Experiential Therapy in Chicago, IL

Photo of Andi Mandel in Chicago, IL
Andi Mandel
MA-MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60659  (Online Only)
I use Experiential therapy including Satir’s Transformational Systemic Therapy (STST), & Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) from a systemic & feminist lens, to help clients process current & past events in their lives.
Relationships can be difficult. Whether it is familial, romantic or platonic, each of us is the sum of all the experiences, communities, and cultures we have been involved in and around our entire lives. We often struggle to understand how to effectively communicate, as well as making and keeping connections.
I use Experiential therapy including Satir’s Transformational Systemic Therapy (STST), & Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) from a systemic & feminist lens, to help clients process current & past events in their lives.
Relationships can be difficult. Whether it is familial, romantic or platonic, each of us is the sum of all the experiences, communities, and cultures we have been involved in and around our entire lives. We often struggle to understand how to effectively communicate, as well as making and keeping connections.
(773) 832-5954 View (773) 832-5954
Photo of Jaclyn Driscoll, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Chicago, IL
Jaclyn Driscoll
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, BA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Drawing from Experiential Therapy and Feminist Family Theory, I take a holistic approach that extends beyond individual perspectives.
My passion lies in working with adolescents and young adults dealing with self-esteem challenges, self-harm, disordered eating, and substance abuse. Additionally, I am deeply interested in guiding individuals through various topics, including ethical non-monogamy/polyamory, divorce, uncoupling, infidelity, betrayal, sexual trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, boundary setting, transitions, and family dynamics. Through compassionate counseling, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling lives and cultivate healthier, more meaningful relationships.
Drawing from Experiential Therapy and Feminist Family Theory, I take a holistic approach that extends beyond individual perspectives.
My passion lies in working with adolescents and young adults dealing with self-esteem challenges, self-harm, disordered eating, and substance abuse. Additionally, I am deeply interested in guiding individuals through various topics, including ethical non-monogamy/polyamory, divorce, uncoupling, infidelity, betrayal, sexual trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, boundary setting, transitions, and family dynamics. Through compassionate counseling, I aim to empower clients to lead fulfilling lives and cultivate healthier, more meaningful relationships.
(773) 974-9351 View (773) 974-9351
Photo of Louise Sherman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Louise Sherman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, CCTP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607
Louise is dedicated to renewing lives and supporting the recovery of those struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, low self-worth and trauma. Louise strives to enhance an individual's quality of life and relationship with self, understanding that when met with adequate support, we can all find healing and fulfillment in life. Louise utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach, including Insight Oriented Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Attachment-Based Theory, Experiential Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Psycho-Education and EMDR Therapy.
Louise is dedicated to renewing lives and supporting the recovery of those struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, low self-worth and trauma. Louise strives to enhance an individual's quality of life and relationship with self, understanding that when met with adequate support, we can all find healing and fulfillment in life. Louise utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach, including Insight Oriented Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Attachment-Based Theory, Experiential Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing, Psycho-Education and EMDR Therapy.
(312) 564-4432 View (312) 564-4432
Photo of Carrie Carren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Carrie Carren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60631  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist is essential in one's journey toward overcoming obstacles. I believe counseling is a collaborative and creative process where we join together to establish the change you desire. I utilize a direct, honest, and genuine communication style in our relationship. My approach combines psychotherapy and the use of experiential therapy as a means of building communication, trust, and decision-making through individual and family treatment. My treatment also involves the partnership of animal assisted therapy with my Labrador Retriever.
Finding the right therapist is essential in one's journey toward overcoming obstacles. I believe counseling is a collaborative and creative process where we join together to establish the change you desire. I utilize a direct, honest, and genuine communication style in our relationship. My approach combines psychotherapy and the use of experiential therapy as a means of building communication, trust, and decision-making through individual and family treatment. My treatment also involves the partnership of animal assisted therapy with my Labrador Retriever.
(847) 786-2659 View (847) 786-2659
Photo of Antionette Fisher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Antionette Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I will tailor my approach to meet your needs, pulling from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Experiential Therapy utilizing a client centered approach.
Are you navigating the challenges of addiction, trauma, depression, or low self-esteem? I specialize in working with adults facing these interconnected experiences and I’m here to help you. Together, we will work towards understanding the underlying factors that caused these challenges to arise, developing coping strategies, and fostering a path towards healing and resilience. I am committed to supporting you on your journey toward positive change. Your well-being is at the forefront of our collaborative work, and I look forward to assisting you in achieving a more balanced and fulfilling life.
I will tailor my approach to meet your needs, pulling from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Experiential Therapy utilizing a client centered approach.
Are you navigating the challenges of addiction, trauma, depression, or low self-esteem? I specialize in working with adults facing these interconnected experiences and I’m here to help you. Together, we will work towards understanding the underlying factors that caused these challenges to arise, developing coping strategies, and fostering a path towards healing and resilience. I am committed to supporting you on your journey toward positive change. Your well-being is at the forefront of our collaborative work, and I look forward to assisting you in achieving a more balanced and fulfilling life.
(708) 726-8048 View (708) 726-8048
Photo of Linda Osei, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Linda Osei
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
With a profound commitment to fostering resilience and growth, my approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Process Therapy, and Experiential Therapy.
Have you ever felt like you’re sinking into quicksand while grappling with the weight of depression and anxiety? If so, I am here to partner with you by offering a lifeline through the turbulent terrain of the mind. Not only will I serve as your therapist, I will also be a passionate guide on a mission to help pull you out of the quicksand and on to solid ground.
With a profound commitment to fostering resilience and growth, my approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Process Therapy, and Experiential Therapy.
Have you ever felt like you’re sinking into quicksand while grappling with the weight of depression and anxiety? If so, I am here to partner with you by offering a lifeline through the turbulent terrain of the mind. Not only will I serve as your therapist, I will also be a passionate guide on a mission to help pull you out of the quicksand and on to solid ground.
(708) 734-4066 View (708) 734-4066
Photo of Marisa Lewis, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Marisa Lewis
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I currently have one slot open for Thursdays at 2pm. Taking the first step in finding a therapist can be overwhelming, but finding someone you feel comfortable with can make all the difference! Although I am not currently accepting new clients, I am supervising other clinicians in holistic and skills based approaches. I specialize in therapy with working professionals and adults. Although I am comfortable working with many concerns, I am most passionate about providing therapy in areas related to anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, life transitions, grief/loss, and relationships.
I currently have one slot open for Thursdays at 2pm. Taking the first step in finding a therapist can be overwhelming, but finding someone you feel comfortable with can make all the difference! Although I am not currently accepting new clients, I am supervising other clinicians in holistic and skills based approaches. I specialize in therapy with working professionals and adults. Although I am comfortable working with many concerns, I am most passionate about providing therapy in areas related to anxiety, depression, codependency, addiction, life transitions, grief/loss, and relationships.
(312) 467-7666 View (312) 467-7666
Photo of Kamita Clark in Chicago, IL
Kamita Clark
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60620  (Online Only)
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey to wellness, and take you where you want to be. I create opportunities to express your narrative in a safe space, in a manner that is conducive to your well-being. I provide an inclusive judgment-free space regardless of background or identification. I help individuals gain insight into their own decisions, patterns of outcomes. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing a life transition or difficulty adjusting to change. Current clients describe my approach as warm, validating, and intentional.
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey to wellness, and take you where you want to be. I create opportunities to express your narrative in a safe space, in a manner that is conducive to your well-being. I provide an inclusive judgment-free space regardless of background or identification. I help individuals gain insight into their own decisions, patterns of outcomes. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing a life transition or difficulty adjusting to change. Current clients describe my approach as warm, validating, and intentional.
(773) 801-7201 View (773) 801-7201
Photo of Shrestha Singh, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Shrestha Singh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
To me, therapy is about seeking wholeness; it is a journey of more fully integrating our minds, bodies, & souls. Many of us live trapped in patterns & scripts that weigh us down & that keep us from living full, authentic lives. As a trauma-informed therapist (& former spiritual director), I take into consideration the whole person, noting that past or ongoing traumas, wounds, & injustices shape the way we understand and engage with ourselves and the world. I help clients draw connections between formative past experiences & current ones in order to identify & shift those relational patterns & ongoing struggles.
To me, therapy is about seeking wholeness; it is a journey of more fully integrating our minds, bodies, & souls. Many of us live trapped in patterns & scripts that weigh us down & that keep us from living full, authentic lives. As a trauma-informed therapist (& former spiritual director), I take into consideration the whole person, noting that past or ongoing traumas, wounds, & injustices shape the way we understand and engage with ourselves and the world. I help clients draw connections between formative past experiences & current ones in order to identify & shift those relational patterns & ongoing struggles.
(217) 616-3176 View (217) 616-3176
Photo of Katherine L Ross, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Katherine L Ross
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I find myself most aligned with my calling when I am able to create spaces of healing alongside individuals from all walks of life. I assist in defining who clients aspire to be rather than what is expected of them. Together we will explore ways to increase self esteem, self respect, and self worth. I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual needs of each client. I provide a structure to guide individuals to access self love. Through this process we will work to unpack each client's unique narrative; In order to then reauthor their understanding of who they are.
I find myself most aligned with my calling when I am able to create spaces of healing alongside individuals from all walks of life. I assist in defining who clients aspire to be rather than what is expected of them. Together we will explore ways to increase self esteem, self respect, and self worth. I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual needs of each client. I provide a structure to guide individuals to access self love. Through this process we will work to unpack each client's unique narrative; In order to then reauthor their understanding of who they are.
(872) 395-4804 View (872) 395-4804
Photo of Mollie Ryan, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Mollie Ryan
Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646
If you or someone you love are feeling overwhelmed with life, relationships, school or work, I can help. I have over 25 years' of helping people achieve the results they want. Another set of eyes focused on your difficulty is instrumental in finding lasting solutions. I work with adults. Therapy occurs in a safe, caring and confidential relationship. My approach is uniquely tailored to you and your needs. If you are looking for a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your difficulties without fear or judgement then reach out and improve your situation right away.
If you or someone you love are feeling overwhelmed with life, relationships, school or work, I can help. I have over 25 years' of helping people achieve the results they want. Another set of eyes focused on your difficulty is instrumental in finding lasting solutions. I work with adults. Therapy occurs in a safe, caring and confidential relationship. My approach is uniquely tailored to you and your needs. If you are looking for a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your difficulties without fear or judgement then reach out and improve your situation right away.
(708) 498-3565 View (708) 498-3565
Photo of Kevin Owens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kevin Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Have you stopped feeling like yourself, or you don't recognize yourself in the mirror anymore? Are you afraid you are slowly losing your significant other or having vicious fights and don't know how to resolve them? Are you having thoughts or feelings that disturb you and you don't know who to talk to? Are you haunted by the past and you can't seem to move on? Maybe you are scared by your own thoughts and feelings and don't know where to turn, or you feel empty or are looking for meaning. I work with individuals, couples and families from a broad array of backgrounds, lifestyles and issues experienced.
Have you stopped feeling like yourself, or you don't recognize yourself in the mirror anymore? Are you afraid you are slowly losing your significant other or having vicious fights and don't know how to resolve them? Are you having thoughts or feelings that disturb you and you don't know who to talk to? Are you haunted by the past and you can't seem to move on? Maybe you are scared by your own thoughts and feelings and don't know where to turn, or you feel empty or are looking for meaning. I work with individuals, couples and families from a broad array of backgrounds, lifestyles and issues experienced.
(773) 922-6987 View (773) 922-6987
Photo of Mind Body Connections in Chicago, IL
Mind Body Connections
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
If you desire to build a healthier relationship to your bodymind, Self and others, you are in the right place. Perhaps you've tried traditional therapy and are hitting a block or it's challenging to put into words what's going on inside of you, or maybe you have a "loud body" that aches all the time in one way or another? The clinicians at MBC are trained in a variety of modalities to help you tap into your inner resources and find harmony with your body, mind and spirit. You will collaborate with one of our clinicians to begin on your path towards optimal health and well-being.
If you desire to build a healthier relationship to your bodymind, Self and others, you are in the right place. Perhaps you've tried traditional therapy and are hitting a block or it's challenging to put into words what's going on inside of you, or maybe you have a "loud body" that aches all the time in one way or another? The clinicians at MBC are trained in a variety of modalities to help you tap into your inner resources and find harmony with your body, mind and spirit. You will collaborate with one of our clinicians to begin on your path towards optimal health and well-being.
(312) 646-4414 View (312) 646-4414
Photo of Shana Mehta, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Shana Mehta
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Dr. Shana Mehta works with teenagers and adults who struggle with various forms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. She has expertise with individuals who experience mood difficulties, generalized anxiety or panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, addiction, trauma, divorce, parenting difficulties, and significant life transitions. Additionally, she specializes in eating disorder treatment, specifically binge eating, compulsive overeating, emotional overeating, and mindless eating.
Dr. Shana Mehta works with teenagers and adults who struggle with various forms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. She has expertise with individuals who experience mood difficulties, generalized anxiety or panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, addiction, trauma, divorce, parenting difficulties, and significant life transitions. Additionally, she specializes in eating disorder treatment, specifically binge eating, compulsive overeating, emotional overeating, and mindless eating.
(630) 716-9361 View (630) 716-9361
Photo of Jessica Zaehringer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jessica Zaehringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I help people learn to forgive themselves for not being 'perfect' through eclectic evidence based modalities while also incorporating psychoeducation and lived experience – learning to give yourself the grace you deserve as well as increasing the ease with which you healthily cope with the stressors of life; To learn to create space for yourself and gain a sense of self acceptance and self actualization. I engage with you conversationally to create movement and change towards a healthy outcome through a relational and supportive approach. You are doing your best to navigate through a contradictory world.
I help people learn to forgive themselves for not being 'perfect' through eclectic evidence based modalities while also incorporating psychoeducation and lived experience – learning to give yourself the grace you deserve as well as increasing the ease with which you healthily cope with the stressors of life; To learn to create space for yourself and gain a sense of self acceptance and self actualization. I engage with you conversationally to create movement and change towards a healthy outcome through a relational and supportive approach. You are doing your best to navigate through a contradictory world.
(630) 454-1403 View (630) 454-1403
Photo of David Gish, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
David Gish
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Feeling anxious, stressed or depressed? Many people are overwhelmed these days. There is help.
Feeling anxious, stressed or depressed? Many people are overwhelmed these days. There is help.
(312) 818-4473 View (312) 818-4473
Photo of E Ardron, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
E Ardron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
You are resilient, capable, and unwilling to settle for the status quo. Your reluctance to fit the mold may complicate things, but it’s worth it. However, sometimes, the space between who we are and who we want to be can feel vast, and life can overwhelm our capacity to cope - in those moments, it takes bravery to reach out for support. Together we will celebrate your uniqueness, investigate the barriers to your progress, increase feelings of self-worth and efficacy and expand upon your existing strengths to cultivate an authentic future full of possibilities.
(312) 635-4068 View (312) 635-4068
Photo of Lily Diego-Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Lily Diego-Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I have personal experience navigating the complexities of our mental health systems and proceed with gentleness, compassion, and understanding as you seek to find the right therapist for you. I believe in the power of your story as knowledge. I strive to live and practice within the vision of disability justice, particularly while practicing within systems that have been known to cause harm to BIPOC, disabled, queer, and other marginalized communities.
I have personal experience navigating the complexities of our mental health systems and proceed with gentleness, compassion, and understanding as you seek to find the right therapist for you. I believe in the power of your story as knowledge. I strive to live and practice within the vision of disability justice, particularly while practicing within systems that have been known to cause harm to BIPOC, disabled, queer, and other marginalized communities.
(872) 259-5121 View (872) 259-5121
Photo of Kara E Britzman, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Kara E Britzman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
Depth oriented, emotion focused and client driven approaches tend to predominate my therapeutic process. Our time together is likely to involve contemplative exploration, experiential interventions and an ongoing summoning of creativity. We will define ways to move out of stuckness and through distress. We will find access to fresh life experiences that are deeply reflective of your true self and that which stirs within you. If you are interested, I would be happy to meet with you for a free phone consultation, to answer any questions you might have and share more about how therapy can bring positive change into your life.
Depth oriented, emotion focused and client driven approaches tend to predominate my therapeutic process. Our time together is likely to involve contemplative exploration, experiential interventions and an ongoing summoning of creativity. We will define ways to move out of stuckness and through distress. We will find access to fresh life experiences that are deeply reflective of your true self and that which stirs within you. If you are interested, I would be happy to meet with you for a free phone consultation, to answer any questions you might have and share more about how therapy can bring positive change into your life.
(773) 825-9483 View (773) 825-9483
Photo of Front Door Health in Chicago, IL
Front Door Health
MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
As one of the first in-home addiction treatment providers in the country, we are an excellent fit for those struggling with substance abuse and/or mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress who want to remain engaged in positive forces in their lives (work, family) while they recover. Our clients also value the privacy and convenience that our treatment program offers. Of course, there should not be a one-size-fits-all approach to addiction treatment, as you have unique needs and goals. To that end, our clients have a dedicated team of addiction professionals to provide psychiatry, medication, and counseling services as appropriate, over the course of an entire year. Not only are we able to more precisely tailor your recovery program than other addiction treatment providers, but we also help you learn and practice coping skills in the environment in which your sobriety will be tested.
As one of the first in-home addiction treatment providers in the country, we are an excellent fit for those struggling with substance abuse and/or mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress who want to remain engaged in positive forces in their lives (work, family) while they recover. Our clients also value the privacy and convenience that our treatment program offers. Of course, there should not be a one-size-fits-all approach to addiction treatment, as you have unique needs and goals. To that end, our clients have a dedicated team of addiction professionals to provide psychiatry, medication, and counseling services as appropriate, over the course of an entire year. Not only are we able to more precisely tailor your recovery program than other addiction treatment providers, but we also help you learn and practice coping skills in the environment in which your sobriety will be tested.
(224) 507-1653 View (224) 507-1653
Experiential Therapy

How does experiential therapy work?

Experiential therapy works by allowing an individual to use their creativity to re-imagine themselves and their lives in an effort to process their emotions. Experiential therapy may take many forms, including engaging clients through art, re-enactments, role-playing, music, or forms of physical recreation. By focusing on these activities, experiential therapists help individuals identify the emotions they associate with previous experiences and work together to cope with negative reactions, like fear, anger, or shame.

Is experiential therapy evidence-based?

Experiential therapy incorporates many therapy modalities, some of which have been more closely researched than others. Music therapy, for example, has been shown to help with sleep problems. Some studies find that art therapy can be beneficial for those with eating disorders or personality disorders, while other research suggests that such approaches have little impact.

How long does experiential therapy last?

The duration of experiential therapy will depend on the type of therapy used as well as the severity of the challenges an individual faces. Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Art therapy may comprise 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Music therapy sessions generally last between 30 and 50 minutes and can be scheduled weekly or on an as-needed basis. For each therapy type, clients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

Does experiential therapy help with trauma?

Trauma is one area where experiential therapy may be useful. Traumatic experiences such as combat or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating visual art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. Listening to music can be relaxing, while making music as part of a group provides plenty of opportunities to connect with other people. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, or who have been physically or emotionally abused.