First Responders Therapists in Chicago, IL
As a therapist, I understand the unique challenges that come with balancing family life, work, and personal well-being, especially as a police wife.
Whether you're dealing with stress, feeling lost, or simply seeking a space to be heard and valued, I am dedicated to helping you thrive
Life can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re unsure of your place or how to manage your emotions. But you don’t have to figure things out alone.
As a therapist, I understand the unique challenges that come with balancing family life, work, and personal well-being, especially as a police wife.
Whether you're dealing with stress, feeling lost, or simply seeking a space to be heard and valued, I am dedicated to helping you thrive
Life can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re unsure of your place or how to manage your emotions. But you don’t have to figure things out alone.
I also specialize in working with first responders; as a former one myself, I truly understand the unique stress, pressure, and emotional weight that can come with the job, for you AND for your loved ones.
Hi, I’m glad we’ve found each other! I’m trained to work both relationally and individually, which means that whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself or with another person(s), I can help! My approach to therapy is systemic and integrative, taking into consideration the systems in which you live and blending different modalities to fit your unique communication style, needs, and goals. I’m direct, compassionate, collaborative, and creative—I believe that you’re the expert on your own life, and that therapy works best when we work together towards your goals.
I also specialize in working with first responders; as a former one myself, I truly understand the unique stress, pressure, and emotional weight that can come with the job, for you AND for your loved ones.
Hi, I’m glad we’ve found each other! I’m trained to work both relationally and individually, which means that whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself or with another person(s), I can help! My approach to therapy is systemic and integrative, taking into consideration the systems in which you live and blending different modalities to fit your unique communication style, needs, and goals. I’m direct, compassionate, collaborative, and creative—I believe that you’re the expert on your own life, and that therapy works best when we work together towards your goals.
I also support first responders.
Walking through a world that often misinterprets your gender, identity, or relationship structure is exhausting. You are seeking a space where you do not have to be the teacher. You deserve a place where your pronouns, queer joy, and non-binary experience are the baseline instead of the exception. Whether navigating transition, the weight of trauma, or the invisible toll of chronic illness, you deserve a therapist who honors your intersectional reality. I act as a collaborative partner who values your resilience while holding a safe and humor-filled space for your most vulnerable parts to finally breathe and feel understood.
I also support first responders.
Walking through a world that often misinterprets your gender, identity, or relationship structure is exhausting. You are seeking a space where you do not have to be the teacher. You deserve a place where your pronouns, queer joy, and non-binary experience are the baseline instead of the exception. Whether navigating transition, the weight of trauma, or the invisible toll of chronic illness, you deserve a therapist who honors your intersectional reality. I act as a collaborative partner who values your resilience while holding a safe and humor-filled space for your most vulnerable parts to finally breathe and feel understood.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to learn, grow, and engage in the therapeutic process to become the best version of themselves. I value building a trusting and collaborative relationship where clients feel safe to be open, vulnerable, and authentic as they work toward positive change.
I work with individuals ages 13 and older from all backgrounds who are experiencing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral concerns, bipolar disorder, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. I also work with couples seeking to strengthen their connection and communication
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to learn, grow, and engage in the therapeutic process to become the best version of themselves. I value building a trusting and collaborative relationship where clients feel safe to be open, vulnerable, and authentic as they work toward positive change.
I work with individuals ages 13 and older from all backgrounds who are experiencing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral concerns, bipolar disorder, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. I also work with couples seeking to strengthen their connection and communication
I specialize in evidence-based therapy for trauma-related disorders, anxiety, and burnout, especially among first responders and professionals in high-stress roles.
I am here to help someone who is thinking about making a change—whether they’re feeling stuck in the past or overwhelmed by something in the present. They may not know exactly what they need, but they’re open to exploring what’s not working and why. They could even be unsure or skeptical about therapy itself, but feel like they need to do "something". They’re looking for help that’s grounded in research, led by a professional who can help them clarify their goals, understand what’s getting in the way, and offer support and structure as they work toward something better.
I specialize in evidence-based therapy for trauma-related disorders, anxiety, and burnout, especially among first responders and professionals in high-stress roles.
I am here to help someone who is thinking about making a change—whether they’re feeling stuck in the past or overwhelmed by something in the present. They may not know exactly what they need, but they’re open to exploring what’s not working and why. They could even be unsure or skeptical about therapy itself, but feel like they need to do "something". They’re looking for help that’s grounded in research, led by a professional who can help them clarify their goals, understand what’s getting in the way, and offer support and structure as they work toward something better.
I specialize in working with First Responders, Couples, Individuals, and clients who are re-entering communities after incarceration.
I will work with you to create positive changes through practical and easy-to-apply techniques. I will guide you through this journey and teach you skills to help you feel more comfortable and confident and have a healthy, meaningful life. I implement Trauma-Informed Therapy, the Cognitive Behavioral approach, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in sessions.
I specialize in working with First Responders, Couples, Individuals, and clients who are re-entering communities after incarceration.
I will work with you to create positive changes through practical and easy-to-apply techniques. I will guide you through this journey and teach you skills to help you feel more comfortable and confident and have a healthy, meaningful life. I implement Trauma-Informed Therapy, the Cognitive Behavioral approach, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in sessions.
You’re a teen, college student, adult, or couple navigating anxiety, identity, relationships, or major life changes. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to cope. You want clarity, relief, and a therapist who will help you untangle what’s going on beneath the surface. You’re craving a safe space to process emotions, explore who you are, and finally feel like yourself again.
You’re a teen, college student, adult, or couple navigating anxiety, identity, relationships, or major life changes. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to cope. You want clarity, relief, and a therapist who will help you untangle what’s going on beneath the surface. You’re craving a safe space to process emotions, explore who you are, and finally feel like yourself again.
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 goal is to restore emotional well-being and strengthen connections so clients feel whole, safe, and at peace. As a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. I also provide psychological immigration evaluations, including Hardship, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, Asylum, and Cancellation of Removal, with compassionate support.
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 goal is to restore emotional well-being and strengthen connections so clients feel whole, safe, and at peace. As a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. I also provide psychological immigration evaluations, including Hardship, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, Asylum, and Cancellation of Removal, with compassionate support.
Chicago Growth Mindset brings nearly thirty years of experience in delivering culturally responsive support. Our focus is on integrating mental wellness strategies into individuals' daily lives to improve productivity and life satisfaction. We embrace a non-judgmental, strengths-based approach that fosters emotional growth, and bolsters resilience and social-emotional abilities. Our team is committed to developing innovative and effective mental health strategies that enhance your well-being and resilience. Together, we will work towards fostering resilience, self-awareness, and emotional strength, enabling you to thrive.
Chicago Growth Mindset brings nearly thirty years of experience in delivering culturally responsive support. Our focus is on integrating mental wellness strategies into individuals' daily lives to improve productivity and life satisfaction. We embrace a non-judgmental, strengths-based approach that fosters emotional growth, and bolsters resilience and social-emotional abilities. Our team is committed to developing innovative and effective mental health strategies that enhance your well-being and resilience. Together, we will work towards fostering resilience, self-awareness, and emotional strength, enabling you to thrive.
I have a deep respect for any individual or couple that comes for help. I work to honor and bring value to each person’s investment in improving their health and life. I have extensive experience in working with those experiencing traumatic events, tragic loss, as well as depression and anxiety. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have special expertise in the areas of anger management, leadership, and communication. I am based out of our Naperville office but spend one day per week in our Chicago Loop location.
I have a deep respect for any individual or couple that comes for help. I work to honor and bring value to each person’s investment in improving their health and life. I have extensive experience in working with those experiencing traumatic events, tragic loss, as well as depression and anxiety. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have special expertise in the areas of anger management, leadership, and communication. I am based out of our Naperville office but spend one day per week in our Chicago Loop location.
As a military wife and mother, I have been helping Service Members, Veterans, and their families for 15+ years.
A key aspect of my practice is the integration of holistic and integrative medicine approaches to mental health. Recognizing that mental well-being is deeply connected to physical health and lifestyle, I incorporate strategies that promote overall balance.
As a military wife and mother, I have been helping Service Members, Veterans, and their families for 15+ years.
A key aspect of my practice is the integration of holistic and integrative medicine approaches to mental health. Recognizing that mental well-being is deeply connected to physical health and lifestyle, I incorporate strategies that promote overall balance.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you feel like what you are doing is never enough? As a licensed clinical psychologist, I believe healing and self-care are essential to living a balanced and fulfilling life. Life often brings challenges that are hard to navigate, and you may be left feeling alone and overwhelmed. It is possible to move through life’s challenges with strength and resilience with the right support. Therapy provides an opportunity for growth and transformation. With over 20 years of clinical experience, my role is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can develop practical strategies for positive change.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Do you feel like what you are doing is never enough? As a licensed clinical psychologist, I believe healing and self-care are essential to living a balanced and fulfilling life. Life often brings challenges that are hard to navigate, and you may be left feeling alone and overwhelmed. It is possible to move through life’s challenges with strength and resilience with the right support. Therapy provides an opportunity for growth and transformation. With over 20 years of clinical experience, my role is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can develop practical strategies for positive change.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD/PTSI, OCD or Long COVID? We can help. Stella Mental Health Westmont near Chicago is a top depression/anxiety clinic specializing in medication management, Spravato (esketamine), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), ketamine-assisted therapy, stellate ganglion block (SGB), integration therapy, and more.
Patients report feeling relief from symptoms like disrupted sleep, panic attacks, irritability, hypervigilance, difficulties concentrating, sexual dysfunction, and more. Schedule an appointment to discuss treatment options based on your symptoms, concerns, and health history.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD/PTSI, OCD or Long COVID? We can help. Stella Mental Health Westmont near Chicago is a top depression/anxiety clinic specializing in medication management, Spravato (esketamine), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), ketamine-assisted therapy, stellate ganglion block (SGB), integration therapy, and more.
Patients report feeling relief from symptoms like disrupted sleep, panic attacks, irritability, hypervigilance, difficulties concentrating, sexual dysfunction, and more. Schedule an appointment to discuss treatment options based on your symptoms, concerns, and health history.
As a military wife and mother, I have been helping Service Members, Veterans, and their families for 15+ years.
In your first session, we will begin with introductions, building trust, and begin to explore the challenges you are facing. Together we will develop a treatment plan unique to you and your needs.
As a military wife and mother, I have been helping Service Members, Veterans, and their families for 15+ years.
In your first session, we will begin with introductions, building trust, and begin to explore the challenges you are facing. Together we will develop a treatment plan unique to you and your needs.
Valor Wellness was born out of a need to create a safe & confidential place for first responders & their families to get help.
Lesley has a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology and is a licensed professional counselor in Illinois. Her background has focused on crisis services, suicide prevention, risk assessment, corrections and most recently was a public safety mental health professional embedded within a police department.
Valor Wellness was born out of a need to create a safe & confidential place for first responders & their families to get help.
Lesley has a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology and is a licensed professional counselor in Illinois. Her background has focused on crisis services, suicide prevention, risk assessment, corrections and most recently was a public safety mental health professional embedded within a police department.
I’m especially passionate about supporting first responders, veterans, and their families, as well as young adults building their sense of identity.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My clinical approach is flexible and client-centered. I meet you where you are and tailor my methods to what works best for you—whether that’s building insight, regulating emotion, exploring meaning, or developing practical tools for daily life
I’m especially passionate about supporting first responders, veterans, and their families, as well as young adults building their sense of identity.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My clinical approach is flexible and client-centered. I meet you where you are and tailor my methods to what works best for you—whether that’s building insight, regulating emotion, exploring meaning, or developing practical tools for daily life
You manage a full life. You’re raising kids, building a career, caring for others, and holding a lot of responsibility. I work with individuals who have learned to be the steady one, managing, anticipating, and staying ahead, while carrying more inside than most people ever see. Even during moments of rest, it can feel hard to fully relax, trust yourself, or feel at ease. Something in your body may always be bracing, scanning, or preparing for what’s next.
You manage a full life. You’re raising kids, building a career, caring for others, and holding a lot of responsibility. I work with individuals who have learned to be the steady one, managing, anticipating, and staying ahead, while carrying more inside than most people ever see. Even during moments of rest, it can feel hard to fully relax, trust yourself, or feel at ease. Something in your body may always be bracing, scanning, or preparing for what’s next.
My experience is heavily rooted in chronic illness, disability, PTSD, elite performers (college and semi-professional athletes), queer folks and communities, veterans, active-duty military, and first responders.
People deserve to feel seen and have space to show up as their most authentic selves. In my therapeutic approach, I prioritize building a safe, compassionate, and honest environment that empowers clients to create meaningful change, foster resiliency, and utilize practical tools to navigate trauma and stressors in daily living. With that, I also encourage laughter, directness, and connection- I want to ensure that therapy feels supportive and real. Healing is not a linear process, and I strive to walk alongside my clients with empathy and transparency, meeting them where they are while challenging them to grow.
My experience is heavily rooted in chronic illness, disability, PTSD, elite performers (college and semi-professional athletes), queer folks and communities, veterans, active-duty military, and first responders.
People deserve to feel seen and have space to show up as their most authentic selves. In my therapeutic approach, I prioritize building a safe, compassionate, and honest environment that empowers clients to create meaningful change, foster resiliency, and utilize practical tools to navigate trauma and stressors in daily living. With that, I also encourage laughter, directness, and connection- I want to ensure that therapy feels supportive and real. Healing is not a linear process, and I strive to walk alongside my clients with empathy and transparency, meeting them where they are while challenging them to grow.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with 18 years of experience supporting individuals through anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, stress, and self-esteem concerns. I take a collaborative, strengths-based, and compassionate approach to help clients build confidence, develop healthier patterns, and create meaningful change in their lives. I strive to provide a warm, grounded, and empowering therapeutic space where you can feel supported, understood, and encouraged to grow.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with 18 years of experience supporting individuals through anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, stress, and self-esteem concerns. I take a collaborative, strengths-based, and compassionate approach to help clients build confidence, develop healthier patterns, and create meaningful change in their lives. I strive to provide a warm, grounded, and empowering therapeutic space where you can feel supported, understood, and encouraged to grow.
Your journey towards personal wellness can begin today! By taking this opportunity to explore all the ways a supportive counseling relationship can improve your mental health and overall well-being you are taking the first step! As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor with 20 years of counseling experience, I look forward to walking beside you on this journey, supporting your efforts however I can!My therapeutic process is client-centered, strengths-based and solution-focused, often working within a cognitive behavioral frame of reference.
Your journey towards personal wellness can begin today! By taking this opportunity to explore all the ways a supportive counseling relationship can improve your mental health and overall well-being you are taking the first step! As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor with 20 years of counseling experience, I look forward to walking beside you on this journey, supporting your efforts however I can!My therapeutic process is client-centered, strengths-based and solution-focused, often working within a cognitive behavioral frame of reference.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby First Responders Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Burr Ridge
- Elmhurst
- Evanston
- Evergreen Park
- La Grange
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- Park Ridge
- Skokie
First Responders Therapists
Why is mental health important for first responders?
As part of their work, first responders are often exposed to high levels of stress, trauma, and physical injury that can put them at a greater risk for serious mental health conditions than the general population. Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, substance use, and depression are more common in first responders, which can greatly reduce quality of life and lead to burnout, sleep disruption, and even suicidal thoughts. Therapy can offer an opportunity for first responders to process difficult on-the-job experiences and develop coping skills to better manage any mental health symptoms they may experience.
How can first responders get access to mental health support?
Many first responders can access therapy for free or at a very low cost through their employer, such as through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Workplaces may also offer or have referral recommendations for support groups, where first responders can meet with others in their profession to receive support. Individuals who would like to access mental health services outside of their employer may use their insurance benefits to see a therapist, which they can find by searching for therapists online or asking for recommendations from their primary care physician.
What type of therapy is best for first responders?
The best therapy approach depends on the mental health concerns of the client. Since many first responders struggle with trauma or PTSD, they may benefit from trauma-specific therapeutic approaches, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Exposure Therapy, or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Individuals with symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress may alternatively benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based therapeutic approaches, which can help clients develop coping skills to manage distressing thoughts.
Can therapy for first responders help with trauma and PTSD?
Therapy can be highly effective in both treating and preventing trauma and PTSD in first responders. Typically, therapy for trauma and PTSD focuses on developing stress management skills and managing intrusive or unwanted thoughts. Therapists working with first responders often help clients strengthen their relationships and reduce harmful coping mechanisms, such as excessive substance use. Additionally, therapists assist first responders in establishing daily habits that support overall mental and physical health and enhance resilience to future stress, such as regular physical exercise, mindfulness practices, and improved eating habits.