Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Verified by Psychology Today Verified by Psychology Today

1 Endorsed

Chicago, IL 60611

You’ve built a full life—relationships, career or business, and responsibilities. You’re questioning what still feels aligned, what you’ve outgrown, or what's missing. You're unhappy, stuck or lost but something needs to change. You think, "I want more in life." I help thoughtful women in midlife move through this awakening with clarity & self-trust. We’ll explore what no longer fits—whether it's old patterns, roles you've outgrown, burnout cycles, or the habit of sidelining your needs. You’ll redefine success on your terms, reconnect with your intuition, and create a life that feels more authentic, fulfilling, and sustainable.

My style is warm, honest, and collaborative—always compassionate and direct when needed. With 20 yrs of experience, I bring clinical depth, practical tools, and intuitive insight to each session. I’ll offer reflections, strategies, and things to work on between sessions so you’re not just talking—you’re moving forward.

My clients are thoughtful, self-aware women who’ve done a lot of work on their own—but they’re tired of not feeling fulfilled. They’re questioning what they want in one or more areas of life and what actually feels good at this stage. Together, we'll get honest about what matters and make decisions to support both your inner peace and purposeful direction.

Call or Email Ilene Kastel now for a free 15 minute consultation - (872) 327-4384

My Practice at a Glance

Available online only

Chicago, IL 60611

(872) 327-4384

San Diego, CA 92107

Services are conveniently offered remotely. We'll meet weekly or bi-weekly through a secure, confidential video platform.

$175 Per Session

Let's Connect (872) 327-4384

My Practice at a Glance

Available online only

Chicago, IL 60611

(872) 327-4384

San Diego, CA 92107

Services are conveniently offered remotely. We'll meet weekly or bi-weekly through a secure, confidential video platform.

$175 Per Session

Finances

Fees

Individual Sessions $175
Sliding scale: apply if you may be eligible

Payment Methods

American Express, Cash, Discover, Health Savings Account, Mastercard, Venmo, Visa, Zelle

Insurance

Out of Network

I provide a superbill to assist with the reimbursement process, as I am a self-pay provider and out of network with insurance for counseling. I accept HSA and FSA payments. If you have out-of-network benefits, you may be eligible for reimbursement, and I can assist with the out-of-network process.

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (872) 327-4384

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (872) 327-4384

Qualifications

Verified by Psychology Today Licensed by State of Illinois / 180.007705 Ilene Kastel

Education and Years In Practice

In Practice for 18 years

Attended Illinois School of Professional Psychology, Master's in Clinical Psychology, Graduated 2007

I'm trauma-informed and utilize ACT, CBT, mindfulness, neurology, somatic healing and more. I incorporate a holistic approach as a Reiki Master, Level II Intuitive Healer, and sound healer. Please note, I'm an LCPC in IL. If you're outside of IL we'll adjust our treatment for coaching.

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (872) 327-4384

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (872) 327-4384

Specialties and Expertise

Expertise

Anxiety
Breakups, Grief, Identity and Life Purpose
Coping Skills
Divorce
Entrepreneurs, Executives & Business Owners
Grief
Life Coaching
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Spirituality
Stress

I help women in midlife navigate life transitions, identity shifts, and the uncertainty of this stage. We'll clarify what's not working, explore where you need a reset or pivot, and strengthen self-trust, coping, and aligned action. I also specialize in helping entrepreneurs grow meaningful businesses while managing the emotional and practical challenges of everyday life.

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (872) 327-4384

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (872) 327-4384

Endorsement

Laura Elizabeth Foster

Counselor, MA, LCPC, AT

I have relied on Ilene's insights and advice in both a professional and personal capacity for over a decade. Her ability to simultaneously demonstrate warmth and direction when guiding others creates a space where you can truly grow.

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Attachment-based
Coaching
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Culturally Sensitive
Energy Psychology
Existential
Family Systems
Motivational Interviewing
Positive Psychology
Relational
Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)
Somatic
Strength-Based
Trauma Focused

I use ACT to help you understand yourself, process emotions and clarify core values in order to guide everyday decisions and larger life choices creating improved decision making. Through CBT, Attachment Theory, Energy Psychology and other modalities, we'll cultivate self-awareness around your reactions and interactions, paired with nervous system regulation to improve your overall happiness.

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (872) 327-4384

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (872) 327-4384

Location

Primary Location

Chicago, IL 60611

(872) 327-4384

Email me

Additional Location

San Diego, CA 92107

(872) 327-4384

Nearby Areas

Cities

Counties

Zips

Neighborhoods

Services are conveniently offered remotely. We'll meet weekly or bi-weekly through a secure, confidential video platform.

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call for a free consultation now - (872) 327-4384

Services are conveniently offered remotely. We'll meet weekly or bi-weekly through a secure, confidential video platform.

Ilene Kastel

Counselor, LCPC

Call for a free consultation now - (872) 327-4384