Female Therapists in Gurnee, IL

Photo of Jessica Tomkowiak, LCPC, Counselor
Jessica Tomkowiak
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or struggling to cope with life's challenges? I’m Jessica, a licensed clinical professional counselor with 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My approach is warm, empathetic, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, and I’m here to support you on your journey. I have experience working with adolescents and adults from all different backgrounds including Navy and Marine reservists and active duty. I am also a mother, so I understand the challenges and difficulties of parenthood.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or struggling to cope with life's challenges? I’m Jessica, a licensed clinical professional counselor with 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My approach is warm, empathetic, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, and I’m here to support you on your journey. I have experience working with adolescents and adults from all different backgrounds including Navy and Marine reservists and active duty. I am also a mother, so I understand the challenges and difficulties of parenthood.
(224) 208-1184 View (224) 208-1184
Photo of Saira Sial Khan, LCPC, CADC, NCC, CTTS, RYT
Saira Sial Khan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, NCC, CTTS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
I’m Saira, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with a personalized, holistic approach to therapy.
I’m Saira, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with a personalized, holistic approach to therapy.
(224) 549-2660 View (224) 549-2660
Photo of Alison Koehler, LCPC, Counselor
Alison Koehler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
As a psychotherapist, my approach with clients is very down to earth. Not all clients and problems are the same which is why I tend to be a bit more eclectic in style. Life is stressful and filled with enormous challenges; our strength is put to the test daily. We all face dilemmas in our personal and professional lives often causing conflict in ourselves and our relationships. What is often most comforting is knowing that we are not alone. Through the course of therapy, I have one objective: to reach your goals together.
As a psychotherapist, my approach with clients is very down to earth. Not all clients and problems are the same which is why I tend to be a bit more eclectic in style. Life is stressful and filled with enormous challenges; our strength is put to the test daily. We all face dilemmas in our personal and professional lives often causing conflict in ourselves and our relationships. What is often most comforting is knowing that we are not alone. Through the course of therapy, I have one objective: to reach your goals together.
(847) 786-2047 View (847) 786-2047
Photo of Amy Slutzky, LCPC, NCC
Amy Slutzky
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
As a therapist and educational advocate, I work with tweens, teens, adults and families to bring out their best selves by using successes in the past to confront and conquer current life challenges. It is okay to struggle with anxiety; the goal is to make sure you don't suffer from it. Parent coaching means understanding great kids can also make bad decisions. We work together to learn practical strategies to put in your parent toolbox. I'm also passionate about helping parents trust their instincts by decoding specialized vocabulary of IEPs and help parents assert their expertise when it comes to the special needs of special kids.
As a therapist and educational advocate, I work with tweens, teens, adults and families to bring out their best selves by using successes in the past to confront and conquer current life challenges. It is okay to struggle with anxiety; the goal is to make sure you don't suffer from it. Parent coaching means understanding great kids can also make bad decisions. We work together to learn practical strategies to put in your parent toolbox. I'm also passionate about helping parents trust their instincts by decoding specialized vocabulary of IEPs and help parents assert their expertise when it comes to the special needs of special kids.
(847) 440-3347 View (847) 440-3347
Photo of Sonja Dewey, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonja Dewey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Counseling is a life calling for me. I work diligently to see hurting people reclaim their lives and be restored to their best selves. It is an honor to partner with my clients to help them rediscover their voice and empower them to choose the life of love, connection and purpose they are seeking. Those who are experiencing loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, work issues and spiritual struggles can find hope as we work together.
Counseling is a life calling for me. I work diligently to see hurting people reclaim their lives and be restored to their best selves. It is an honor to partner with my clients to help them rediscover their voice and empower them to choose the life of love, connection and purpose they are seeking. Those who are experiencing loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, work issues and spiritual struggles can find hope as we work together.
(224) 813-3460 View (224) 813-3460
Photo of Elizabeth Marx, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Marx
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is built upon trust and that what is important to them is the focus of their time in therapy.
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is built upon trust and that what is important to them is the focus of their time in therapy.
(618) 486-1388 View (618) 486-1388
Photo of Shannon Parsons, LCPC, MA, Counselor
Shannon Parsons
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Ever struggled with life issues and have tried changing a few things and wonder why you just don't feel any better? I am here for you. I have been called to help the hurting. That may very from stress, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, or relational conflicts. I offer a safe space to explore present symptoms and how you got here so together we can give you a healthier future. My goal is to meet every person where they are at and then help them become restored to who they were created to be.
Ever struggled with life issues and have tried changing a few things and wonder why you just don't feel any better? I am here for you. I have been called to help the hurting. That may very from stress, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, or relational conflicts. I offer a safe space to explore present symptoms and how you got here so together we can give you a healthier future. My goal is to meet every person where they are at and then help them become restored to who they were created to be.
(847) 780-2089 View (847) 780-2089
Photo of Jean K Vargas, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean K Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I see a range of people, aged 12-99, in my practice. I use an eclectic approach to therapy, focusing on what each individual needs. I draw from my experience in different therapeutic models, tailoring my approach and interventions to meet the unique needs of each client.
I see a range of people, aged 12-99, in my practice. I use an eclectic approach to therapy, focusing on what each individual needs. I draw from my experience in different therapeutic models, tailoring my approach and interventions to meet the unique needs of each client.
(224) 267-9427 View (224) 267-9427
Photo of Dr. Stasek, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stasek
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031  (Online Only)
At some point in our lives we may find ourselves struggling with emotional distress,self esteem issues, indecision, fears, depression, relationship problems, chronic pain or other potentially life altering events. We can feel alone, scared and have no where to turn. At Envision Psychological Services, PC I can help you through the storms of life and teach you some of the skills to better manage any future adversity. Let me help you navigate lifes turbulent waters so that you can ENVISION and ACHIEVE "The Calm after the Storm". PLEASE NOTE, I can help you with your concerns, anxiety, depression or adjustment regarding COVID19.
At some point in our lives we may find ourselves struggling with emotional distress,self esteem issues, indecision, fears, depression, relationship problems, chronic pain or other potentially life altering events. We can feel alone, scared and have no where to turn. At Envision Psychological Services, PC I can help you through the storms of life and teach you some of the skills to better manage any future adversity. Let me help you navigate lifes turbulent waters so that you can ENVISION and ACHIEVE "The Calm after the Storm". PLEASE NOTE, I can help you with your concerns, anxiety, depression or adjustment regarding COVID19.
(815) 828-4795 View (815) 828-4795
Photo of Sondra A Haney, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sondra A Haney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031  (Online Only)
Today is the perfect day to put yourself first. Self care is not selfish, it’s necessary for optimum functioning. A primary focus of therapeutic interventions is to create a space of safety and trust. Allow me, an attuned, client centered clinician, support your journey to feel better, interact adaptively within your social, emotional and physical environments.
Today is the perfect day to put yourself first. Self care is not selfish, it’s necessary for optimum functioning. A primary focus of therapeutic interventions is to create a space of safety and trust. Allow me, an attuned, client centered clinician, support your journey to feel better, interact adaptively within your social, emotional and physical environments.
(847) 961-2301 View (847) 961-2301
Photo of Sonia Rios, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonia Rios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Therapy is a challenging step to take, so I would like to introduce you to a different perspective of therapy. Growing up we learn how to care for our wellbeing. We may go through life taking care of our physical health, hygiene, and any injuries that may occur, but how much do we tend to the rest of what makes us who we are- our thoughts and emotions? I welcome you to care for all of your wellbeing. Including your mental health.
Therapy is a challenging step to take, so I would like to introduce you to a different perspective of therapy. Growing up we learn how to care for our wellbeing. We may go through life taking care of our physical health, hygiene, and any injuries that may occur, but how much do we tend to the rest of what makes us who we are- our thoughts and emotions? I welcome you to care for all of your wellbeing. Including your mental health.
(224) 571-9856 x30 View (224) 571-9856 x30
Photo of Lynda Throm, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Lynda Throm
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
I want to commend you for your bravery in taking the first step towards reaching out for help. Counseling can give you a non-judgmental place to vent as well as a place to learn about new ways to manage overwhelming feelings. As a therapist, my main way of understanding how people work is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It can help us challenge our negative thoughts and utilize healthy coping skills. I primarily take a humanistic approach with my clients and make sure to address psychosocial, biological, developmental, spiritual, and cultural issues as needed since every client is unique.
I want to commend you for your bravery in taking the first step towards reaching out for help. Counseling can give you a non-judgmental place to vent as well as a place to learn about new ways to manage overwhelming feelings. As a therapist, my main way of understanding how people work is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It can help us challenge our negative thoughts and utilize healthy coping skills. I primarily take a humanistic approach with my clients and make sure to address psychosocial, biological, developmental, spiritual, and cultural issues as needed since every client is unique.
(224) 231-6951 View (224) 231-6951
Photo of Holly Sheahan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Sheahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
I have been a therapist for over 20 years. I love people, and appreciate the authentic, meaningful relationships I have with my clients. I bring warmth, compassion and humor into my sessions. This helps establish and nurture a strong, therapeutic bond, which is essential for the difficult work of therapy. Life is really hard, and therapy can reveal hope in the midst of pain and confusion. It illuminates the inner strength and resiliency that people need, but often can’t see or access within themselves.
I have been a therapist for over 20 years. I love people, and appreciate the authentic, meaningful relationships I have with my clients. I bring warmth, compassion and humor into my sessions. This helps establish and nurture a strong, therapeutic bond, which is essential for the difficult work of therapy. Life is really hard, and therapy can reveal hope in the midst of pain and confusion. It illuminates the inner strength and resiliency that people need, but often can’t see or access within themselves.
(224) 505-2613 View (224) 505-2613
Photo of Nanci Edgcomb, MEd, LCPC
Nanci Edgcomb
MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Often we want something to be different in ourselves, our relationships or in our lives, but we don't know how to make it happen. I will work to create a supportive partnership with you in order to bring about a decrease in self-defeating and unproductive emotions and behaviors. My extensive training and 30 years of experience allows me to guide clients in the process of revealing and removing the roadblocks that stand in the way of accessing their full potential and taking positive action.
Often we want something to be different in ourselves, our relationships or in our lives, but we don't know how to make it happen. I will work to create a supportive partnership with you in order to bring about a decrease in self-defeating and unproductive emotions and behaviors. My extensive training and 30 years of experience allows me to guide clients in the process of revealing and removing the roadblocks that stand in the way of accessing their full potential and taking positive action.
(847) 244-0701 View (847) 244-0701
Photo of Lisa Raddatz, LCPC, Counselor
Lisa Raddatz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
“Thanks for listening, for not judging.” When I hear that, I know we’re on the right track. Why? That’s why I’m here, to listen and learn with you, not to judge. By listening together, we are able to look into and understand the ways we think when we’re challenged, stressed, or hurting. We explore how our thinking might be helping us or getting in our way. Working together we can find a new perspective or explore a new set of coping skills that can lead to hope, healing, and a new start on life. We start with your concerns, your goals, and we grow in understanding and in developing helpful tools for the challenges and joys of life.
“Thanks for listening, for not judging.” When I hear that, I know we’re on the right track. Why? That’s why I’m here, to listen and learn with you, not to judge. By listening together, we are able to look into and understand the ways we think when we’re challenged, stressed, or hurting. We explore how our thinking might be helping us or getting in our way. Working together we can find a new perspective or explore a new set of coping skills that can lead to hope, healing, and a new start on life. We start with your concerns, your goals, and we grow in understanding and in developing helpful tools for the challenges and joys of life.
(224) 358-3553 x126 View (224) 358-3553 x126
Photo of Nada Pavlovic, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Nada Pavlovic
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
Have you ever felt “stuck” in your life and not sure how to move forward to make positive changes? I strongly believe that when we cannot make changes to our situation, we need to make changes to our thinking and perception, which requires exploration and support. When we can make changes to our situation, it can be risky and scary and best done with plenty of planning and validation. I am passionate about helping people make these “shifts” in perception and situation.
Have you ever felt “stuck” in your life and not sure how to move forward to make positive changes? I strongly believe that when we cannot make changes to our situation, we need to make changes to our thinking and perception, which requires exploration and support. When we can make changes to our situation, it can be risky and scary and best done with plenty of planning and validation. I am passionate about helping people make these “shifts” in perception and situation.
(224) 676-9800 x26 View (224) 676-9800 x26
Photo of Gaelle Vernet, LCPC
Gaelle Vernet
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
My name is Gaëlle Vernet and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about taking on the journey with people to assist them with identifying the interconnections of different parts of their lives. I have worked as a case manager as well as a mental health specialist, which allowed me to interact with individuals of eclectic backgrounds, including, but not limited to homeless, parolees, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, dual diagnosis), and people with other life maladjustments.
My name is Gaëlle Vernet and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about taking on the journey with people to assist them with identifying the interconnections of different parts of their lives. I have worked as a case manager as well as a mental health specialist, which allowed me to interact with individuals of eclectic backgrounds, including, but not limited to homeless, parolees, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, dual diagnosis), and people with other life maladjustments.
(708) 367-6590 View (708) 367-6590
Photo of Natalie Velazquez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie Velazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Natalie Velazquez, LPC, collaborates with clients to establish therapeutic goals that pertain to their treatment and life ambitions. She helps clients understand themselves physically and emotionally, identify triggers, regulate emotions, and understand when to use coping skills and self-care. Natalie treats adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, family conflict, and more. She focuses on building a therapeutic relationship and doing what's best to support clients as they make progress and heal.
Natalie Velazquez, LPC, collaborates with clients to establish therapeutic goals that pertain to their treatment and life ambitions. She helps clients understand themselves physically and emotionally, identify triggers, regulate emotions, and understand when to use coping skills and self-care. Natalie treats adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, family conflict, and more. She focuses on building a therapeutic relationship and doing what's best to support clients as they make progress and heal.
(224) 507-7639 View (224) 507-7639
Photo of Larisa Leader, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larisa Leader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
I have worked with adolescents, children, and adults in mental health and social work for over 20 years. I have extensive experience helping those who struggle with anxiety, depression, identity development, non-heterosexuality or non-cis gender (LGBTQI+), and ethically non-monogamous (polyamorous) relationships. I also have a history working with people with substance abuse problems and women in transition, as well as those coping with grief and loss. I have supported individuals who happen to be neurodivergent in terms of their unique needs. I believe everyone is deserving of respect, care and support.
I have worked with adolescents, children, and adults in mental health and social work for over 20 years. I have extensive experience helping those who struggle with anxiety, depression, identity development, non-heterosexuality or non-cis gender (LGBTQI+), and ethically non-monogamous (polyamorous) relationships. I also have a history working with people with substance abuse problems and women in transition, as well as those coping with grief and loss. I have supported individuals who happen to be neurodivergent in terms of their unique needs. I believe everyone is deserving of respect, care and support.
(847) 796-6755 View (847) 796-6755
Photo of Khushali Kshirsagar, Pre-Licensed Professional
Khushali Kshirsagar
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
One constant about life is change, which can be uncomfortable at times but also become an opportunity for growth.
One constant about life is change, which can be uncomfortable at times but also become an opportunity for growth.
(847) 393-8910 View (847) 393-8910
1
Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as 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 ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

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—both men and women—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.