Compassion Focused Therapists in Lake Forest, IL

Photo of Alice Virgil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Forest, IL
Alice Virgil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Compassion-focused psychological care is available to you, now. I am committed to strengthening your psychological health, and believe it is a critical part of your overall wellness. As a guardian of your psychological wellness, I listen to you and partner in your care to address psychological and relationship challenges using science-based approaches to therapy that are accessible for your life, and bring about real, lasting change.
Compassion-focused psychological care is available to you, now. I am committed to strengthening your psychological health, and believe it is a critical part of your overall wellness. As a guardian of your psychological wellness, I listen to you and partner in your care to address psychological and relationship challenges using science-based approaches to therapy that are accessible for your life, and bring about real, lasting change.
(773) 919-9170 View (773) 919-9170
Photo of Laura M. Koerner Lcpc, Counselor in Lake Forest, IL
Laura M. Koerner Lcpc
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety "likes a plan" - my clients know this phrase well and we use this to develop an understanding of how the brain & body work, practice strategies for anxiety reduction and identify a path to balance, joy & peace. As a former Big 10 athlete, I am hard working and dedicated to my clients in counseling children, adolescents, adults and parents. I provide a supportive and safe environment with education about neuroscience, self-compassion, meditation and self-care.
Anxiety "likes a plan" - my clients know this phrase well and we use this to develop an understanding of how the brain & body work, practice strategies for anxiety reduction and identify a path to balance, joy & peace. As a former Big 10 athlete, I am hard working and dedicated to my clients in counseling children, adolescents, adults and parents. I provide a supportive and safe environment with education about neuroscience, self-compassion, meditation and self-care.
(224) 707-8481 View (224) 707-8481
Photo of Zoya Mirza, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake Forest, IL
Zoya Mirza
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MDiv
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck in endless therapy without clear progress? I offer a different path: therapy that’s focused on real, lasting healing. My approach honors your personal beliefs and tackles mental health challenges, emphasizing holistic care for issues like marital and parenting crisis, anxiety, abuse, major life changes, and more. I’m committed to not just guiding you but empowering you with the tools to uncover your innate problem-solving abilities, aiming for swift and meaningful progress. Your time and investment are precious; together, we strive for autonomy, not dependency, ensuring each session is a step towards your goals.
Feeling stuck in endless therapy without clear progress? I offer a different path: therapy that’s focused on real, lasting healing. My approach honors your personal beliefs and tackles mental health challenges, emphasizing holistic care for issues like marital and parenting crisis, anxiety, abuse, major life changes, and more. I’m committed to not just guiding you but empowering you with the tools to uncover your innate problem-solving abilities, aiming for swift and meaningful progress. Your time and investment are precious; together, we strive for autonomy, not dependency, ensuring each session is a step towards your goals.
(224) 701-3492 View (224) 701-3492
Photo of Yomna Hassaballa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Forest, IL
Yomna Hassaballa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
In my role as your therapist, my primary goal is to empower you to navigate your challenges effectively. I recognize that facing these issues can be intimidating, and my mission is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space to process your emotions. I am committed to supporting each client in achieving their goals and enhancing their self-esteem.
In my role as your therapist, my primary goal is to empower you to navigate your challenges effectively. I recognize that facing these issues can be intimidating, and my mission is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space to process your emotions. I am committed to supporting each client in achieving their goals and enhancing their self-esteem.
(224) 243-3390 View (224) 243-3390
Photo of Corliss Ivy, Counselor in Lake Forest, IL
Corliss Ivy
Counselor, LCPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider. I specialize in helping people explore: how their relationships and life experiences impact the way that that they see and value themselves; the relationship between stress, physical health, and emotional well-being; and our perception of community, and how we make connections within these groups.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider. I specialize in helping people explore: how their relationships and life experiences impact the way that that they see and value themselves; the relationship between stress, physical health, and emotional well-being; and our perception of community, and how we make connections within these groups.
(224) 505-1890 View (224) 505-1890
Photo of Thea Rossmiller, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake Forest, IL
Thea Rossmiller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I am a passionate individual with a calming presence. I have experience working with children as young as five all the way through to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disturbances, self-esteem, ADHD, autism and more. Through therapeutic intervention and hands-on learning, I aim to create a transformative environment for my clients. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also aim to create a safe space for individuals to explore their gender or sexuality. No member of our community should feel isolated or alone, and I am here to be the support you need.
I am a passionate individual with a calming presence. I have experience working with children as young as five all the way through to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disturbances, self-esteem, ADHD, autism and more. Through therapeutic intervention and hands-on learning, I aim to create a transformative environment for my clients. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also aim to create a safe space for individuals to explore their gender or sexuality. No member of our community should feel isolated or alone, and I am here to be the support you need.
(224) 324-3073 x01 View (224) 324-3073 x01
Photo of Denise Kitanovski, Counselor in Lake Forest, IL
Denise Kitanovski
Counselor, JD, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
You may be feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, or stress. Therapy can help you to develop insight and strategies to increase your wellness. My goal is to help you overcome your challenges and become empowered to live a happier and more fulfilling life. My therapeutic style is interactive, warm, and direct. In my work with clients, I create a non-judgmental and empathic space, tailoring treatment for each client's unique needs.
You may be feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, or stress. Therapy can help you to develop insight and strategies to increase your wellness. My goal is to help you overcome your challenges and become empowered to live a happier and more fulfilling life. My therapeutic style is interactive, warm, and direct. In my work with clients, I create a non-judgmental and empathic space, tailoring treatment for each client's unique needs.
(847) 446-6955 x422 View (847) 446-6955 x422
Photo of Katie A Salyer, Psychologist in Lake Forest, IL
Katie A Salyer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with more than 15 years of experience working among children, adolescents, and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Having specialized in health and stress psychology, I am particularly skilled at addressing the mind-body connection as it relates to health conditions, chronic stress, and trauma. I believe in the innate ability of my patients to heal and create change for themselves, and I feel it is an important part of my job to provide a safe, professional, and supportive environment for that growth.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with more than 15 years of experience working among children, adolescents, and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Having specialized in health and stress psychology, I am particularly skilled at addressing the mind-body connection as it relates to health conditions, chronic stress, and trauma. I believe in the innate ability of my patients to heal and create change for themselves, and I feel it is an important part of my job to provide a safe, professional, and supportive environment for that growth.
(844) 810-1438 View (844) 810-1438
Photo of Nicholas D. Larkin, Counselor in Lake Forest, IL
Nicholas D. Larkin
Counselor, LCPC, RN, CRADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
As a Licensed Therapist & Registered Nurse my approach is holistic, client centered, & compassionate. You can expect a warm, comforting space. We will work together to address your needs & goals. I offer you my sincere, empathetic, genuine and experienced care. I serve children & adults and provide assistance on an array of issues and topics.
As a Licensed Therapist & Registered Nurse my approach is holistic, client centered, & compassionate. You can expect a warm, comforting space. We will work together to address your needs & goals. I offer you my sincere, empathetic, genuine and experienced care. I serve children & adults and provide assistance on an array of issues and topics.
(224) 257-3822 View (224) 257-3822
Photo of Nataliya Valiaeva, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lake Forest, IL
Nataliya Valiaeva
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, panic disorders, depression, PTSD and cPTSD. I help my clients work through stress, conflicts, difficult relationships, abuse, manipulation, chronic feelings of “stuck,” life transitions (divorce, break - ups, career changes, immigration/move), and chronic illness.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, panic disorders, depression, PTSD and cPTSD. I help my clients work through stress, conflicts, difficult relationships, abuse, manipulation, chronic feelings of “stuck,” life transitions (divorce, break - ups, career changes, immigration/move), and chronic illness.
(773) 917-8694 View (773) 917-8694
Photo of Elizabeth Case, Counselor in Lake Forest, IL
Elizabeth Case
Counselor, LPCC, EdM, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
You are a woman with tremendous strength. You manage the lives of others and keep track of so much. And though there can be moments of great reward, you are tired and notice that in caring for others, some of the most important parts of YOU feel lost. You may not feel as confident or positive as you once did. You may notice that relationships are strained. Work is suffering. You feel disconnected. It is time to access resources to help lift you back onto your feet so that you can reconnect with yourself and others.
You are a woman with tremendous strength. You manage the lives of others and keep track of so much. And though there can be moments of great reward, you are tired and notice that in caring for others, some of the most important parts of YOU feel lost. You may not feel as confident or positive as you once did. You may notice that relationships are strained. Work is suffering. You feel disconnected. It is time to access resources to help lift you back onto your feet so that you can reconnect with yourself and others.
(650) 613-4868 View (650) 613-4868
Photo of Eugene Roginsky L C S W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Forest, IL
Eugene Roginsky L C S W
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
As a Licensed Psychotherapist, Author, and Educator, I bring 28 years of clinical expertise and 20 years of teaching experience to my practice. I firmly believe that successful therapy requires an eclectic, progressive, evidenced based psychotherapeutic approach coupled (when necessary) with a deep understanding of the healthcare system. When working with clients, I prioritize solution-oriented, effective symptom relief methods. Recognizing the complexity of individuals, I address psychological and emotional concerns within the broader context of family dynamics, self-perception, work-related stress, and physical health.
As a Licensed Psychotherapist, Author, and Educator, I bring 28 years of clinical expertise and 20 years of teaching experience to my practice. I firmly believe that successful therapy requires an eclectic, progressive, evidenced based psychotherapeutic approach coupled (when necessary) with a deep understanding of the healthcare system. When working with clients, I prioritize solution-oriented, effective symptom relief methods. Recognizing the complexity of individuals, I address psychological and emotional concerns within the broader context of family dynamics, self-perception, work-related stress, and physical health.
(708) 854-1182 View (708) 854-1182
Photo of Ascent Counseling Services, Counselor in Lake Forest, IL
Ascent Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
I like people. It's hard to not feel compassion for an individual who is willing to bear their soul to find a better out come. I am clinically astute, however, I deliver a warm and compassionate and objective viewpoint to assist my clients. I have a diverse background which allows me to fully empathize with the clients I serve. I am licensed in both Illinois and Wisconsin . I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse and traumatic history. Prior to working in my own practice, I worked with specialized children in foster care.
I like people. It's hard to not feel compassion for an individual who is willing to bear their soul to find a better out come. I am clinically astute, however, I deliver a warm and compassionate and objective viewpoint to assist my clients. I have a diverse background which allows me to fully empathize with the clients I serve. I am licensed in both Illinois and Wisconsin . I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse and traumatic history. Prior to working in my own practice, I worked with specialized children in foster care.
(224) 231-4085 View (224) 231-4085
Photo of Candace V. Love, Ph.D., PC, Psychologist in Lake Forest, IL
Candace V. Love, Ph.D., PC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
I help people going through relationship break-ups, especially from destructive Narcissistic partners....Therapy is a process of self discovery that enables you to recognize unhealthy patterns of behavior and learn effective coping strategies for optimal health and well-being. I provide a safe environment for psychotherapy through a warm, open communication style. I believe psychotherapy is a collaborative undertaking between patient and therapist; that listening, understanding and respecting each patient's unique story is necessary for optimal treatment.
I help people going through relationship break-ups, especially from destructive Narcissistic partners....Therapy is a process of self discovery that enables you to recognize unhealthy patterns of behavior and learn effective coping strategies for optimal health and well-being. I provide a safe environment for psychotherapy through a warm, open communication style. I believe psychotherapy is a collaborative undertaking between patient and therapist; that listening, understanding and respecting each patient's unique story is necessary for optimal treatment.
(970) 948-7064 View (970) 948-7064
Photo of Lisa Lang, Counselor in Lake Forest, IL
Lisa Lang
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Waitlist for new clients
We all struggle sometimes. When life's challenges become too overwhelming, gathering the courage to reach out for professional help can be incredibly difficult. I am committed to providing you with a safe, supportive place where we can address the problems you are facing. I specialize in helping individuals and families gain clarity and resolution about distressing thoughts, emotions and behaviors. We will work together to enhance insight and develop personal strengths to help you move forward towards a more fulfilling life.
We all struggle sometimes. When life's challenges become too overwhelming, gathering the courage to reach out for professional help can be incredibly difficult. I am committed to providing you with a safe, supportive place where we can address the problems you are facing. I specialize in helping individuals and families gain clarity and resolution about distressing thoughts, emotions and behaviors. We will work together to enhance insight and develop personal strengths to help you move forward towards a more fulfilling life.
(203) 437-4506 View (203) 437-4506
Photo of Lynda Throm, Counselor in Lake Forest, IL
Lynda Throm
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
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 Cathy J Betti, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Forest, IL
Cathy J Betti
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide a nonjudgmental and safe therapeutic environment for my clients and I value client-therapist alliance above anything else. I have a direct yet empathetic therapy style, collaborating with my clients to help achieve their goals. I love working with couples who struggle with communication and connection, who want to learn how to reconnect or "fight better". I also love empowering partners to find their voice and express their needs in a relationship.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide a nonjudgmental and safe therapeutic environment for my clients and I value client-therapist alliance above anything else. I have a direct yet empathetic therapy style, collaborating with my clients to help achieve their goals. I love working with couples who struggle with communication and connection, who want to learn how to reconnect or "fight better". I also love empowering partners to find their voice and express their needs in a relationship.
(224) 306-1977 View (224) 306-1977
Photo of Andrea B Bink, Psychologist in Lake Forest, IL
Andrea B Bink
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult at times and all of us face challenges that can seem overwhelming or confusing. You might be going through a life-change, finding it hard to relate or communicate, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or maybe you’re sad, anxious, or uneasy and can’t quite put your finger on why. My goal is to provide a warm and caring space where you can feel free to share your challenges and work through the uncertainties and decisions that you’re facing. I am interested in finding out what matters most to you and exploring how you can live the life you so richly deserve.
Life can be difficult at times and all of us face challenges that can seem overwhelming or confusing. You might be going through a life-change, finding it hard to relate or communicate, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or maybe you’re sad, anxious, or uneasy and can’t quite put your finger on why. My goal is to provide a warm and caring space where you can feel free to share your challenges and work through the uncertainties and decisions that you’re facing. I am interested in finding out what matters most to you and exploring how you can live the life you so richly deserve.
(773) 906-4226 View (773) 906-4226
Photo of SamaraCare Counseling, Psychologist in Lake Forest, IL
SamaraCare Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Our experienced and diverse team of counselors are ready to work with anyone and everyone who’s looking for things like clarity, understanding, acceptance, calm, courage, hope and change. Counselors use a wide variety of client-focused and goal-oriented therapy techniques in a broad range of specialty areas, so you’re sure to find a counselor who suits your needs.
Our experienced and diverse team of counselors are ready to work with anyone and everyone who’s looking for things like clarity, understanding, acceptance, calm, courage, hope and change. Counselors use a wide variety of client-focused and goal-oriented therapy techniques in a broad range of specialty areas, so you’re sure to find a counselor who suits your needs.
(331) 254-4282 View (331) 254-4282
Photo of The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology in Lake Forest, IL
The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
(224) 427-6245 View (224) 427-6245

Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.