Self-Harming Therapists in Evanston, IL

Photo of Judith Ierulli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith Ierulli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Judith Ierulli specializes in working with adolescent and adult survivors of sexual, physical and emotional trauma. Judith holds a deep knowledge of trauma and abuse and the profound ways it affects survivors and those closest to them throughout the life cycle. Judith provides a safe place for survivors to work through the impact of abuse on one's sense of self, sexual identity, sense of trust and relationships. She provides concrete tools to help survivors manage symptoms, and also works within a mind-body framework. Judith's expertise includes working with Posttraumatic Stress reactions, dissociation and self-harming behaviors.
Judith Ierulli specializes in working with adolescent and adult survivors of sexual, physical and emotional trauma. Judith holds a deep knowledge of trauma and abuse and the profound ways it affects survivors and those closest to them throughout the life cycle. Judith provides a safe place for survivors to work through the impact of abuse on one's sense of self, sexual identity, sense of trust and relationships. She provides concrete tools to help survivors manage symptoms, and also works within a mind-body framework. Judith's expertise includes working with Posttraumatic Stress reactions, dissociation and self-harming behaviors.
(847) 230-4295 x27 View (847) 230-4295 x27
Photo of Michelle Kane, MS, LMFT, Coach, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Kane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I also incorporate cutting-edge areas of mental health wellness such as Interpersonal Neurobiology, Positive Psychology, and Energy Healing.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am extensively trained to work with individuals of every age and stage of development, along with additional specialized training for couples and families. I apply a systemic perspective and strength-based and resilience approach with clients, while blending evidence-based theory into practice. I work with life stage transitions, marital satisfaction and intimacy issues, high conflict, anxiety, depression, divorced or remarried or blended families, anger management, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, multi-cultural communication, stress management, family of origin issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, spiritual development, and work/life balance.
I also incorporate cutting-edge areas of mental health wellness such as Interpersonal Neurobiology, Positive Psychology, and Energy Healing.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am extensively trained to work with individuals of every age and stage of development, along with additional specialized training for couples and families. I apply a systemic perspective and strength-based and resilience approach with clients, while blending evidence-based theory into practice. I work with life stage transitions, marital satisfaction and intimacy issues, high conflict, anxiety, depression, divorced or remarried or blended families, anger management, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, multi-cultural communication, stress management, family of origin issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, spiritual development, and work/life balance.
(619) 438-0527 View (619) 438-0527
Photo of Cynthia Suarez Eudy, MSW, LCSW, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Suarez Eudy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Is your adolescent or young adult struggling to manage their emotions? Are they displaying symptoms of anxiety, depression or emotional dysregulation? So may people are struggling and I am passionate about providing the help them need. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working with adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Level 1-Autism Spectrum Disorder, self-harming behaviors and school related concerns. Adolescents and Young Adults need to feel comfortable and connected to a therapist in order to want to participate and get the support they need. Schedule a free consultation today.
Is your adolescent or young adult struggling to manage their emotions? Are they displaying symptoms of anxiety, depression or emotional dysregulation? So may people are struggling and I am passionate about providing the help them need. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working with adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Level 1-Autism Spectrum Disorder, self-harming behaviors and school related concerns. Adolescents and Young Adults need to feel comfortable and connected to a therapist in order to want to participate and get the support they need. Schedule a free consultation today.
(847) 744-8482 View (847) 744-8482
Photo of Beth Holzhauer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Holzhauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
As a culturally affirming trauma therapist, my highest intention is to restore dignity to those who have been marginalized or exiled from our human community because of their traumatic experiences. I see therapy as a journey we embark on together, where I am invited not only to tread the well-worn paths of our shared humanity, but also to walk reverently into the sacred spaces of my clients' life stories. I approach this work with humility, deep respect, and a fierce commitment to my clients' well-being. I am known to hang in there when things get tough, and I enjoy a healthy dose of playfulness and humor in every relationship.
As a culturally affirming trauma therapist, my highest intention is to restore dignity to those who have been marginalized or exiled from our human community because of their traumatic experiences. I see therapy as a journey we embark on together, where I am invited not only to tread the well-worn paths of our shared humanity, but also to walk reverently into the sacred spaces of my clients' life stories. I approach this work with humility, deep respect, and a fierce commitment to my clients' well-being. I am known to hang in there when things get tough, and I enjoy a healthy dose of playfulness and humor in every relationship.
(847) 744-9326 x24 View (847) 744-9326 x24
Photo of Samantha Prague, MA, LCPC
Samantha Prague
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Our worlds are chaotic, messy and sometimes cruel. As a result it is easy to unknowingly repeat that disorganization in our own lives. My goal to challenge these patterns of behaviors and relationships that may be keeping children, adolescents and emerging adults stuck. My specialty is working with strong personalities who have difficulty communicating their emotions with others, often relying on their behaviors alone to do so. My clients are quirky children who have ADHD, trauma, self injury, suicidality and mood disorders in addition to adolescents and college students who struggle with identity formation and healing the past.
Our worlds are chaotic, messy and sometimes cruel. As a result it is easy to unknowingly repeat that disorganization in our own lives. My goal to challenge these patterns of behaviors and relationships that may be keeping children, adolescents and emerging adults stuck. My specialty is working with strong personalities who have difficulty communicating their emotions with others, often relying on their behaviors alone to do so. My clients are quirky children who have ADHD, trauma, self injury, suicidality and mood disorders in addition to adolescents and college students who struggle with identity formation and healing the past.
(872) 266-7573 View (872) 266-7573
Photo of Santina Maria Bianco, MA
Santina Maria Bianco
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
It is my goal to provide a safe and collaborative space where you can fully express your thoughts, feelings, doubts, and desires. I deeply respect all people and their unique identities and experiences. I listen carefully to make sure I fully understand and then work in partnership and support to develop goals and plans. It is my hope that everyone I meet with feels accepted and comfortable throughout our journey together.
It is my goal to provide a safe and collaborative space where you can fully express your thoughts, feelings, doubts, and desires. I deeply respect all people and their unique identities and experiences. I listen carefully to make sure I fully understand and then work in partnership and support to develop goals and plans. It is my hope that everyone I meet with feels accepted and comfortable throughout our journey together.
(872) 250-5307 View (872) 250-5307
Photo of Laurie Schmidt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Therapy is first and foremost about the relationship. As is the case with any relationship, finding a good fit is essential. As your therapist, I will actively listen as you share your story and collaborate with you in developing treatment goals. I’m here to support and appropriately challenge you as you work to develop further insight, clarify your values, and make changes in your life. I will provide a safe space for you to process your emotions and assist you in examining what is within your control. Most importantly, in order to best meet your therapeutic needs, my approach will be individually tailored to you.
Therapy is first and foremost about the relationship. As is the case with any relationship, finding a good fit is essential. As your therapist, I will actively listen as you share your story and collaborate with you in developing treatment goals. I’m here to support and appropriately challenge you as you work to develop further insight, clarify your values, and make changes in your life. I will provide a safe space for you to process your emotions and assist you in examining what is within your control. Most importantly, in order to best meet your therapeutic needs, my approach will be individually tailored to you.
(847) 416-2143 View (847) 416-2143
Photo of undefined - Jodi Novick Okner LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodi Novick Okner LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. It would be an honor to get to know you. I see myself as a coach working with you to reduce anxiety. Our work together will help you identify the unique patterns of communication specific to you and your family. You will start to make sense of how these patterns permeate every aspect of your life in all significant relationships. Do these patterns help you function more effectively or keep you stuck? Five years ago I took the plunge and opened my own clinical practice. I am passionate and committed to my clients as they share, in confidence, the stories of their lives.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. It would be an honor to get to know you. I see myself as a coach working with you to reduce anxiety. Our work together will help you identify the unique patterns of communication specific to you and your family. You will start to make sense of how these patterns permeate every aspect of your life in all significant relationships. Do these patterns help you function more effectively or keep you stuck? Five years ago I took the plunge and opened my own clinical practice. I am passionate and committed to my clients as they share, in confidence, the stories of their lives.
(224) 279-6518 View (224) 279-6518
Photo of Diana Jean Semmelhack, PsyD, ABPP, LCPC, Psychologist
Diana Jean Semmelhack
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I have over 25 years experience treating adults, families, adolescents, and couples. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders. I am a published author who has presented my research on group psychotherapy nationally and internationally. I am also a licensed massage therapist who practices mind/body work. As a past board member with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and a past member of APA's Task force on severe mental illness, I am an advocate for individuals and families who struggle with the stigma associated with these disorders. As a retired professor at Midwestern University.
I have over 25 years experience treating adults, families, adolescents, and couples. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders. I am a published author who has presented my research on group psychotherapy nationally and internationally. I am also a licensed massage therapist who practices mind/body work. As a past board member with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and a past member of APA's Task force on severe mental illness, I am an advocate for individuals and families who struggle with the stigma associated with these disorders. As a retired professor at Midwestern University.
(847) 641-2977 View (847) 641-2977
Photo of Beth Levine, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I have been working with individuals and families for over 12 years.. I have a particular focus in working with teens at risk, in particular teens who self-harm. Since I have additional certifications in family therapy, sex therapy, and divorce mediation, I am also very comfortable working with couples and families in conflict. I have worked extensively with individuals in all decades. I have been trained extensively in Bowenian family therapy, although my approach is flexible. I am becoming trained to be a certified independent college counselor.
I have been working with individuals and families for over 12 years.. I have a particular focus in working with teens at risk, in particular teens who self-harm. Since I have additional certifications in family therapy, sex therapy, and divorce mediation, I am also very comfortable working with couples and families in conflict. I have worked extensively with individuals in all decades. I have been trained extensively in Bowenian family therapy, although my approach is flexible. I am becoming trained to be a certified independent college counselor.
(847) 416-2855 View (847) 416-2855
Photo of Ulyana Doko, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ulyana Doko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Do you feel overwhelmed, worried or stuck? Do you feel paralyzed by fear? Does your life have no meaning? I am here to guide you and help you learn how to manage your anxiety, tolerate uncertainty, overcome fears, and become brave and motivated in order to establish a strong sense of self and live a more fulfilling life. I strive to create a safe, empathetic and collaborative environment, so that my clients feel heard, valued and understood. I use a holistic approach, encouragement and humor during my sessions and my treatment plans are individualized for each client in order to provide the most effective, evidence-based treatment.
Do you feel overwhelmed, worried or stuck? Do you feel paralyzed by fear? Does your life have no meaning? I am here to guide you and help you learn how to manage your anxiety, tolerate uncertainty, overcome fears, and become brave and motivated in order to establish a strong sense of self and live a more fulfilling life. I strive to create a safe, empathetic and collaborative environment, so that my clients feel heard, valued and understood. I use a holistic approach, encouragement and humor during my sessions and my treatment plans are individualized for each client in order to provide the most effective, evidence-based treatment.
(847) 474-9528 View (847) 474-9528
Photo of Cindi-Marie Willoughby, PsyD, Psychologist
Cindi-Marie Willoughby
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
The experience of intense and often painful emotions is a normal part of human existence, sometimes this struggle can become so overwhelming it begins to greatly impact one's ability to function, maintain and improve interpersonal relationships, and lead a valued life; leaving us feeling stuck. Therapy allows us to process these emotions, stop the experiential avoidance, and develop more constructive and adaptive ways of dealing with life's challenges and transitions. Through a collaborative, empathic, and values-based relationship, we can work towards increasing one's psychological flexibility, behavioral workability, and coping skills to live a life worth living
The experience of intense and often painful emotions is a normal part of human existence, sometimes this struggle can become so overwhelming it begins to greatly impact one's ability to function, maintain and improve interpersonal relationships, and lead a valued life; leaving us feeling stuck. Therapy allows us to process these emotions, stop the experiential avoidance, and develop more constructive and adaptive ways of dealing with life's challenges and transitions. Through a collaborative, empathic, and values-based relationship, we can work towards increasing one's psychological flexibility, behavioral workability, and coping skills to live a life worth living
(773) 904-0288 View (773) 904-0288
Photo of Sarajane Giles, LCSW, CGP, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarajane Giles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be stressful. We are constantly bombarded with news, both good and bad: requests from family and friends, work deadlines, and living with the unknown. Taking time to talk through our worries, fears, and learn more about ourselves can be endlessly rewarding. How do we learn to have boundaries? How do we learn that self-compassion does not mean selfish? How do we learn to start recognizing patterns and making positive change in our lives? How do we build connection? Therapy can help us achieve these goals while processing our fears, traumas, and doubts, as well as cheering on our accomplishments, no matter their size.
Life can be stressful. We are constantly bombarded with news, both good and bad: requests from family and friends, work deadlines, and living with the unknown. Taking time to talk through our worries, fears, and learn more about ourselves can be endlessly rewarding. How do we learn to have boundaries? How do we learn that self-compassion does not mean selfish? How do we learn to start recognizing patterns and making positive change in our lives? How do we build connection? Therapy can help us achieve these goals while processing our fears, traumas, and doubts, as well as cheering on our accomplishments, no matter their size.
(847) 892-1380 View (847) 892-1380
Photo of Katelyn S Varhely, PsyD, Psychologist
Katelyn S Varhely
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
I am Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in children, adolescent girls, Trans-kids, families and woman. I have been working with families on Chicago's North Shore and surrounding areas, for almost two decades. Although my training emphasized an Adlerian approach to therapy, I have a broad range of experience with many therapeutic modalities and am able to tailor my practice to the needs of you or your family. I believe in treating the "whole-person," which means a one-size-fits-all approach will not work.
I am Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in children, adolescent girls, Trans-kids, families and woman. I have been working with families on Chicago's North Shore and surrounding areas, for almost two decades. Although my training emphasized an Adlerian approach to therapy, I have a broad range of experience with many therapeutic modalities and am able to tailor my practice to the needs of you or your family. I believe in treating the "whole-person," which means a one-size-fits-all approach will not work.
(847) 513-9091 View (847) 513-9091
Photo of Nora Walsh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nora Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Seeking therapy can sometimes feel daunting. My goal is to help guide and support you through whatever life stressors you may be experiencing in an open, caring, non-judgmental environment. I am passionate about working closely with clients across their lifespan struggling with a range of personal issues. I strive to provide a safe emotional environment to help clients feel at ease discussing their concerns. I describe my approach as collaborative, authentic, and relational, and strive to prioritize cultivating a strong therapeutic relationship with clients.
Seeking therapy can sometimes feel daunting. My goal is to help guide and support you through whatever life stressors you may be experiencing in an open, caring, non-judgmental environment. I am passionate about working closely with clients across their lifespan struggling with a range of personal issues. I strive to provide a safe emotional environment to help clients feel at ease discussing their concerns. I describe my approach as collaborative, authentic, and relational, and strive to prioritize cultivating a strong therapeutic relationship with clients.
(847) 320-9354 View (847) 320-9354
Photo of Kel Blanchard, LCSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kel Blanchard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
"Without a struggle, there can be no progress." ~ F. Douglass. It takes courage and strength for people to admit they are going through more than they can handle. If you are going through something difficult, you don't have to go through it alone. Therapy is a space where it's safe to share and reflect upon thoughts, feelings and challenges. My job as a therapist is to ensure my clients feel understood and learn to manage challenges that may come up in life. I am here to support you.
"Without a struggle, there can be no progress." ~ F. Douglass. It takes courage and strength for people to admit they are going through more than they can handle. If you are going through something difficult, you don't have to go through it alone. Therapy is a space where it's safe to share and reflect upon thoughts, feelings and challenges. My job as a therapist is to ensure my clients feel understood and learn to manage challenges that may come up in life. I am here to support you.
(847) 577-1501 x905 View (847) 577-1501 x905
Photo of undefined - Willoughby Center for Behavioral Health LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Willoughby Center for Behavioral Health LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
The Willoughby Center focuses on the use of empirically supported therapeutic treatment options geared towards increasing a client's psychological flexibility, stress management skills, and overall functionality. Therapy consists of a collaborative and individualized approach, allowing rapport to blossom and work towards the clients chosen values to achieve a life worth living. Our center provides a variety of behaviorally focused, client-centered approaches to help clients effectively cope with life's challenges and struggles to start living not just surviving.
The Willoughby Center focuses on the use of empirically supported therapeutic treatment options geared towards increasing a client's psychological flexibility, stress management skills, and overall functionality. Therapy consists of a collaborative and individualized approach, allowing rapport to blossom and work towards the clients chosen values to achieve a life worth living. Our center provides a variety of behaviorally focused, client-centered approaches to help clients effectively cope with life's challenges and struggles to start living not just surviving.
(224) 293-4307 View (224) 293-4307
Photo of Rebecca Stern, LCSW, MAT, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAT, PEL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Whether you are seeking therapeutic support to find new perspectives on old issues or have been confronted with a new crisis, finding the right therapist can seem daunting. Regardless of your presenting problem, you will be welcomed into a safe, nonjudgmental environment. We will work thru the dilemma and come to a resolution that enables you to feel better. I began my career specializing in children and adolescents in the school setting and subsequently have expanded to young adults, adults, couples, and families. A particular focus and thread throughout my career has been the ongoing support and advocacy of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Whether you are seeking therapeutic support to find new perspectives on old issues or have been confronted with a new crisis, finding the right therapist can seem daunting. Regardless of your presenting problem, you will be welcomed into a safe, nonjudgmental environment. We will work thru the dilemma and come to a resolution that enables you to feel better. I began my career specializing in children and adolescents in the school setting and subsequently have expanded to young adults, adults, couples, and families. A particular focus and thread throughout my career has been the ongoing support and advocacy of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(847) 558-6349 View (847) 558-6349
Photo of John Koh, PsyD, Psychologist
John Koh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
As a therapist, I work collaboratively with clients to treat and manage their mental health issues. Due to the nature of our practice, I work with a wide range of clients negotiating unique life challenges. I provide individual psychotherapy, family therapy, psychological assessments, and evaluations for schools. Clients that seek treatment are generally managing symptoms from depression, anxiety, trauma, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or stress related issues.
As a therapist, I work collaboratively with clients to treat and manage their mental health issues. Due to the nature of our practice, I work with a wide range of clients negotiating unique life challenges. I provide individual psychotherapy, family therapy, psychological assessments, and evaluations for schools. Clients that seek treatment are generally managing symptoms from depression, anxiety, trauma, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or stress related issues.
(773) 451-9787 View (773) 451-9787
Photo of Jamie Martin, PsyD, Psychologist
Jamie Martin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Beginning therapy requires bravery, courage, and a strong desire to make your experience more fulfilling and your journey more authentic. Successful treatment in my practice requires a strong empathic connection and a safe space for you to explore and increase self-awareness. I will help facilitate your journey, and together we can break down barriers and defenses that have impeded growth and prevented you from attaining your personal goals. The therapeutic process can be quite powerful with trust and the right therapist-client fit.
Beginning therapy requires bravery, courage, and a strong desire to make your experience more fulfilling and your journey more authentic. Successful treatment in my practice requires a strong empathic connection and a safe space for you to explore and increase self-awareness. I will help facilitate your journey, and together we can break down barriers and defenses that have impeded growth and prevented you from attaining your personal goals. The therapeutic process can be quite powerful with trust and the right therapist-client fit.
(773) 245-2006 View (773) 245-2006
Self-Harming Therapists

How does therapy for self-harm work?

A person may turn to self-injury so that they can distract themselves from their stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances. Therapy can address the cause of an individual’s suffering. A therapist can help a person understand why they may want to self-harm and help the person learn new methods of coping. A person may have poor emotion regulation, and treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is helpful for breaking this behaviour. In addition, treatment such as dialectical behavior therapy can help a person manage their tolerance of distress.

Which therapies are best for self-harm?

Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, and mentalisation-based therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are common approaches for people who have painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual cope with distress, regulate emotions, and manage impulsive urges.

Does the tendency to self-harm mean the person is suicidal?

Having this urge does not mean the individual suffers from suicidal ideation. People who want to self-injure look to distract or alleviate themselves from the pain they are experiencing. People with suicidal tendencies want to end life altogether. However, this does not mean a person with the intent to self-harm will not attempt suicide.

How often and how long are therapy sessions for self-harm?

As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Clients may see improvement within 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, maybe, a six-month period. People, especially those with co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety, may need to continue therapy for up to 12 to 18 months.