Gambling Therapists in Chicago, IL
If you've recently noticed your alcohol use, gambling, substance use, or other addictive behaviors are taking on a life of their own, you’re not alone.
My therapeutic style combines empathy, direct feedback, and a variety of evidence-based approaches to break destructive cycles. You’ll gain tools to manage temptations, build healthier coping, and restore balance. I’m here to listen deeply, understand your story, and partner with you to create the healthier, more purposeful life you envision.
If you've recently noticed your alcohol use, gambling, substance use, or other addictive behaviors are taking on a life of their own, you’re not alone.
My therapeutic style combines empathy, direct feedback, and a variety of evidence-based approaches to break destructive cycles. You’ll gain tools to manage temptations, build healthier coping, and restore balance. I’m here to listen deeply, understand your story, and partner with you to create the healthier, more purposeful life you envision.
I specialize in treating gambling and behavioral addictions through Birches Health, a program designed specifically for these challenges.
Dawnielle Smith, a dedicated professional in education, has spent the past 16 years empowering students and communities. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Buena Vista University, focusing on School Social Work. Dawnielle then pursued advanced studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago's Jane Addams School of Social Work, graduating in 2009. She began her career in the Chicago Heights school district, later dedicating 15 years of service to District 170, where she held various roles, including School Social Work Lead, Dean of Students, and Assistant Principal.
I specialize in treating gambling and behavioral addictions through Birches Health, a program designed specifically for these challenges.
Dawnielle Smith, a dedicated professional in education, has spent the past 16 years empowering students and communities. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Buena Vista University, focusing on School Social Work. Dawnielle then pursued advanced studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago's Jane Addams School of Social Work, graduating in 2009. She began her career in the Chicago Heights school district, later dedicating 15 years of service to District 170, where she held various roles, including School Social Work Lead, Dean of Students, and Assistant Principal.
Birches Health specializes in process and behavioral addiction treatment, particularly gambling and sports betting.
Life can be challenging, but with the right support, we can navigate it together. As a skilled therapist, I help clients from adolescence to adulthood face struggles in a safe and positive space. My goal is to empower you with tools to overcome tough situations, build confidence, and explore your strengths to better understand current challenges. I hold Bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Criminal Justice and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, stress management, depression, anger management, behavioral addictions, and more.
Birches Health specializes in process and behavioral addiction treatment, particularly gambling and sports betting.
Life can be challenging, but with the right support, we can navigate it together. As a skilled therapist, I help clients from adolescence to adulthood face struggles in a safe and positive space. My goal is to empower you with tools to overcome tough situations, build confidence, and explore your strengths to better understand current challenges. I hold Bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Criminal Justice and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, stress management, depression, anger management, behavioral addictions, and more.
I specialize in treating addictions to drugs, alcohol, and behaviors such as gambling, sex, Internet, and eating.
I am a certified Problem and Compulsive Gambling Counselor. I am also a Certified Group Psychotherapist by the International Registry of Group Psychotherapist. I would meet with you a few times individually and then you would be a member of a small group that meets weekly, online. Individual meetings available on a less frequent basis after that.
I specialize in treating addictions to drugs, alcohol, and behaviors such as gambling, sex, Internet, and eating.
I am a certified Problem and Compulsive Gambling Counselor. I am also a Certified Group Psychotherapist by the International Registry of Group Psychotherapist. I would meet with you a few times individually and then you would be a member of a small group that meets weekly, online. Individual meetings available on a less frequent basis after that.
I'm Ken Markovic, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes healing happens through safety, curiosity, and genuine human connection. I work collaboratively with clients to help them understand their inner world, build practical tools for emotional regulation, and move toward a life that feels more authentic and sustainable. My approach is compassionate, integrative, and grounded in the belief that people already carry the wisdom they need — I am simply here to help them access it. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, non-judgmental space where we move at your pace and focus on what matters most to you.
I'm Ken Markovic, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes healing happens through safety, curiosity, and genuine human connection. I work collaboratively with clients to help them understand their inner world, build practical tools for emotional regulation, and move toward a life that feels more authentic and sustainable. My approach is compassionate, integrative, and grounded in the belief that people already carry the wisdom they need — I am simply here to help them access it. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, non-judgmental space where we move at your pace and focus on what matters most to you.
As a couples therapist I create a calm and non-judgmental environment for clients to connect (or reconnect) in ways they have been unable to on their own. Most people are often surprised that they have vulnerable, emotional, and confident sides of themselves. I have found that when people are able to tap into these skill sets, change is almost inevitable. My favorite thing about being a therapist is helping couples see the impact that vulnerability can have on improving their relationship. I believe that every relationship hits bumps and struggles, but, with help, everyone is capable of change.
As a couples therapist I create a calm and non-judgmental environment for clients to connect (or reconnect) in ways they have been unable to on their own. Most people are often surprised that they have vulnerable, emotional, and confident sides of themselves. I have found that when people are able to tap into these skill sets, change is almost inevitable. My favorite thing about being a therapist is helping couples see the impact that vulnerability can have on improving their relationship. I believe that every relationship hits bumps and struggles, but, with help, everyone is capable of change.
When life has been difficult for a long time, it’s easy to lose sight of yourself. You may be carrying anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, trauma, or the pressure of trying to keep everything together while feeling disconnected on the inside. I work with teens and adults across Chicago, including Lincoln Park and Lakeview, who want to better understand themselves and find relief from patterns that no longer serve them. Greater peace often begins with making sense of your experiences and approaching yourself with curiosity instead of criticism. Together, we can create space for healing, self-understanding, and growth.
When life has been difficult for a long time, it’s easy to lose sight of yourself. You may be carrying anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, trauma, or the pressure of trying to keep everything together while feeling disconnected on the inside. I work with teens and adults across Chicago, including Lincoln Park and Lakeview, who want to better understand themselves and find relief from patterns that no longer serve them. Greater peace often begins with making sense of your experiences and approaching yourself with curiosity instead of criticism. Together, we can create space for healing, self-understanding, and growth.
It is normal, on occasion, for everyone to experience some anxiety dealing with life. But lately those feelings have become overwhelming. Over time, it feels like you are anxious about everything, and nothing. The worry is starting to creep into every aspect of your life- work, family, relationships,... even going to get out of bed feels overwhelming some days! You are not going crazy, and you are not alone- anxiety is one of the most common reasons people reach out to for help. Therapy can help get things back to normal.
It is normal, on occasion, for everyone to experience some anxiety dealing with life. But lately those feelings have become overwhelming. Over time, it feels like you are anxious about everything, and nothing. The worry is starting to creep into every aspect of your life- work, family, relationships,... even going to get out of bed feels overwhelming some days! You are not going crazy, and you are not alone- anxiety is one of the most common reasons people reach out to for help. Therapy can help get things back to normal.
I support lawyers and attorneys navigating burnout, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and the cumulative stress of high-pressure legal environments. Featured in The New York Times, Forbes and more, I help legal professionals balance their demanding careers with their own personal well-being, relationships, and family planning.
In our work together, I provide a confidential, supportive space to process stress, clarify your values, and build practical tools for emotion regulation, sustainable performance, and aligned decision-making so you can move from simply surviving to thriving.
I support lawyers and attorneys navigating burnout, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and the cumulative stress of high-pressure legal environments. Featured in The New York Times, Forbes and more, I help legal professionals balance their demanding careers with their own personal well-being, relationships, and family planning.
In our work together, I provide a confidential, supportive space to process stress, clarify your values, and build practical tools for emotion regulation, sustainable performance, and aligned decision-making so you can move from simply surviving to thriving.
Even though challenges are a natural part of life, they can still leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or discouraged. Therapy can support you in managing overwhelming emotions, getting through difficult moments, deepening your self-understanding, and moving toward a more authentic version of yourself. Together, we can support you in navigating anxiety, trauma, chronic stress, ADHD, neurodivergence, identity-related and LGBTQ+ concerns, as well as relationship challenges, family dynamics, and major life transitions.
Even though challenges are a natural part of life, they can still leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or discouraged. Therapy can support you in managing overwhelming emotions, getting through difficult moments, deepening your self-understanding, and moving toward a more authentic version of yourself. Together, we can support you in navigating anxiety, trauma, chronic stress, ADHD, neurodivergence, identity-related and LGBTQ+ concerns, as well as relationship challenges, family dynamics, and major life transitions.
My unique training and background has uniquely prepared me to work with diverse clientele including teenagers, adults and geriatrics. I have advanced training both in clinical counseling as well as pastoral, faith-based counseling approaches. I am able to integrate these approaches in my work with my clients. I am ideally suited for clients looking for an inclusive counseling approach emphasizing acceptance of cultural diversity and its profound effect on health and well-being.
My unique training and background has uniquely prepared me to work with diverse clientele including teenagers, adults and geriatrics. I have advanced training both in clinical counseling as well as pastoral, faith-based counseling approaches. I am able to integrate these approaches in my work with my clients. I am ideally suited for clients looking for an inclusive counseling approach emphasizing acceptance of cultural diversity and its profound effect on health and well-being.
I'm a Psychoanalyst and Psychotherapist, on the Faculty of the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
I speak English and Hebrew fluently, and have an additional degree in Judaic Studies .
I'm a Psychoanalyst and Psychotherapist, on the Faculty of the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
I speak English and Hebrew fluently, and have an additional degree in Judaic Studies .
I offer different approaches when working together including “traditional” talk therapy as well as art therapy for individuals across the lifespan and with a variety of different needs. I wants to you to know that you are not alone if you have trouble understanding your emotions or find it difficult to verbalize your inner thoughts. I works primarily with adults who are addressing a variety of issues including managing stress, improving self-esteem, coping with life transitions, and controlling addictions.
I offer different approaches when working together including “traditional” talk therapy as well as art therapy for individuals across the lifespan and with a variety of different needs. I wants to you to know that you are not alone if you have trouble understanding your emotions or find it difficult to verbalize your inner thoughts. I works primarily with adults who are addressing a variety of issues including managing stress, improving self-esteem, coping with life transitions, and controlling addictions.
I have worked with people from all walks of life for over two decades. I am goal-oriented, like to get to the point, and work with you to offer real-life solutions, instead of staying stuck in the past. Yes, I'm compassionate and gently curious too, but I like to get down to nitty-gritty and get you feeling better ASAP. I also have a degree in philosophy and enjoy helping people look for meaning in their lives if that is what they need to feel better about themselves
I have worked with people from all walks of life for over two decades. I am goal-oriented, like to get to the point, and work with you to offer real-life solutions, instead of staying stuck in the past. Yes, I'm compassionate and gently curious too, but I like to get down to nitty-gritty and get you feeling better ASAP. I also have a degree in philosophy and enjoy helping people look for meaning in their lives if that is what they need to feel better about themselves
Thank you for taking a look at my profile. Reaching out for therapy can often be a difficult step. My style as a therapist is warm, compassionate and interactive. I use a client-centered approach to help clients discover their strengths and feel empowered to make changes, especially when feeling stuck. I provide support, empathy and insight with integrity and humor to allow folks to step back from stressful situations, gain perspective and feel better.
Thank you for taking a look at my profile. Reaching out for therapy can often be a difficult step. My style as a therapist is warm, compassionate and interactive. I use a client-centered approach to help clients discover their strengths and feel empowered to make changes, especially when feeling stuck. I provide support, empathy and insight with integrity and humor to allow folks to step back from stressful situations, gain perspective and feel better.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with life’s challenges. I devote my work to assisting individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, grief, and relationship concerns. My approaches are typically client-centered, mindfulness based, and CBT. I strive to be direct and intentional in my efforts to help my clients help themselves the best they can. We do this together in a collaborative way to set goals based on your presenting concern and desires for improvement.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with life’s challenges. I devote my work to assisting individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, grief, and relationship concerns. My approaches are typically client-centered, mindfulness based, and CBT. I strive to be direct and intentional in my efforts to help my clients help themselves the best they can. We do this together in a collaborative way to set goals based on your presenting concern and desires for improvement.
I enjoy working with diverse individuals and have clinical experience from a variety of settings, like community partners, residential substance use treatment facilities, department of corrections, college counseling centers, and schools. Largely, my work has been with marginalized groups, complex trauma, and severe mental illness.
I enjoy working with diverse individuals and have clinical experience from a variety of settings, like community partners, residential substance use treatment facilities, department of corrections, college counseling centers, and schools. Largely, my work has been with marginalized groups, complex trauma, and severe mental illness.
Are you struggling with thoughts or behaviors that could be hurtful to others? My focus is working with individuals who are dealing with power and control struggles. Helping to teach those with compulsive, impulsive, and addictive behaviors patterns. Throughout the years I have developed a passion for assisting clients in transitioning harmful behaviors, that impact themselves and others, into healthy choices. I work with adolescents and adult and am committed to helping families cope with the impact on their lives. My intention is to provide skills, support and understanding though the transformation process in a decolonized lens.
Are you struggling with thoughts or behaviors that could be hurtful to others? My focus is working with individuals who are dealing with power and control struggles. Helping to teach those with compulsive, impulsive, and addictive behaviors patterns. Throughout the years I have developed a passion for assisting clients in transitioning harmful behaviors, that impact themselves and others, into healthy choices. I work with adolescents and adult and am committed to helping families cope with the impact on their lives. My intention is to provide skills, support and understanding though the transformation process in a decolonized lens.
My counseling approach emphasizes how all individuals have the capabilities to live life authentically and with reduced stress. My goal is to help you utilize your strengths to achieve positive self-change and growth through the many transitions in life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and older adults experiencing depression, low self esteem, anxiety, parental difficulties, relationship problems, substance abuse, anger, and stress related symptoms. I have training in teaching relaxation techniques and anger management skills including deep breathing and systematic desensitization.
My counseling approach emphasizes how all individuals have the capabilities to live life authentically and with reduced stress. My goal is to help you utilize your strengths to achieve positive self-change and growth through the many transitions in life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and older adults experiencing depression, low self esteem, anxiety, parental difficulties, relationship problems, substance abuse, anger, and stress related symptoms. I have training in teaching relaxation techniques and anger management skills including deep breathing and systematic desensitization.
Today’s environment makes many assumptions about the nature of psychological health, oftentimes seeing depression, anxiety, or other psychological concerns as problems to be avoided and eradicated. However, there is much that our symptoms can teach us about ourselves and our world if we know how to listen to them. Sometimes, they may even hold the key to our psychological well-being.
Today’s environment makes many assumptions about the nature of psychological health, oftentimes seeing depression, anxiety, or other psychological concerns as problems to be avoided and eradicated. However, there is much that our symptoms can teach us about ourselves and our world if we know how to listen to them. Sometimes, they may even hold the key to our psychological well-being.
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How do gambling rehabilitation programs work?
There are both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs. However, for some individuals, an outpatient facility may not offer enough hands-on care, and for other individuals, an inpatient facility may be too much. Both types of care have knowledgeable health professionals including physicians (in the case of residential programs), psychologists, counselors, psychotherapists, and recovered mentors.
How do gambling 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Abstinence and maintenance are key for 12-step gambling disorder programs. Individuals in a 12-step group rely on each other for support and accountability. In addition, there is often a spiritual element to these programs, whereby belief in a higher power can help the individual overcome their tendencies. If an individual genuinely wants to cease gambling, attending a 12-step program along with regular psychotherapy can be highly effective.
How long does therapy take for gambling disorder?
Recovering from gambling disorder takes time and effort. There’s no precise timeline for treatment, but a person can see change if they stick with therapy and if they have the will and desire to stop. Treatment for gambling disorder requires honesty in therapy, a commitment to understanding triggers, as well as the development of coping skills. Making lifestyle changes is also important, such as staying away from lotteries, online gambling, and casinos.
Is relapse a problem for those with a gambling disorder?
Gambling disorder is often chronic and can be life-long; therefore relapse may present a problem for some individuals. But effective treatment can bring a person’s life under control. To remain healthy and on track, the individual may need to regularly check in with their support group or psychotherapist. Frequently refreshing their tools of recovery can be helpful.