Photo of Holly Chuang, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Holly Chuang
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I am also skilled at integrating spirituality into therapy sessions when requested.
For people hoping for their relationship with their parents to change, their future to be less lonely, or their anxiety to quiet down: I am one of Agave Studio's professional counselors and a trauma therapist, trained as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. Somatic Experiencing works to heal trauma through accessing the nervous system and allowing the body to complete physiological responses that got stuck in the body during a traumatic event, or over time, as is the case for racial and childhood trauma.
I am also skilled at integrating spirituality into therapy sessions when requested.
For people hoping for their relationship with their parents to change, their future to be less lonely, or their anxiety to quiet down: I am one of Agave Studio's professional counselors and a trauma therapist, trained as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. Somatic Experiencing works to heal trauma through accessing the nervous system and allowing the body to complete physiological responses that got stuck in the body during a traumatic event, or over time, as is the case for racial and childhood trauma.
(312) 818-2646 View (312) 818-2646
Photo of Valerie Werner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Evanston, IL
Valerie Werner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
Continued education is on the unconscious & dreams world, conflict resolution & spirituality.
I have many years of counseling with individuals, couples, families and children. Creating a safe, welcoming space where healing, learning, growing can occur is essential for the therapeutic process which takes many forms, and is based on the needs of each person, couple or family. The therapeutic process is a shared journey and in my counseling role I help support and guide the process.
Continued education is on the unconscious & dreams world, conflict resolution & spirituality.
I have many years of counseling with individuals, couples, families and children. Creating a safe, welcoming space where healing, learning, growing can occur is essential for the therapeutic process which takes many forms, and is based on the needs of each person, couple or family. The therapeutic process is a shared journey and in my counseling role I help support and guide the process.
(224) 252-8815 View (224) 252-8815
Photo of Sylvia Corcoran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Sylvia Corcoran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCEd
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to providing competent, compassionate therapeutic services to those managing the challenges of life. I specialize in working with those living with depression, anxiety, issues related to spirituality, survivors of trauma, those in recovery (from racism and other forms of oppression). I enjoy working with older adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to providing competent, compassionate therapeutic services to those managing the challenges of life. I specialize in working with those living with depression, anxiety, issues related to spirituality, survivors of trauma, those in recovery (from racism and other forms of oppression). I enjoy working with older adults.
(773) 207-3278 View (773) 207-3278
Photo of Jihye Choi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Jihye Choi
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Hi! I am Jihye (pronounced Ji Hae). I believe everyone has their own "Twinkle Twinkle." This is my philosophy in therapy. I aim to kindle this twinkling light within you, to help you discover and connect with your Authentic self, a spark of divinity that is woven in your being in order to grow. Personal growth always helps you be alert, fully awakened to perceive your twinkle, which has always been there, and loyal to your full potential. I am working with individuals (adults) struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma, and couples. I am also working with individuals who want spiritual counseling.
Hi! I am Jihye (pronounced Ji Hae). I believe everyone has their own "Twinkle Twinkle." This is my philosophy in therapy. I aim to kindle this twinkling light within you, to help you discover and connect with your Authentic self, a spark of divinity that is woven in your being in order to grow. Personal growth always helps you be alert, fully awakened to perceive your twinkle, which has always been there, and loyal to your full potential. I am working with individuals (adults) struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma, and couples. I am also working with individuals who want spiritual counseling.
(224) 339-7336 View (224) 339-7336
Photo of Laura Anne Smith, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Laura Anne Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Beginning therapy can be daunting, and it is the first step toward understanding and healing. Therapy will help you face challenges and reconnect with your mind, body, and spirit.
Beginning therapy can be daunting, and it is the first step toward understanding and healing. Therapy will help you face challenges and reconnect with your mind, body, and spirit.
(224) 864-8581 View (224) 864-8581
Photo of Audrey Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Audrey Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I offer a warm, open environment to allow my clients the space they need to process life’s triumphs and struggles. I work with clients of all ages, but specialize in adolescents and young adults. I work through a person-centered approach, moving at the pace of trust with each client and per their specific needs. My specialties include LGBTQIA issues.
I offer a warm, open environment to allow my clients the space they need to process life’s triumphs and struggles. I work with clients of all ages, but specialize in adolescents and young adults. I work through a person-centered approach, moving at the pace of trust with each client and per their specific needs. My specialties include LGBTQIA issues.
(847) 512-3860 View (847) 512-3860
Photo of Julie Adler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Julie Adler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAEd
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Much like the character Hamlet says to his friend in the play by William Shakespeare “there is more in heaven and earth than is dreamt of in our philosophy”. There is so much about life and living, loving and losing than we can possibly understand. Whatever philosophical ideas we hold, there is so much that remains unknowable. Because it resonates with my own respect for and curiosity about the mystery of being alive, my clinical practice is informed by existential thinking. Why is this happening? How can I survive? What does it mean? These are the questions underlying our reactions to and feelings about our lives.
Much like the character Hamlet says to his friend in the play by William Shakespeare “there is more in heaven and earth than is dreamt of in our philosophy”. There is so much about life and living, loving and losing than we can possibly understand. Whatever philosophical ideas we hold, there is so much that remains unknowable. Because it resonates with my own respect for and curiosity about the mystery of being alive, my clinical practice is informed by existential thinking. Why is this happening? How can I survive? What does it mean? These are the questions underlying our reactions to and feelings about our lives.
(224) 300-3038 View (224) 300-3038
Photo of Working with Soul, Pastoral Counselor in Evanston, IL
Working with Soul
Pastoral Counselor, D Min
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
Creating the life you want to live can be incredibly difficult. The forces pushing you to conform to expectations are strong. But what I have learned is that there is a force inside each of us which is even stronger. Jung called this force the “Self” and the process that it sets in motion is “individuation.” Honoring the impulses coming from the Self moves us on to a path which is ours alone, where we can discover the deep passions and purpose of our existence. Are you ready and willing to answer the “call to adventure?’
Creating the life you want to live can be incredibly difficult. The forces pushing you to conform to expectations are strong. But what I have learned is that there is a force inside each of us which is even stronger. Jung called this force the “Self” and the process that it sets in motion is “individuation.” Honoring the impulses coming from the Self moves us on to a path which is ours alone, where we can discover the deep passions and purpose of our existence. Are you ready and willing to answer the “call to adventure?’
(630) 354-0572 View (630) 354-0572
Photo of Sarah Forde, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Sarah Forde
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
It’s no mistake that you’ve landed here. You deserve to live a life with more ease, flow, and presence. As someone who has tried various paths, you may find yourself stuck, yearning for a connection to purpose and meaning. Maybe you’re going through major life transitions, experiencing grief, loss, and despair. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Growth and transformation are not an intellectual-only experience. The way we hold tension, maintain posture, and move are intimately connected to our thoughts and emotional well-being. The key to wholeness lives within your inner landscape.
It’s no mistake that you’ve landed here. You deserve to live a life with more ease, flow, and presence. As someone who has tried various paths, you may find yourself stuck, yearning for a connection to purpose and meaning. Maybe you’re going through major life transitions, experiencing grief, loss, and despair. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Growth and transformation are not an intellectual-only experience. The way we hold tension, maintain posture, and move are intimately connected to our thoughts and emotional well-being. The key to wholeness lives within your inner landscape.
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Photo of Hannah Hadley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Hannah Hadley
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
It's all about connection. We all have such a unique cluster of life experiences, and I am here to aid in the facilitation of integration, self-acceptance, and relationship building. You may not know where to begin, or you may have specific therapeutic goals. No matter where you are right now in relation to yourself, I am here as a radically accepting, nonjudgmental, empathic practitioner to be with you in all parts of your journey. I am a deep nature and animal lover, traveler, and have a deep understanding of religious and spiritual communities while not being affiliated with any denomination or religion.
It's all about connection. We all have such a unique cluster of life experiences, and I am here to aid in the facilitation of integration, self-acceptance, and relationship building. You may not know where to begin, or you may have specific therapeutic goals. No matter where you are right now in relation to yourself, I am here as a radically accepting, nonjudgmental, empathic practitioner to be with you in all parts of your journey. I am a deep nature and animal lover, traveler, and have a deep understanding of religious and spiritual communities while not being affiliated with any denomination or religion.
(312) 800-1563 View (312) 800-1563
Photo of Nicole Yan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Nicole Yan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
My approach is rooted in the practices of mindfulness and self-compassion. I integrate a variety of mindfulness techniques to psychology to help people nurture their lives with kindness and awareness, and connect with their natural well-being. My practice is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic techniques, client-centered approach and Buddhist psychology. My clinical experience includes a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, sexuality, addiction and grief.
My approach is rooted in the practices of mindfulness and self-compassion. I integrate a variety of mindfulness techniques to psychology to help people nurture their lives with kindness and awareness, and connect with their natural well-being. My practice is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic techniques, client-centered approach and Buddhist psychology. My clinical experience includes a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, sexuality, addiction and grief.
(847) 440-3635 View (847) 440-3635
Photo of Sarah Van Nostrand, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
Sarah Van Nostrand
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Being a human in the world is tough. If you feel stuck, alone, overwhelmed by anxiety or sadness, or are struggling in relationships, you're in the right place. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, relationship difficulties, perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, parenting, infertility, divorce, trauma, and identity development. As a mom myself, I have experienced first-hand the impossible demands placed on parents. I am passionate about providing identity affirming care to members of the LGTBQIA+ community, and I love working with parents of gender-expansive children as they navigate their transition process.
Being a human in the world is tough. If you feel stuck, alone, overwhelmed by anxiety or sadness, or are struggling in relationships, you're in the right place. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, relationship difficulties, perinatal and postpartum mood disorders, parenting, infertility, divorce, trauma, and identity development. As a mom myself, I have experienced first-hand the impossible demands placed on parents. I am passionate about providing identity affirming care to members of the LGTBQIA+ community, and I love working with parents of gender-expansive children as they navigate their transition process.
(872) 266-9179 View (872) 266-9179
Photo of Jen Stevens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Jen Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
I am a licensed professional counselor working with adolescents, adults, and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, relationship concerns, low self esteem, body image, and difficult family dynamics. My goal is to provide a safe and empathetic therapy space where you feel heard and understood as we navigate your journey towards growth and healing.
I am a licensed professional counselor working with adolescents, adults, and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, relationship concerns, low self esteem, body image, and difficult family dynamics. My goal is to provide a safe and empathetic therapy space where you feel heard and understood as we navigate your journey towards growth and healing.
(224) 212-1306 View (224) 212-1306
Photo of Open Studio Project, Art Therapist in Evanston, IL
Open Studio Project
Art Therapist, MAAT, ATR
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
Adults going through a transition (such as a job loss, divorce, are receiving mental health treatment, retiring, or dealing w/ an artist block) and seeking some sort of change. They can utilize this art process to discover or gain insights on this life change. We also serve children, teens, and families with process-based art programs. We provide professional development for LCPCs/LPC/LCSW and CPDUs for Illinois Educators. We partner with schools with a social-emotional learning art curriculum and partner with many community agencies to provide their clients with art workshops.
Adults going through a transition (such as a job loss, divorce, are receiving mental health treatment, retiring, or dealing w/ an artist block) and seeking some sort of change. They can utilize this art process to discover or gain insights on this life change. We also serve children, teens, and families with process-based art programs. We provide professional development for LCPCs/LPC/LCSW and CPDUs for Illinois Educators. We partner with schools with a social-emotional learning art curriculum and partner with many community agencies to provide their clients with art workshops.
(224) 434-3760 View (224) 434-3760
Photo of Monica Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Monica Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Working with clients is my passion. I believe in listening and offering a variety of solutions that are a match for my clients individual needs ,goals, and dreams. I empower my clients thru creating a atmosphere that is safe , and comfortalbe to explore the complexity of both indiviudual and relationship concerns. It is my desire to faciliate understanding and openness in dealing with my clients concerns and join with clients to produce growth personally , professionally , and in their relationships.
Working with clients is my passion. I believe in listening and offering a variety of solutions that are a match for my clients individual needs ,goals, and dreams. I empower my clients thru creating a atmosphere that is safe , and comfortalbe to explore the complexity of both indiviudual and relationship concerns. It is my desire to faciliate understanding and openness in dealing with my clients concerns and join with clients to produce growth personally , professionally , and in their relationships.
(847) 744-8229 View (847) 744-8229
Photo of Rachel Lodro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Rachel Lodro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I work with adults, adolescents and couples who are experiencing relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety and mood disorders, career issues, or a general feeling of being lost or stuck in life. I believe therapy is a powerful tool that can reveal and illuminate the workings of your inner world to help you better navigate your outer world. If you are willing to be brave and do the work, therapy can inspire and empower you to create the positive changes you need in order to live a life that is more aligned with your values and feels more in tune with your authentic self.
I work with adults, adolescents and couples who are experiencing relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety and mood disorders, career issues, or a general feeling of being lost or stuck in life. I believe therapy is a powerful tool that can reveal and illuminate the workings of your inner world to help you better navigate your outer world. If you are willing to be brave and do the work, therapy can inspire and empower you to create the positive changes you need in order to live a life that is more aligned with your values and feels more in tune with your authentic self.
(847) 469-9207 View (847) 469-9207
Photo of Jodi Novick Okner LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
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 Layla Byrnes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Layla Byrnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Layla Byrnes is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, bringing a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her practice. With a journey that began in Philosophy, Layla holds a Bachelor of Arts and furthered her education with a Master of Social Work and a Master of Arts in Public Policy. Since obtaining her license in 2018, Layla has dedicated herself to creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals seeking growth, self-discovery, and authentic connections. Layla is proud to declare her practice as Queer- and Kink-friendly, fostering an environment that embraces diversity .
Layla Byrnes is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, bringing a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her practice. With a journey that began in Philosophy, Layla holds a Bachelor of Arts and furthered her education with a Master of Social Work and a Master of Arts in Public Policy. Since obtaining her license in 2018, Layla has dedicated herself to creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals seeking growth, self-discovery, and authentic connections. Layla is proud to declare her practice as Queer- and Kink-friendly, fostering an environment that embraces diversity .
(224) 219-0428 View (224) 219-0428
Photo of Valeria Slapak Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Valeria Slapak Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
Navigating big transitions is difficult for everyone, especially when they challenge your identity, culture, or values. During our therapy sessions we will have space and time to explore, define and gain a deeper understanding yourself, your relationships to others and to the world. Turning difficult feelings into words, will help you to take control of strong emotions, instead of them controlling you. My goal is to help my clients find inner resources in the face of transitions, especially changes that provoke feelings of instability, loss, isolation, uncertainty, and fear.
Navigating big transitions is difficult for everyone, especially when they challenge your identity, culture, or values. During our therapy sessions we will have space and time to explore, define and gain a deeper understanding yourself, your relationships to others and to the world. Turning difficult feelings into words, will help you to take control of strong emotions, instead of them controlling you. My goal is to help my clients find inner resources in the face of transitions, especially changes that provoke feelings of instability, loss, isolation, uncertainty, and fear.
(847) 474-9732 View (847) 474-9732
Photo of Katelyn S Varhely, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
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
Spirituality Therapists

What should I expect from therapy that incorporates a focus on spirituality?

Spirituality can mean different things to different individuals, depending on their experiences, beliefs, and life histories. Some individuals focus on strengthening their belief system, while others experience spirituality in secular ways, such as through meditation, yoga, or by spending time in nature. Clients can expect a therapist to help guide and grow their spirituality through any of these techniques, encouraging the individual to cope with the challenges they face and develop strategies to build resilience and purpose to improve their outlook in life.

What are the most common treatments that include spirituality?

There are several treatments that incorporate spirituality. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) helps a person examine and reframe their negative thoughts and behaviors. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) focuses on emotional acceptance and psychological flexibility. Existential therapy is most often used to address anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, apathy, despair, questions of identity, and feelings of purposelessness and existential dread. Transpersonal therapy focuses on a client’s spirituality and meaning in life and may incorporate techniques including meditation, visualization, hypnotherapy, dream analysis, and or breathwork.

Can therapy incorporating spirituality help atheistic or agnostic individuals?

Yes. For non-believers, spirituality can offer benefits including a greater sense of connection to others and to the natural world. An interest in spirituality may also spur individuals to pursue mindfulness practices, or to contemplate their purpose in life and how to achieve it.

How effective is spirituality as a therapeutic remedy?

​​Research suggests spirituality is generally beneficial for individuals. It is correlated with better health habits, such as less substance use, and an improved capacity to cope with stress and other mental health challenges. Increased spirituality can lead individuals to become more empathic and less materialistic, as well.