Therapists in Illinois

Sometimes life throws you a curveball or two. Some people have been dealt a difficult card from the start. I believe we all possess the tools needed to get through times of adversity, but at times, may need a little guidance. Having an objective ally to cheer you on can really make the difference in reaching your goals and feeling confident along the way. I strive to create a stimulating, comfortable, and safe place for people to be vulnerable. I tend to have a relaxed conversational style, while using evidenced based materials and approaches. I am committed to jumping in the muck with you so we can find solutions together.

Hello, My name is Michelle Locke. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been actively practicing as a social worker since 1996 and as an LCSW since 2015. My skill set and professional experience lend themselves to supporting various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), and Spirituality. I enjoy keeping people in therapy through Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Compassion Focused, Strength-Based, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe that treatment helps people find true hope and healing for the pain we experience at times in life.

I believe that everyone is capable of feeling better and overcoming their struggles as long as they find a positive mindset and believe in themselves. I provide an environment where you are free to explore your concerns without any judgement. It is important for me to develop a good rapport with my clients because it is the foundation for successful treatment. Developing a workable treatment plan with my clients helps guide the focus of our sessions and gives you a sense of accomplishment.

Hey! I’m Rachel Nicholson a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Psychotherapist, and I could not be more excited to work with you! I know what it feels like to be scared to take the first step; to go through the hard work in order to grow. Because of that, it makes me the therapist I am today. Empathetic, understanding, and compassionate. These qualities are what I bring into our sessions in order to support you in becoming the best version of yourself. I want you to feel comfortable enough to share anything that comes to mind without any fear or judgement–knowing that we are in this together.

Are you facing overwhelm, trauma, or executive functioning concerns? Are you experiencing worry, intrusive thoughts, or difficulty concentrating? Everyone needs support at times. I offer you a safe, judgment-free space to share, explore, and find solutions to these concerns. If you are looking for a therapist to accompany you on your journey towards self-advocacy, growth, and healing, we may be a great fit.

I specialize in treating Anxiety, Eating Disorders, OCD, Phobias, and Trichotillomania. I strive to establish a safe and supportive environment that encourages self-reflection and personal growth. I offer highly effective coping strategies that are tailored to address triggers and challenges you may face in life. Through our collaborative efforts, we will navigate and conquer life's obstacles together. My aim is to empower you, enabling you to improve your overall daily functioning, foster a stronger sense of of well-being, and embrace the ability to be fully present with yourself.

Battling mental health struggles can be isolating and lonely. People can believe that no one knows what they are experiencing. You are not alone. As a therapist, I help adults dealing with anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relational stress, life transitions, boundary issues, shame, and perfectionism. I received my M.A. in Counseling from Northwestern University and am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I am trained in both psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I worked in a hospital system in the PHP and IOP level of care for 3 years.

It is often through struggle or pain that we meet an opportunity for introspection and growth. My hope is that when you sit with me you will feel both nurtured and challenged as we navigate the parts of your life where you are experiencing difficulty. I will work collaboratively with you, inviting your full participation in the process of therapy so that together we can discover your particular paths toward healing.

Reaching out to a therapist for help can be scary. As someone who has been on both sides of the couch, I understand firsthand how overwhelming the process can be. I want you to feel comfortable, safe, and supported through your mental health journey! I incorporate compassion, empathy, humor, and understanding into every session. I also have a therapy bunny, named Benny, who loves to jump into the laps of clients and beg for attention. I want you to look forward to your sessions, and I am ready to create a therapeutic bond with you.

I work with preteens and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression and OCD. I also work with young adults struggling with life transitions. I believe it is important for everyone to have an objective, third party listener to offer support and guidance no matter what concern you're bringing in. Reflecting on past experiences, emotional processing, and skill development are just some of the avenues you may take in therapy. I value collaboration with my clients and believe it is important to work together as a team to figure out your avenue.

I work with individuals, couples and families navigating anxiety, depression, life-stage transitions, relationship challenges and parenting challenges as well as clients navigating complex medical conditions and those experiencing grief and loss. I have experience supporting clients living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. My particular areas of interest are supporting people in high compassion fatigue careers. I enjoy working with couples on a range of topics from communication, pregnancy and/or parenting as well as those in polyamorous and non-monogamous relationships.

I believe that all healing happens within connection. All personal healing, in turn heals the collective. You are the creator of your own life. We will move down a path of self-actualization and change, utilizing your personal strengths to guide us. I am passionate about facilitating creative, client-centered and culturally-centered therapy. You are the expert on your life, and I will support you in transformative self-reflection and embodiment. When it comes to PTSD and trauma, I use somatic practices, EMDR Flash Technique, art therapy and attachment theory.

My clinical approach is authentic and integrative, resulting in a collaborative treatment plan based on client’s culture and values, the best available clinical research, and clinical expertise for my clients to thrive in their lives. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in individual, family and group settings. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Executive Functioning (EF) skills, complex trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, racial/cultural identities, academic performance, family conflicts, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, stress and other life concerns. I also speak Korean.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 12 years of experience. After graduating with my PhD, I changed my focus from research and teaching to direct clinical work in response to the pandemic. I’m also the owner of Northside Clinical Psychologists. I provide individual psychotherapy and couples therapy for a variety of different relationship configurations. I also conduct psycho-educational and diagnostic assessments for adults and teens. I specialize in depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and relationship issues. I have extensive training in ERP (Exposure Response Prevention), CPT, CBT, DBT, ACT, family interventions, and IPT.

I have a passion for working with children, teens, and young adults to improve overall functioning and well-being. I especially enjoy working with teens who are struggling with anxiety or feelings of depression. I use evidence-based practices and a collaborative approach to help individuals reach their goals. I strive to come to each session with an open mind, kindness and optimism. I have supported individuals who are struggling with anxiety disorders including selective mutism, depression, OCD, executive functioning skills, trauma, self-esteem and life transitions.

Therapy can be a great place to begin the courageous journey of rediscovering who you are and equipping yourself with the tools needed to make your life more enriched and fulfilling. I work with couples, families, and individuals of all ages. I have undergone training in EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy), and use ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) for treating OCD and anxiety related disorders.

I enjoy working with many different types of issues in a setting that promotes honesty, growth and trust. My specialties are Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders and using Cognitve-Behavioral techiques on various issues.

Feeling confused or stuck? Therapy can help people identify and make progress on issues that are getting in the way of happiness, personal growth and fulfilling relationships in their lives. My professional experience includes success in helping teens and adults dealing with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance use, relationships, parenting, and family related issues. I have worked in the counseling center of a major university, in a substance use treatment facility, in community mental health, and in private practice and have many years of experience and education.

I believe that change best occurs in the context of an open, trusting relationship. Therapy is a collaborative relationship in which we work together to address the issues that you are struggling with. Together, we will identify your feelings, thoughts, and dynamics that are impacting your life. We will work together to meet your goals in pursuit of a purposeful and rewarding life.