Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Oak Park, IL
See all therapists in Oak Park
Alexandra Denis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in supporting those impacted by
trauma
, shame, grief and loss.
Do you feel as though you are seen and understood in relationships? Maybe you struggle to find affirmation in your needs and desires. Or perhaps, you feel the pressure to be something you are not. You are not alone, many of us enter into adulthood feeling as though we are tending to a garden planted with the beliefs, attitudes and desires of others. In therapy, we can begin to question those beliefs, uproot what feels toxic & unhealthy, and cultivate a garden that is lush with meaning and purpose. Therapy offers a space to more deeply connect with the roots of our values so that we can find more fulfillment in life and relationships

Wareesha Sohail
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I approach healing through a
trauma
-informed lens.
Identities are complex and created through a collection of various roles we play throughout our lives. Oftentimes, navigating the balance and diversity of these roles can be overwhelming. I enjoy partnering with individuals who would like to further explore and gain a deeper understanding of their own self-proclaimed identities, no matter the intersectionality you may identify with. Being a first generation, South Asian immigrant, I can empathize with the need to find balance within the many aspects of our lives. These aspects, both external and internal, can be difficult to navigate – and you don't have to do it alone!

Jennifer F. Smith
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified
Verified
I utilize a variety of clinical modalities such as
Trauma
-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness.
Chicago native, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with experience working with children and adults. I love helping children blossom into their own identities, empowering women through a variety of life changes and personal growth, and supporting men with self-love. As a current PhD Candidate in Organizational Leadership and Certificate in Women's Entrepreneurship, I'm able to explore the anxieties around leadership, workplace and entrepreneurial stress.

Lakeisha Banks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, EMDR, BSP
Verified
Verified
I am
Trauma
-Informed.
As a neurodiversity therapist with ADHD: We come from all walks of life and sometimes we come to a halt in the road where we feel defeated. There are so many challenges we are facing and it feels like we have no one to turn to. There are many different reasons people choose therapy, whether it is to find ways to cope with mental health issues, dealing with relationship issues, grief, or traumatic experiences. This road may be scary, but know that you are not alone. My goal as a therapist is to meet people where they are at in an empathetic way, build a collaborative relationship as you work through the challenges you are faced with.

Kirsten Tesnar Svejda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
Current openings for daytime availability. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering therapy services to adolescents and adults in Oak Park, IL. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders,
trauma
, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In my treatment of complex issues, I provide both individual and family therapy and value collaborating with other healthcare providers for multidisciplinary care. I work from a mindfulness-based and
trauma
-informed lens, utilizing body-based, symptom-focused interventions and exploring interpersonal relationships as methods to encourage change.

Allie Wills
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I am passionate about working with LGBTQI+ people, adolescents, spirituality,
trauma
, and dissociative disorders.
I believe that therapy is a healing process. We find the parts of ourselves that need healing to get to who we want to be and how we want to live. I believe that everyone has the ability to create those changes. In therapy, I focus on providing a safe space and joining you in this work, because I believe that much of healing needs to happen in relationship. My approach is relational, person-centered, and
trauma
-informed. That means I think the therapeutic relationship is a means of healing, that I allow you to lead the process, and that I am aware of how much
trauma
can impact our lives. I practice from a social justice lens.

Mark Radel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Verified
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. In therapy, I work to create an empathic, open, and collaborative atmosphere to treat issues such as
trauma
, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. Identity development, grief and loss, relationship problems, and domestic violence and abuse are other concerns that I help people address through therapy. I practice primarily from a psychodynamic approach and also use cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and interpersonal therapy to enrich the therapeutic process.

Sandra M Roberts
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Verified
I have specialized training in infant mental health and young children, play therapy, school-aged children and adolescents, adults, family and marital therapy, working with chronic illnesses and pain, dealing with
trauma
, loss, and grief.
On the journey throughout the lifespan, we inevitably encounter challenges and obstacles along our way. My role as a psychologist is to help you cultivate awareness and compassion in the process of exploring your experience and your relationships with others, and facilitate your ability to harness your innate resources for growth. I work with people at all stages of the lifespan: in the beginning relational dance between parents and infants and throughout childhood, to adolescence when families help their children launch, with young adults navigating the world, with couples learning how to be intimate partners, when separation or divorce occurs, and throughout adulthood.

Marialaina Bucci
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, CDVP, C-DBT, GP-C
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I utilize a
trauma
-informed, somatically-informed, holistic perspective to help individuals experience healing within the mind and body, from the inside out.
I am a fully licensed therapist offering remote mental health services to adults at Hope Psychological Services, PLLC, located in the heart of Oak Park. From my comprehensive clinical training and professional experience, I have acquired the skills to work with individuals presenting with symptoms of complex
trauma
/
PTSD
, domestic and sexual violence, childhood abuse, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, stress, grief/loss, body dysmorphia, relationship issues, and work stress. Additionally, I hold 5 certifications in the areas of:
trauma
, domestic violence, sexual violence, grief, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Waitlist for new clients

Maddie Gerig Shelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified
Verified
I am experienced working with adults and adolescents struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, those who have experienced
trauma
and complex
trauma
, and people undergoing life transitions and identity exploration.
Through a supportive, authentic, and unconditional therapeutic relationship, I will join you in a process of curiosity and compassion as we explore your experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Beginning therapy, wherever you are on your healing journey, is challenging and brave work. I draw on humanistic psychotherapy and methods of mindfulness, internal family systems therapy, and art therapy to help you become attuned to your emotions, body, and authentic self. I will honor your complex story and accompany you at your own pace.

Mary Ann Hartnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified
Verified
I specialize in
trauma
therapy. I work people who have had a recent traumatic event and those who have a long history of traumatic events. I am trained in EMDR, a researched-based treatment that can greatly relieve the negative effects of traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety.
PTSD
is a treatable condition, not a lifetime burden! Through EMDR therapy you will make peace with your past and learn how to manage your feelings and emotions as they arise. I offer relaxation training, guided imagery, and mindfulness. I am comfortable working within your spiritual framework and your cultural background.

Ashleigh Claiborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in treating individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, and
PTSD
.
It’s ok to not be ok. It’s Ok to get assistance from someone who can help you process and manages life stressors. Making change can be hard and taking the first step towards personal growth can be difficult. That's where I come in - I am here to walk alongside you, so you don't have to do it alone. I believe that your struggles don't need to define you.

Lauri Dishman
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified
Verified
Chances are you are here, because something inside feels askew. When life delivers an unexpected curve, it can take a toll - on our bodies, our psyches and in many cases our overall well-being. I thank you for considering Inner Focus to help you through. My goal as a
trauma
-informed therapist is to help clients come up for air, take a deep breath and ameliorate the wounding often planted by adversity. As a therapist for over 15 years, the greatest reward is the alliance formed with clients, collaborating together to find a brighter outlook, instill greater hope and acquire a fresher perspective on life!

Micaela Noelle Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I specialize in: empowerment and acceptance of neurodiversity; mood disorders, including post-partum depression and the baby blues; couples counseling; and
trauma
.
Congratulations on taking the difficult, but brave, step to research options for support! I am here to act as a GPS on your journey to self actualization - whether you currently find yourself in the packing stage, are determining your destination, or you're looking to discover "how did I end up here?' My passion and my training work to aid you in defining your truths and walking boldly in them. Wellness is achieved when you can look at your worn-out shoes and esteem them for getting you this far instead of forever cursing the road that damaged them. Be well.

Theressa L. LaBarrie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
CBT guides anxiety, depression, and
trauma
symptom reduction.
Are you, your child, or your family having difficulty managing emotions, thoughts, or navigating interactions? I can help. With my warm and dedicated style, you will be heard, supported, and empowered. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other scientifically-proven therapies. With 14+ yrs of experience, I have worked with adults, youth, and families in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and university counseling and community mental health centers. I completed my residency at Harvard Medical School/Boston Children's Hospital and a post-doctoral fellowship at Northwestern University/The Family Institute.

Autumn Starks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
My team and I work with adults and youth, specializing in therapy for overwhelming life changes, depression, anxiety, recovery from
trauma
, relationship issues, grief and loss, self-esteem, behavioral concerns, parenting and other family issues.
Do you need a space to discover and activate your strengths and help you or your family attain the lasting changes you seek? Many experience challenging issues in their lives that cause them to reach out for help. At Starks Therapy Group, LLC we help individuals and family using techniques from psychotherapy and spirituality. We help folks through these issues and support their process of learning to thrive. We are committed to addressing you as a whole and unique person and taking a creative and strengths based approach.

Sarah H Krcmarik
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Verified
Particular specialties of mine include mood disorders, relationship issues, survivors of childhood abuse and
trauma
, ADHD, women's issues, and grief and bereavement.
We all have words in our heart that are difficult to speak. Therapy is a great opportunity to bring voice to those words and make sense of their meaning so we can have a greater understanding of who we are and our place in this world. I view therapy as a unique opportunity to know and understand yourself in more profound and meaningful ways so as to allow true clarity, purpose, and healing in everyday life. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable to you, and, ultimately, we will work together to bridge your inner emotional life to past and current experiences to then provide a renewed and hopeful understanding of yourself.

Kate Giandonato & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Some include: parents who are seeking a greater understanding and connection to their child, individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression,
trauma
victims and life transitions.
Very rarely in our lives are we given the opportunity and the space to truly look at ourselves, where we have been, and the person we are looking to become. At Kate Giandonato & Associates, we create an environment where you can safely look at yourself, relationships, and potential barriers to achieving your goals. Our relationship-based training in Social Work + Child Development has given us the background to notice and work through the conflicting messages, thoughts and emotions present not only in the parent-child relationship, but in every relationship. We work with our clients to better understand and negotiate these most important relationships.

Katie Seelinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, Katie Seelinger, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, CCTP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I am experienced in addressing
trauma
, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, in addition to, many other ares of care.
Throughout life, there are times when we can feel overwhelmed, lost, isolated, and in need of extra support and guidance. Seeking the help of a therapist is a significant act of self-compassion, and connecting with the right therapist is essential. I provide a safe, inclusive space where all persons are welcomed and supported. I recognize and value each client’s unique lived experience. We explore these to uncover strengths and opportunities for growth and healing. I consider myself honored to walk with clients on their mental health journey, and grateful for the opportunity to help them achieve their favorite self!

Amanda Connor
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified
Verified
I believe in a person-centered approach. Together, we can explore life’s obstacles without judgment, learn new ways to balance the inner self and create a more harmonious relationship with the world around us. Currently, I support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression,
PTSD
, complex
trauma
, grief, and adjustment difficulties. As a lover of learning and education, I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago in 2013. Since then, I have committed to learning new counseling techniques and skills that help me support individuals from diverse backgrounds and those with unique life experiences.
See more therapy options for
Trauma and PTSD Therapists
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.
How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.
What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.
Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.