Photo of Alexandra Backis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Backis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304  (Online Only)
I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Couples (EFT) therapies to help you better understand yourself and your relationships.
Being human is hard, especially when we find ourselves battling with the parts of ourselves that feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain. As your therapist, I will guide you in a process of welcoming all the parts of yourself, even the ones that cause distress, so that you can liberate yourself from their hold on you. I specialize in working with BIPOC/Interracial couples.
I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Couples (EFT) therapies to help you better understand yourself and your relationships.
Being human is hard, especially when we find ourselves battling with the parts of ourselves that feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain. As your therapist, I will guide you in a process of welcoming all the parts of yourself, even the ones that cause distress, so that you can liberate yourself from their hold on you. I specialize in working with BIPOC/Interracial couples.
(708) 847-0541 View (708) 847-0541
Photo of Jamie Tubbs, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Tubbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
My perspective is shaped by training and experience with ACT, CBT, DBT, CPT, EFT and Polyvagal Theory.
You make sense. Your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, sensations- they all make sense. Therapy is a great place to figure out how, and find ways you can change some of those things, or accept them and live with greater ease. In sessions with me, we will work to deepen your understanding of yourself, add skills for better tolerance of emotions and connection with others, and clarify your vision for what you want out of life. In my work with both individuals and couples, I enjoy bringing skills for better emotional awareness, communication, and values based action.
My perspective is shaped by training and experience with ACT, CBT, DBT, CPT, EFT and Polyvagal Theory.
You make sense. Your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, sensations- they all make sense. Therapy is a great place to figure out how, and find ways you can change some of those things, or accept them and live with greater ease. In sessions with me, we will work to deepen your understanding of yourself, add skills for better tolerance of emotions and connection with others, and clarify your vision for what you want out of life. In my work with both individuals and couples, I enjoy bringing skills for better emotional awareness, communication, and values based action.
(708) 726-4655 View (708) 726-4655
Photo of Sandra Angelie Stevens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Angelie Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and couples in a person-centered approach and have training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. I also have a fine arts, music, dance, and psychodrama background. I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals. I have experience working with range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, extramarital affairs, relationship challenges, premarital, men's issues, and life adjustments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and couples in a person-centered approach and have training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. I also have a fine arts, music, dance, and psychodrama background. I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals. I have experience working with range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, extramarital affairs, relationship challenges, premarital, men's issues, and life adjustments.
(708) 762-8276 View (708) 762-8276
Photo of Phyllis Laughlin, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Phyllis Laughlin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Waitlist for new clients
Externship in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy sponsored by Chicago Center for Emotionally.
Life is all about relationships--beginning with the one you have with yourself. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to explore your underlying feelings leading to a better understanding and acceptance of who you are and who you can be. I will provide you a supportive relationship as you re-gain control of your life. Changes within often change relationships with others and that can be challenging, even frightening, yet rewarding. We will work together to strengthen emotional bonds with loved ones, cope with grief and loss, deal with trauma, and maintain a sense of inner balance.
Externship in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy sponsored by Chicago Center for Emotionally.
Life is all about relationships--beginning with the one you have with yourself. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to explore your underlying feelings leading to a better understanding and acceptance of who you are and who you can be. I will provide you a supportive relationship as you re-gain control of your life. Changes within often change relationships with others and that can be challenging, even frightening, yet rewarding. We will work together to strengthen emotional bonds with loved ones, cope with grief and loss, deal with trauma, and maintain a sense of inner balance.
(773) 980-6971 View (773) 980-6971
Photo of Julia Vickers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Vickers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60303  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy).
I know what it’s like to deeply love someone and yet not bring your best self to the relationship. I learned how to have a healthy relationship through facing my fears of vulnerability and failure and taking responsibility for my actions in my relationship. I seek to help couples who are highly committed to one another and are facing a crisis or struggling to connect. When there is crisis or stress, we often rely on unhelpful habits and ways of communicating that wear on our relationships. Let’s work on that love connection that you are both are wanting.
I have specialized training in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy).
I know what it’s like to deeply love someone and yet not bring your best self to the relationship. I learned how to have a healthy relationship through facing my fears of vulnerability and failure and taking responsibility for my actions in my relationship. I seek to help couples who are highly committed to one another and are facing a crisis or struggling to connect. When there is crisis or stress, we often rely on unhelpful habits and ways of communicating that wear on our relationships. Let’s work on that love connection that you are both are wanting.
(808) 563-4807 View (808) 563-4807
Photo of Deanna Ford, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Deanna Ford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60303  (Online Only)
Drawing from evidence-based practices such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and family systems theory, I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual, couple, or family.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA), I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and cultivate healthier relationships. I specialize in providing compassionate and effective therapy to address a wide range of issues, including communication problems, conflict resolution, intimacy issues, parenting struggles, and mental health concerns. My approach to therapy is collaborative, empathetic, and solution-focused. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions freely, while improving their overall wellbeing.
Drawing from evidence-based practices such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and family systems theory, I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual, couple, or family.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA), I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and cultivate healthier relationships. I specialize in providing compassionate and effective therapy to address a wide range of issues, including communication problems, conflict resolution, intimacy issues, parenting struggles, and mental health concerns. My approach to therapy is collaborative, empathetic, and solution-focused. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions freely, while improving their overall wellbeing.
(331) 202-1461 View (331) 202-1461
Photo of Sujai Chang, LCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sujai Chang
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
With compassionate support and specialized techniques like EFT and EMDR, we'll navigate through the shadows of the past, guiding you towards healing and empowerment.
Specializing in EMDR, Grief, and Perinatal Mental Health. Let's Navigate the Depths Together. As a bilingual (spanish) therapist I am here to support adults and couples navigating through life's toughest challenges. Whether you're battling feelings of depression, anxiety, or facing difficult transitions, know that you're not alone. Together, we'll equip you with the tools to overcome these obstacles and rediscover joy. Life's journey can be overwhelming, but with compassionate guidance, healing is possible. Let's embark on this journey together.
With compassionate support and specialized techniques like EFT and EMDR, we'll navigate through the shadows of the past, guiding you towards healing and empowerment.
Specializing in EMDR, Grief, and Perinatal Mental Health. Let's Navigate the Depths Together. As a bilingual (spanish) therapist I am here to support adults and couples navigating through life's toughest challenges. Whether you're battling feelings of depression, anxiety, or facing difficult transitions, know that you're not alone. Together, we'll equip you with the tools to overcome these obstacles and rediscover joy. Life's journey can be overwhelming, but with compassionate guidance, healing is possible. Let's embark on this journey together.
(708) 578-2154 View (708) 578-2154
Photo of Sarah Krcmarik - Hope Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Hope Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Emotional well-being is central to our overall quality of life, and we believe everyone deserves the chance to live in healthy and healed ways. We are a diverse group of practitioners committed to providing effective and helpful treatment to improve emotional and psychological well-being. We will work together with you or your loved one to relieve emotional and psychological distress, increase self-awareness and healthy coping skills, foster insight, and to improve overall well-being within daily life and in relationships with others.
Emotional well-being is central to our overall quality of life, and we believe everyone deserves the chance to live in healthy and healed ways. We are a diverse group of practitioners committed to providing effective and helpful treatment to improve emotional and psychological well-being. We will work together with you or your loved one to relieve emotional and psychological distress, increase self-awareness and healthy coping skills, foster insight, and to improve overall well-being within daily life and in relationships with others.
(708) 290-7345 View (708) 290-7345
Photo of Aubrey Bornhoff, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aubrey Bornhoff
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
It takes a lot of courage to do something you have never done before. Psychological and neuropsychological testing helps clarify what is going on and identify the best path forward. It is sometimes difficult to come to the right diagnosis, and that is where this kind of evaluation is helpful. When you or your child is suffering, this can help identify what is wrong and how to regain a sense of balance and joy. I would be privileged to walk alongside you in this process.
It takes a lot of courage to do something you have never done before. Psychological and neuropsychological testing helps clarify what is going on and identify the best path forward. It is sometimes difficult to come to the right diagnosis, and that is where this kind of evaluation is helpful. When you or your child is suffering, this can help identify what is wrong and how to regain a sense of balance and joy. I would be privileged to walk alongside you in this process.
(708) 616-1397 View (708) 616-1397
Photo of Caitlin Crissey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Crissey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Pursuing therapy is a brave choice. Prioritizing vulnerability over ego, recovery over shame. Recognizing the benefit of a non judgmental, therapeutic relationship is a great place to start.
Pursuing therapy is a brave choice. Prioritizing vulnerability over ego, recovery over shame. Recognizing the benefit of a non judgmental, therapeutic relationship is a great place to start.
(708) 277-6943 View (708) 277-6943
Photo of Dima Dairanieh, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dima Dairanieh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Welcome. I understand that starting therapy can be daunting, but I'm here to support you every step of the way. My client-centered and relational approach aims to create a safe and empowering space where you can develop coping skills, enhance self-awareness, and establish a grounded sense of self. I am passionate about helping people navigate the complexities of life, explore their identities, manage stress, and build healthy relationships. I have a deep understanding of the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals who belong to multiple cultures.
Welcome. I understand that starting therapy can be daunting, but I'm here to support you every step of the way. My client-centered and relational approach aims to create a safe and empowering space where you can develop coping skills, enhance self-awareness, and establish a grounded sense of self. I am passionate about helping people navigate the complexities of life, explore their identities, manage stress, and build healthy relationships. I have a deep understanding of the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals who belong to multiple cultures.
(708) 729-5647 View (708) 729-5647
Photo of Monica F. Boyd-Layne, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Monica F. Boyd-Layne
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
In response to the state of emergency we will be seeing clients via HIPPA compliant TeleHealth. You are often nervous and feel like you are an imposter. You would like to be free from doubt and fear. When you attend business meetings or social gatherings do you feel more like your 12 year old self rather than an adult? Are you also haunted by childhood memories of not belonging? You are an individual in transition wanting to move closer to your professional goals.
In response to the state of emergency we will be seeing clients via HIPPA compliant TeleHealth. You are often nervous and feel like you are an imposter. You would like to be free from doubt and fear. When you attend business meetings or social gatherings do you feel more like your 12 year old self rather than an adult? Are you also haunted by childhood memories of not belonging? You are an individual in transition wanting to move closer to your professional goals.
(312) 516-4263 View (312) 516-4263
Photo of Michelle Wong, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Wong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Hello! My name is Michelle Wong (she/hers) and I’m a provisionally licensed therapist at Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC in Oak Park. I received my training and Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University. My approach to the therapeutic process is integrative and I create a non-judgmental, safe, fruitful, healthy, and fun relationship. I value empathic understanding, compassion, diversity, and creativity.
Hello! My name is Michelle Wong (she/hers) and I’m a provisionally licensed therapist at Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC in Oak Park. I received my training and Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University. My approach to the therapeutic process is integrative and I create a non-judgmental, safe, fruitful, healthy, and fun relationship. I value empathic understanding, compassion, diversity, and creativity.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Lauren Clancy - Peaceable Practice, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peaceable Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker (L.C.S.W) credentialed to practice in Illinois. For over 22 years, I have partnered with those looking to take steps to feel more balanced and peaceful in their lives.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (L.C.S.W) credentialed to practice in Illinois. For over 22 years, I have partnered with those looking to take steps to feel more balanced and peaceful in their lives.
(708) 905-4572 View (708) 905-4572
Photo of Blair Barbour, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Blair Barbour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Waitlist for new clients
People with stressful lives, who have been trying their best to deal with anxiety, self esteem, relationship issues -- all reasons people contact me initially. You may have noticed feeling or behaving in ways that are self-defeating, or you are disappointed that you don't feel more authentic with others, or fully engaged in your life. Crises such as divorce or loss, challenges in parenting or work pressures can serve as catalysts for reevaluating the way we've been living. Psychotherapy offers a unique opportunity to discover what I believe is inherent in everyone: the ability to change and grow and heal.
People with stressful lives, who have been trying their best to deal with anxiety, self esteem, relationship issues -- all reasons people contact me initially. You may have noticed feeling or behaving in ways that are self-defeating, or you are disappointed that you don't feel more authentic with others, or fully engaged in your life. Crises such as divorce or loss, challenges in parenting or work pressures can serve as catalysts for reevaluating the way we've been living. Psychotherapy offers a unique opportunity to discover what I believe is inherent in everyone: the ability to change and grow and heal.
(708) 232-0997 View (708) 232-0997
Photo of Amanda Jenkins, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Amanda Jenkins
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years of experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University, and since this time have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing,) an exciting form of therapy which can target trauma, addictions, anxiety disorders, and can improve performance in work and recreational tasks.
(708) 887-2960 View (708) 887-2960
Photo of Linda Small, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Small
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I work best with clients who are troubled by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, losses or trauma, and life transition issues. I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of treatment techniques including cognitive, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapies as well as behavior management strategies. My research on coping with traumatic life events has prepared me well to work with clients who have experienced trauma and crisis. A life crisis can be debilitating at first, but can lead to a search for meaning and dramatic new growth. It is exciting for me to accompany clients in this process!
I work best with clients who are troubled by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, losses or trauma, and life transition issues. I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of treatment techniques including cognitive, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapies as well as behavior management strategies. My research on coping with traumatic life events has prepared me well to work with clients who have experienced trauma and crisis. A life crisis can be debilitating at first, but can lead to a search for meaning and dramatic new growth. It is exciting for me to accompany clients in this process!
(630) 313-6319 View (630) 313-6319
Photo of Sara Ives-Louter, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Sara Ives-Louter
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Do you feel there is something in life that is preventing you from feeling the best version of yourself? Most people at some point in life will answer "Yes!" to this question and if this is your answer currently, I may be able to help. I believe that the most important part of therapy is building a connection and a foundation of trust between myself and my clients. This will allow us to work together to develop a plan to help you achieve your goals.
Do you feel there is something in life that is preventing you from feeling the best version of yourself? Most people at some point in life will answer "Yes!" to this question and if this is your answer currently, I may be able to help. I believe that the most important part of therapy is building a connection and a foundation of trust between myself and my clients. This will allow us to work together to develop a plan to help you achieve your goals.
(708) 725-0636 View (708) 725-0636
Photo of Jessica B Sittig, LCSW, R-DMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica B Sittig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
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.
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.
(708) 949-4682 View (708) 949-4682
Photo of Kristin R Davisson, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin R Davisson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Each of us encounters struggle in our lives: the essential element of my approach to psychotherapy involves the sharing of these struggles in a therapeutic relationship. Once this foundation has been laid, we progress toward mutually agreed upon goals. My patients often find that problems bringing them into therapy are connected to other parts of their lives. We work together to uncover these elements and open doors to greater satisfaction and self understanding.
Each of us encounters struggle in our lives: the essential element of my approach to psychotherapy involves the sharing of these struggles in a therapeutic relationship. Once this foundation has been laid, we progress toward mutually agreed upon goals. My patients often find that problems bringing them into therapy are connected to other parts of their lives. We work together to uncover these elements and open doors to greater satisfaction and self understanding.
(708) 726-9104 View (708) 726-9104
Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is for couples who are emotionally distressed, stuck in an unsatisfying relationship pattern or feeling deeply alienated. They may even believe the relationship is beyond repair. Very often, the partners display intense anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal in the relationship. In addition, EFT is helpful to couples and individuals who have difficulty expressing emotions and those who have trouble regulating emotions.

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

People need emotionally focused therapy because the need for others is built into the brain, but the pressures of daily life can erode feelings of love, and couples often do not have the skills to find their way back to the comfort of each other. Instead, they may be stuck in repetitive patterns of anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal. Emotionally focused therapy regards such strong negative feelings as expressions of protest over the loss of connection and turns them into pathways of reconnection.

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

Over the course of eight to 20 weekly sessions, couples de-escalate their negative emotional reactivity to one another so that they can listen to each other and be responsive to each other’s needs. Then the deep emotional and physical bond is restored, giving partners a sense of comfort and security, which they can use to solve whatever problems come their way. The therapist plays an active role, helping partners understand how anger and withdrawal are actually misguided cries for connection.

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

EFT is designed to help couples stuck in dysfunctional relationship patterns regain closeness and rebuild their relationship. Typically, such couples experience considerable distress, with partners feeling alienated and distrustful of one another, not certain their relationship can survive. EFT is also helpful to individuals experiencing attachment-related fears of loss; it helps them learn to use their fears as a way of eliciting the closeness they desire.