Brainspotting Therapists in Chicago, IL
I help clients connect with the wisdom of their bodies to foster healing, incorporating body awareness, mindfulness, breathwork, & movement by utilizing Brainspotting (level 2), Reiki, inner child work, & Yoga (currently in 200hr teacher training) .
I specialize in supporting women through a women’s empowerment framework, as well as working with other psychotherapists who prefer somatic interventions over traditional talk therapy. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, intergenerational trauma, vicarious trauma, complex trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, identity concerns, Latinx concerns, first generation acculturation conflicts and women's issues. I currently offer teletherapy only and welcome you to reach out via email to schedule a brief phone consultation to explore if we’re a good fit.
I help clients connect with the wisdom of their bodies to foster healing, incorporating body awareness, mindfulness, breathwork, & movement by utilizing Brainspotting (level 2), Reiki, inner child work, & Yoga (currently in 200hr teacher training) .
I specialize in supporting women through a women’s empowerment framework, as well as working with other psychotherapists who prefer somatic interventions over traditional talk therapy. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, intergenerational trauma, vicarious trauma, complex trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, identity concerns, Latinx concerns, first generation acculturation conflicts and women's issues. I currently offer teletherapy only and welcome you to reach out via email to schedule a brief phone consultation to explore if we’re a good fit.
Megan Sandos
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I collaborate with young/adults (16+) navigating the impact of social, cultural, and interpersonal distress and trauma. I work to be culturally affirming of ALL bodies, identities and expressions, beliefs and curiosities, and ways of life. Whether your journey involves navigating complex trauma, embracing self-discovery, or grounding in spiritual and mind-body practices, I’m here to collaborate with you in a way that honors your unique path, keeps things real, and has a few laughs along the way.
I collaborate with young/adults (16+) navigating the impact of social, cultural, and interpersonal distress and trauma. I work to be culturally affirming of ALL bodies, identities and expressions, beliefs and curiosities, and ways of life. Whether your journey involves navigating complex trauma, embracing self-discovery, or grounding in spiritual and mind-body practices, I’m here to collaborate with you in a way that honors your unique path, keeps things real, and has a few laughs along the way.
I am a culturally-sensitive psychotherapist with ADHD herself; which aids my understanding of those struggling with identity or consider themselves the "black sheep". I specialize in working with individuals and relationships that are in significant transition. While helping to facilitate a process where clients are able to examine and understand their hurt/pain concerning life choices. Complex histories, such as the experience of constant wounding in relationships often times impairs our view of ourselves and can make the world feel isolating. Directly affecting how we form friendships or seek out romantic partnerships.
I am a culturally-sensitive psychotherapist with ADHD herself; which aids my understanding of those struggling with identity or consider themselves the "black sheep". I specialize in working with individuals and relationships that are in significant transition. While helping to facilitate a process where clients are able to examine and understand their hurt/pain concerning life choices. Complex histories, such as the experience of constant wounding in relationships often times impairs our view of ourselves and can make the world feel isolating. Directly affecting how we form friendships or seek out romantic partnerships.
For the past 12 years, I have had the honor of meeting with clients of all ages and am amazed by human resilience. Often, emotions can be complex to navigate and difficult to manage alone. My goal is to support you through difficult moments, help you build awareness and understanding for your behaviors and feelings, gain clarity in confusing times, better understand your relationships, and ultimately help you see life in clearer terms.
For the past 12 years, I have had the honor of meeting with clients of all ages and am amazed by human resilience. Often, emotions can be complex to navigate and difficult to manage alone. My goal is to support you through difficult moments, help you build awareness and understanding for your behaviors and feelings, gain clarity in confusing times, better understand your relationships, and ultimately help you see life in clearer terms.
Nithya Karpagavinayagam
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CYT-200
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting which facilitates change on a neurological level; yoga to facilitate body healing; and Gottman Method that enhances trust, communication and intimacy for couples.
Do you feel like you're constantly "on" and doing everything for everyone else? Are you looking for more balance in your life, but the thought of relaxing stresses you out even more? You want to change things and take care of yourself, but you're not sure what that looks like or where to start. For years, I have guided people who feel powerless or trapped in their cycles towards creating rich & meaningful lives. I'll help you identify what is and isn't working for you, sustainable techniques you can use when you're feeling overwhelmed, & take action towards your goals.
I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting which facilitates change on a neurological level; yoga to facilitate body healing; and Gottman Method that enhances trust, communication and intimacy for couples.
Do you feel like you're constantly "on" and doing everything for everyone else? Are you looking for more balance in your life, but the thought of relaxing stresses you out even more? You want to change things and take care of yourself, but you're not sure what that looks like or where to start. For years, I have guided people who feel powerless or trapped in their cycles towards creating rich & meaningful lives. I'll help you identify what is and isn't working for you, sustainable techniques you can use when you're feeling overwhelmed, & take action towards your goals.
My clinical work draws from evidence-based and trauma-informed modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting, as well as somatic techniques such as breathwork and EFT to help process unresolved trauma and emotional distress.
I am a psychotherapist with a background in clinical psychology and social work, dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship struggles. My work is grounded in compassion, clinical depth, and a strong belief in each person’s capacity for healing and resilience. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel understood and empowered. As a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. I also provide psychological evaluations for courts and immigration cases (Hardship, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, and Asylum).
My clinical work draws from evidence-based and trauma-informed modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting, as well as somatic techniques such as breathwork and EFT to help process unresolved trauma and emotional distress.
I am a psychotherapist with a background in clinical psychology and social work, dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship struggles. My work is grounded in compassion, clinical depth, and a strong belief in each person’s capacity for healing and resilience. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel understood and empowered. As a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. I also provide psychological evaluations for courts and immigration cases (Hardship, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, and Asylum).
Ashley uses a holistic/wholistic approach when working with clients- from traditional evidence-based therapeutic modalities, to Brainspotting and Spirituality.
Ashley works with and has a passion for providing services to individuals living with/battling mental health, learning, mood, performance, and traumatic dysregulations- from adolescents, adults, to older adults. She specializes in athletic/human performance psychology and substance use/misuse- harm reduction. Along with providing services, she has a dedication to being a light and a gatekeeper for the fields of mental health, counseling, clinical supervision, and sport psychology. It is her desire to see folks live in their purpose(s) and be the optimal versions of their true/authentic selves.
Ashley uses a holistic/wholistic approach when working with clients- from traditional evidence-based therapeutic modalities, to Brainspotting and Spirituality.
Ashley works with and has a passion for providing services to individuals living with/battling mental health, learning, mood, performance, and traumatic dysregulations- from adolescents, adults, to older adults. She specializes in athletic/human performance psychology and substance use/misuse- harm reduction. Along with providing services, she has a dedication to being a light and a gatekeeper for the fields of mental health, counseling, clinical supervision, and sport psychology. It is her desire to see folks live in their purpose(s) and be the optimal versions of their true/authentic selves.
Do you ever feel like you’re carrying more than your share — emotionally, mentally, or even physically? Have you noticed patterns that keep repeating, no matter how much you try to change? Are you craving a space where you can finally slow down, make sense of your story, and begin to heal? As a trauma therapist, I help individuals navigate life’s complexities with compassion, curiosity, and resilience. My work centers on supporting people who are ready to understand themselves more deeply and create meaningful, lasting change. I guide clients toward greater self-awareness, confidence, and balance.
Do you ever feel like you’re carrying more than your share — emotionally, mentally, or even physically? Have you noticed patterns that keep repeating, no matter how much you try to change? Are you craving a space where you can finally slow down, make sense of your story, and begin to heal? As a trauma therapist, I help individuals navigate life’s complexities with compassion, curiosity, and resilience. My work centers on supporting people who are ready to understand themselves more deeply and create meaningful, lasting change. I guide clients toward greater self-awareness, confidence, and balance.
My work is trauma-informed and Brainspotting-centered, integrating somatic therapy with DBT, ACT, CBT, and IFS.
You’ve always been the strong one carrying family expectations, the weight of anxiety, perfectionism, shame, self-criticism, or trauma. Healing takes courage and you don’t have to do it alone. Therapy with me focuses on processing current/past experiences, learning new coping tools, building emotional regulation skills, regaining trust, identifying patterns, and developing a greater sense of safety and presence in your daily life and relationships. I specialize in trauma recovery (PTSD, C-PTSD), anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, family dynamics, and life changes. I work with both individuals and couples and I speak Spanish.
My work is trauma-informed and Brainspotting-centered, integrating somatic therapy with DBT, ACT, CBT, and IFS.
You’ve always been the strong one carrying family expectations, the weight of anxiety, perfectionism, shame, self-criticism, or trauma. Healing takes courage and you don’t have to do it alone. Therapy with me focuses on processing current/past experiences, learning new coping tools, building emotional regulation skills, regaining trust, identifying patterns, and developing a greater sense of safety and presence in your daily life and relationships. I specialize in trauma recovery (PTSD, C-PTSD), anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, family dynamics, and life changes. I work with both individuals and couples and I speak Spanish.
Odette Ojeda Rivera
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Chicago, IL 60608
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been through an experience that has made you feel stuck, isolated, or confused? Maybe it has been a traumatic experience, relationship problems, professional challenges, cultural/racial experiences or even every day stress. We often think we have to face these challenges alone and “move on!” Working together, we will work on healing, building healthy skills to cope, and developing healthy patterns that work for you and liberate you from the experiences that may be holding you back.
Have you been through an experience that has made you feel stuck, isolated, or confused? Maybe it has been a traumatic experience, relationship problems, professional challenges, cultural/racial experiences or even every day stress. We often think we have to face these challenges alone and “move on!” Working together, we will work on healing, building healthy skills to cope, and developing healthy patterns that work for you and liberate you from the experiences that may be holding you back.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? On the outside, it might seem like you have everything under control, but inside, you're wrestling with feelings of sadness, anger, shame, and exhaustion. Are you finding it hard to focus on yourself after prioritizing others for so long? It’s okay to feel this way, and remember, you’re not alone. Awareness is a vital first step. You don’t have to walk the path to healing alone; I'm here to walk with you every step of the way. You can expect to be welcomed into a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore matters most to you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? On the outside, it might seem like you have everything under control, but inside, you're wrestling with feelings of sadness, anger, shame, and exhaustion. Are you finding it hard to focus on yourself after prioritizing others for so long? It’s okay to feel this way, and remember, you’re not alone. Awareness is a vital first step. You don’t have to walk the path to healing alone; I'm here to walk with you every step of the way. You can expect to be welcomed into a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore matters most to you.
I am an art therapist, certified Brainspotting (neuroexperiential) consultant, death doula, yoga teacher.
Alongside western clinical trainings and trauma research, I am a Bwiti student, initiated by my teachers in West Africa. The Bwiti teachings strengthen me in the weaving arts of mediumship, ancestral relations and psychotherapy.
I am an art therapist, certified Brainspotting (neuroexperiential) consultant, death doula, yoga teacher.
Alongside western clinical trainings and trauma research, I am a Bwiti student, initiated by my teachers in West Africa. The Bwiti teachings strengthen me in the weaving arts of mediumship, ancestral relations and psychotherapy.
For some of you, this is the first time you are choosing to live the life you want to live outside of the cultural and religious lines that were set for you. For others, this is the first time you are setting out on your own in a new city for school or a job. Maybe you just went through your first breakup and are rediscovering yourself. Maybe this is the first time you’re grieving the loss of someone. These first moments can be significant in life, and while some firsts are more exciting than others, they all have something in common, our first moments, whatever they are, can bring out a mixed bag of complicated feelings.
For some of you, this is the first time you are choosing to live the life you want to live outside of the cultural and religious lines that were set for you. For others, this is the first time you are setting out on your own in a new city for school or a job. Maybe you just went through your first breakup and are rediscovering yourself. Maybe this is the first time you’re grieving the loss of someone. These first moments can be significant in life, and while some firsts are more exciting than others, they all have something in common, our first moments, whatever they are, can bring out a mixed bag of complicated feelings.
My primary form of treatment is Brainspotting and I will weave in talk therapy that is rooted in systems work.
Please note that I have limited daytime appointments only at this time. Life can be challenging and overwhelming for everyone. I’m bilingual and bi-cultural and enjoy working with folks of all backgrounds, but am especially passionate about working with folks from the Latino/x community. I always think of my clients as multi-faceted, keeping in mind their culture, identity, immigration history, trauma, attachment, family history, development, and relationship patterns.
My primary form of treatment is Brainspotting and I will weave in talk therapy that is rooted in systems work.
Please note that I have limited daytime appointments only at this time. Life can be challenging and overwhelming for everyone. I’m bilingual and bi-cultural and enjoy working with folks of all backgrounds, but am especially passionate about working with folks from the Latino/x community. I always think of my clients as multi-faceted, keeping in mind their culture, identity, immigration history, trauma, attachment, family history, development, and relationship patterns.
I draw from somatic approaches (EMDR and Brainspotting), parts work (IFS), and ACT/DBT to help you process painful memories, soften shame, and develop capacity for the
You may carry a constant undercurrent of tension—feeling constantly alert, exhausted, or overwhelmed by emotions due to relentless inner demands. When stress, neglect, violence, or family dysfunction shape your story, it can lead to survival strategies like putting others first or silencing your own needs. Over time, these survival strategies can leave your body unsettled, your mind fatigued, and your sense of self fragmented.
As a Latinx, queer, and neurodiverse person, I understand the importance of exploring the intersections of our identities and honoring the wholeness of who we are.
I draw from somatic approaches (EMDR and Brainspotting), parts work (IFS), and ACT/DBT to help you process painful memories, soften shame, and develop capacity for the
You may carry a constant undercurrent of tension—feeling constantly alert, exhausted, or overwhelmed by emotions due to relentless inner demands. When stress, neglect, violence, or family dysfunction shape your story, it can lead to survival strategies like putting others first or silencing your own needs. Over time, these survival strategies can leave your body unsettled, your mind fatigued, and your sense of self fragmented.
As a Latinx, queer, and neurodiverse person, I understand the importance of exploring the intersections of our identities and honoring the wholeness of who we are.
Have you been through the spin cycle one too many times in your relationship or marriage? Asking yourself, "How did I get here?" Coming out of divorce or considering divorce or separation? Do you think your partner is a narcissist? Or are they avoiding issues that you know are relevant? Do they blame you for everything? Have you or your partner experienced childhood trauma and it is wreaking havoc on your relationship? Maybe you have just had enough and you need to sort out your feelings and get grounded. The fact is that relationships, both past and present, lie at the core of all of our problems. Accepting new clients.
Have you been through the spin cycle one too many times in your relationship or marriage? Asking yourself, "How did I get here?" Coming out of divorce or considering divorce or separation? Do you think your partner is a narcissist? Or are they avoiding issues that you know are relevant? Do they blame you for everything? Have you or your partner experienced childhood trauma and it is wreaking havoc on your relationship? Maybe you have just had enough and you need to sort out your feelings and get grounded. The fact is that relationships, both past and present, lie at the core of all of our problems. Accepting new clients.
I believe the quality of your relationships directly impacts the quality of your life. The therapeutic relationship can be an intimidating one but is able to enhance your unique relationships with yourself and those closest to you. I prioritize my relationship with you. I meet you where you are, ready to hear your story. Reaching out for therapy is often preceded by experiencing barriers to a relationship. I value your emotional safety and your human dignity by empathizing, accepting and supporting you along your life journey. No matter the challenges you face, I am ready to join with you in this current stage of your story.
I believe the quality of your relationships directly impacts the quality of your life. The therapeutic relationship can be an intimidating one but is able to enhance your unique relationships with yourself and those closest to you. I prioritize my relationship with you. I meet you where you are, ready to hear your story. Reaching out for therapy is often preceded by experiencing barriers to a relationship. I value your emotional safety and your human dignity by empathizing, accepting and supporting you along your life journey. No matter the challenges you face, I am ready to join with you in this current stage of your story.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, and stress, especially when these challenges stem from life transitions, personal hardships, or unresolved childhood experiences. If you’re feeling disconnected or stuck, I’m here to help you find a way forward. I understand that asking for help can be difficult, but together we’ll explore how your strengths can guide you back to the path you’re meant to follow. I also have experience working with neurodivergent children and their families, offering compassionate support tailored to their unique needs.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, and stress, especially when these challenges stem from life transitions, personal hardships, or unresolved childhood experiences. If you’re feeling disconnected or stuck, I’m here to help you find a way forward. I understand that asking for help can be difficult, but together we’ll explore how your strengths can guide you back to the path you’re meant to follow. I also have experience working with neurodivergent children and their families, offering compassionate support tailored to their unique needs.
Therapy is an adventure where you are the pilot, I your co-pilot, and together we can create a unique path to help you rise to your potential. Beginning your journey in therapy can be a daunting. It is my priority to help guide and support you in a journey that will be a parallel collaboration of learning and rediscovery. I believe that therapy is a fluid process that can help you not only work through distress, but also help discover your strengths and insight. Therapy will empower you by giving your experiences a voice and a say in the outcome of your future.
Therapy is an adventure where you are the pilot, I your co-pilot, and together we can create a unique path to help you rise to your potential. Beginning your journey in therapy can be a daunting. It is my priority to help guide and support you in a journey that will be a parallel collaboration of learning and rediscovery. I believe that therapy is a fluid process that can help you not only work through distress, but also help discover your strengths and insight. Therapy will empower you by giving your experiences a voice and a say in the outcome of your future.
Normally, you're great at keeping things together. But lately, you feel like you're holding on by a thread, going through the motions and, at any moment, things can fall apart. You're ready to get your life back on track, but you need a place where it's okay to not have it all together. You need someone who will provide the support you need to make the desired changes. You've come to the right place, and you've found the right person.
Normally, you're great at keeping things together. But lately, you feel like you're holding on by a thread, going through the motions and, at any moment, things can fall apart. You're ready to get your life back on track, but you need a place where it's okay to not have it all together. You need someone who will provide the support you need to make the desired changes. You've come to the right place, and you've found the right person.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Brainspotting Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Downers Grove
- Evanston
- Glenview
- Hinsdale
- Lombard
- Oak Park
- Orland Park
- River Forest
- Skokie
- Wilmette
- Winnetka
Brainspotting Therapists
How does brainspotting work?
Brainspotting works by using eye positioning to identify and process traumatic memories so that a client is better able to move forward and live with less fear. The theory behind brainspotting is that by identifying where a person looks when thinking of traumatic memories, a therapist will be able to guide them to focus on that spot and work with the client to get them out of the “fight, flight, freeze” response associated with the traumatic memory.
Is brainspotting an evidence-based therapy?
Brainspotting is a theory-based alternative therapy. It is one of the newest forms of treatment, so very little research has been completed that examines the mechanism by which it works. The theory behind brainspotting is that eye position can be linked to areas of the brain that store and process memory.
How effective is brainspotting?
Because it is such a new treatment, the effectiveness of brainspotting cannot be quantified. Some people have found it to be effective on its own, or in conjunction with other types of therapy. It is considered an alternative therapy, and it is popular with people for whom more traditional therapies have proven ineffective.
How long does brainspotting take to work?
A typical brainspotting session will last between 60 to 90 minutes. There is no required number of sessions needed to complete brainspotting therapy, but in many cases it is delivered over the course of about six sessions. Clients are encouraged to rate their level of distress prior to a session and again following a session, and to track progress.