Schema Therapy in Chicago, IL
You might be getting things done, but it's costing you. Your mind won't stop running. You second-guess yourself. You push harder, then feel worse. In relationships, you may feel distant, irritable, or stuck in the same fight. Sometimes there's a clear trigger. Sometimes it's just been building. I work with individuals and couples, especially high achievers. We look at what's happening now, what it's connected to, and what keeps it going; then we change the pattern using an integration of evidence-based approaches.
You might be getting things done, but it's costing you. Your mind won't stop running. You second-guess yourself. You push harder, then feel worse. In relationships, you may feel distant, irritable, or stuck in the same fight. Sometimes there's a clear trigger. Sometimes it's just been building. I work with individuals and couples, especially high achievers. We look at what's happening now, what it's connected to, and what keeps it going; then we change the pattern using an integration of evidence-based approaches.
It feels like God has forgotten about you. You believe, but it’s so hard to hold the faith amidst the struggles and you wonder why anxiety keeps showing up despite your prayers. You’re replaying conversations and questioning your worth in relationships. It feels like your faith and your feelings are at odds, and you question if something is wrong with you. I can assure you there is nothing wrong. Instead, we can slow down to make sense of these patterns to uncover the roots of your anxiety, your relational struggles, and the deeper longings for peace, connection, and a sense of purpose that honors both your heart and your faith.
It feels like God has forgotten about you. You believe, but it’s so hard to hold the faith amidst the struggles and you wonder why anxiety keeps showing up despite your prayers. You’re replaying conversations and questioning your worth in relationships. It feels like your faith and your feelings are at odds, and you question if something is wrong with you. I can assure you there is nothing wrong. Instead, we can slow down to make sense of these patterns to uncover the roots of your anxiety, your relational struggles, and the deeper longings for peace, connection, and a sense of purpose that honors both your heart and your faith.
My clients come from many walks of life, including professionals in finance, science, IT, law, nonprofit work, and education, as well as college students, young adults, and retirees. I am currently welcoming new clients and have three in-person session openings available, along with the option to meet via Zoom.
My clients come from many walks of life, including professionals in finance, science, IT, law, nonprofit work, and education, as well as college students, young adults, and retirees. I am currently welcoming new clients and have three in-person session openings available, along with the option to meet via Zoom.
With a foundation of honesty and acceptance, I approach individual, family, and couples therapy with the belief that true growth begins in a safe, nonjudgmental space. I collaborate with clients to set meaningful goals and ensure we’re always on track toward positive outcomes.
My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Using these frameworks, I incorporate skills from mindfulness, the Gottman Method, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused CBT, and Emotion-Focused therapy. This combination allows me to tailor treatment to meet each client’s unique needs.
With a foundation of honesty and acceptance, I approach individual, family, and couples therapy with the belief that true growth begins in a safe, nonjudgmental space. I collaborate with clients to set meaningful goals and ensure we’re always on track toward positive outcomes.
My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Using these frameworks, I incorporate skills from mindfulness, the Gottman Method, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused CBT, and Emotion-Focused therapy. This combination allows me to tailor treatment to meet each client’s unique needs.
With over a decade of experience, Alex began her career as a Special Education Teacher. After earning her Masters in Social Work from University of Illinois at Chicago, she transitioned to school social work and non-profit management. She has worked with both children and adults and specializes in trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and perinatal/prenatal/postpartum mental health. She uses a holistic, culturally relevant approach and values building a strong therapeutic relationship in order to explore the root causes of presenting concerns and to work toward incremental growth/behavior change.
With over a decade of experience, Alex began her career as a Special Education Teacher. After earning her Masters in Social Work from University of Illinois at Chicago, she transitioned to school social work and non-profit management. She has worked with both children and adults and specializes in trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and perinatal/prenatal/postpartum mental health. She uses a holistic, culturally relevant approach and values building a strong therapeutic relationship in order to explore the root causes of presenting concerns and to work toward incremental growth/behavior change.
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.
I have a breadth and depth of clinical experience primarily doing psychotherapy in private practice, inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, family counseling and substance abuse treatment. My clients come to work on issues such as bipolar / depression, anxiety and panic, identity, low self-esteem, dating and relationship issues, traumatization, and aging and health issues. All are welcome, whether it be due to recent personal struggles or deep-rooted issues.
I have a breadth and depth of clinical experience primarily doing psychotherapy in private practice, inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, family counseling and substance abuse treatment. My clients come to work on issues such as bipolar / depression, anxiety and panic, identity, low self-esteem, dating and relationship issues, traumatization, and aging and health issues. All are welcome, whether it be due to recent personal struggles or deep-rooted issues.
You may be seeking therapy because you’re feeling stuck in patterns, unsure of who you are or what you want. You might be navigating disconnection in your relationship or conflict in your family. If you’re a person of color, immigrant, or second-generation adult, these struggles may also involve identity, belonging, and cultural expectations.
You may be seeking therapy because you’re feeling stuck in patterns, unsure of who you are or what you want. You might be navigating disconnection in your relationship or conflict in your family. If you’re a person of color, immigrant, or second-generation adult, these struggles may also involve identity, belonging, and cultural expectations.
There may come a time in life where we have reached the limits of our capacity to see, improve, and take charge of our lives. When we've hit a point where the old things just aren't working anymore and it's time for a change but we don't know how, a pair of fresh eyes can provide much needed clarity. Many mental health challenges arise from lack of self-awareness or cognitive patterns that hinder us from effectively addressing problems. For clients struggling to identify the root of the problem, therapeutic intervention to explore life purpose, self-love, attachment, and motivation can serve as an inspiring catalyst for change.
There may come a time in life where we have reached the limits of our capacity to see, improve, and take charge of our lives. When we've hit a point where the old things just aren't working anymore and it's time for a change but we don't know how, a pair of fresh eyes can provide much needed clarity. Many mental health challenges arise from lack of self-awareness or cognitive patterns that hinder us from effectively addressing problems. For clients struggling to identify the root of the problem, therapeutic intervention to explore life purpose, self-love, attachment, and motivation can serve as an inspiring catalyst for change.
You’re successful, responsible, and capable, but your mind won’t give you a break. If you’re constantly overthinking, second-guessing, replaying conversations, or needing reassurance just to feel settled, you may be dealing with high-functioning anxiety. I specialize in helping driven adults step out of relentless mental loops and build real cognitive flexibility.
Many of my clients struggle with intrusive thoughts, rumination, mental checking, perfectionism, or a strong need for certainty. They’ve often tried to “think their way out” of anxiety, only to find that more thinking makes it worse.
You’re successful, responsible, and capable, but your mind won’t give you a break. If you’re constantly overthinking, second-guessing, replaying conversations, or needing reassurance just to feel settled, you may be dealing with high-functioning anxiety. I specialize in helping driven adults step out of relentless mental loops and build real cognitive flexibility.
Many of my clients struggle with intrusive thoughts, rumination, mental checking, perfectionism, or a strong need for certainty. They’ve often tried to “think their way out” of anxiety, only to find that more thinking makes it worse.
Life can feel overwhelming when your brain gets stuck in patterns of anxiety, sadness, or constant worry. Many clients come to me feeling exhausted, disconnected, or unsure why their mind reacts the way it does. Neuroscience shows that when stress builds, the brain shifts into survival mode—making it harder to feel calm or think clearly. You deserve a space where your experience makes sense, where your nervous system can soften, and where real relief and healing feel possible. I help with all types of anxiety including performance anxiety many that are trauma based without even realizing it
Life can feel overwhelming when your brain gets stuck in patterns of anxiety, sadness, or constant worry. Many clients come to me feeling exhausted, disconnected, or unsure why their mind reacts the way it does. Neuroscience shows that when stress builds, the brain shifts into survival mode—making it harder to feel calm or think clearly. You deserve a space where your experience makes sense, where your nervous system can soften, and where real relief and healing feel possible. I help with all types of anxiety including performance anxiety many that are trauma based without even realizing it
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Schema Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), mindfulness-based approaches like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and integrate mind-body awareness throughout therapy.
You may be exhausted from holding everything together while feeling overwhelmed, self-critical, or “not enough” inside. You may feel insecure in your relationships, or struggle to see the good in yourself and others. I help individuals navigate concerns including stress, life transitions, anxiety, low self-esteem, self-criticism, depression, childhood trauma, attachment injuries, emotional dysregulation, cultural identity and relationship challenges. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them reconnect with themselves, build confidence, and cultivate self-compassion.
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Schema Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), mindfulness-based approaches like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and integrate mind-body awareness throughout therapy.
You may be exhausted from holding everything together while feeling overwhelmed, self-critical, or “not enough” inside. You may feel insecure in your relationships, or struggle to see the good in yourself and others. I help individuals navigate concerns including stress, life transitions, anxiety, low self-esteem, self-criticism, depression, childhood trauma, attachment injuries, emotional dysregulation, cultural identity and relationship challenges. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them reconnect with themselves, build confidence, and cultivate self-compassion.
I am here to assist others in their journey of healing. Life is wonderful but it can also give us a sense of insecurity and hardship. I have worked with many individuals providing mental health services in in-patient settings since 2015. I later started to work one-on-one with individuals with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, martial issues, minority issues, first responders with family conflict, trauma and other issues that keep the individual from having an abundant life. I am here to provide you with knowledge and guidance on what your life can look like if you put faith in yourself
I am here to assist others in their journey of healing. Life is wonderful but it can also give us a sense of insecurity and hardship. I have worked with many individuals providing mental health services in in-patient settings since 2015. I later started to work one-on-one with individuals with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, martial issues, minority issues, first responders with family conflict, trauma and other issues that keep the individual from having an abundant life. I am here to provide you with knowledge and guidance on what your life can look like if you put faith in yourself
I work with adults and couples who are experiencing relationship insecurity and emotional instability, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, or trauma-related symptoms. My approach is based on the needs and strengths of each client. Collaboratively, we identify your repetitive thoughts and behaviors, and find their roots. I provide genuine compassion and insight to facilitate clients’ healing and uncover their subconscious parts (blind spots) that often cause maladaptive behaviors. Clients will establish healthy behavior and relationships and will regulate their emotions at ease.
I work with adults and couples who are experiencing relationship insecurity and emotional instability, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, or trauma-related symptoms. My approach is based on the needs and strengths of each client. Collaboratively, we identify your repetitive thoughts and behaviors, and find their roots. I provide genuine compassion and insight to facilitate clients’ healing and uncover their subconscious parts (blind spots) that often cause maladaptive behaviors. Clients will establish healthy behavior and relationships and will regulate their emotions at ease.
Hi Friend, My name is Crystal Winfield-Edwards,. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, Indiana, & Texas with over 25 years of experience working with Children and Families. I've been providing individual and group therapy services since 2009. I worked with children and adolescence from ages 3-19, young & mature adults who have experienced life challenges that throw us off track. I believe that it is critically important for you to find a therapist that is a good fit for you. You should choose a therapist that will allow you the space to express yourself without fear of judgment. I will meet you where your are.
Hi Friend, My name is Crystal Winfield-Edwards,. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, Indiana, & Texas with over 25 years of experience working with Children and Families. I've been providing individual and group therapy services since 2009. I worked with children and adolescence from ages 3-19, young & mature adults who have experienced life challenges that throw us off track. I believe that it is critically important for you to find a therapist that is a good fit for you. You should choose a therapist that will allow you the space to express yourself without fear of judgment. I will meet you where your are.
People are able to make positive changes in their lives. Do you find yourself unhappy, depressed or anxious? Does it feel that no matter what you have tried, nothing changes? I help clients in positively addressing unhelpful patterns and to become unstuck from negative emotions and life situations. I work with clients in a conversational and consultative way, helping you to identify causes of stress, depression and anxiety concerns. We can work together to identify your core concerns and to help find ways to alleviate any negative thinking, moods and/or behaviors. Phone me today for a no cost 20 minute phone consultation.
People are able to make positive changes in their lives. Do you find yourself unhappy, depressed or anxious? Does it feel that no matter what you have tried, nothing changes? I help clients in positively addressing unhelpful patterns and to become unstuck from negative emotions and life situations. I work with clients in a conversational and consultative way, helping you to identify causes of stress, depression and anxiety concerns. We can work together to identify your core concerns and to help find ways to alleviate any negative thinking, moods and/or behaviors. Phone me today for a no cost 20 minute phone consultation.
Becky is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has over 28 years of counseling experience and loves her job helping others! Her priority is to provide a therapeutic relationship in a safe, nonjudgmental, and confidential environment so you feel comfortable discussing your truth. Becky’s person-centered & integrative approach is customized to your specific needs. She counsels from a positive, holistic, strength-based perspective of hope and growth through self-awareness and insights. She believes each of us is a unique individual with several differences that make us who we are so only we know the best solutions for ourselves.
Becky is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has over 28 years of counseling experience and loves her job helping others! Her priority is to provide a therapeutic relationship in a safe, nonjudgmental, and confidential environment so you feel comfortable discussing your truth. Becky’s person-centered & integrative approach is customized to your specific needs. She counsels from a positive, holistic, strength-based perspective of hope and growth through self-awareness and insights. She believes each of us is a unique individual with several differences that make us who we are so only we know the best solutions for ourselves.
You may find yourself feeling stuck—repeating the same patterns in relationships, struggling with self-doubt, or carrying an underlying sense of disconnection. Maybe you’ve tried coping strategies or even therapy before, but it hasn’t quite reached the deeper wounds that keep showing up in your life. Our work focuses on deep healing—helping you understand and process the emotions, experiences, and attachment wounds that have shaped you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, emotional distress, or unresolved childhood pain, our therapy isn’t just about managing symptoms— it’s about creating lasting change.
You may find yourself feeling stuck—repeating the same patterns in relationships, struggling with self-doubt, or carrying an underlying sense of disconnection. Maybe you’ve tried coping strategies or even therapy before, but it hasn’t quite reached the deeper wounds that keep showing up in your life. Our work focuses on deep healing—helping you understand and process the emotions, experiences, and attachment wounds that have shaped you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, emotional distress, or unresolved childhood pain, our therapy isn’t just about managing symptoms— it’s about creating lasting change.
Do you feel like you’re carrying invisible burdens that others can’t see? Burnout doesn’t just come from work. It can also come from living with chronic illness, anxiety, or the ongoing stress of holding everything together. On the outside, you may seem calm and capable, but inside you might feel exhausted, anxious, or disconnected from your own needs. Over time, this survival mode can leave you feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward. Therapy can offer a space to pause, reconnect with what matters most, find understanding, and a renewed sense of self.
Do you feel like you’re carrying invisible burdens that others can’t see? Burnout doesn’t just come from work. It can also come from living with chronic illness, anxiety, or the ongoing stress of holding everything together. On the outside, you may seem calm and capable, but inside you might feel exhausted, anxious, or disconnected from your own needs. Over time, this survival mode can leave you feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward. Therapy can offer a space to pause, reconnect with what matters most, find understanding, and a renewed sense of self.
Psychotherapy is an invitation to meet yourself: not just your thoughts, but your feelings, your patterns, and the ways you’ve learned to relate to the world. Many people come carrying pain that feels unnameable, weighed down by patterns that keep repeating, or wondering why connection always feels just out of reach. Whatever brought you here, you deserve a space where your experience is truly seen, held, and met with curiosity and care.
Psychotherapy is an invitation to meet yourself: not just your thoughts, but your feelings, your patterns, and the ways you’ve learned to relate to the world. Many people come carrying pain that feels unnameable, weighed down by patterns that keep repeating, or wondering why connection always feels just out of reach. Whatever brought you here, you deserve a space where your experience is truly seen, held, and met with curiosity and care.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Schema Therapy Searches for Chicago
- Arlington Heights
- Aurora
- Bolingbrook
- Frankfort
- Geneva
- Lombard
- Naperville
- Northbrook
- Oak Park
- Plainfield
- Schaumburg
Schema Therapy Therapists
How does schema therapy work?
Schema therapy is based on the idea that maladaptive thought patterns formed in childhood—that other people can never be relied on, for example—can interfere with healthy functioning in adulthood. Accordingly, schema therapy works by directly targeting such unhealthy schemas, identifying their consequences, and replacing them with more adaptive ways of thinking. To this end, schema therapists aim to “reparent” the client by offering what they didn’t get in childhood—validation, for instance, or compassion—to reorient their worldview.
Is schema therapy evidence-based?
Schema therapy is still considered relatively new, and research on its efficacy is still in progress. However, some studies have concluded that it can be effective at treating certain mental health conditions, most notably personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder. Evidence for its efficacy in treating conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD is promising but less conclusive, and experts warn that much of the existing research is of low quality.
Is schema therapy a type of CBT?
Schema therapy is based on many principles of CBT, most notably the process of recognizing and challenging maladaptive thought patterns. But because schema therapy also draws from other approaches,including psychoanalysis and Gestalt therapy, it is not considered a form of CBT. It also typically delves deeper into the client’s childhood than does CBT.
How does schema therapy work?
Schema therapy does not call for a set number of sessions and is instead open-ended, with the treatment timeline depending on the client’s primary concern(s), progress, and preferences. Treatment that lasts between six months and two years is common, though many clients will start to see progress much earlier than that.