Dance Movement Therapy in Oak Park, IL
Kyla Marie Gilmore
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304
Waitlist for new clients
My training as a Board-Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist informs my holistic approach to counseling which is tailored to each client's needs.
I am able to offer a range of approaches some of which include Cognitive Behavioral, Internal Family Systems, Dance/ Movement Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
My training as a Board-Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist informs my holistic approach to counseling which is tailored to each client's needs.
I am able to offer a range of approaches some of which include Cognitive Behavioral, Internal Family Systems, Dance/ Movement Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
For those interested in integrating somatic and body based techniques into their talk therapy, I have additional training as a dance/ movement therapist.
My specialty is providing therapeutic services to children and adults. I utilize a client centered approach to join with my clients in the therapeutic process and offer gentle, non-judgmental support through the journey of therapy. I meet you where you are.
For those interested in integrating somatic and body based techniques into their talk therapy, I have additional training as a dance/ movement therapist.
My specialty is providing therapeutic services to children and adults. I utilize a client centered approach to join with my clients in the therapeutic process and offer gentle, non-judgmental support through the journey of therapy. I meet you where you are.
I have experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have been trained as a trauma-informed therapist and in Dance and Movement Therapy.
I am a psychotherapist with ten years of experience. My approach integrates client-centered therapy interventions, mindfulness, and body-oriented therapy techniques. I like to hold a respectful, compassionate, safe space, free of judgment that allows an individual their personal growth and supports their healing processes. I focus on working with clients that have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transition difficulties, relationship issues, satisfaction, meaning and purpose of life, trauma, grief, and loss.
I have experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have been trained as a trauma-informed therapist and in Dance and Movement Therapy.
I am a psychotherapist with ten years of experience. My approach integrates client-centered therapy interventions, mindfulness, and body-oriented therapy techniques. I like to hold a respectful, compassionate, safe space, free of judgment that allows an individual their personal growth and supports their healing processes. I focus on working with clients that have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transition difficulties, relationship issues, satisfaction, meaning and purpose of life, trauma, grief, and loss.
I am a Board-Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who specializes in supporting adolescents, adults, and families navigate through challenges related to significant life transitions, work and life stressors, trauma, relationship and attachment difficulties, emotional challenges, and maternal mental health issues.
My work with my clients is collaborative as you uncover new aspects of yourself on your healing journey. My style as a therapist is calm, supportive, goal-oriented guidance that taps into highlighting your strengths. Building healthy relationships with ourselves and others is foundational. Reach out to me to discuss your needs and therapy with me.
I am a Board-Certified Dance/ Movement Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who specializes in supporting adolescents, adults, and families navigate through challenges related to significant life transitions, work and life stressors, trauma, relationship and attachment difficulties, emotional challenges, and maternal mental health issues.
My work with my clients is collaborative as you uncover new aspects of yourself on your healing journey. My style as a therapist is calm, supportive, goal-oriented guidance that taps into highlighting your strengths. Building healthy relationships with ourselves and others is foundational. Reach out to me to discuss your needs and therapy with me.
Do you feel stuck or struggle with anxiety or depressive symptoms? We specialize in helping with childhood trauma, narcissistic abusive relationships and therapeutic parenting. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 35 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
Do you feel stuck or struggle with anxiety or depressive symptoms? We specialize in helping with childhood trauma, narcissistic abusive relationships and therapeutic parenting. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 35 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
Anxiety, addiction, and women's issues can make daily life feel isolating and overwhelming. You may feel worry spiraling, old coping habits returning, or life changes like pregnancy, caregiving, or relationship strain that leave you exhausted and unsure. Therapy can help you find steadiness and restore hope. These challenges often intertwine, with loss, medical stress, or betrayal fueling anxiety and substance use. Together, we will build practical strategies to reduce symptoms and reconnect you to what matters.
Anxiety, addiction, and women's issues can make daily life feel isolating and overwhelming. You may feel worry spiraling, old coping habits returning, or life changes like pregnancy, caregiving, or relationship strain that leave you exhausted and unsure. Therapy can help you find steadiness and restore hope. These challenges often intertwine, with loss, medical stress, or betrayal fueling anxiety and substance use. Together, we will build practical strategies to reduce symptoms and reconnect you to what matters.
With 31 years of experience, I am a seasoned dance/ movement therapist.
The client drives the process and can choose to explore any of the above approaches, EMDR, Parts Work, DBT, ADHD education, or traditional talk therapy. This is the case for all of my clients dealing with a variety of challenges as well as my clients who have survived brain injuries and strokes...my area of expertise.
With 31 years of experience, I am a seasoned dance/ movement therapist.
The client drives the process and can choose to explore any of the above approaches, EMDR, Parts Work, DBT, ADHD education, or traditional talk therapy. This is the case for all of my clients dealing with a variety of challenges as well as my clients who have survived brain injuries and strokes...my area of expertise.
More Therapists Nearby
Holistic Healing with Creative Arts Therapies: Grounded in mindfulness and creative arts therapies—art, movement, music, and drama—we believe that the path to clarity, growth, and empowerment involves more than just talking.
Our sessions will holistically explore all aspects of your experience, helping you gain new skills to cope with stress, trauma, relationships, loss, or life changes. Our therapists offer suggestions on creative ways to address your needs, but you always choose how much or how little you want to engage. We highlight your strengths, intuition, and abilities.
Holistic Healing with Creative Arts Therapies: Grounded in mindfulness and creative arts therapies—art, movement, music, and drama—we believe that the path to clarity, growth, and empowerment involves more than just talking.
Our sessions will holistically explore all aspects of your experience, helping you gain new skills to cope with stress, trauma, relationships, loss, or life changes. Our therapists offer suggestions on creative ways to address your needs, but you always choose how much or how little you want to engage. We highlight your strengths, intuition, and abilities.
While we’ll certainly talk through and address what’s on your mind, I also specialize in Body Movement and Somatic Therapy.
I work with clients across the lifespan, meeting you exactly where you are:
Children: I use Play Therapy techniques to help younger clients express their feelings and process experiences in their own natural language.
Adolescents & Teens: I provide a relatable, safe space for teens to navigate the unique pressures of growing up, finding their identity, and managing self-esteem.
Adults: Treating anxiety and depression are major adversities during adult life. Normalizing and gaining mastery over ones mental and well being is a key factor to treatment.
While we’ll certainly talk through and address what’s on your mind, I also specialize in Body Movement and Somatic Therapy.
I work with clients across the lifespan, meeting you exactly where you are:
Children: I use Play Therapy techniques to help younger clients express their feelings and process experiences in their own natural language.
Adolescents & Teens: I provide a relatable, safe space for teens to navigate the unique pressures of growing up, finding their identity, and managing self-esteem.
Adults: Treating anxiety and depression are major adversities during adult life. Normalizing and gaining mastery over ones mental and well being is a key factor to treatment.
I specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma treatment using ACT, CBT, DBT and dance/ movement therapy interventions.
Has life felt overwhelming recently? Do you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders? Are you struggling to keep it all together? You are not alone! I am here to help you overcome life’s stressors and expand your resilience to create the life you have always wanted to live. At Vita Bella Therapy, you will gain fresh perspective, a deeper understanding of who you are and explore creative ways of navigating through whatever life decides to throw your way. Let's get you living a beautiful life!
I specialize in anxiety, depression and trauma treatment using ACT, CBT, DBT and dance/ movement therapy interventions.
Has life felt overwhelming recently? Do you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders? Are you struggling to keep it all together? You are not alone! I am here to help you overcome life’s stressors and expand your resilience to create the life you have always wanted to live. At Vita Bella Therapy, you will gain fresh perspective, a deeper understanding of who you are and explore creative ways of navigating through whatever life decides to throw your way. Let's get you living a beautiful life!
With over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, Carolyn has come to trust that the therapeutic bond is crucial to a feeling of safety for the client. Because therapy is an intimate experience, she tailors treatment plans as a co-created process, ensuring that the client’s needs are prioritized. Carolyn integrates techniques to tailor solutions that are not only practical but create lasting change. As a psychotherapist, Carolyn works with individuals, couples, and families.
With over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, Carolyn has come to trust that the therapeutic bond is crucial to a feeling of safety for the client. Because therapy is an intimate experience, she tailors treatment plans as a co-created process, ensuring that the client’s needs are prioritized. Carolyn integrates techniques to tailor solutions that are not only practical but create lasting change. As a psychotherapist, Carolyn works with individuals, couples, and families.
I often integrate the arts: including music, movement, drama, puppetry, and visual art, if and when my clients are inclined and comfortable.
I have been working with children and families for over 25 years in various capacities including as a Psychotherapist, Early Childhood Special Ed Teacher, Early Childhood Music Teacher, Professional Children’s Entertainer, and Pediatric Medical Clown. I have dedicated my practice to supporting children and families and couples impacted by conflict, neurological, behavioral and relational issues. I am passionate about and have unique gifts in working with young children ages 2—7 and their families. Throughout therapy, I provide a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore issues, challenging situations, and relationships.
I often integrate the arts: including music, movement, drama, puppetry, and visual art, if and when my clients are inclined and comfortable.
I have been working with children and families for over 25 years in various capacities including as a Psychotherapist, Early Childhood Special Ed Teacher, Early Childhood Music Teacher, Professional Children’s Entertainer, and Pediatric Medical Clown. I have dedicated my practice to supporting children and families and couples impacted by conflict, neurological, behavioral and relational issues. I am passionate about and have unique gifts in working with young children ages 2—7 and their families. Throughout therapy, I provide a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore issues, challenging situations, and relationships.
My training as a dance/ movement therapist and yoga teacher is integral to my trauma-informed approach.
I believe my role as a therapist is to help you hold and find meaning in your pain, and delight with you in what is playful and pleasureful in your life. My approach is direct and collaborative; I am interested in creating a genuine and accountable relationship with all parts of you. In our work we will identify and interrupt unhelpful patterns that may emerge in your relationships and reinforce patterns that bring you joy and connection. Therapy is inherently political, and I aim to understand my clients within the socio-political contexts of their lives and of the moment.
My training as a dance/ movement therapist and yoga teacher is integral to my trauma-informed approach.
I believe my role as a therapist is to help you hold and find meaning in your pain, and delight with you in what is playful and pleasureful in your life. My approach is direct and collaborative; I am interested in creating a genuine and accountable relationship with all parts of you. In our work we will identify and interrupt unhelpful patterns that may emerge in your relationships and reinforce patterns that bring you joy and connection. Therapy is inherently political, and I aim to understand my clients within the socio-political contexts of their lives and of the moment.
If you or someone you love are feeling overwhelmed with life, relationships, school or work, I can help. I have over 25 years' of helping people achieve the results they want. Another set of eyes focused on your difficulty is instrumental in finding lasting solutions. I work with adults. Therapy occurs in a safe, caring and confidential relationship. My approach is uniquely tailored to you and your needs. If you are looking for a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your difficulties without fear or judgement then reach out and improve your situation right away.
If you or someone you love are feeling overwhelmed with life, relationships, school or work, I can help. I have over 25 years' of helping people achieve the results they want. Another set of eyes focused on your difficulty is instrumental in finding lasting solutions. I work with adults. Therapy occurs in a safe, caring and confidential relationship. My approach is uniquely tailored to you and your needs. If you are looking for a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your difficulties without fear or judgement then reach out and improve your situation right away.
I support clients using a balance of CBT and body-based approaches, helping them build insight, shift patterns, and express themselves—through words or creative outlets like movement—so they can experience meaningful, lasting growth.
I provide a supportive, collaborative space to explore your goals and challenges. Using CBT and a body-mind approach, I help you build insight, shift unhelpful patterns, and process experiences. When words fall short, we can incorporate movement or creative expression to support deeper healing and meaningful change.
I support clients using a balance of CBT and body-based approaches, helping them build insight, shift patterns, and express themselves—through words or creative outlets like movement—so they can experience meaningful, lasting growth.
I provide a supportive, collaborative space to explore your goals and challenges. Using CBT and a body-mind approach, I help you build insight, shift unhelpful patterns, and process experiences. When words fall short, we can incorporate movement or creative expression to support deeper healing and meaningful change.
I use an integrative approach using elements of Yoga, Mindfulness, and Dance Movement Therapy as well as incorporating Cognitive Behavioral and insight-oriented interventions, whatever is best suited to the needs of the individual.
Everyone gets stuck now and then, may feel lost or alone. Sometimes you may just need a little support, an unbiased listener to help gain insight or clarity. Other times you may need help to delve more deeply into your emotions to transform and grow. I approach therapy as a collaborative process where together we explore your life challenges with curiosity not judgement. Although not always easy, therapy can be deeply rewarding. An exploration that will help you reconnect with your inner strength and wisdom, better able to overcome obstacles and to move towards a greater sense of wellbeing.
I use an integrative approach using elements of Yoga, Mindfulness, and Dance Movement Therapy as well as incorporating Cognitive Behavioral and insight-oriented interventions, whatever is best suited to the needs of the individual.
Everyone gets stuck now and then, may feel lost or alone. Sometimes you may just need a little support, an unbiased listener to help gain insight or clarity. Other times you may need help to delve more deeply into your emotions to transform and grow. I approach therapy as a collaborative process where together we explore your life challenges with curiosity not judgement. Although not always easy, therapy can be deeply rewarding. An exploration that will help you reconnect with your inner strength and wisdom, better able to overcome obstacles and to move towards a greater sense of wellbeing.
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent adults with ADHD and/or autism, people navigating chronic pain, identity exploration, life transitions, and relationships, as well as movement-based artists and therapists.
As a dance/ movement therapist and licensed professional counselor, I offer relational, trauma-informed, & neuro-affirming care. Sessions might include talking, body awareness, or optional movement—you are never required to move. You can sit on the floor, use fidgets, take breaks, or tend to your body in whatever way helps you feel safe and grounded.
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent adults with ADHD and/or autism, people navigating chronic pain, identity exploration, life transitions, and relationships, as well as movement-based artists and therapists.
As a dance/ movement therapist and licensed professional counselor, I offer relational, trauma-informed, & neuro-affirming care. Sessions might include talking, body awareness, or optional movement—you are never required to move. You can sit on the floor, use fidgets, take breaks, or tend to your body in whatever way helps you feel safe and grounded.
With 10 years of experience, I am a seasoned psychotherapist and expressive arts & dance/ movement therapist.
As the client, you drive the process and can choose to explore any of the above approaches, including Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, IFS, or traditional talk therapy. I have expertise in working with racial/ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ youth and adults, LGBTQ+ couples, parents of LGBTQ+ youth, and multicultural-cultural individuals and couples.
With 10 years of experience, I am a seasoned psychotherapist and expressive arts & dance/ movement therapist.
As the client, you drive the process and can choose to explore any of the above approaches, including Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, IFS, or traditional talk therapy. I have expertise in working with racial/ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ youth and adults, LGBTQ+ couples, parents of LGBTQ+ youth, and multicultural-cultural individuals and couples.
Have you always felt like you had to do everything on your own? Maybe you’re the one everyone counts on but underneath, you feel drained, resentful, or unsure of who you really are. You might find it hard to ask for help, set boundaries, or speak up for your own needs without guilt. You long for confidence, clarity and direction and to live life on your own terms.
Have you always felt like you had to do everything on your own? Maybe you’re the one everyone counts on but underneath, you feel drained, resentful, or unsure of who you really are. You might find it hard to ask for help, set boundaries, or speak up for your own needs without guilt. You long for confidence, clarity and direction and to live life on your own terms.
As a dance/ movement therapist I assist individuals in strengthening the connection with themselves through developing a relationship to movement and their body.
Have you been feeling alone or tense? Are you looking to make some changes? I know what it feels like to want to let go of the behaviors and thoughts that no longer serve you. Let’s start with acceptance and honoring every part of you, as the only way over is through. You are not alone. I can support and help you navigate this process.
As a dance/ movement therapist I assist individuals in strengthening the connection with themselves through developing a relationship to movement and their body.
Have you been feeling alone or tense? Are you looking to make some changes? I know what it feels like to want to let go of the behaviors and thoughts that no longer serve you. Let’s start with acceptance and honoring every part of you, as the only way over is through. You are not alone. I can support and help you navigate this process.
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What can I expect from dance/movement therapy?
During dance therapy, the therapist will guide the client through dance movements that metaphorically represent a particular challenge, reflect their internal emotional state, or otherwise express physically what is happening for the client mentally. The therapist may “mirror” the client’s movements or simply observe. The client may be encouraged, as they dance, to pay attention to their breath or other physical sensations. Afterward, the therapist and client will often debrief to help the client process the experience. Is dance/movement therapy evidence-based? A small body of research has found that dance therapy can help treat conditions like depression, PTSD, anxiety, and eating disorders, as well as nonclinical issues like low self-esteem or family conflict. However, some experts caution that the evidence in favor of dance therapy is not as robust as that of other, more established therapies, and some of the published research is of low quality. Many recommend that dance therapy be used as a complementary rather than stand-alone treatment. Can dance therapy help with depression? Some research suggests that dance/movement therapy can aid in the treatment of depression, especially when combined with other therapies; some studies, for example, report that dance therapy combined with antidepressants or talk therapy is more effective than those treatments alone. The positive effects of dance therapy may come from the movement itself, as it’s well-known that physical activity can improve mood and bolster motivation in those struggling with depression. What are the limitations of dance therapy? People with disabilities or other conditions that hinder movement may find it more challenging to participate in dance therapy, though a well-trained therapist will take a client’s physical limitations into account when designing a treatment plan. Experts also warn that certain conditions, particularly eating disorders, should never be treated with dance therapy alone; it may, however, be used as an adjunct therapy.
Is dance/movement therapy evidence-based?
A small body of research has found that dance therapy can help treat conditions like depression, PTSD, anxiety, and eating disorders, as well as nonclinical issues like low self-esteem or family conflict. However, some experts caution that the evidence in favor of dance therapy is not as robust as that of other, more established therapies, and some of the published research is of low quality. Many recommend that dance therapy be used as a complementary rather than stand-alone treatment.
Can dance therapy help with depression?
Some research suggests that dance/movement therapy can aid in the treatment of depression, especially when combined with other therapies; some studies, for example, report that dance therapy combined with antidepressants or talk therapy is more effective than those treatments alone. The positive effects of dance therapy may come from the movement itself, as it’s well-known that physical activity can improve mood and bolster motivation in those struggling with depression.
What are the limitations of dance therapy?
People with disabilities or other conditions that hinder movement may find it more challenging to participate in dance therapy, though a well-trained therapist will take a client’s physical limitations into account when designing a treatment plan. Experts also warn that certain conditions, particularly eating disorders, should never be treated with dance therapy alone; it may, however, be used as an adjunct therapy.