Photo of Ryan Breen, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Ryan Breen
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Have you been through the spin cycle one too many times in your relationship or marriage? Asking yourself, "How did I get here?" Coming out of divorce or contemplating divorce or separation? Do you think your partner is a narcissist? Or are they avoiding issues that you know are relevant? Do they blame you for everything? Have you or your partner experienced childhood trauma and it is wreaking havoc on your relationship? Maybe you have just had enough and you need to sort out your feelings and get grounded. The fact is that relationships, both past and present, lie at the core of all of our problems.
Have you been through the spin cycle one too many times in your relationship or marriage? Asking yourself, "How did I get here?" Coming out of divorce or contemplating divorce or separation? Do you think your partner is a narcissist? Or are they avoiding issues that you know are relevant? Do they blame you for everything? Have you or your partner experienced childhood trauma and it is wreaking havoc on your relationship? Maybe you have just had enough and you need to sort out your feelings and get grounded. The fact is that relationships, both past and present, lie at the core of all of our problems.
(773) 530-3803 View (773) 530-3803
Thomas J Wilda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I have been trained in marital and familly therapy, psychodynamic individual therapy, and group therapy.
I have a wide range of expereince dealing with emotional difficulties and relationship difficulties. I want my clients to experience their "self" as good and true. I want them to learn to trust themselves, and to experience a sense of vitality and accomplishment in living.
I have been trained in marital and familly therapy, psychodynamic individual therapy, and group therapy.
I have a wide range of expereince dealing with emotional difficulties and relationship difficulties. I want my clients to experience their "self" as good and true. I want them to learn to trust themselves, and to experience a sense of vitality and accomplishment in living.
(773) 683-3199 View (773) 683-3199
Photo of undefined - Chicago Personal Growth Institute, LCSW, LCPC, ATR
Chicago Personal Growth Institute
LCSW, LCPC, ATR
Not Verified Not Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
We are dedicated to helping people improve emotional, physical and spiritual well-being by focusing on personal growth. Our team of highly qualified therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including relationship issues, depression and anxiety. However, we don't dwell on what isn't working; we help you build upon what IS working. Our approach is empowering, empathetic and non-judgmental. We help you identify and release unhealthy behavior patterns, which may interfere with your ability to experience a deeper sense of peace and serenity. We look forward to working with you and in accompanying you upon your journey.
We are dedicated to helping people improve emotional, physical and spiritual well-being by focusing on personal growth. Our team of highly qualified therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including relationship issues, depression and anxiety. However, we don't dwell on what isn't working; we help you build upon what IS working. Our approach is empowering, empathetic and non-judgmental. We help you identify and release unhealthy behavior patterns, which may interfere with your ability to experience a deeper sense of peace and serenity. We look forward to working with you and in accompanying you upon your journey.
(312) 620-1924 View (312) 620-1924
Photo of Alexander Bauman, LSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Bauman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
The basis of an ideal client in my lens does not have a select issue. Everyone has their own life challenges and emotional weight they carry with them. In the end, what I want for my clients is a common goal to be the best version of themselves they can be while being open-minded in facing tasks related to that goal. Whether it is an interpersonal relationship problem, anxiety, substance abuse, etc; the ultimate goal is to be better in comparison to yourself yesterday rather than someone else. That common ideal goal is what I aim for with every client I work with through the use of problem-solving strategies and coping mechanisms.
The basis of an ideal client in my lens does not have a select issue. Everyone has their own life challenges and emotional weight they carry with them. In the end, what I want for my clients is a common goal to be the best version of themselves they can be while being open-minded in facing tasks related to that goal. Whether it is an interpersonal relationship problem, anxiety, substance abuse, etc; the ultimate goal is to be better in comparison to yourself yesterday rather than someone else. That common ideal goal is what I aim for with every client I work with through the use of problem-solving strategies and coping mechanisms.
(847) 282-4041 View (847) 282-4041
Photo of undefined - Lincoln Park Counseling Group, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lincoln Park Counseling Group
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
You may come to see me for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it's the way you are feeling and other times it's an event or situation you find yourself in life. I have come to understand that what underlies our conscious concerns or problems is the root cause of our experience of sadness, anxiety, or general life dissatisfaction. We will work together in a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship to better understand and work-through unresolved issues that are getting in the way for you. You deserve to feel better and have a fuller life experience.
You may come to see me for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it's the way you are feeling and other times it's an event or situation you find yourself in life. I have come to understand that what underlies our conscious concerns or problems is the root cause of our experience of sadness, anxiety, or general life dissatisfaction. We will work together in a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship to better understand and work-through unresolved issues that are getting in the way for you. You deserve to feel better and have a fuller life experience.
(773) 359-3974 View (773) 359-3974
Photo of Lucas Byron Swenink, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lucas Byron Swenink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Lucas specializes in working with individuals and couples who identify as part of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer population. Within the LGBTQ population, he has further expertise in working with those who wish to address the implications of their trauma history, HIV/AIDS-related health and wellness, Depression, Anxiety, issues related to Aging and Substance Abuse and Dependance related disorders.
Lucas specializes in working with individuals and couples who identify as part of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer population. Within the LGBTQ population, he has further expertise in working with those who wish to address the implications of their trauma history, HIV/AIDS-related health and wellness, Depression, Anxiety, issues related to Aging and Substance Abuse and Dependance related disorders.
(872) 221-6391 View (872) 221-6391
Photo of Christopher Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Christopher Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. Christopher completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology at Purdue University and his Master's degree from the Indiana University School of Social Work at IUPUI. He has experience working with a variety of populations including individuals spanning from teens to geriatric patients, substance use disorders, college students, couples, and older adults. Christopher has worked in a variety of environments including private practice, inpatient, outpatient clinic, schools, and community-based treatments.
Christopher Allen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. Christopher completed his undergraduate degree in Psychology at Purdue University and his Master's degree from the Indiana University School of Social Work at IUPUI. He has experience working with a variety of populations including individuals spanning from teens to geriatric patients, substance use disorders, college students, couples, and older adults. Christopher has worked in a variety of environments including private practice, inpatient, outpatient clinic, schools, and community-based treatments.
(872) 231-0604 View (872) 231-0604
Photo of Ethan Israelsohn, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ethan Israelsohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
Is it difficult for you to achieve your goals because of depression, anxiety, panic, or fears? For over 25 years I have provided a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where results can be obtained quickly. Do you experience the overwhelming impact of chronic disease on you and your family? Do you or a loved one have physical or medical problems that just seem too stressful or confusing to manage? Many people seek my help with asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart, and other chronic diseases and achieve better treatment results and a higher level of control in their lives.
Is it difficult for you to achieve your goals because of depression, anxiety, panic, or fears? For over 25 years I have provided a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where results can be obtained quickly. Do you experience the overwhelming impact of chronic disease on you and your family? Do you or a loved one have physical or medical problems that just seem too stressful or confusing to manage? Many people seek my help with asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart, and other chronic diseases and achieve better treatment results and a higher level of control in their lives.
(708) 848-0112 View (708) 848-0112
Photo of Alexander Bauman, LSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Bauman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Alexander Bauman is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) based in Illinois. Holding an MSW from the University of Kentucky and a BSW from Northeastern Illinois University, Alexander has amassed experience working with dual diagnosis substance abuse mental health clients in inpatient settings. His diverse therapeutic expertise includes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and more.
Alexander Bauman is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) based in Illinois. Holding an MSW from the University of Kentucky and a BSW from Northeastern Illinois University, Alexander has amassed experience working with dual diagnosis substance abuse mental health clients in inpatient settings. His diverse therapeutic expertise includes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and more.
(773) 692-8589 View (773) 692-8589
Photo of Mason L Kelly, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, CSOTS, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mason L Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, CSOTS, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
(773) 270-8292 View (773) 270-8292
Photo of John Samuel Milstone, Pre-Licensed Professional
John Samuel Milstone
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Challenges are an undeniable aspect of life's journey. I am confident that you have already discovered ways to make your challenges easier to deal with, and I am here to provide a harm-reductive approach to refine these solutions to your benefit. I firmly believe that, regardless of the time we spend together, you will always be the foremost expert on yourself. Our work will rely on this expertise, serving as a guiding tool to carve your path toward living a more empowered and meaningful life—whatever that may mean to you.
Challenges are an undeniable aspect of life's journey. I am confident that you have already discovered ways to make your challenges easier to deal with, and I am here to provide a harm-reductive approach to refine these solutions to your benefit. I firmly believe that, regardless of the time we spend together, you will always be the foremost expert on yourself. Our work will rely on this expertise, serving as a guiding tool to carve your path toward living a more empowered and meaningful life—whatever that may mean to you.
(773) 902-0484 View (773) 902-0484
Photo of undefined - Foresight Mental Health Illinois, LCPC, Counselor
Foresight Mental Health Illinois
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
Foresight Mental Health’s integrated team of professionals includes licensed therapists, nutritionists, and psychiatric providers dedicated to working with clients to provide individualized and personal care. We believe in providing care that is accessible and affordable, which is why we are in network with most major insurers and provide both telehealth and in-person services.
Foresight Mental Health’s integrated team of professionals includes licensed therapists, nutritionists, and psychiatric providers dedicated to working with clients to provide individualized and personal care. We believe in providing care that is accessible and affordable, which is why we are in network with most major insurers and provide both telehealth and in-person services.
(312) 460-2553 View (312) 460-2553
Photo of Mark James Moore, LCPC, Counselor
Mark James Moore
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660
My interest includes cross-cultural issues with couples, individual therapy, and group therapy. I have extensive experience working with adults who are coping with trauma, domestic violence, struggle with depression, anxiety and addiction. My earlier work focused on immigrants and refugees who have experienced trauma. The therapeutic relationship gives clients a chance to safely explore new effective coping mechanisms to improve the quality of their lives. I have significant clinical experience working with the Latino and Native American communities.Clients have the power to infuse new meaning into their lives and experience fulfillment
My interest includes cross-cultural issues with couples, individual therapy, and group therapy. I have extensive experience working with adults who are coping with trauma, domestic violence, struggle with depression, anxiety and addiction. My earlier work focused on immigrants and refugees who have experienced trauma. The therapeutic relationship gives clients a chance to safely explore new effective coping mechanisms to improve the quality of their lives. I have significant clinical experience working with the Latino and Native American communities.Clients have the power to infuse new meaning into their lives and experience fulfillment
(773) 537-4371 View (773) 537-4371
Photo of Christopher Eskridge, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Eskridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
I am passionate about teens and adults feel more confident in certain areas of their lives and reach their greatest potential. My role is to help you navigate the challenges that make it difficult for you to live a more fulfilling life.
I am passionate about teens and adults feel more confident in certain areas of their lives and reach their greatest potential. My role is to help you navigate the challenges that make it difficult for you to live a more fulfilling life.
(224) 222-1042 View (224) 222-1042
Photo of undefined - Kevin Franke, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Kevin Franke, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
I start with a thorough assessment of your current concerns. I take a broad-minded, non-judgmental approach to understanding what you are looking for help with. I try to be helpful by offering feedback and new perspectives and insights. I understand that you have probably already attempted several ways to address your concerns and by now you are most likely frustrated and worried. I will take a proactive and positive approach to your participation by helping you identify your personal strengths and assets that you can then use to develop a new and better response to your concerns.
I start with a thorough assessment of your current concerns. I take a broad-minded, non-judgmental approach to understanding what you are looking for help with. I try to be helpful by offering feedback and new perspectives and insights. I understand that you have probably already attempted several ways to address your concerns and by now you are most likely frustrated and worried. I will take a proactive and positive approach to your participation by helping you identify your personal strengths and assets that you can then use to develop a new and better response to your concerns.
(312) 756-0573 View (312) 756-0573
Photo of Ulises Cardenas, MA
Ulises Cardenas
MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
Your journey toward healing starts with a choice to seek assistance. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you to start what I call “A Time to Heal”. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who specializes in children, adolescents, couples, and family therapy. I work with the following issues: anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, behavioral issues, and family conflict.
Your journey toward healing starts with a choice to seek assistance. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you to start what I call “A Time to Heal”. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who specializes in children, adolescents, couples, and family therapy. I work with the following issues: anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, behavioral issues, and family conflict.
(708) 726-8098 View (708) 726-8098
Photo of Richard N Goodman, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Richard N Goodman
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646
Each of us has a unique combination of innate strengths and, yes, weaknesses. Psychotherapy - or counseling -- is a process of regaining and leveraging our strengths, shoring up deficiencies and effectively managing the challenges in our lives. Our ability to learn is another important gift we all possess. Psychotherapy allows the client to either learn, re-learn or even unlearn thoughts and behaviors which, in turn, leads to emotional well-being. Our emotions are important signals, but they need not become emergencies themselves.
Each of us has a unique combination of innate strengths and, yes, weaknesses. Psychotherapy - or counseling -- is a process of regaining and leveraging our strengths, shoring up deficiencies and effectively managing the challenges in our lives. Our ability to learn is another important gift we all possess. Psychotherapy allows the client to either learn, re-learn or even unlearn thoughts and behaviors which, in turn, leads to emotional well-being. Our emotions are important signals, but they need not become emergencies themselves.
(847) 979-4914 View (847) 979-4914
Photo of Sean Murphy, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Sean has worked with loss or grief, anxiety, people who feel stuck or in a rut and people with severe mental illness. He worked in a residential and nursing home where he helped people with severe and persistent mental illness and this gave him the opportunity to address the needs of a population facing many challenges.
Sean has worked with loss or grief, anxiety, people who feel stuck or in a rut and people with severe mental illness. He worked in a residential and nursing home where he helped people with severe and persistent mental illness and this gave him the opportunity to address the needs of a population facing many challenges.
(773) 207-5356 View (773) 207-5356
Photo of Steve Ploum, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Steve Ploum
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
How does one eat an elephant? "One bite at a time." I will assist with defining/understanding your elephant, with finding the best place to start and I'll support you along the way. I've worked extensively with and understand the issues of individuals/spouses/families of city workers (police, fire, etc.) and others dealing with anxiety, depression, anger management issues, addictions, trauma & situational stress, and life transitions. I specialize in individual therapy and I'm trained in CBT and as an art therapist who specializes in helping other tap their creative powers and in find balance in living creatively.
How does one eat an elephant? "One bite at a time." I will assist with defining/understanding your elephant, with finding the best place to start and I'll support you along the way. I've worked extensively with and understand the issues of individuals/spouses/families of city workers (police, fire, etc.) and others dealing with anxiety, depression, anger management issues, addictions, trauma & situational stress, and life transitions. I specialize in individual therapy and I'm trained in CBT and as an art therapist who specializes in helping other tap their creative powers and in find balance in living creatively.
(708) 934-4242 View (708) 934-4242
Photo of John Carter, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
We are currently accepting new clients via video/phone and in person appointments at our downtown location. Please reach out through email or phone to set up an intake call and to be scheduled promptly. We accept most insurance and your coverage will be verified prior to your first appointment.
We are currently accepting new clients via video/phone and in person appointments at our downtown location. Please reach out through email or phone to set up an intake call and to be scheduled promptly. We accept most insurance and your coverage will be verified prior to your first appointment.
(312) 360-1983 x2 View (312) 360-1983 x2
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.