Therapists in Oak Forest, IL

When working with a client in session, I draw heavily from Cognitive Behavioral theory and use a strength-based approach with the understanding that before we can address what might be “going wrong”, we must first understand the potential for what is “going right.” Regardless of the challenges my clients may be struggling with, I believe that everyone has the innate capability to heal and grow personally; given that the individual is provided with the opportunity and support to explore and understand themselves and their experience.

Dr. Reif is a licensed clinical social worker with nearly two decades of experience working with teens, young adults, families, and individuals. She knows that starting counseling can be an intimidating first step, and she will gently guide you through the process.

Starting therapy can be quite intimidating for some people. So, I strive to create an environment for my clients to feel relaxed, safe and at ease. My therapeutic expertise lies in working with adolescents as well as young adults. Most of my clients have presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and feeling “stuck.”

I work with children and adolescents who experience challenges with anxiety, depression, anger, and life transitions. explore and understand allows them to feel comfortable to be open and share. In addition, I work with parents who may need support in parenting their children. My philosophy is it takes a village to raise a child so allow me to be a part of your village to identify.

Right now you are probably scared. You know something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start. You don't know if this works and you're at the point where you afraid that nothing will work. We have all been there, me included. I understand and I do not judge. I have been a clinical therapist for the past 20 years. In my time I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, geriatric patients, and LGBTIQQ individuals. What I have discovered in all my years of practice is that people all want the same things. We want to know that we are loved, valued and respected.

I have 30 years of professional experience in working with couples, families and individuals. I have specialized in working with couples where abuse (physical, emotional or sexual) has been a significant factor in the past of one or both of the individuals. As a licensed marriage and family therapist I utilize a systems approach in dealing with both couples and individuals. I am direct and enjoy working with a wide range of clients. I do a significant amount of work with men and “male issues”.

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families. I provide a calming atmosphere for my clients to feel safe to share their innermost thoughts and feelings. Counseling is most effective when there is a good human connection between therapist and client. Deciding to receive counseling is a source of strength to address things that affect an individual(s) from having an enjoyable life. My strengths as a counselor lies in my accessibility, follow through, patience and clinical skills. Collaboration with other services providers ensure continuity of care for clients.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, children and families who have experienced various forms of traumatic events, substance use, depression, grief and loss, and anxiety. Understanding that people experience major life altering events, I have made it my personal goal to assist individuals in becoming better equipped to manage their difficulties and increase their functioning, mental health, and well-being by helping them to recognize and use their inherent strengths to be their best selves. Among others, my specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Child Parent Psychotherapy.

I have worked with clients that have experienced concerns from addiction, depression, stress, anxiety, parenting and relationship problems. I have provided counseling to adolescences, individuals, couples, and families. Many people have experienced some form of trauma in their lives and feeling better and hopeful is a goal that people desire.

I seek to work with clients who have experiences with trauma and abuse, having seen firsthand how devastating the untreated symptoms of trauma can be on a person's functioning with family, in the workplace and within communities. These symptoms include panic attacks, anxiety, depression, PTSD and can often lead to disabling substance use disorders among other issues. These clients seek to understand why they cannot manage their emotions and have often normalized their abusive experiences, so they do not see why they are struggling to function as easily as they perceive others to be doing.

While I work with an array of clients with different presenting issues and concerns, I am drawn to working with teens and young adult women. At times, these individuals struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. I enjoy journeying with clients who want to gain understanding, learn coping skills, and challenge and care for themselves in new ways.

Are you anxious or depressed. Need a kind mental "nudge" to make change happen for you? I am here to provide an expert counseling service. If you are willing, we will build skills and mange mental dilemmas to better your self. As a mental health counselor for 23 years I have helped people through their dilemmas of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, family relationships, and other life stressors. Additionally, as a certified Master Fitness Science Personal Trainer, we may also build a mind-body plan for you, if you so desire, to enhance your mind-body connection in coordination with traditional mental health work.

WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GET GOING You may not feel tough right now, but deep down you know you have the strength to tackle the problems you are facing. These problems may be extraordinary stressors, life transitions, combat fatigue, post-partum depression, unexpected/expected loss of close relationships, trauma, abuse, or relationship problems. I can be part of the team that assists you in strengthening the resources that you have inside. RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILIES CAN BE LIKE DOMINOS Families and couples are linked. If part of that link is broke or off balance, other members involved can be affected.

I value the human heart, soul, and spirit. I am a seasoned psychotherapist with 25 years of clinical practice. I am aware that we all experience times of darkness, and deep sorrow. We all experience anxiety, and struggle with certain life transitions. We heal by way of sharing our stories, feelings, and experiences. I care deeply about each of my clients, and I look forward to watching each person grow to their fullest potential. I will listen with a compassionate heart, and I have a genuine interest in each person that I work with.

I believe people often become stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior just because they have not learned another way. Many clients have strengths and abilities they have overlooked. These are the gems we will discover to aid empowerment, growth and achievement of life goals. Effective communication and coping skills are incorporated into treatment giving clients the tools to make positive changes. Therapy often includes alternative modalities such as guided visualization,writing, art and relaxation techniques. Each client is honored as an individual, with therapy adapted to their specific needs and comfort levels.

I believe that all people have the potential to overcome whatever obstacles are in their life path, and our relationship is very important in helping you overcome those obstacles. So with that in mind, I will initially spend time just getting to know you and helping you feel comfortable and understood. You can expect a compassionate listener who will help you express issues that sometimes are uncomfortable to talk about. I will also help you establish goals for our work together that will be clear from the beginning of your treatment until the end.

"With hard work, support, and a little bit of humor; change can happen. Too many of us get wrapped up in the stressors of life that we forget what resources we have right in front of us. With support and hard work, we can utilize those resources, including humor, resiliency, determination, and persistence." Dr. Anderson provides individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and young adults. Additionally, Dr. Anderson provides psychological testing for people of all ages.

Ready to get the support and validation you need and deserve to reach your full potential and change your life? I am ready to work with you. My clinical background involves working with clients' dealing with a variety of challenges, particularly anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I can assist you with gaining insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while leaning new strategies in resolving or managing your personal and relational issues.