Psychodynamic Therapists in Oak Forest, IL
Kayla uses psychodynamic therapy to explore how unconscious thoughts, feelings, and past experiences influence current behavior and relationships.
Kayla walks alongside clients by providing a safe, non judgmental space for exploration and healing. Utilizing evidence based approaches, she empowers clients to confront their struggles, build healthy relationships, and find balance in their lives. Kayla specializes in couples therapy or individuals experiencing dysfunction in their relationships.
Kayla uses psychodynamic therapy to explore how unconscious thoughts, feelings, and past experiences influence current behavior and relationships.
Kayla walks alongside clients by providing a safe, non judgmental space for exploration and healing. Utilizing evidence based approaches, she empowers clients to confront their struggles, build healthy relationships, and find balance in their lives. Kayla specializes in couples therapy or individuals experiencing dysfunction in their relationships.
I have 40 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”.
I have 40 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.
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.
Is your child acting out, mad, or sad? Are they not listening? Are they going through a difficult time and need help to get unstuck? Maybe they are not connecting well enough socially? Perhaps you're just concerned about them and you want a professional child therapist to provide insight and therapeutic support? If your child is depressed, moody, anxious, or has social issues, I am here. I am a best fit for you if you are looking for a child-specific therapist who will provide your child with play and talk therapy while keeping you activated in a strategy that supports the changes we make in the therapeutic practice.
Is your child acting out, mad, or sad? Are they not listening? Are they going through a difficult time and need help to get unstuck? Maybe they are not connecting well enough socially? Perhaps you're just concerned about them and you want a professional child therapist to provide insight and therapeutic support? If your child is depressed, moody, anxious, or has social issues, I am here. I am a best fit for you if you are looking for a child-specific therapist who will provide your child with play and talk therapy while keeping you activated in a strategy that supports the changes we make in the therapeutic practice.
From my own personal journey, I have a passion for working with those confronting uncertainties around their sense of identity and how they express themselves. These uncertainties may be from issues related to gender identity and sexuality, difficulties with body image, or feeling lost in the transitional stages of life. I deeply value understanding the unique background of every individual and how the intersectionality of various identities impacts the equally unique nature of everyone's lived experiences. I believe this understanding is the key to developing an effective approach to finding and living as our most authentic selves.
From my own personal journey, I have a passion for working with those confronting uncertainties around their sense of identity and how they express themselves. These uncertainties may be from issues related to gender identity and sexuality, difficulties with body image, or feeling lost in the transitional stages of life. I deeply value understanding the unique background of every individual and how the intersectionality of various identities impacts the equally unique nature of everyone's lived experiences. I believe this understanding is the key to developing an effective approach to finding and living as our most authentic selves.
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 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.
Danielle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, RN, LCPC, CADC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
We all have the capacity within us to effect positive change in our lives, but sometimes we get “stuck” in vicious cycles. In these times we may need additional guidance and support in order to get through some of the things life has thrown our way. If you are here, it means you are at least considering making those changes. I utilize an integrative, harm-reduction approach which draws on the unique strengths of each individual as the key to narrating their own healing process. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients, but specialize in adult and young adult populations.
We all have the capacity within us to effect positive change in our lives, but sometimes we get “stuck” in vicious cycles. In these times we may need additional guidance and support in order to get through some of the things life has thrown our way. If you are here, it means you are at least considering making those changes. I utilize an integrative, harm-reduction approach which draws on the unique strengths of each individual as the key to narrating their own healing process. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients, but specialize in adult and young adult populations.
Navigating life's toughest moments alone can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of your next step. Whether, you're healing from complex trauma, grappling with anxiety or depression, or struggling with self-esteem and relationship challenges, you deserve a space where your unique story is truly heard. You want to break free from what is holding you back and build a fulfilling, balanced life filled with confidence and hope. Together, we will focus on your goals and create a path toward healing and self-discovery that fits your pace and needs.
Navigating life's toughest moments alone can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of your next step. Whether, you're healing from complex trauma, grappling with anxiety or depression, or struggling with self-esteem and relationship challenges, you deserve a space where your unique story is truly heard. You want to break free from what is holding you back and build a fulfilling, balanced life filled with confidence and hope. Together, we will focus on your goals and create a path toward healing and self-discovery that fits your pace and needs.
More Therapists Nearby
Welcome, Millennial and Gen Z women! You’re driven, ambitious, and chasing big goal, but does it ever feel like no matter how much you accomplish, something’s still missing? Maybe you’re constantly juggling responsibilities, second-guessing yourself, or feeling drained by the pressure to have it all together. Social media doesn’t help, and you’re tired of putting everyone else first. Therapy is your space to unpack the overwhelm, quiet self-doubt, and build a life that actually feels good.
Welcome, Millennial and Gen Z women! You’re driven, ambitious, and chasing big goal, but does it ever feel like no matter how much you accomplish, something’s still missing? Maybe you’re constantly juggling responsibilities, second-guessing yourself, or feeling drained by the pressure to have it all together. Social media doesn’t help, and you’re tired of putting everyone else first. Therapy is your space to unpack the overwhelm, quiet self-doubt, and build a life that actually feels good.
You don’t have to go through this alone. I help women and teens who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck find their voice, feel more confident, and start living with ease again. My clients often tell me they appreciate my honesty, warmth, and ability to get to the heart of what’s really going on. In our work together, you’ll find a space where your feelings are respected and never “too much.” We’ll explore what’s weighing on you, identify patterns that keep you stuck, and build tools for coping in a way that feels natural and empowering.
You don’t have to go through this alone. I help women and teens who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck find their voice, feel more confident, and start living with ease again. My clients often tell me they appreciate my honesty, warmth, and ability to get to the heart of what’s really going on. In our work together, you’ll find a space where your feelings are respected and never “too much.” We’ll explore what’s weighing on you, identify patterns that keep you stuck, and build tools for coping in a way that feels natural and empowering.
I employ multiple therapeutic perspectives including Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Developmental, Existential and Spiritual Concepts to guide clients towards increasing self-awareness, personal growth, and wellness.
I consider it a privilege to help you make the changes you desire in your life. My professional and personal experience has shown me that the issues which cause us pain and discomfort are often the very ones which allow each of us to evolve and become the people we are meant to be. I will assist you in developing healthier, more satisfying relationships. I look forward to giving you effective strategies to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, self-doubt & unwellness. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois where I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology at Northwestern University.
I employ multiple therapeutic perspectives including Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Developmental, Existential and Spiritual Concepts to guide clients towards increasing self-awareness, personal growth, and wellness.
I consider it a privilege to help you make the changes you desire in your life. My professional and personal experience has shown me that the issues which cause us pain and discomfort are often the very ones which allow each of us to evolve and become the people we are meant to be. I will assist you in developing healthier, more satisfying relationships. I look forward to giving you effective strategies to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, self-doubt & unwellness. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois where I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology at Northwestern University.
I offer secure video/phone individual and couples therapy sessions. It is my belief that therapy is a two-way street. You get out of it what you put into it. If you apply yourself and your efforts are sincere, your chances of success and improvement are far greater. I view myself as a facilitator, at times, as a therapist. A conduit between you and your truths. And at times I see my role as being more assertive and providing careful guidance when need be. I also understand the need, at times, to provide my clients with more specific answers to questions that they might have regarding their mental health concerns.
I offer secure video/phone individual and couples therapy sessions. It is my belief that therapy is a two-way street. You get out of it what you put into it. If you apply yourself and your efforts are sincere, your chances of success and improvement are far greater. I view myself as a facilitator, at times, as a therapist. A conduit between you and your truths. And at times I see my role as being more assertive and providing careful guidance when need be. I also understand the need, at times, to provide my clients with more specific answers to questions that they might have regarding their mental health concerns.
What are you seeking? Clarity? Support? Direction? Are your wounds negatively impacting your sense of self, relationships, or productivity? Do you need help discovering who you really are and what you want? Lots of questions, I know. And yet, essential questions, nonetheless. You’ve already taken the biggest step by looking for a therapist to walk beside you on your journey. So, I invite you to dig in and do the work to become your best self and live more fully.
What are you seeking? Clarity? Support? Direction? Are your wounds negatively impacting your sense of self, relationships, or productivity? Do you need help discovering who you really are and what you want? Lots of questions, I know. And yet, essential questions, nonetheless. You’ve already taken the biggest step by looking for a therapist to walk beside you on your journey. So, I invite you to dig in and do the work to become your best self and live more fully.
I will be accepting new clients starting September 2026. I am a Latina bilingual therapist who specializes in helping individuals heal from past trauma, navigate anxiety and life transitions, and find emotional clarity in a culturally sensitive space, including support during pregnancy and postpartum.
I provide therapy in English, Spanish, and Spanglish, meeting you where you are and honoring your cultural background and identity. I understand the unique pressures of balancing personal needs, family expectations, and cultural values.
I will be accepting new clients starting September 2026. I am a Latina bilingual therapist who specializes in helping individuals heal from past trauma, navigate anxiety and life transitions, and find emotional clarity in a culturally sensitive space, including support during pregnancy and postpartum.
I provide therapy in English, Spanish, and Spanglish, meeting you where you are and honoring your cultural background and identity. I understand the unique pressures of balancing personal needs, family expectations, and cultural values.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, lonely, or just harder than it should, and you may find yourself unsure of how to move forward. You might be facing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, or relationship struggles. Others come to therapy because of school or social difficulties, substance use concerns, or a difficult life transition. I am EMDR trained and use EMDR to help clients process, trauma, anxiety, panic, and other concerns. Therapy can offer a space to feel supported and understood as we make sense of what you’re going through.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, lonely, or just harder than it should, and you may find yourself unsure of how to move forward. You might be facing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, or relationship struggles. Others come to therapy because of school or social difficulties, substance use concerns, or a difficult life transition. I am EMDR trained and use EMDR to help clients process, trauma, anxiety, panic, and other concerns. Therapy can offer a space to feel supported and understood as we make sense of what you’re going through.
Are you feeling anxious and disconnected in your relationships, career, or personal life? Do you get stuck in cycles of overthinking that leave you drained and scattered? If this resonates at all, trust me when I say change is possible! I'm passionate about helping individuals understand and break free from unhelpful patterns, empowering them to experience clarity and inner-peace. Together, we'll work to set boundaries, identify your true goals, and create actionable steps to achieve them - without burning out. We'll create space to process and explore the deeper roots of your anxiety; looking at the past, present, and future you.
Are you feeling anxious and disconnected in your relationships, career, or personal life? Do you get stuck in cycles of overthinking that leave you drained and scattered? If this resonates at all, trust me when I say change is possible! I'm passionate about helping individuals understand and break free from unhelpful patterns, empowering them to experience clarity and inner-peace. Together, we'll work to set boundaries, identify your true goals, and create actionable steps to achieve them - without burning out. We'll create space to process and explore the deeper roots of your anxiety; looking at the past, present, and future you.
The clients that I work with face complex issues and life-stressors that have multiple layers, inclusive to a history of trauma, grief and loss, challenges with mood and emotion management , sleep, or substance abuse, which affects their daily functioning, self-esteem, and their sense of self. The stressors are often related to challenges with managing their emotions or thoughts which can manifest as unmanaged anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance abuse, or PTSD. I meet my clients where they are at on their journey, by providing them with compassionate care, guidance, and patience, along their path toward healing and recovery.
The clients that I work with face complex issues and life-stressors that have multiple layers, inclusive to a history of trauma, grief and loss, challenges with mood and emotion management , sleep, or substance abuse, which affects their daily functioning, self-esteem, and their sense of self. The stressors are often related to challenges with managing their emotions or thoughts which can manifest as unmanaged anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance abuse, or PTSD. I meet my clients where they are at on their journey, by providing them with compassionate care, guidance, and patience, along their path toward healing and recovery.
I have been a therapist for over 25 years working with adult clients around issues of mood disorders, trauma, personality disorders and relationship difficulties. I believe people have the power within themselves for change but sometimes need a facilitator and coach to help them find additional coping skills or to process something with an objective party. I offer empathy, experience and a non-judgmental stance in the therapeutic relationship. My style is eclectic depending on an individual’s needs, with foundations in DBT, CBT, motivational interviewing and best practice models for psychotherapy.
I have been a therapist for over 25 years working with adult clients around issues of mood disorders, trauma, personality disorders and relationship difficulties. I believe people have the power within themselves for change but sometimes need a facilitator and coach to help them find additional coping skills or to process something with an objective party. I offer empathy, experience and a non-judgmental stance in the therapeutic relationship. My style is eclectic depending on an individual’s needs, with foundations in DBT, CBT, motivational interviewing and best practice models for psychotherapy.
Do you ever feel like you just don’t fit in or have not found the right fit with a therapist before? Feeling like ‘no one gets you’ and how you process life. I hear this from so many of my clients. I am a relational and neurodivergent affirming therapist. I am nerdy and use humor as part of therapy. I work with teens and adults and bring 18 years of experience in this career. My goal is help you grow to see all of your strengths. Therapy should be supportive, understanding, and a safe place to be yourself.
Do you ever feel like you just don’t fit in or have not found the right fit with a therapist before? Feeling like ‘no one gets you’ and how you process life. I hear this from so many of my clients. I am a relational and neurodivergent affirming therapist. I am nerdy and use humor as part of therapy. I work with teens and adults and bring 18 years of experience in this career. My goal is help you grow to see all of your strengths. Therapy should be supportive, understanding, and a safe place to be yourself.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with over eight years of experience working with a diverse range of clients. I have supported individuals navigating mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, and life transitions. I understand that reaching out for therapy takes courage, and I strive to create a warm, safe environment where you can share openly and without judgment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois with over eight years of experience working with a diverse range of clients. I have supported individuals navigating mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, and life transitions. I understand that reaching out for therapy takes courage, and I strive to create a warm, safe environment where you can share openly and without judgment.
See more therapy options for Oak Forest
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Oak Forest
- Blue Island
- Country Club Hills
- Evergreen Park
- Flossmoor
- Homewood
- Matteson
- Olympia Fields
- Orland Hills
- Orland Park
- Palos Heights
- Palos Park
- Tinley Park
Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.
How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.
Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.
What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.