves. I believe change happens within you and I view my role as walking alongside you as a guiding light on your journey. I believe in meeting each person exactly where they are, honoring their lived experiences and supporting them in navigating life.
You’re thoughtful. You handle a lot. From the outside, it looks like you’re doing fine. But inside, you feel stretched thin. That can show up in habits like overdrinking or losing hours online. I work with a diversity of clients and I specialize in working with men of all ages who find themselves in this paradox: capable, committed, and responsible, yet stuck in behaviors that aren't in line with their values. Therapy with me is a solution-focused space to look at what’s behind those patterns and make real, workable changes — not by overanalyzing, but by getting clear on what matters and what comes next.
You’re thoughtful. You handle a lot. From the outside, it looks like you’re doing fine. But inside, you feel stretched thin. That can show up in habits like overdrinking or losing hours online. I work with a diversity of clients and I specialize in working with men of all ages who find themselves in this paradox: capable, committed, and responsible, yet stuck in behaviors that aren't in line with their values. Therapy with me is a solution-focused space to look at what’s behind those patterns and make real, workable changes — not by overanalyzing, but by getting clear on what matters and what comes next.
Maybe you’ve mastered survival mode but have no idea how to actually live. That’s where I come in. I’m a licensed therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who works with professionals, and anyone ready to deepen their recovery, not just maintain it. My clients come to me when they’re ready to stop white-knuckling life and start building something they’re proud of.
Maybe you’ve mastered survival mode but have no idea how to actually live. That’s where I come in. I’m a licensed therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who works with professionals, and anyone ready to deepen their recovery, not just maintain it. My clients come to me when they’re ready to stop white-knuckling life and start building something they’re proud of.
Clients want to be heard and validated. Clients want to feel their experiences and feelings are acknowledged and not judged for thoughts and behaviors they do not know how to manage. So often the view of therapy is someone telling someone what to do with their life, when the therapeutic space should be a collaborative space that helps a client identify their strengths and how they can become the narrators of their lives again.
Clients want to be heard and validated. Clients want to feel their experiences and feelings are acknowledged and not judged for thoughts and behaviors they do not know how to manage. So often the view of therapy is someone telling someone what to do with their life, when the therapeutic space should be a collaborative space that helps a client identify their strengths and how they can become the narrators of their lives again.
If you've recently noticed your alcohol use, gambling, substance use, or other addictive behaviors are taking on a life of their own, you’re not alone.
My therapeutic style combines empathy, direct feedback, and a variety of evidence-based approaches to break destructive cycles. You’ll gain tools to manage temptations, build healthier coping, and restore balance. I’m here to listen deeply, understand your story, and partner with you to create the healthier, more purposeful life you envision.
If you've recently noticed your alcohol use, gambling, substance use, or other addictive behaviors are taking on a life of their own, you’re not alone.
My therapeutic style combines empathy, direct feedback, and a variety of evidence-based approaches to break destructive cycles. You’ll gain tools to manage temptations, build healthier coping, and restore balance. I’m here to listen deeply, understand your story, and partner with you to create the healthier, more purposeful life you envision.
Do you ever feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like you could be happier? I want to help you on that journey. I work with adult individuals who are navigating trauma, mood disorders, and addiction, and my goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where healing can truly begin. Together, we’ll explore what’s getting in the way and start building the tools and insight you need to move forward with confidence and peace.
Do you ever feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like you could be happier? I want to help you on that journey. I work with adult individuals who are navigating trauma, mood disorders, and addiction, and my goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where healing can truly begin. Together, we’ll explore what’s getting in the way and start building the tools and insight you need to move forward with confidence and peace.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and I work with clients from diverse backgrounds. I have extensive experience working with clients who are adult children of alcoholics and helping clients who have suffered a loss(es) and seek bereavement counseling. I also work with adults and youths who have both depression and anxiety, including panic attacks and phobias. I offer specific strategies to combat anxiety and panic attacks. My particular expertise has been working with parents and their children. Other areas of practice are sexual abuse and domestic violence.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and I work with clients from diverse backgrounds. I have extensive experience working with clients who are adult children of alcoholics and helping clients who have suffered a loss(es) and seek bereavement counseling. I also work with adults and youths who have both depression and anxiety, including panic attacks and phobias. I offer specific strategies to combat anxiety and panic attacks. My particular expertise has been working with parents and their children. Other areas of practice are sexual abuse and domestic violence.
I specialize in treating individuals and couples grappling with depression and / or excessive alcohol use who feel trapped in a cycle of stress, negative emotions, conflict and use of alcohol or other avoidant behaviors as a temporary escape from pain.
I cultivate a genuine relationships with my clients where we're able to show up as ourselves without fear of judgment. At the same time, I use evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, which empower clients to challenge negative thought and behavior patterns and build motivation for change.
I specialize in treating individuals and couples grappling with depression and / or excessive alcohol use who feel trapped in a cycle of stress, negative emotions, conflict and use of alcohol or other avoidant behaviors as a temporary escape from pain.
I cultivate a genuine relationships with my clients where we're able to show up as ourselves without fear of judgment. At the same time, I use evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, which empower clients to challenge negative thought and behavior patterns and build motivation for change.
I specialize in substance abuse and grief with an interest in Type 1 Diabetes. I am passionate about helping my clients navigate life's journey, be it depression, anxiety, life transitions, substance abuse, grief and loss, strained relationships or employment struggles. I understand the genetic and environmental components of addiction and how individuals may self-medicate for unresolved issues. I am passionate about working with families who struggle with a loved ones addiction. In addition, I work with clients experiencing grief and loss. I believe in allowing clients a space to grieve.
I specialize in substance abuse and grief with an interest in Type 1 Diabetes. I am passionate about helping my clients navigate life's journey, be it depression, anxiety, life transitions, substance abuse, grief and loss, strained relationships or employment struggles. I understand the genetic and environmental components of addiction and how individuals may self-medicate for unresolved issues. I am passionate about working with families who struggle with a loved ones addiction. In addition, I work with clients experiencing grief and loss. I believe in allowing clients a space to grieve.
My personal and professional experience has led me to a mindset that the best place to start is with plain-spoken, non-judgmental conversation about how you are feeling, what you hope to change, and what you are working to cope with. My hope in pursuing this work is to help people work through the feelings that drag them down into shame, anxiety and depression.
Compassionate collaboration is the idea underlying all of my work. I believe in humanistic, person centered therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy are the modalities that most directly inform my approach to treatment.
My personal and professional experience has led me to a mindset that the best place to start is with plain-spoken, non-judgmental conversation about how you are feeling, what you hope to change, and what you are working to cope with. My hope in pursuing this work is to help people work through the feelings that drag them down into shame, anxiety and depression.
Compassionate collaboration is the idea underlying all of my work. I believe in humanistic, person centered therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy are the modalities that most directly inform my approach to treatment.
Philip Montgomery, LPC, PhD, has a track record of delivering high-quality services to individuals with a variety of emotional difficulties. He believes each client’s voice needs to be heard and their stories validated to allow them to feel safe so the work can begin. Philip earned an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University and a PhD from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. He is highly experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, personality disorders, LGBT challenges, relationship difficulties, a variety of social challenges facing African American males in community.
Philip Montgomery, LPC, PhD, has a track record of delivering high-quality services to individuals with a variety of emotional difficulties. He believes each client’s voice needs to be heard and their stories validated to allow them to feel safe so the work can begin. Philip earned an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University and a PhD from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. He is highly experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, personality disorders, LGBT challenges, relationship difficulties, a variety of social challenges facing African American males in community.
I have a passion for journeying with individuals and families who have a hunch or a longing for something different, better, in their lives. Together I collaborate with folks to address how neglected hunches may breed uncomfortable symptoms such as burn out, addictions, isolation and frustrations within relationships. By exploring values, strengths, and communication styles I coach clients through their discomforts and empower them to bring forth a new sense of self-worth and direction.
I have a passion for journeying with individuals and families who have a hunch or a longing for something different, better, in their lives. Together I collaborate with folks to address how neglected hunches may breed uncomfortable symptoms such as burn out, addictions, isolation and frustrations within relationships. By exploring values, strengths, and communication styles I coach clients through their discomforts and empower them to bring forth a new sense of self-worth and direction.
Tired of just coping and ready to start improving your life? I understand, and my collaborative, interactive approach can help. As a solution-focused therapist, I skip lengthy analysis and focus on your goals to efficiently find practical solutions. In just eight compassionate sessions or less, you'll feel understood and leave each week with immediate strategies and a customized game plan providing concrete next steps tailored to you. I don't just stop at counseling - as your short-term concierge, I recommend tailored follow-up resources for you to pursue once our work is complete.
Tired of just coping and ready to start improving your life? I understand, and my collaborative, interactive approach can help. As a solution-focused therapist, I skip lengthy analysis and focus on your goals to efficiently find practical solutions. In just eight compassionate sessions or less, you'll feel understood and leave each week with immediate strategies and a customized game plan providing concrete next steps tailored to you. I don't just stop at counseling - as your short-term concierge, I recommend tailored follow-up resources for you to pursue once our work is complete.
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Alissa Rygel, LCPC, CRC, supports teens, adults, and seniors across Illinois in navigating emotional challenges, life transitions, and personal growth through thoughtful, client-centered therapy. She creates a space where each person feels safe, respected, and empowered. Whether someone is facing anxiety, depression, or the lasting impact of trauma, Alissa’s warm and collaborative approach helps clients build resilience and discover meaningful pathways to healing.
Alissa Rygel, LCPC, CRC, supports teens, adults, and seniors across Illinois in navigating emotional challenges, life transitions, and personal growth through thoughtful, client-centered therapy. She creates a space where each person feels safe, respected, and empowered. Whether someone is facing anxiety, depression, or the lasting impact of trauma, Alissa’s warm and collaborative approach helps clients build resilience and discover meaningful pathways to healing.
I work with a number of different presenting issues including men's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, couples and those who are dealing with substance use issues.
I work with a number of different presenting issues including men's issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life changes, couples and those who are dealing with substance use issues.
Are you caught in a cycle of anxiety? Whether you're navigating relationship challenges, constant pressure to succeed, or concerns about addictive behaviors, anxiety can make anything feel insurmountable. But there is hope for improvement. I am here to support you with practical and effective techniques to manage stress while building a fulfilling and sustainable life. You can achieve a sense of peace and clarity. Together, we'll delve into your values and choices, uncovering the resilience you've gained from past challenges to help you reach your objectives.
Are you caught in a cycle of anxiety? Whether you're navigating relationship challenges, constant pressure to succeed, or concerns about addictive behaviors, anxiety can make anything feel insurmountable. But there is hope for improvement. I am here to support you with practical and effective techniques to manage stress while building a fulfilling and sustainable life. You can achieve a sense of peace and clarity. Together, we'll delve into your values and choices, uncovering the resilience you've gained from past challenges to help you reach your objectives.
Accepting new in-person/virtual clients! Choosing a therapist is a daunting task and I am aware of how difficult this can be for people. Gaining trust and confidence from my clients is of the utmost importance to me and I believe in making my office an open and relaxing environment. My experiences and training in primary care and healthy psychology have led me to use an approach that incorporates both the mental and physical aspects of your well-being. I work with clients on Anxiety and Depression, in addition to Sleep Concerns, Diet, Exercise, and Alcohol/Drug Use. I utilize CBT, Mindfulness/Meditation, ACT and other modalities.
Accepting new in-person/virtual clients! Choosing a therapist is a daunting task and I am aware of how difficult this can be for people. Gaining trust and confidence from my clients is of the utmost importance to me and I believe in making my office an open and relaxing environment. My experiences and training in primary care and healthy psychology have led me to use an approach that incorporates both the mental and physical aspects of your well-being. I work with clients on Anxiety and Depression, in addition to Sleep Concerns, Diet, Exercise, and Alcohol/Drug Use. I utilize CBT, Mindfulness/Meditation, ACT and other modalities.
Dr. Cassandra Brandes
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Working on your mental health can enhance every aspect of your life: work, school, relationships, and overall wellbeing. You have just taken the first step to achieving balance and fulfillment: getting support with that work. In the next steps, I can offer a supportive space for you to explore your experiences without judgment and tools to cope with life's challenges.
I work with adults, teens, and couples with a variety of concerns, but I specialize in highly effective treatments for OCD, alcohol and other substance use problems (e.g., nicotine, cannabis, cocaine addiction), anxiety, depression, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
Working on your mental health can enhance every aspect of your life: work, school, relationships, and overall wellbeing. You have just taken the first step to achieving balance and fulfillment: getting support with that work. In the next steps, I can offer a supportive space for you to explore your experiences without judgment and tools to cope with life's challenges.
I work with adults, teens, and couples with a variety of concerns, but I specialize in highly effective treatments for OCD, alcohol and other substance use problems (e.g., nicotine, cannabis, cocaine addiction), anxiety, depression, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
If you're a driven professional feeling trapped by the daily pressure to perform—yet secretly wrestling with alcohol or substance use that’s starting to strain both your personal integrity and career—you’re not alone. Perhaps you’re waking up with regret, masking the stress at boardroom meetings with a stiff drink, or feeling isolated beneath the appearance of success. The ache of disconnect between who you are inside and the polished version the world sees can feel unbearable.
If you're a driven professional feeling trapped by the daily pressure to perform—yet secretly wrestling with alcohol or substance use that’s starting to strain both your personal integrity and career—you’re not alone. Perhaps you’re waking up with regret, masking the stress at boardroom meetings with a stiff drink, or feeling isolated beneath the appearance of success. The ache of disconnect between who you are inside and the polished version the world sees can feel unbearable.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Alcohol Use Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Maywood
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- River Forest
Alcohol Use Therapists
Are there specific medications for alcohol use?
There are oral medications approved to treat alcohol use disorder—such as disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone, which also comes in an injectable form. These medications do help people reduce their drinking as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings, disulfiram can make a person feel sick when they drink, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.
How do alcohol recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other patients in recovery; in outpatient programs,individuals live at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff can also include people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other tools for recovery.
How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.
How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for alcohol use reduce the amount of alcohol they intake. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.