Therapists in Hoffman Estates, IL

Valerie Lucas is a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults with a variety of presenting issues. Dr. Lucas works with adults addressing depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, relationship issues, eating disorders, behavioral weight management, and increasing general coping strategies. Her theoretical orientation is cognitive behavioral, utilizing DBT strategies and techniques, and solution-focused feedback. She approaches therapy as a process to help clients recognize and build on strengths and collaboratively developing and working on goals to decrease psychological distress.

I believe that people have primary accountability for their own lives, and that within each of us is the power and capacity to make choices that will lead to happiness and fulfillment. However, sometimes there are obstacles that must first be overcome (for example, anger, depression, trauma, anxiety, sexual identity issues, relationship problems, etc.) to be able to make healthy choices. I assist my clients along their journey of self-discovery as they learn how to empower themselves to overcome their obstacles. They then are able to make choices that will lead them to the life they want to have.

I specialize in clinical counseling and art therapy. I utilize my skills to increase clients' installation of hope, trust, and faith within themselves. These qualities are imperative to gain self-esteem, improve insight, and strengthen stability in our lives. "I strongly believe that the healing process begins when a therapeutic relationship is established and that the power of art is an important piece of this process." My ideal clients are ones who are willing to work hard, play hard, have fun and enjoy life with the assistance of myself and, the therapeutic process.

Having been in the counseling profession for more than 25 years, my fellow professionals and previous clients have described me as a seasoned therapist, and an emphatic and active listener. My therapeutic approach highlights working with my clients collaboratively and developing an individually tailored intervention plan. My role as a “passionate mentor” is an opportunity that I do not take for granted, and the chance to accompany my clients in their journey to find peace and comfort in their lives is a privilege.

The length of a therapeutic relationship varies depending on the client's needs. Each session lasts approximately 53 minutes. I can help motivate individuals to identify new solutions and choices to improve current situations, relationships, and circumstances to help solve their problems.

I have over 20 years of experience and have worked in a wide variety of treatment settings, including in-home counseling, residential treatment, and outpatient community mental health centers as well as private practice. I help clients develop individual strategies and goals to move forward through obstacles such as anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, adjustment issues, and difficulty connecting to a partner or family member to improve the functioning and relationships in their lives.

It feels like people are always judging you or maybe you judge yourself. Either way, most of the time it feels like you could be doing something better or that you are not enough. Most adults come to therapy with low self-esteem and a combination of depression and anxiety. I create a space where adults can feel safe at opening up freely about difficult emotions, negative thoughts, and problematic behaviors. Together, we explore what is standing in the way of you meeting your goals, why you are doing what you’re doing, and then try different ways to address your problems.

Ragan M. Kearney is a licensed clinical professional counselor who earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, with a specialization of Marriage and Family Therapy, from University of the Rockies in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology with a minor in Psychology from Northern Illinois University. For over 10 years, Ragan has assisted clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, life transitions and behavioral disorders. She has worked in a variety of settings including residential treatment facilities, psychiatric hospitals, and private practice settings.

If you are struggling with any mental, emotional, physical, or relationship issues, or feeling that there has got to be more to life than what you are experiencing, I would be privileged to help you on your journey to a place of contentment and peace. In addition to my counseling and law degrees, I am also a certified divorce and custody mediator, personal trainer, and holistic nutritionist. My varied background gives me unique insight into many aspects of one's life and relationships, allowing me to provide practical skills and tools to help you move from where you are to where you would like to be.

Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. This feeling can make it hard to make decisions, manage life transitions or even just move forward. You don't have to do this alone. I can assist in helping you find the answers that are right for you.

Are you doing okay today? Whether you are or are not, I believe that therapy must be a "you-centered" experience where control over your quality of life is regained, maintained, and enhanced. I regularly tell my clients that I am a human first and a therapist second, which serves as a reminder that my priority is building a human connection with you. Empathy is the most important tool I bring. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who believes in creating a compassionate, nurturing, and empathetic space where clients feel comfortable sharing their deepest thoughts, feelings, and life experiences.

Christina N. Garcia, LPC, has an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. She has experience working with children ages 2+, adolescents, adults, couples and families. She believes therapy must be tailored to each unique individual and she not only respects, but embraces diversity. With warmth and authenticity, she strives to provide safe, nonjudgmental and collaborative support to individuals throughout the therapeutic process. Christina believes no child or person of any age is “bad” or “broken” and that all individuals have strengths, gifts and the ability to make desired positive changes.

Annette has been speaking, consulting and educating in the realms of Psychology for over 20 years. She is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC)). Annette holds two Master Degrees from Loyola University Chicago, in Pastoral Studies and Counseling. Annette is trained in the Enneagram System and in Internal Family Systems. She spent nine years in pastoral ministry in both parish and university settings, and has worked in the mental health field within community mental health, hospital and private practice settings for more than 25 years.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Are you struggling with parenting issues or in a relationship that needs healing? Let's work together to find balance and peace in your life. I'm passionate about helping people to find solutions and the courage to take action.

Truer than ever before, the world is full of suffering. Though it is also true that the world is full of healing and overcoming. I see the hope that brought you to this page. The hope in finding healing and growth through therapy. It can be challenging to find a safe, culturally-sensitive, therapeutic space especially for those identifying as queer, transgender, and non-binary. You deserve to feel understood and supported. I am committed to creating and maintaining a safe and nonjudgmental space for people to explore their life experiences and strengths as well as cultivate a sense of self-compassion, self-trust, and empowerment.

Easy to talk to, I've been providing sex therapy for over thirty-five years, having extensive training from the Loyola Univ. Med. School, Sexual Dysfunction Clinic. Occasionally, I work with a co-therapist, with similar training & experience, my wife of many years. Together, we are an extremely dynamic & effective team. I have trained graduate students in sex therapy for over twenty years & have a long standing commitment to this area of counseling & therapy. For more information, please see our website: http://www.EisenbergCounseling.com.