Photo of Cathay Lancaster, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Cathay Lancaster
Pre-Licensed Professional, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
After professional careers in consulting, marketing and as a pastry chef, she earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Cathay believes therapy is a collaborative experience and that one size does not fit all. Life is complicated and we are ever-evolving. When therapy is client-centered and there is a good fit between client and therapist, change can happen to help people improve relationships with others and themselves. Cathay is passionate about working with families, especially parents and children, and moms at all stages of motherhood including contemplating motherhood. Cathay uses play, compassion, and humor to help locate and change unhelpful patterns and behaviors.
After professional careers in consulting, marketing and as a pastry chef, she earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Cathay believes therapy is a collaborative experience and that one size does not fit all. Life is complicated and we are ever-evolving. When therapy is client-centered and there is a good fit between client and therapist, change can happen to help people improve relationships with others and themselves. Cathay is passionate about working with families, especially parents and children, and moms at all stages of motherhood including contemplating motherhood. Cathay uses play, compassion, and humor to help locate and change unhelpful patterns and behaviors.
(224) 252-5473 View (224) 252-5473
Photo of Nosh Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Evanston, IL
Nosh Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I earned my Masters degree from Northwestern University in Marriage and Family Therapy.
As a therapist, I believe in the power of self-awareness in helping people overcome adversity. Trained in Systems Therapy at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, my orientation is to use relationships to strengthen our understanding of one another, and of ourselves. I value the humanistic experience most of all, and strive to learn as much as possible about one's past motivations and ways of coping. I also believe that the therapeutic relationship is the key ingredient in effecting change. I use compassion and acceptance as tools to help create space for that change.
I earned my Masters degree from Northwestern University in Marriage and Family Therapy.
As a therapist, I believe in the power of self-awareness in helping people overcome adversity. Trained in Systems Therapy at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, my orientation is to use relationships to strengthen our understanding of one another, and of ourselves. I value the humanistic experience most of all, and strive to learn as much as possible about one's past motivations and ways of coping. I also believe that the therapeutic relationship is the key ingredient in effecting change. I use compassion and acceptance as tools to help create space for that change.
(630) 560-6733 View (630) 560-6733
Photo of Jacqueline Lee, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Jacqueline Lee
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
In my time as a therapist, I have observed the ways in which old patterns keep people stuck in challenging spaces. I believe that safe and vulnerable relationships are the vessel for healing and growth to happen. As a therapist, I strive to develop these relationships with clients and help them translate that into other relationships. Being a second generation Asian American myself, I’m especially passionate about working with immigrant communities, Asian Americans, and other people of color. Some of my specialities are family and relationship challenges, trauma, life transitions, depression, and anxiety.
In my time as a therapist, I have observed the ways in which old patterns keep people stuck in challenging spaces. I believe that safe and vulnerable relationships are the vessel for healing and growth to happen. As a therapist, I strive to develop these relationships with clients and help them translate that into other relationships. Being a second generation Asian American myself, I’m especially passionate about working with immigrant communities, Asian Americans, and other people of color. Some of my specialities are family and relationship challenges, trauma, life transitions, depression, and anxiety.
(224) 504-1110 View (224) 504-1110
Photo of Sonica Li, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Sonica Li
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Hi there! Good for you for looking for a therapist :) I encourage you to do consultations or sessions with multiple therapists. You'll quickly see that we're vastly different. Remember grade school teachers? They can make or break the class, and maybe there were only a few you really connected with. This is even more true for therapy! So try out multiple therapists. The process itself can be therapeutic. Two major things to look for are emotional safety ("Do I feel like I can tell them things without feeling judged?") and resonance ("Do they get me?"). Most importantly, practice trusting your intuition.
Hi there! Good for you for looking for a therapist :) I encourage you to do consultations or sessions with multiple therapists. You'll quickly see that we're vastly different. Remember grade school teachers? They can make or break the class, and maybe there were only a few you really connected with. This is even more true for therapy! So try out multiple therapists. The process itself can be therapeutic. Two major things to look for are emotional safety ("Do I feel like I can tell them things without feeling judged?") and resonance ("Do they get me?"). Most importantly, practice trusting your intuition.
(847) 693-3830 x141 View (847) 693-3830 x141
Photo of Nicole Yan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Nicole Yan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
My approach is rooted in the practices of mindfulness and self-compassion. I integrate a variety of mindfulness techniques to psychology to help people nurture their lives with kindness and awareness, and connect with their natural well-being. My practice is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic techniques, client-centered approach and Buddhist psychology. My clinical experience includes a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, sexuality, addiction and grief.
My approach is rooted in the practices of mindfulness and self-compassion. I integrate a variety of mindfulness techniques to psychology to help people nurture their lives with kindness and awareness, and connect with their natural well-being. My practice is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic techniques, client-centered approach and Buddhist psychology. My clinical experience includes a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, sexuality, addiction and grief.
(847) 440-3635 View (847) 440-3635
Photo of Cheryl Weiss, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Cheryl Weiss
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Finding the right therapist is based upon the connection and "goodness of fit". My approach to providing therapy is collaborative, relational, direct, warmth and with a sense of humor. If you have been having challenges and or stuck with creating meaningful changes in your life, I will help you first identify the kinds of roadblocks & blinders that are preventing you to give you a better understanding of why it has been difficult. There were patterns from your history, relationships & past conditioning that we might need to dive in to process. My hope is to engage, empower & foster hope towards your healing, learning & growth
Finding the right therapist is based upon the connection and "goodness of fit". My approach to providing therapy is collaborative, relational, direct, warmth and with a sense of humor. If you have been having challenges and or stuck with creating meaningful changes in your life, I will help you first identify the kinds of roadblocks & blinders that are preventing you to give you a better understanding of why it has been difficult. There were patterns from your history, relationships & past conditioning that we might need to dive in to process. My hope is to engage, empower & foster hope towards your healing, learning & growth
(773) 985-2369 View (773) 985-2369
Photo of Jacob Borge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Jacob Borge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
It is understandable and valid to feel overwhelmed, unfulfilled, and upset as we navigate our lives. We do not have unlimited amounts of time, resources, or energy, and it is natural that life will bring challenges and experiences that cannot be addressed alone. I believe it is a sign of strength and self-love to know when to seek support, and I am committed to giving space and support to concerns throughout all ages and areas of life. I also strive to continually learn and grow in order to best support and accommodate your preferences, goals, and needs.
It is understandable and valid to feel overwhelmed, unfulfilled, and upset as we navigate our lives. We do not have unlimited amounts of time, resources, or energy, and it is natural that life will bring challenges and experiences that cannot be addressed alone. I believe it is a sign of strength and self-love to know when to seek support, and I am committed to giving space and support to concerns throughout all ages and areas of life. I also strive to continually learn and grow in order to best support and accommodate your preferences, goals, and needs.
(224) 404-3489 x1 View (224) 404-3489 x1
Photo of Marika Yip-Bannicq, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Marika Yip-Bannicq
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
I believe that relationships are at the core of human experience and that our deepest personal growth happens in relationship with others. My therapeutic approach compassionate and collaborative, welcoming clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors free from judgment. We all deserve a safe space to explore our experience and I consider it an honor to offer this to my clients.
I believe that relationships are at the core of human experience and that our deepest personal growth happens in relationship with others. My therapeutic approach compassionate and collaborative, welcoming clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors free from judgment. We all deserve a safe space to explore our experience and I consider it an honor to offer this to my clients.
(224) 332-2585 View (224) 332-2585
Photo of Jennifer Black, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Jennifer Black
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LBS1, MSEd
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
(224) 830-9800 View (224) 830-9800
Photo of Jihye Choi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Jihye Choi
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Hi! I am Jihye (pronounced Ji Hae). I believe everyone has their own "Twinkle Twinkle." This is my philosophy in therapy. I aim to kindle this twinkling light within you, to help you discover and connect with your Authentic self, a spark of divinity that is woven in your being in order to grow. Personal growth always helps you be alert, fully awakened to perceive your twinkle, which has always been there, and loyal to your full potential. I am working with individuals (adults) struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma, and couples. I am also working with individuals who want spiritual counseling.
Hi! I am Jihye (pronounced Ji Hae). I believe everyone has their own "Twinkle Twinkle." This is my philosophy in therapy. I aim to kindle this twinkling light within you, to help you discover and connect with your Authentic self, a spark of divinity that is woven in your being in order to grow. Personal growth always helps you be alert, fully awakened to perceive your twinkle, which has always been there, and loyal to your full potential. I am working with individuals (adults) struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma, and couples. I am also working with individuals who want spiritual counseling.
(224) 339-7336 View (224) 339-7336
Photo of Diana Jean Semmelhack, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
Diana Jean Semmelhack
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I have over 25 years experience treating adults, families, adolescents, and couples. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders. I am a published author who has presented my research on group psychotherapy nationally and internationally. I am also a licensed massage therapist who practices mind/body work. As a past board member with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and a past member of APA's Task force on severe mental illness, I am an advocate for individuals and families who struggle with the stigma associated with these disorders. As a retired professor at Midwestern University.
I have over 25 years experience treating adults, families, adolescents, and couples. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders. I am a published author who has presented my research on group psychotherapy nationally and internationally. I am also a licensed massage therapist who practices mind/body work. As a past board member with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and a past member of APA's Task force on severe mental illness, I am an advocate for individuals and families who struggle with the stigma associated with these disorders. As a retired professor at Midwestern University.
(847) 641-2977 View (847) 641-2977
Photo of Jing Han, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Jing Han
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Waitlist for new clients
I believe we’re naturally good and unfortunately taught to feel shame, worthlessness, inadequacy, and the ideas of “bad” and “wrong”. I’m dedicated to providing a non-judgmental environment to support clients, explore their situations, and achieve their goals. I strive to hear and understand your feelings, past and current experiences, as well as to provide information and new coping strategies to help you deal with your concerns, difficulties, and struggles. We will sort out what’s going on in your life and sort it out together.
I believe we’re naturally good and unfortunately taught to feel shame, worthlessness, inadequacy, and the ideas of “bad” and “wrong”. I’m dedicated to providing a non-judgmental environment to support clients, explore their situations, and achieve their goals. I strive to hear and understand your feelings, past and current experiences, as well as to provide information and new coping strategies to help you deal with your concerns, difficulties, and struggles. We will sort out what’s going on in your life and sort it out together.
(872) 246-9669 x1010 View (872) 246-9669 x1010
Photo of Lee Gilman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Evanston, IL
Lee Gilman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
In order for us to grow, we must challenge our preconceived notions of self and experiences, as those are what shape our truths. We are not alone, even when it feels as if we are. We are connected to the thousands of lives that have touched ours and have had a hand in creating who we are. I approach my work through a systemic lens, in other words, I see the world as a huge ball of yarn. Those strings are our connectedness, the relationships we hold that connect us to our culture, our family, our history, and our future.
In order for us to grow, we must challenge our preconceived notions of self and experiences, as those are what shape our truths. We are not alone, even when it feels as if we are. We are connected to the thousands of lives that have touched ours and have had a hand in creating who we are. I approach my work through a systemic lens, in other words, I see the world as a huge ball of yarn. Those strings are our connectedness, the relationships we hold that connect us to our culture, our family, our history, and our future.
(708) 304-9979 View (708) 304-9979
Photo of Rebecca Lu Jin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Rebecca Lu Jin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
(No Openings At the Moment) Let’s face it: life can be tough. Have you tried everything to feel calm and content, yet nothing sticks? It can be scary to get help from a counselor -- you want to be sure that they are attuned to your struggles and understand your complicated situations. I specialize in helping individuals and couples with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relational issues. I also provide a safe space for cross-cultural adjustment, identity formation, and self-esteem enhancement. Only research-based approaches are offered so you can feel better, faster.
(No Openings At the Moment) Let’s face it: life can be tough. Have you tried everything to feel calm and content, yet nothing sticks? It can be scary to get help from a counselor -- you want to be sure that they are attuned to your struggles and understand your complicated situations. I specialize in helping individuals and couples with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relational issues. I also provide a safe space for cross-cultural adjustment, identity formation, and self-esteem enhancement. Only research-based approaches are offered so you can feel better, faster.
(872) 204-1645 View (872) 204-1645
Photo of Alice Davies, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Evanston, IL
Alice Davies
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise: couples, premarital counseling, interracial relationships, multicultural families, teen pregnancy/parenthood, parenthood, infertility and pregnancy concerns, infidelity, divorce, remarriage and/or blending families, helping you and your partner if you have different attachment styles, and singles who are navigating dating, going through breakups or are unsure if they should stay or leave a relationship.
My areas of expertise: couples, premarital counseling, interracial relationships, multicultural families, teen pregnancy/parenthood, parenthood, infertility and pregnancy concerns, infidelity, divorce, remarriage and/or blending families, helping you and your partner if you have different attachment styles, and singles who are navigating dating, going through breakups or are unsure if they should stay or leave a relationship.
(773) 912-0796 View (773) 912-0796
Photo of José Arroyo, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
José Arroyo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60208
I work best with BIPOC and/or queer individuals who are coping with mood, trauma, and sociopolitical struggles. My primary approach focuses on empowering individuals of marginalized communities to externalize systemic and oppressive factors so that we can focus on treating any personal difficulties that are causing you pain and suffering. Whether we focus on the past or the present, healing one part of yourself can heal many other parts because you have a story to tell. And no matter how many times or how many ways that you tell it, it is your own personal story. Let's change your story to help you become the person you want to be.
I work best with BIPOC and/or queer individuals who are coping with mood, trauma, and sociopolitical struggles. My primary approach focuses on empowering individuals of marginalized communities to externalize systemic and oppressive factors so that we can focus on treating any personal difficulties that are causing you pain and suffering. Whether we focus on the past or the present, healing one part of yourself can heal many other parts because you have a story to tell. And no matter how many times or how many ways that you tell it, it is your own personal story. Let's change your story to help you become the person you want to be.
(312) 872-8871 View (312) 872-8871
Photo of Jeevan Jain-Cocks, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Evanston, IL
Jeevan Jain-Cocks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
I believe every person has vast potential to grow, heal, and change their lives. Whatever life, relationship, or career event that has brought you to therapy, you are taking a significant step towards better understanding yourself and your relationships with others.
I believe every person has vast potential to grow, heal, and change their lives. Whatever life, relationship, or career event that has brought you to therapy, you are taking a significant step towards better understanding yourself and your relationships with others.
(872) 241-2494 View (872) 241-2494
Photo of Jessica Wang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Jessica Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60208
Do you suspect something is holding you back from living your best life? If so, you’re not alone, and counseling can help. I specialize in contextual behavior change counseling. This means we’ll take time to understand your circumstances and how we can make adjustments to help you create the life you desire.
Do you suspect something is holding you back from living your best life? If so, you’re not alone, and counseling can help. I specialize in contextual behavior change counseling. This means we’ll take time to understand your circumstances and how we can make adjustments to help you create the life you desire.
(872) 274-2249 View (872) 274-2249
Photo of Yingying Zhang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Yingying Zhang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60208  (Online Only)
As a first generation immigrant, I recognize the unique experience individuals face in life. I am passionate about delivering quality care and service to my clients. I hopes to provide support to anyone who is going through a confusing phase or hardship. I specialize in working young adults, adults, older adults and families dealing with complex trauma, family dynamics, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, stress, phase-of-life changes, grief and loss, as well as children with ADHD and autism.
As a first generation immigrant, I recognize the unique experience individuals face in life. I am passionate about delivering quality care and service to my clients. I hopes to provide support to anyone who is going through a confusing phase or hardship. I specialize in working young adults, adults, older adults and families dealing with complex trauma, family dynamics, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, stress, phase-of-life changes, grief and loss, as well as children with ADHD and autism.
(872) 274-4302 View (872) 274-4302
Photo of Dwight Bejec, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Dwight Bejec
Counselor, MSCP, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60208  (Online Only)
Are you seeking therapy to stop making lists of why you should be happy & learn how to go after the things that do? Are you here because you don’t want to repeat your family’s trauma history? Have you done some inner healing work on yourself, but still feel like you need more guidance? I understand. Imagine getting to experience feelings, of authentic self-love & getting to achieve what you really desire. What happens is that you start to trust your emotional intuition & feel safe to share & allow them to be a reality. You create healthy boundaries at work & with your loved ones so that you can spend that time for yourself.
Are you seeking therapy to stop making lists of why you should be happy & learn how to go after the things that do? Are you here because you don’t want to repeat your family’s trauma history? Have you done some inner healing work on yourself, but still feel like you need more guidance? I understand. Imagine getting to experience feelings, of authentic self-love & getting to achieve what you really desire. What happens is that you start to trust your emotional intuition & feel safe to share & allow them to be a reality. You create healthy boundaries at work & with your loved ones so that you can spend that time for yourself.
(331) 225-1575 View (331) 225-1575
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.