Female Therapists in Downers Grove, IL
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not like yourself lately? Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship stress, parenting challenges, codependency, substance use, or grief, you don’t have to face it alone. Life can be hard, but it doesn't have to feel this heavy. If you're ready to break free from patterns that no longer serve you and start building a life that feels more grounded, connected, and fulfilling, therapy can help.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not like yourself lately? Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship stress, parenting challenges, codependency, substance use, or grief, you don’t have to face it alone. Life can be hard, but it doesn't have to feel this heavy. If you're ready to break free from patterns that no longer serve you and start building a life that feels more grounded, connected, and fulfilling, therapy can help.
New client openings available! I approach the therapy relationship from an open and collaborative perspective. I predominantly use interpersonal, mindfulness, and family systems theories in my clinical work. My commitment is to actively listen with compassion; to witness your growth; to learn about your worldview and experiences; and to provide support as we work towards your goals. I want my patients to feel immediate relief with self care, education, and some skill building. Long term maintenance of growth tends to include deeper self reflection, exploring coping and relationship patterns, and emotional awareness.
New client openings available! I approach the therapy relationship from an open and collaborative perspective. I predominantly use interpersonal, mindfulness, and family systems theories in my clinical work. My commitment is to actively listen with compassion; to witness your growth; to learn about your worldview and experiences; and to provide support as we work towards your goals. I want my patients to feel immediate relief with self care, education, and some skill building. Long term maintenance of growth tends to include deeper self reflection, exploring coping and relationship patterns, and emotional awareness.
My ideal client is someone who feels lost, wants positive change, or needs a safe space to process their emotions. Someone in need of kindness, warmth, and unconditional positive regard is the most suitable client for me. I am able to help with identifying life goals, working on emotional intelligence, and building healthier relationships.
My ideal client is someone who feels lost, wants positive change, or needs a safe space to process their emotions. Someone in need of kindness, warmth, and unconditional positive regard is the most suitable client for me. I am able to help with identifying life goals, working on emotional intelligence, and building healthier relationships.
I specialize in work with adult clients with mood disorders and am a certified grief and addictions counselor. Since the family system is impacted when an individual is struggling, I have also worked closely with adult family members as they navigate through the recovery process with their loved ones. I believe that an individual’s past life experiences and personal values influence how they think and behave in the present moment.
I specialize in work with adult clients with mood disorders and am a certified grief and addictions counselor. Since the family system is impacted when an individual is struggling, I have also worked closely with adult family members as they navigate through the recovery process with their loved ones. I believe that an individual’s past life experiences and personal values influence how they think and behave in the present moment.
Affirm Behavioral Health-Christine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Seeking therapy is a brave step, and I honor the courage it takes to begin this process. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and respect for each person’s story. I believe therapy should be a safe, supportive space where you can reflect and discover new ways of approaching life’s challenges. In our work together, I focus on your strengths while helping you explore the patterns and barriers that keep you feeling stuck. I use a trauma-informed and person-centered approach, meaning I meet you exactly where you are without judgment or pressure.
Seeking therapy is a brave step, and I honor the courage it takes to begin this process. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and respect for each person’s story. I believe therapy should be a safe, supportive space where you can reflect and discover new ways of approaching life’s challenges. In our work together, I focus on your strengths while helping you explore the patterns and barriers that keep you feeling stuck. I use a trauma-informed and person-centered approach, meaning I meet you exactly where you are without judgment or pressure.
Are you experiencing a significant life event? Do you feel like you need to make a change? Life can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. My role as a psychologist is to offer a warm and supportive environment to explore these challenges and help you find a meaningful way forward. I work from an evidence-based framework, and I place a high value on empathic listening. I want you to feel understood, gaining insight into what’s going on.
Are you experiencing a significant life event? Do you feel like you need to make a change? Life can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. My role as a psychologist is to offer a warm and supportive environment to explore these challenges and help you find a meaningful way forward. I work from an evidence-based framework, and I place a high value on empathic listening. I want you to feel understood, gaining insight into what’s going on.
Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here.
If you’re a high-achieving woman carrying the weight of mom-guilt, striving for perfection, grieving a loss, or navigating one of life’s major transitions — from emerging adulthood into motherhood — you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to therapy exhausted from holding it all together for everyone else. They’re used to pushing through, but inside they’re craving a space where they can exhale, feel deeply understood, and build lasting change.
This is that space.
If you’re ready to move from overwhelmed to anchored, from self-criticism to self-compassion, I’m here to walk with you every step.
Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here.
If you’re a high-achieving woman carrying the weight of mom-guilt, striving for perfection, grieving a loss, or navigating one of life’s major transitions — from emerging adulthood into motherhood — you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to therapy exhausted from holding it all together for everyone else. They’re used to pushing through, but inside they’re craving a space where they can exhale, feel deeply understood, and build lasting change.
This is that space.
If you’re ready to move from overwhelmed to anchored, from self-criticism to self-compassion, I’m here to walk with you every step.
Hallie McPhee-Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Feeling lost or disconnected in your life or relationship? It’s time to take control and make the change you deserve. I’m Hallie Johnston, and I’m here to help you break free from what’s holding you back. Whether you’re rediscovering yourself or reigniting the spark in your relationship, the power to change starts with you. Imagine waking up each day with a renewed sense of purpose and connection. It’s not just a dream—it’s within your reach. I’m here to guide you with personalized support, This is your moment. Don’t wait for the perfect time—a happier life begins today!
Feeling lost or disconnected in your life or relationship? It’s time to take control and make the change you deserve. I’m Hallie Johnston, and I’m here to help you break free from what’s holding you back. Whether you’re rediscovering yourself or reigniting the spark in your relationship, the power to change starts with you. Imagine waking up each day with a renewed sense of purpose and connection. It’s not just a dream—it’s within your reach. I’m here to guide you with personalized support, This is your moment. Don’t wait for the perfect time—a happier life begins today!
*Offering video, phone & safe online options during COVID-19* Feeling safe, heard, and respected is important in therapy. By using compassion, empathy, and humor I work to create a warm and healing environment where we can work together to accomplish your goals. I am passionate about working with individuals to find effective ways of managing life’s stressors.
*Offering video, phone & safe online options during COVID-19* Feeling safe, heard, and respected is important in therapy. By using compassion, empathy, and humor I work to create a warm and healing environment where we can work together to accomplish your goals. I am passionate about working with individuals to find effective ways of managing life’s stressors.
You've taken a brave step in inviting someone into your most personal space to partner in your healing. I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to work through difficult experiences. I will support you to find resolution to your struggles, while helping you identify your inner strengths to reveal a healthier version of you. I strive to ensure that you are respected and valued by being honest and empathetic. I have been providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples, adolescents, and families for over 15 years. I look forward to joining you in your wellness journey.
You've taken a brave step in inviting someone into your most personal space to partner in your healing. I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to work through difficult experiences. I will support you to find resolution to your struggles, while helping you identify your inner strengths to reveal a healthier version of you. I strive to ensure that you are respected and valued by being honest and empathetic. I have been providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples, adolescents, and families for over 15 years. I look forward to joining you in your wellness journey.
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist passionate about helping people uncover the true causes behind their emotional struggles. My goal is to support clients in identifying and addressing the root issues of their emotional and psychological challenges. Using a client-centered, strengths-based approach, I empower individuals to develop effective coping strategies and create healthier, more intentional lives—one step at a time. I strongly believe in the importance of active listening, empathy, and collaboration for building trust and creating a supportive environment where clients feel safe to explore and grow.
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist passionate about helping people uncover the true causes behind their emotional struggles. My goal is to support clients in identifying and addressing the root issues of their emotional and psychological challenges. Using a client-centered, strengths-based approach, I empower individuals to develop effective coping strategies and create healthier, more intentional lives—one step at a time. I strongly believe in the importance of active listening, empathy, and collaboration for building trust and creating a supportive environment where clients feel safe to explore and grow.
My ideal client is a woman or teen girl who’s done “the right things” yet is still haunted by the voice that says she’s not enough. She may struggle with ADHD or intense sensitivity, shame spirals, abandonment fears, body-image or eating issues, or relational chaos. She yearns for relief from perfectionism, impulsivity, and low-grade anxiety so she can connect authentically, regulate big feelings, and let her inner values lead. She wants wholehearted change—not just surface fixes.
My ideal client is a woman or teen girl who’s done “the right things” yet is still haunted by the voice that says she’s not enough. She may struggle with ADHD or intense sensitivity, shame spirals, abandonment fears, body-image or eating issues, or relational chaos. She yearns for relief from perfectionism, impulsivity, and low-grade anxiety so she can connect authentically, regulate big feelings, and let her inner values lead. She wants wholehearted change—not just surface fixes.
I'm a psychologist with over 20 years experience helping people navigate challenging times in their lives & learning new skills to improve in numerous areas. I use a highly interactive approach & a fair amount of humor. I am compassionate, but I do not let people stew in misery & will provide honest feedback about damaging patterns in thinking and behavior. I enjoy working with people who are excited to make a change, even if it is a little scary or overwhelming.
I'm a psychologist with over 20 years experience helping people navigate challenging times in their lives & learning new skills to improve in numerous areas. I use a highly interactive approach & a fair amount of humor. I am compassionate, but I do not let people stew in misery & will provide honest feedback about damaging patterns in thinking and behavior. I enjoy working with people who are excited to make a change, even if it is a little scary or overwhelming.
Starting therapy can be so difficult for a multitude of reasons. Whatever your reason is, it is something we can overcome together. With a strong passion for helping people live their most fulfilling lives, I have dedicated my practice to working with first responders, veterans, and trauma. I am open to seeing clients aged 18- 64 years old. As a client- centered therapist, I utilize EMDR, strengths- based cognitive behavioral therapy, solution- focused therapy, and mindfulness as my main methods of therapy.
Starting therapy can be so difficult for a multitude of reasons. Whatever your reason is, it is something we can overcome together. With a strong passion for helping people live their most fulfilling lives, I have dedicated my practice to working with first responders, veterans, and trauma. I am open to seeing clients aged 18- 64 years old. As a client- centered therapist, I utilize EMDR, strengths- based cognitive behavioral therapy, solution- focused therapy, and mindfulness as my main methods of therapy.
As an Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Psychodynamic therapist, I offer a compassionate space for healing, one where all parts of you are welcome. I specialize in helping clients gently process trauma without retraumatization, and in building a deeper, more compassionate relationship with themselves. We will honor how race, class, colonization, immigration and systemic oppression shape our inner world. Many of the struggles we carry around worth, safety, power and identity are not personal failings, but inherited wounds rooted in collective and cultural trauma. Through legacy burden therapy, we work to release these burdens.
As an Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Psychodynamic therapist, I offer a compassionate space for healing, one where all parts of you are welcome. I specialize in helping clients gently process trauma without retraumatization, and in building a deeper, more compassionate relationship with themselves. We will honor how race, class, colonization, immigration and systemic oppression shape our inner world. Many of the struggles we carry around worth, safety, power and identity are not personal failings, but inherited wounds rooted in collective and cultural trauma. Through legacy burden therapy, we work to release these burdens.
I believe that everyone possesses the innate ability to overcome challenges, and my role is to facilitate that journey with compassion, understanding, and evidence-based practices. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families to identify areas of growth and identify the best approach to address each individual's unique experience.
I believe that everyone possesses the innate ability to overcome challenges, and my role is to facilitate that journey with compassion, understanding, and evidence-based practices. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families to identify areas of growth and identify the best approach to address each individual's unique experience.
You’re a woman feeling weighed down by anxiety, past trauma, or the mental load of daily life. Maybe you’re navigating chronic illness, attachment wounds, or patterns that keep you stuck. You want more than coping — you want healing, peace, and purpose. You’re ready for a safe, supportive space to understand your story, release what no longer serves you, and build a calmer, more grounded life rooted in self-compassion and strength.
You’re a woman feeling weighed down by anxiety, past trauma, or the mental load of daily life. Maybe you’re navigating chronic illness, attachment wounds, or patterns that keep you stuck. You want more than coping — you want healing, peace, and purpose. You’re ready for a safe, supportive space to understand your story, release what no longer serves you, and build a calmer, more grounded life rooted in self-compassion and strength.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in providing treatment of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, eating issues, addiction, and women's issues. My approach to therapy is individualized to your specific needs. My style in interactive and direct and my goal is to help people of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs find solutions to personal, relational and family problems. I work with a variety of other professionals, including psychiatrists and physicians, to provide a team approach to treatment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in providing treatment of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, eating issues, addiction, and women's issues. My approach to therapy is individualized to your specific needs. My style in interactive and direct and my goal is to help people of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs find solutions to personal, relational and family problems. I work with a variety of other professionals, including psychiatrists and physicians, to provide a team approach to treatment.
I believe our relationships and experiences shape the way we are. Therapy is a great way to reflect, process, and grow into the versions of ourselves for which we strive. I love creating safe spaces for clients to explore tough moments and be able to identify and regulate emotions coming up for them. I enjoy working with individuals and couples struggling to navigate through relational issues, whether romantic, familial, friendships, or parenting. In working with couples, I specialize in working with those who are feeling stuck or disconnected in their relationship, and those who are struggling to resolve conflict.
I believe our relationships and experiences shape the way we are. Therapy is a great way to reflect, process, and grow into the versions of ourselves for which we strive. I love creating safe spaces for clients to explore tough moments and be able to identify and regulate emotions coming up for them. I enjoy working with individuals and couples struggling to navigate through relational issues, whether romantic, familial, friendships, or parenting. In working with couples, I specialize in working with those who are feeling stuck or disconnected in their relationship, and those who are struggling to resolve conflict.
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Divorce, Life changes, Addictions/Substance Use, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Marital Dissatisfaction, Women's Issues, Codependency
Clients 18+ and Couples
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Divorce, Life changes, Addictions/Substance Use, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Marital Dissatisfaction, Women's Issues, Codependency
Clients 18+ and Couples
See more therapy options for Downers Grove
Nearby Female Therapists Searches for Downers Grove
- Aurora
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- Lemont
- Lisle
- Naperville
- Oak Brook
- Westmont
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Female Therapists
Does it matter what gender my therapist is?
In general, there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or because they feel more comfortable with a therapist of their own gender due to shared life experiences or perspectives. Considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender may matter or improve their therapeutic experience. The most important consideration is that a client is able to build a trusting relationship with their therapist.
Should I see a female therapist?
Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist. For women, this could be because they believe that they will be able to better connect with a woman, and that a female therapist will be able to relate to their specific challenges and personal issues. It may be particularly beneficial for women to see a female therapist, for example, for gender-specific issues, such as sexism in the workplace, relationship issues, and gender roles. The most important factor in therapy is the client-therapist connection, and a therapist's gender as well as many other factors may play an important role in this.
Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?
Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?
It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.