Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Chicago, IL
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor who specializes in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and depression.
I have received extensive training in prolonged exposure (PE), which is an evidenced-based treatment for PTSD. In this treatment I help clients limit avoidance behaviors and become less fearful and more confident. I will also help clients emotionally process the traumatic event(s) to effectively put the trauma in the past and regain control over their lives.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor who specializes in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and depression.
I have received extensive training in prolonged exposure (PE), which is an evidenced-based treatment for PTSD. In this treatment I help clients limit avoidance behaviors and become less fearful and more confident. I will also help clients emotionally process the traumatic event(s) to effectively put the trauma in the past and regain control over their lives.
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.
I support individuals working through the effects of childhood trauma, couples navigating conflict or betrayal, and partners healing from the pain of broken trust.
Relationships can be one of our greatest sources of connection—and one of our deepest sources of pain. Whether you're struggling with resentment that has built over years, recovering from infidelity or betrayal, or feeling stuck in cycles of conflict that leave you disconnected, therapy can help you find a new way forward. I specialize in helping couples heal from infidelity, betrayal, resentment, and emotional disconnection. My approach is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and integrates the Early Recovery Couples Empathy Model (ERCEM) to help couples rebuild trust and create lasting emotional connection.
I support individuals working through the effects of childhood trauma, couples navigating conflict or betrayal, and partners healing from the pain of broken trust.
Relationships can be one of our greatest sources of connection—and one of our deepest sources of pain. Whether you're struggling with resentment that has built over years, recovering from infidelity or betrayal, or feeling stuck in cycles of conflict that leave you disconnected, therapy can help you find a new way forward. I specialize in helping couples heal from infidelity, betrayal, resentment, and emotional disconnection. My approach is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and integrates the Early Recovery Couples Empathy Model (ERCEM) to help couples rebuild trust and create lasting emotional connection.
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 is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, who specializes in trauma recovery. Louise received a Master’s degree in Counseling from DePaul University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Denver. Louise is EMDR trained, CCTP Certified, and has been practicing as a therapist since 2010.
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 is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, who specializes in trauma recovery. Louise received a Master’s degree in Counseling from DePaul University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Denver. Louise is EMDR trained, CCTP Certified, and has been practicing as a therapist since 2010.
Are you a high-acheiving professional in Chicago or the North Shore struggling with the lasting effects of childhood trauma?
With empathic support, clients learn to break free from destructive thoughts, behaviors, addictions, and problematic relational patterns that are no longer serving their best interests.
Are you a high-acheiving professional in Chicago or the North Shore struggling with the lasting effects of childhood trauma?
With empathic support, clients learn to break free from destructive thoughts, behaviors, addictions, and problematic relational patterns that are no longer serving their best interests.
It is a humbling privilege to support those navigating grief and trauma.
I want to create a space where you can be who you are now without getting stuck in what you might have been. It is easy for us to view our lives like a piece of sheet music and get caught up in the theory and rules. As a result, we end up missing the beautiful symphony all around us. Our work together is an opportunity for you to take up space and fill concert halls. Our space will be warm, protected, and healing. Through real conversation and genuine connection, we will create a path forward where you get to live your life on your own terms.
It is a humbling privilege to support those navigating grief and trauma.
I want to create a space where you can be who you are now without getting stuck in what you might have been. It is easy for us to view our lives like a piece of sheet music and get caught up in the theory and rules. As a result, we end up missing the beautiful symphony all around us. Our work together is an opportunity for you to take up space and fill concert halls. Our space will be warm, protected, and healing. Through real conversation and genuine connection, we will create a path forward where you get to live your life on your own terms.
Managing relationships, school or work - let alone anxiety, depression, spirituality, sexuality, identity, or trauma - is a lot to ask of someone who is already navigating oppressive systems every day.
I want you to feel safe enough before we dive into all that's painful. We'll use body-focused, mindful techniques early on to build up that safety. Once you're ready, we can dig deeper, find the roots of what you're going through, and start to untangle the knots. All of this happens at your pace with zero judgment about what works and what doesn't.
Managing relationships, school or work - let alone anxiety, depression, spirituality, sexuality, identity, or trauma - is a lot to ask of someone who is already navigating oppressive systems every day.
I want you to feel safe enough before we dive into all that's painful. We'll use body-focused, mindful techniques early on to build up that safety. Once you're ready, we can dig deeper, find the roots of what you're going through, and start to untangle the knots. All of this happens at your pace with zero judgment about what works and what doesn't.
I specialize in working with grief and loss; relationship concerns; family of origin concerns; parenting stress; life transitions; emotional, physical, and sexual trauma; and mood disorders.
You might be looking here because you're tired of feeling overwhelmed or unsatisfied with where you are in your life. Maybe you've had a recent experience or loss that is causing pain. Or maybe something happened a long time ago that's continuing to impact how you feel. Perhaps you don't like the way your mood is impacting your relationships, your family, your job, your life. Or possibly you've heard some things about therapy and you're willing to give it a try. I'm here to help you better understand yourself and work towards making the changes in your life you want.
I specialize in working with grief and loss; relationship concerns; family of origin concerns; parenting stress; life transitions; emotional, physical, and sexual trauma; and mood disorders.
You might be looking here because you're tired of feeling overwhelmed or unsatisfied with where you are in your life. Maybe you've had a recent experience or loss that is causing pain. Or maybe something happened a long time ago that's continuing to impact how you feel. Perhaps you don't like the way your mood is impacting your relationships, your family, your job, your life. Or possibly you've heard some things about therapy and you're willing to give it a try. I'm here to help you better understand yourself and work towards making the changes in your life you want.
My practice focuses mainly on recovery from trauma, and a range of anxiety/depressive concerns.
Effective therapy helps you move away from feelings of distress and struggle and toward a happier, more balanced life. My greatest pleasure as a therapist is guiding clients toward identifying their strengths and re-awakening to life's possibilities. My style is supportive and respectful, but also practical and action-oriented. Together we explore what you want from therapy and customize an approach that's best for you. Clients see me as collaborative, genuine, and committed to their health and happiness. I hold clinical social work licenses in Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota.
My practice focuses mainly on recovery from trauma, and a range of anxiety/depressive concerns.
Effective therapy helps you move away from feelings of distress and struggle and toward a happier, more balanced life. My greatest pleasure as a therapist is guiding clients toward identifying their strengths and re-awakening to life's possibilities. My style is supportive and respectful, but also practical and action-oriented. Together we explore what you want from therapy and customize an approach that's best for you. Clients see me as collaborative, genuine, and committed to their health and happiness. I hold clinical social work licenses in Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota.
They are how you survived and responded to trauma, internalized stigma, oppressive systems, and relational harm.
My approach is compassionate and grounded, integrating parts work, abolitionist and disability justice values, somatic practices, and harm reduction principles. I will be there with you in the work, approaching with curiosity, holding the complexity of our humanness and innate desire to be in alignment with our authenticity and within our relationships.
They are how you survived and responded to trauma, internalized stigma, oppressive systems, and relational harm.
My approach is compassionate and grounded, integrating parts work, abolitionist and disability justice values, somatic practices, and harm reduction principles. I will be there with you in the work, approaching with curiosity, holding the complexity of our humanness and innate desire to be in alignment with our authenticity and within our relationships.
I work with kids, teens, and adults navigating trauma, grief, relationship challenges, identity exploration, and major life transitions.
I draw from Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, and polyvagal theory to support the body and nervous system in healing. I also offer EMDR, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, and plant medicine integration. At the core is your story, your goals, and a space that feels safe, supportive, and uniquely yours.
I work with kids, teens, and adults navigating trauma, grief, relationship challenges, identity exploration, and major life transitions.
I draw from Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, and polyvagal theory to support the body and nervous system in healing. I also offer EMDR, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, and plant medicine integration. At the core is your story, your goals, and a space that feels safe, supportive, and uniquely yours.
I have had success counseling survivors of complex trauma, girls and women of all ages, and those that have felt marginalized and invalidated by their experience in the world.
I use several trauma informed approaches such as body based, psychoeducation, and attachment theory. The therapeutic relationship is key in healing, insight, and progress.
I have had success counseling survivors of complex trauma, girls and women of all ages, and those that have felt marginalized and invalidated by their experience in the world.
I use several trauma informed approaches such as body based, psychoeducation, and attachment theory. The therapeutic relationship is key in healing, insight, and progress.
I take a person-centered, trauma-informed approach to therapy and enjoy supporting individuals as they navigate a wide range of life stressors and challenges.
I strive to foster a supportive and collaborative therapeutic space where clients feel comfortable exploring their concerns at their own pace. I believe in meeting each person where they are, recognizing that everyone's experiences and goals are unique. I aim to help clients cultivate greater self-awareness and self-acceptance, as they move towards change.
I take a person-centered, trauma-informed approach to therapy and enjoy supporting individuals as they navigate a wide range of life stressors and challenges.
I strive to foster a supportive and collaborative therapeutic space where clients feel comfortable exploring their concerns at their own pace. I believe in meeting each person where they are, recognizing that everyone's experiences and goals are unique. I aim to help clients cultivate greater self-awareness and self-acceptance, as they move towards change.
Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, identity, grief, major life transition or trauma, you won’t walk alone.
Virtual and in person therapy sessions are offered.
Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, identity, grief, major life transition or trauma, you won’t walk alone.
Virtual and in person therapy sessions are offered.
Who said therapy cannot be fun? With me, you’ll find yourself laughing, creating, realizing, and sometimes sharing good tears. Together, we’ll explore who you are, practice self-love, and work through challenges with compassion. Therapy with me is about honoring your true self, practicing self-love, and strengthening your confidence. I’ll be with you to create a safe space as you explore your identity, memories, and the emotions they carry. I would love to be part of your journey, toward celebrating your identity, honoring your story, and discovering that your true self is, in fact, your greatest strength.
Who said therapy cannot be fun? With me, you’ll find yourself laughing, creating, realizing, and sometimes sharing good tears. Together, we’ll explore who you are, practice self-love, and work through challenges with compassion. Therapy with me is about honoring your true self, practicing self-love, and strengthening your confidence. I’ll be with you to create a safe space as you explore your identity, memories, and the emotions they carry. I would love to be part of your journey, toward celebrating your identity, honoring your story, and discovering that your true self is, in fact, your greatest strength.
I have experience helping adults of all ages struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity, self-image, relationships, sexuality, and more.
As a therapist, I put the therapeutic relationship at the forefront, always striving to create a warm and welcoming space where a positive connection can be made. That alliance serves as a vehicle for change through insight and new experiences within the therapeutic relationship. My style is centered around this non-judgemental partnership that honors curiosity about your whole self, and all of your intersections. This includes acknowledging that often our work is done within a system of oppressive social structures. Therefore, he strives to work from a multicultural and anti-racist perspective.
I have experience helping adults of all ages struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity, self-image, relationships, sexuality, and more.
As a therapist, I put the therapeutic relationship at the forefront, always striving to create a warm and welcoming space where a positive connection can be made. That alliance serves as a vehicle for change through insight and new experiences within the therapeutic relationship. My style is centered around this non-judgemental partnership that honors curiosity about your whole self, and all of your intersections. This includes acknowledging that often our work is done within a system of oppressive social structures. Therefore, he strives to work from a multicultural and anti-racist perspective.
Additionally, I am honored to work with clients toward trauma processing, childhood or otherwise, those experiencing life transitions or burnout, and have a background in domestic and sexual violence.
I offer a warm, trauma-informed approach, rooted in systemic psychotherapy, IFS, psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic-informed therapy. I practice from an anti-oppressive lens and focus to create a safe therapeutic environment and relationship that can hold each individuals pain, anger, fear, and shame along with moments of joy, silliness, and celebration.
Additionally, I am honored to work with clients toward trauma processing, childhood or otherwise, those experiencing life transitions or burnout, and have a background in domestic and sexual violence.
I offer a warm, trauma-informed approach, rooted in systemic psychotherapy, IFS, psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic-informed therapy. I practice from an anti-oppressive lens and focus to create a safe therapeutic environment and relationship that can hold each individuals pain, anger, fear, and shame along with moments of joy, silliness, and celebration.
I incorporate somatic and experiential techniques into sessions to aid in addressing and processing chronic and pervasive trauma.
We will increase your awareness of how your current reactions were once useful and thus adaptive and work on (re)instating a sense of safety within your body and mind. We will also work to reframe your symptoms as understandable remnants of past abusive environments/relationships and work to increase your agency and sense of healthy self-control.
I incorporate somatic and experiential techniques into sessions to aid in addressing and processing chronic and pervasive trauma.
We will increase your awareness of how your current reactions were once useful and thus adaptive and work on (re)instating a sense of safety within your body and mind. We will also work to reframe your symptoms as understandable remnants of past abusive environments/relationships and work to increase your agency and sense of healthy self-control.
I frequently treat self-esteem, identity or relationship concerns, women's issues, codependency, and those with a history of family addiction, abuse, or trauma.
Cumulative suffering or internalized negative messages about ourselves may have shaped habits or emotional responses that are no longer beneficial. Hence I strive to empower with new coping skills & a vision of broader possibilities for life. I also aim to integrate a focus on physiological regulation, since trauma is often nonverbally carried in our bodies.
I frequently treat self-esteem, identity or relationship concerns, women's issues, codependency, and those with a history of family addiction, abuse, or trauma.
Cumulative suffering or internalized negative messages about ourselves may have shaped habits or emotional responses that are no longer beneficial. Hence I strive to empower with new coping skills & a vision of broader possibilities for life. I also aim to integrate a focus on physiological regulation, since trauma is often nonverbally carried in our bodies.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, survivors of intimate partner trauma, and those navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, as well as the unique experiences of being neurodivergent.
I am trauma-informed and strength's based. My approach is integrative and includes modalities such as, person-centered therapy, narrative therapy and internal family systems (IFS). I also invite gentle movement or mindfulness practices to help you tune into your body and emotions, creating opportunities for breakthroughs that logic alone can’t reach.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, survivors of intimate partner trauma, and those navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, as well as the unique experiences of being neurodivergent.
I am trauma-informed and strength's based. My approach is integrative and includes modalities such as, person-centered therapy, narrative therapy and internal family systems (IFS). I also invite gentle movement or mindfulness practices to help you tune into your body and emotions, creating opportunities for breakthroughs that logic alone can’t reach.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lyons
- North Riverside
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Riverside
- Summit
Trauma and PTSD Therapists
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.
How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.
What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.
Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.