Photo of Steve Wodka, Psychologist in Crystal Lake, IL
Steve Wodka
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I specialize in treating men/women from dysfunctional families who have anxiety/depression as a result of their upbringing. Treatment interests include Adult Children of Alcoholics, family dysfunction, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma. I utilize a direct interactive style contingent on the clients' needs. I help clients understand their emotional "blue-print" and create new learning and choices. I work with emotionally distant individuals, building communication skills and a positive sense of self. I have a special interest in men's issues, including difficulties expressing and understanding emotions and anger management skills
I specialize in treating men/women from dysfunctional families who have anxiety/depression as a result of their upbringing. Treatment interests include Adult Children of Alcoholics, family dysfunction, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma. I utilize a direct interactive style contingent on the clients' needs. I help clients understand their emotional "blue-print" and create new learning and choices. I work with emotionally distant individuals, building communication skills and a positive sense of self. I have a special interest in men's issues, including difficulties expressing and understanding emotions and anger management skills
(847) 416-6624 View (847) 416-6624
Photo of Bob Zima, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Bob Zima
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Using Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral, and Client-Center Therapy techniques and psychoeducation, I help male individuals and couples identify and accept their personality traits, temperament characteristics, life story, talents, values, and defined wants & needs.
I provide individuals and couples with collaborative, brief, telehealth counseling and coaching services. Unresolved pain and fear from "doin' life" fuels anger, anxiety, and addictive behaviors that destroy relationships and turn life into a “cardboard dirt sandwich with a side of sawdust.” I use Narrative Therapy to help people separate themselves (and their friends and family) from the problems plaguing their lives, allowing them to externalize their issues rather than hiding them in the depths of their souls.
Using Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral, and Client-Center Therapy techniques and psychoeducation, I help male individuals and couples identify and accept their personality traits, temperament characteristics, life story, talents, values, and defined wants & needs.
I provide individuals and couples with collaborative, brief, telehealth counseling and coaching services. Unresolved pain and fear from "doin' life" fuels anger, anxiety, and addictive behaviors that destroy relationships and turn life into a “cardboard dirt sandwich with a side of sawdust.” I use Narrative Therapy to help people separate themselves (and their friends and family) from the problems plaguing their lives, allowing them to externalize their issues rather than hiding them in the depths of their souls.
(224) 425-4157 View (224) 425-4157

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of BZA Behavioral Health - Schaumburg office, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
BZA Behavioral Health - Schaumburg office
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
(224) 505-8631 View (224) 505-8631
Photo of Dr. Cesar Pajarillo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Dr. Cesar Pajarillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lake In The Hills, IL 60102
Not accepting new clients
Cesar is trained in numerous therapeutic orientations that are grounded in the latest research in the field of mental health which enables him to personalize his treatment approach to the specific needs and goals of the individual. His training is focused on trauma and he specializes in treating clients with combat and non-combat-related issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, complex grief, attachment and reactive disorders, among others. He served as a Clinical Combat Chaplain in the US Army and as a forensic mental health clinician at a county jail for several years prior to private practice.
Cesar is trained in numerous therapeutic orientations that are grounded in the latest research in the field of mental health which enables him to personalize his treatment approach to the specific needs and goals of the individual. His training is focused on trauma and he specializes in treating clients with combat and non-combat-related issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, complex grief, attachment and reactive disorders, among others. He served as a Clinical Combat Chaplain in the US Army and as a forensic mental health clinician at a county jail for several years prior to private practice.
(872) 228-2598 View (872) 228-2598

Online Therapists

Photo of Thy X My Therapeutic Services, LLC, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Thy X My Therapeutic Services, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I assist clients with changing the narrative of their stories. The client is the expert regarding their life; however, I guide and/or challenge each client by refocusing them back to their targeted goals.
I assist clients with changing the narrative of their stories. The client is the expert regarding their life; however, I guide and/or challenge each client by refocusing them back to their targeted goals.
(630) 324-4486 View (630) 324-4486
Photo of Zachary Loveland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Zachary Loveland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Using a combination of CBT and Narrative Therapy I help clients see their world in a new way, hopefully, a happier way.
As a therapist, I aim to meet my clients where they are and provide guidance and skill development that allows them to meet their goals. I work with substance use, addiction, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief and loss, suicidality, and expected and unexpected life changes. I am here to listen and support you if you need to find hope or are struggling with life's challenges.
Using a combination of CBT and Narrative Therapy I help clients see their world in a new way, hopefully, a happier way.
As a therapist, I aim to meet my clients where they are and provide guidance and skill development that allows them to meet their goals. I work with substance use, addiction, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief and loss, suicidality, and expected and unexpected life changes. I am here to listen and support you if you need to find hope or are struggling with life's challenges.
(773) 661-4671 View (773) 661-4671
Photo of Dylan T. Lott, Pre-Licensed Professional in Crystal Lake, IL
Dylan T. Lott
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, LMT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
Grief, loss, and change challenge us to renegotiate – in our bodies, in our thoughts – earlier and similar transformations in our lives, stirring up difficult emotions, thoughts, images, and bodily experiences. In our work together, I will attend with integrity to whatever expressions of body, mind, and heart that arise. In this work that requires patience of us both, I will help you to discover and connect the elements of your own unconscious, history, desires, associations, leading to a genuine – even transformative – development of your own psychological, spiritual, and embodied personal narrative.
Grief, loss, and change challenge us to renegotiate – in our bodies, in our thoughts – earlier and similar transformations in our lives, stirring up difficult emotions, thoughts, images, and bodily experiences. In our work together, I will attend with integrity to whatever expressions of body, mind, and heart that arise. In this work that requires patience of us both, I will help you to discover and connect the elements of your own unconscious, history, desires, associations, leading to a genuine – even transformative – development of your own psychological, spiritual, and embodied personal narrative.
(773) 985-2852 View (773) 985-2852
Photo of Purple Flowers 365 Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Purple Flowers 365 Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Inverness, IL 60067
Most of us have been strong for too long, and desperately need an alternative lens to see through, along with a new narrative to embrace.
Jim is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in the field of addiction and recovery, for over 34 years. His passion also lies in helping those who struggle with anxiety. Jim has experienced, that when anxiety is left untreated, it often gets worst; potentially immobilizing an individual. Jim brings a tremendous amount of knowledge, hope, and empathy to families struggling with addiction and mental illness. As a married man, and father of six, Jim has a fresh unique-perspective on family dynamics; along with the pressure that kids, adolescents, and parents experience in today's world.
Most of us have been strong for too long, and desperately need an alternative lens to see through, along with a new narrative to embrace.
Jim is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in the field of addiction and recovery, for over 34 years. His passion also lies in helping those who struggle with anxiety. Jim has experienced, that when anxiety is left untreated, it often gets worst; potentially immobilizing an individual. Jim brings a tremendous amount of knowledge, hope, and empathy to families struggling with addiction and mental illness. As a married man, and father of six, Jim has a fresh unique-perspective on family dynamics; along with the pressure that kids, adolescents, and parents experience in today's world.
(847) 558-7463 View (847) 558-7463
Photo of Alan Tsang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Alan Tsang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I believe clients know themselves best; and will help you navigate through your narrative prioritizing your personal experiences, expectations, and goals.
I am passionate in helping clients be open about their experiences that may be uncomfortable to talk about. I understand the difficulty in being vulnerable with others and how to move forward with that in mind. My passion is driven by the stigma in seeking mental health counseling services. I want to help you remove that stigma you may have and let you know that it is okay to experience depression, anxiety, and feelings of being overwhelmed in life. I believe anyone can benefit from counseling and therapy, and want to help you be mindful of the reason you are here today for a better tomorrow. I am also fluent in Cantonese-Chinese.
I believe clients know themselves best; and will help you navigate through your narrative prioritizing your personal experiences, expectations, and goals.
I am passionate in helping clients be open about their experiences that may be uncomfortable to talk about. I understand the difficulty in being vulnerable with others and how to move forward with that in mind. My passion is driven by the stigma in seeking mental health counseling services. I want to help you remove that stigma you may have and let you know that it is okay to experience depression, anxiety, and feelings of being overwhelmed in life. I believe anyone can benefit from counseling and therapy, and want to help you be mindful of the reason you are here today for a better tomorrow. I am also fluent in Cantonese-Chinese.
(224) 263-1482 View (224) 263-1482
Photo of Andy Tucker, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Andy Tucker
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
Andy Tucker is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Trinity International University. Andy has worked with a broad range of clinical issues including depression, anxiety, anger management, relationship issues, addiction and conflict resolution. Andy approaches therapy by integrating Psychodynamic, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Narrative and Interpersonal therapies while also utilizing research in neuroscience and mindfulness-based therapies. Andy is married with three children and enjoys travel, nature and hiking.
Andy Tucker is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Trinity International University. Andy has worked with a broad range of clinical issues including depression, anxiety, anger management, relationship issues, addiction and conflict resolution. Andy approaches therapy by integrating Psychodynamic, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Narrative and Interpersonal therapies while also utilizing research in neuroscience and mindfulness-based therapies. Andy is married with three children and enjoys travel, nature and hiking.
(224) 470-7951 View (224) 470-7951
Photo of Mathew Giffin, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Mathew Giffin
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Matt became a therapist because of his desire to serve in a helping profession, and interest in the field of psychology. He draws his inspiration from his own family’s struggles with mental health and prefers working with young adults, particularly those who are seeking help with issues related to the LGBTQ+ community or processing spiritual issues/questions. In therapy, he strives to strike a balance between the person-centered/narrative approach and the evidence-based approach of CBT/ACT. Matt believes in empowering his clients and helping them understand themselves as the experts of their own journey.
Matt became a therapist because of his desire to serve in a helping profession, and interest in the field of psychology. He draws his inspiration from his own family’s struggles with mental health and prefers working with young adults, particularly those who are seeking help with issues related to the LGBTQ+ community or processing spiritual issues/questions. In therapy, he strives to strike a balance between the person-centered/narrative approach and the evidence-based approach of CBT/ACT. Matt believes in empowering his clients and helping them understand themselves as the experts of their own journey.
(331) 267-7864 View (331) 267-7864
Photo of David D. Robertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
David D. Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
Welcome to the realm of therapy, where you are empowered to explore your personal journey and overcome obstacles that hinder your growth. I'm David Robertson, a courage researcher and experienced therapist with clinical training from Columbia University's School of Social Work. Together, we will embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced childhood trauma, grief, and loss, anxiety, depression, as well as members of faith-based communities, the queer community, and other marginalized identities.
Welcome to the realm of therapy, where you are empowered to explore your personal journey and overcome obstacles that hinder your growth. I'm David Robertson, a courage researcher and experienced therapist with clinical training from Columbia University's School of Social Work. Together, we will embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced childhood trauma, grief, and loss, anxiety, depression, as well as members of faith-based communities, the queer community, and other marginalized identities.
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Photo of John Charles Zibert, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
John Charles Zibert
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I collaborate with adults in individual and relationship counseling. Typical issues we work on together are depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, ACOA issues, stress, men's issues, and if it a specific client request - spirituality concerns. I offer Wednesday, Friday and Saturday appointments by telehealth exclusively. Due to the convenience and popularity of telehealth, I hold all sessions via telehealth and no longer offer in-person office sessions.
I collaborate with adults in individual and relationship counseling. Typical issues we work on together are depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, ACOA issues, stress, men's issues, and if it a specific client request - spirituality concerns. I offer Wednesday, Friday and Saturday appointments by telehealth exclusively. Due to the convenience and popularity of telehealth, I hold all sessions via telehealth and no longer offer in-person office sessions.
(773) 312-4415 View (773) 312-4415
Photo of Andre T. Johnson: Therapy Health Clinic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Andre T. Johnson: Therapy Health Clinic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I've been a therapist for over thirty-three years. I'm passionate about helping clients navigate through debilitating mental health illnesses such as anxiety, depression, traumas, grief/ loss, medical conditions, and other personal, relational, cultural, and social and spiritual struggles by providing knowledge and strategies to establish better ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
I've been a therapist for over thirty-three years. I'm passionate about helping clients navigate through debilitating mental health illnesses such as anxiety, depression, traumas, grief/ loss, medical conditions, and other personal, relational, cultural, and social and spiritual struggles by providing knowledge and strategies to establish better ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
(708) 726-9659 View (708) 726-9659
Photo of Steve Hutchens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Steve Hutchens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
I’m a trauma-informed counselor committed to partnering with individuals and couples as they navigate the myriad difficulties of life. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma: supporting them as they process and heal from the past to live freely in the present. We will work on the issue holistically: being mindful of the body while treating the soul as well as the heart and mind. Together we will take a collaborative approach to reach your unique goals as you grow in self-awareness and step into living a fuller life.
I’m a trauma-informed counselor committed to partnering with individuals and couples as they navigate the myriad difficulties of life. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma: supporting them as they process and heal from the past to live freely in the present. We will work on the issue holistically: being mindful of the body while treating the soul as well as the heart and mind. Together we will take a collaborative approach to reach your unique goals as you grow in self-awareness and step into living a fuller life.
(708) 809-3025 View (708) 809-3025
Photo of Rick Egbert, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Rick Egbert
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
You deserve a life of hope and healing! If you're here, it's probably because you or someone you care about is being weighed down by life. Conflict in relationships, transitions in life, trauma, and everyday stress can chip away at our joy and vitality. Trust me - it doesn't have to be this way. Yes, counseling is hard work. Making that first, courageous step of getting started can be intimidating. I'll do everything I can to make you feel heard, seen, and accepted. I want you to have a safe, comfortable, and healing environment as we journey together.
You deserve a life of hope and healing! If you're here, it's probably because you or someone you care about is being weighed down by life. Conflict in relationships, transitions in life, trauma, and everyday stress can chip away at our joy and vitality. Trust me - it doesn't have to be this way. Yes, counseling is hard work. Making that first, courageous step of getting started can be intimidating. I'll do everything I can to make you feel heard, seen, and accepted. I want you to have a safe, comfortable, and healing environment as we journey together.
(847) 241-1129 View (847) 241-1129
Photo of Lucas Somma, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Lucas Somma
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
The adage “we repeat what we don’t repair” is especially true of couples. Couples often start therapy knowing that their relationship can and should be better, but they feel powerless to change. Constant fighting, threatening to leave, infidelity, always feeling distant, anxiety and depression—these are signs that something needs to change. Couples therapy with me focuses on helping you and your partner break these cycles by first understanding how they came to be. I offer a unique perspective that emphasizes the importance of exploring unconscious dynamics and your past’s influence in your relationship.
The adage “we repeat what we don’t repair” is especially true of couples. Couples often start therapy knowing that their relationship can and should be better, but they feel powerless to change. Constant fighting, threatening to leave, infidelity, always feeling distant, anxiety and depression—these are signs that something needs to change. Couples therapy with me focuses on helping you and your partner break these cycles by first understanding how they came to be. I offer a unique perspective that emphasizes the importance of exploring unconscious dynamics and your past’s influence in your relationship.
(773) 739-6826 View (773) 739-6826
Photo of Barry E Hinkeldey, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Barry E Hinkeldey
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
Clients that suffer from substance use disorder can seek counseling to obtain a better understanding of their choices and/or disease. My vision with each client is helping them regain a sense of control through recovery and a positive outlook on life.
Clients that suffer from substance use disorder can seek counseling to obtain a better understanding of their choices and/or disease. My vision with each client is helping them regain a sense of control through recovery and a positive outlook on life.
(224) 360-5391 View (224) 360-5391
Photo of Quincey F. Kyles Counseling Services, LLC., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Quincey F. Kyles Counseling Services, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." Ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao-Tzu. Let's face it: asking for help isn't always easy, but you've taken the courage to do so. Therapy is an exciting experience of self-discovery! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, individually or as couples. I use a bilateral approach, incorporating a Strength-based practice with a focus on the mind/body connection, in particular Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). I assist clients in noticing, when automatic processes are occurring & to alter their reaction to be more of a reflection.
"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." Ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao-Tzu. Let's face it: asking for help isn't always easy, but you've taken the courage to do so. Therapy is an exciting experience of self-discovery! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, individually or as couples. I use a bilateral approach, incorporating a Strength-based practice with a focus on the mind/body connection, in particular Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). I assist clients in noticing, when automatic processes are occurring & to alter their reaction to be more of a reflection.
(312) 681-7937 View (312) 681-7937
Photo of Samuel Louis-Pierre, Pre-Licensed Professional in Crystal Lake, IL
Samuel Louis-Pierre
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60616  (Online Only)
I have always been fascinated with understanding how people think, how they have come to believe what they believe and how they have become who they are. I have come to realize that many people simply want to feel heard, understood and cared for. This is part of the reason why I became a counselor, along with wanting to help people and destigmatize mental health. Coming from immigrant parents who came to America to enable their children to live a better life than they did, to them that meant getting a practical & stable job. But with time I realized that I didn't want my life to be just practical – I also wanted it to be purposeful.
I have always been fascinated with understanding how people think, how they have come to believe what they believe and how they have become who they are. I have come to realize that many people simply want to feel heard, understood and cared for. This is part of the reason why I became a counselor, along with wanting to help people and destigmatize mental health. Coming from immigrant parents who came to America to enable their children to live a better life than they did, to them that meant getting a practical & stable job. But with time I realized that I didn't want my life to be just practical – I also wanted it to be purposeful.
(312) 854-8504 View (312) 854-8504

See more therapy options for Crystal Lake

Narrative Therapists

Is narrative therapy evidence-based?

Narrative therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Some small studies do show that depressed and anxious individuals who were treated with narrative therapy reported improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms.

How long does narrative therapy last?

Narrative therapy is less structured when compared with psychoanalysis, for example. Narrative therapy is more open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a few months, and sometimes a year or longer. Patients see their therapist one to two times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a person’s challenges and progress. Individuals can also practice the principles of narrative therapy after treatment has ended.

Does narrative therapy work?

Narrative therapy can help a person manage or reduce symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety. This type of therapy encourages a person to reflect on the moments of their life when their particular problem was not at the forefront of their minds—perhaps life celebrations, achievements, and other successes. The individual is encouraged to rewrite their storyline as if their particular problem was not part of their life. This therapy may offer benefits that are hard to measure.

What are the possible limitations of narrative therapy?

Narrative therapy is person-centered or client-centered, and the health professional pays more attention to the subjective narratives that are constructed by the client, as opposed to other objective measures. The therapist privileges the individual’s perspective over all others. This open form may feel frustrating for individuals seeking a more structured approach; certainly, no one therapy type will work for every individual.