Dissociative Disorders (DID) Therapists in Chicago, IL
Sarah Vassileff
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
As your therapist, one of my priorities is to walk alongside you as you grow into the most integrated version of yourself, embracing your autonomy and strengths. It can be difficult to balance your sense of internal safety and the external commotion of the world. A sense of disillusionment occurs when our external wants do not meet our internal needs. I focus on your concept of Self as it relates to emotional disturbance, fragmentation of the self, maladaptive thinking patterns, and dissociation. My aim is to work with you to embrace and overcome challenges endured throughout the lifespan and to help you find alignment within.
As your therapist, one of my priorities is to walk alongside you as you grow into the most integrated version of yourself, embracing your autonomy and strengths. It can be difficult to balance your sense of internal safety and the external commotion of the world. A sense of disillusionment occurs when our external wants do not meet our internal needs. I focus on your concept of Self as it relates to emotional disturbance, fragmentation of the self, maladaptive thinking patterns, and dissociation. My aim is to work with you to embrace and overcome challenges endured throughout the lifespan and to help you find alignment within.
Do you struggle with effects of trauma or abuse? Maybe use anxiety, depression, or self-sabotaging behaviors as a way to cope and now find that these behaviors no long help. Are you looking to heal from simple or complex trauma, physical/ emotional/ sexual/ narcissistic abuse, attachment wounds, “limiting” beliefs, toxic relationships with a desire to improve day-to-day functioning, develop a greater sense of wellbeing, and improve self-esteem and acceptance? If you are seeking help, then you have the strength and resiliency to surpass recovery to a life of thriving. Come be curious, creative, open-minded and experimental with me.
Do you struggle with effects of trauma or abuse? Maybe use anxiety, depression, or self-sabotaging behaviors as a way to cope and now find that these behaviors no long help. Are you looking to heal from simple or complex trauma, physical/ emotional/ sexual/ narcissistic abuse, attachment wounds, “limiting” beliefs, toxic relationships with a desire to improve day-to-day functioning, develop a greater sense of wellbeing, and improve self-esteem and acceptance? If you are seeking help, then you have the strength and resiliency to surpass recovery to a life of thriving. Come be curious, creative, open-minded and experimental with me.
My name is Jennifer and I co-own a group practice that specializes in treating complex trauma and dissociative disorders. I use an insight-oriented, relational approach with an emphasis on collaboration, connection, and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship facilitates growth by identifying and exploring both past and present patterns that keep people feeling stuck. I see therapy as a collaborative effort that allows people observe and more deeply understand themselves, their relationship patterns, and their characteristic ways of thinking and feeling.
My name is Jennifer and I co-own a group practice that specializes in treating complex trauma and dissociative disorders. I use an insight-oriented, relational approach with an emphasis on collaboration, connection, and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship facilitates growth by identifying and exploring both past and present patterns that keep people feeling stuck. I see therapy as a collaborative effort that allows people observe and more deeply understand themselves, their relationship patterns, and their characteristic ways of thinking and feeling.
Amalia Salmerón
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA, CTP
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that healing takes place in relationship. As a Queer Latine therapist, my therapeutic approach is reflective, humanist, and conversational. I work through Relational-Cultural, Feminist and Person-Centered theoretical frameworks. We will work together to create a space of healing that is non-judgmental and grounded in self-directive, goal-oriented, and strengths-based work. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to the therapeutic relationship, so our work together will be tailored to best address your needs as you identify them. I’m happy you’re here and really looking forward to meeting you.
I believe that healing takes place in relationship. As a Queer Latine therapist, my therapeutic approach is reflective, humanist, and conversational. I work through Relational-Cultural, Feminist and Person-Centered theoretical frameworks. We will work together to create a space of healing that is non-judgmental and grounded in self-directive, goal-oriented, and strengths-based work. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to the therapeutic relationship, so our work together will be tailored to best address your needs as you identify them. I’m happy you’re here and really looking forward to meeting you.
I work with adults facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, re-entering society post-incarceration, and the lingering effects of trauma and abuse. I’m also drawn to work that explores identity, existential questions, and the parts of us we struggle to understand. My style is highly collaborative and tailored to making sense of what’s beneath the surface, whether that’s naming patterns, sitting difficult emotions, or laughing together at the absurdity of being human. Healing isn’t linear and we’ll move at your pace, offering a space to be honest, messy, and real - where your story is never too much.
I work with adults facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, re-entering society post-incarceration, and the lingering effects of trauma and abuse. I’m also drawn to work that explores identity, existential questions, and the parts of us we struggle to understand. My style is highly collaborative and tailored to making sense of what’s beneath the surface, whether that’s naming patterns, sitting difficult emotions, or laughing together at the absurdity of being human. Healing isn’t linear and we’ll move at your pace, offering a space to be honest, messy, and real - where your story is never too much.
Are you struggling with emotions, career, relationships, or chronic pain- but not sure how to move forward? You deserve space to process what brings you to therapy with a professional who can validate your experiences and commit to working with you, at your pace, to develop solutions. I work from a culturally-aware, trauma-informed perspective to ensure that you feel seen and heard, and offer Art Therapy. Non-judgmental by nature, I collaborate with clients by building on strengths to overcome challenges. Over 13+ yrs. of experience I developed my main niche; helping folks with complex trauma & dissociative disorders find relief.
Are you struggling with emotions, career, relationships, or chronic pain- but not sure how to move forward? You deserve space to process what brings you to therapy with a professional who can validate your experiences and commit to working with you, at your pace, to develop solutions. I work from a culturally-aware, trauma-informed perspective to ensure that you feel seen and heard, and offer Art Therapy. Non-judgmental by nature, I collaborate with clients by building on strengths to overcome challenges. Over 13+ yrs. of experience I developed my main niche; helping folks with complex trauma & dissociative disorders find relief.
I am interested in helping clients develop curiosity about themselves. With curiosity, we can create new ways of relating to ourselves. This is a tremendous capacity! I want to help the client feel empowered about what they want to get from therapy, develop capacity to tolerate difficult emotions, understand and manage their triggers and reduce shame. Clients who are motivated to do this work will find it pays off even though it can be slow going at times. A well-known principle in trauma therapy is " The slower you go, the faster you get there" applies aptly. (Richard Kluft)
I am interested in helping clients develop curiosity about themselves. With curiosity, we can create new ways of relating to ourselves. This is a tremendous capacity! I want to help the client feel empowered about what they want to get from therapy, develop capacity to tolerate difficult emotions, understand and manage their triggers and reduce shame. Clients who are motivated to do this work will find it pays off even though it can be slow going at times. A well-known principle in trauma therapy is " The slower you go, the faster you get there" applies aptly. (Richard Kluft)
Your parts are not something to be “fixed,” they are coherent to your story and identities. They are how you survived and responded to trauma, internalized stigma, oppressive systems, and relational harm. However, you might feel frustrated with or dissociated from these parts. Maybe you find that they don't keep you as safe anymore, impact your relationships, or your ability to show up how you want to. By working together to understand how these strategies helped you, the conditions and systems they respond to, we can attune to your inherent wisdom and discover new ways forward that make sense for your life.
Your parts are not something to be “fixed,” they are coherent to your story and identities. They are how you survived and responded to trauma, internalized stigma, oppressive systems, and relational harm. However, you might feel frustrated with or dissociated from these parts. Maybe you find that they don't keep you as safe anymore, impact your relationships, or your ability to show up how you want to. By working together to understand how these strategies helped you, the conditions and systems they respond to, we can attune to your inherent wisdom and discover new ways forward that make sense for your life.
Kei
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, EMDR-C, CCPT-II
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma therapy for adults experiencing PTSD, CPTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and dissociation. I use EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), I help clients heal developmental and complex trauma.
Do you feel stuck in the past or repeat toxic relationship patterns? Even when abuse has ended, trauma can leave you feeling unsafe, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Healing is possible. I’m here to help you understand your nervous system and move toward a more grounded, authentic life.
I specialize in trauma therapy for adults experiencing PTSD, CPTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and dissociation. I use EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), I help clients heal developmental and complex trauma.
Do you feel stuck in the past or repeat toxic relationship patterns? Even when abuse has ended, trauma can leave you feeling unsafe, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Healing is possible. I’m here to help you understand your nervous system and move toward a more grounded, authentic life.
Life doesn’t always unfold the way we planned. If you’re navigating a major transition, questioning parts of your identity, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or carrying the weight of trauma, you don’t have to sort through it alone. I work with individuals who want to better understand their experiences and begin creating a life that feels more aligned.
I understand what it can feel like to be “othered." Many of the people I work with are processing trauma, dissociation, activist-related burnout, existential concerns, anxiety, or significant life transitions. Our work together moves at a pace that feels safe and sustainable.
Life doesn’t always unfold the way we planned. If you’re navigating a major transition, questioning parts of your identity, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or carrying the weight of trauma, you don’t have to sort through it alone. I work with individuals who want to better understand their experiences and begin creating a life that feels more aligned.
I understand what it can feel like to be “othered." Many of the people I work with are processing trauma, dissociation, activist-related burnout, existential concerns, anxiety, or significant life transitions. Our work together moves at a pace that feels safe and sustainable.
I believe we as humans do the best for ourselves with what we are given. The systems we live in influence who we are, how we connect, and how we perceive the world around us. Each person has their own unique lived experience, fears, hopes, desires, ways of being. Wherever you may find yourself in your journey, whether by choice or necessity, I will meet you. In therapy, we can work collaboratively with intention and curiosity, so that you gain tools to help you through your life's journey.
I believe we as humans do the best for ourselves with what we are given. The systems we live in influence who we are, how we connect, and how we perceive the world around us. Each person has their own unique lived experience, fears, hopes, desires, ways of being. Wherever you may find yourself in your journey, whether by choice or necessity, I will meet you. In therapy, we can work collaboratively with intention and curiosity, so that you gain tools to help you through your life's journey.
I believe that a client-focused, relational, and accepting therapeutic relationship encourages meaningful change and spiritual development. Further, I have found that maintaining an openness to the exploration and integration of faith and spirituality can be transformational for many individuals. I primarily use an existential framework to conceptualize my clients and incorporate techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
I believe that a client-focused, relational, and accepting therapeutic relationship encourages meaningful change and spiritual development. Further, I have found that maintaining an openness to the exploration and integration of faith and spirituality can be transformational for many individuals. I primarily use an existential framework to conceptualize my clients and incorporate techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
Traumatic experiences echo into our present lives through dysregulated nervous systems, intrusive memories, and how we view our place in the world. You may notice a constant disconnection from others. Or intense emotional shifts moment to moment. Maybe, you even find it hard to trust yourself. I believe that through trauma-informed and community care all people have the capacity to heal from past wounds. I approach trauma-informed care from a collaborative, non-judgmental, and anti-oppressive lens. I prioritize a relationship where you feel seen, empowered, and supported in your healing.
Traumatic experiences echo into our present lives through dysregulated nervous systems, intrusive memories, and how we view our place in the world. You may notice a constant disconnection from others. Or intense emotional shifts moment to moment. Maybe, you even find it hard to trust yourself. I believe that through trauma-informed and community care all people have the capacity to heal from past wounds. I approach trauma-informed care from a collaborative, non-judgmental, and anti-oppressive lens. I prioritize a relationship where you feel seen, empowered, and supported in your healing.
Hello! Are you looking for a therapeutic approach that is different than what you might be used to? Are you ready to explore the root of the problem that is continuing to cause you the symptoms you are struggling with? Do you struggle with trauma responses that are causing issues in your relationships and in other parts of your life? Are you having a hard time finding a therapist that understands the complexity of dissociation? I am Certified and and Approved consultant in EMDR through EMDRIA, an Art Therapist and a Reiki Master that uses progressive, holistic approaches to healing.
Hello! Are you looking for a therapeutic approach that is different than what you might be used to? Are you ready to explore the root of the problem that is continuing to cause you the symptoms you are struggling with? Do you struggle with trauma responses that are causing issues in your relationships and in other parts of your life? Are you having a hard time finding a therapist that understands the complexity of dissociation? I am Certified and and Approved consultant in EMDR through EMDRIA, an Art Therapist and a Reiki Master that uses progressive, holistic approaches to healing.
Given our current political landscape, many individuals are experiencing heightened anxiety, anger, grief, or disillusionment. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for clients processing the emotional toll of current U.S. political events—whether that includes threats to rights and identity, systemic injustices, or stress.
My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
Given our current political landscape, many individuals are experiencing heightened anxiety, anger, grief, or disillusionment. I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for clients processing the emotional toll of current U.S. political events—whether that includes threats to rights and identity, systemic injustices, or stress.
My career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath. I have training and experience with many trauma treatment approaches ( PE, CPT, EMDR, DBT) which I apply in the context of a psychodynamic and relational approach to therapy. You have the right to seek a therapist who is a good fit!
Everyone gets stuck now and then, may feel lost or alone. Sometimes you may just need a little support, an unbiased listener to help gain insight or clarity. Other times you may need help to delve more deeply into your emotions to transform and grow. I approach therapy as a collaborative process where together we explore your life challenges with curiosity but without judgement. Although not always easy, therapy can be deeply rewarding. An exploration that will help you reconnect with your inner strength and wisdom, better able to overcome obstacles and to move towards a greater sense of wellbeing.
Everyone gets stuck now and then, may feel lost or alone. Sometimes you may just need a little support, an unbiased listener to help gain insight or clarity. Other times you may need help to delve more deeply into your emotions to transform and grow. I approach therapy as a collaborative process where together we explore your life challenges with curiosity but without judgement. Although not always easy, therapy can be deeply rewarding. An exploration that will help you reconnect with your inner strength and wisdom, better able to overcome obstacles and to move towards a greater sense of wellbeing.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing telehealth therapy to adults in Nevada and Illinois.
Trauma, dissociation, and human trafficking can leave us feeling isolated and disconnected from who we are. I specialize in complex trauma and Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), helping you safely process your experiences and reconnect with yourself. You are more than what has happened to you—and healing is possible.
Healing is possible—and you don’t have to do it alone. Together, we heal.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing telehealth therapy to adults in Nevada and Illinois.
Trauma, dissociation, and human trafficking can leave us feeling isolated and disconnected from who we are. I specialize in complex trauma and Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), helping you safely process your experiences and reconnect with yourself. You are more than what has happened to you—and healing is possible.
Healing is possible—and you don’t have to do it alone. Together, we heal.
As social worker, I believe in every person's ability to heal, grow, and foster meaningful transformation in their lives. People who work with me are often looking to develop a more conscious relationship with themselves on the pathway to change. I strive to build a secure relationship with my clients, within which we might begin to reckon with experiences of trauma, process profound emotions, support greater connection to the body, and make space for one's authentic Self to emerge and be known.
As social worker, I believe in every person's ability to heal, grow, and foster meaningful transformation in their lives. People who work with me are often looking to develop a more conscious relationship with themselves on the pathway to change. I strive to build a secure relationship with my clients, within which we might begin to reckon with experiences of trauma, process profound emotions, support greater connection to the body, and make space for one's authentic Self to emerge and be known.
Trying to find your place in this world? Struggling to make changes in your life? Know where you want to go or be in life but can't figure out how to get there? I enjoy working with people battling any kind of "stuckness" including trauma issues, addictions, and issues faced by adolescents. I primarily work with individuals, but also work with a family when needed. I am often described as energetic, with a great sense of humor. If you need someone to help motivate and encourage you to make changes, then I am the therapist for you.
Trying to find your place in this world? Struggling to make changes in your life? Know where you want to go or be in life but can't figure out how to get there? I enjoy working with people battling any kind of "stuckness" including trauma issues, addictions, and issues faced by adolescents. I primarily work with individuals, but also work with a family when needed. I am often described as energetic, with a great sense of humor. If you need someone to help motivate and encourage you to make changes, then I am the therapist for you.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Dissociative Disorders (DID) Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Evanston
- Forest Park
- La Grange
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Skokie
- Western Springs
Dissociative Disorders (DID) Therapists
How does therapy for dissociative disorders work?
Dissociation may be triggered by stress or other upsetting circumstances, and therapy can address the traumatic events at the core of an individual’s dissociation. Understanding why a person may dissociate can help the therapist and the individual come up with alternative methods of coping. A person with a dissociative disorder may get stuck on negative thinking, for example, and treatment like Cognitive behavioral therapy is a gold standard for breaking such thinking. And dialectical behavior therapy, for example, can help a person manage their anguish through better emotion regulation.
Which therapies are best for dissociative disorders?
Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, schema therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful memories and past traumas. These therapies work to integrate an individual's different identities into one person.
Are there specific medications for dissociation?
There are no specific medications prescribed for dissociative disorders. However, psychosis, depression, anxiety, and/or panic often co-occur in dissociative disorders. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for any accompanying symptom—which may include antipsychotics like aripiprazole, antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or anti-anxiety drugs like benzodiazepines.
How often and how long are therapy sessions?
Like any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. There are still other patients, especially those who have co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety, who may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months.