Toddler Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL

Change and struggle are universal inevitabilities, and everyone deserves guidance and relief. Whether you are facing everyday stressors or significant life obstacles, you are not alone. I believe everything we do serves a function, and it is important to gain understanding of those that might not be healthy or helpful. My training and clinical experience with court-involved individuals and families guides my work with clients spanning the toddler years to middle adulthood.

My approach to counseling has been to build mutual trust with my clients, in order to help them identify their inner strengths, followed by them using those strengths to overcome life’s negative experiences.  I am passionate about working with minority clients because I understand the sensitive and uncomfortable nature that comes with asking for help. I enjoy collaboratively dismantling the expectations and pressures that clients carry to be strong and have it all together.

My specialty is couple and family counseling, and of course, I also see individuals ages 12 and up. I have significant experience working with children and families who are involved with DCFS. I have helped families deal with issues such as divorce/re-marriage, and child abuse. I also enjoy working with parents who are re-thinking their parenting style and want to work towards a more satisfying relationship with their child(ren).

I am interested in hearing from individuals of all ages who would like to speak about their struggles, dreams and anxieties and what is making them feel stuck or overwhelmed. My approach is based on the unique ways individuals and families have of speaking- or not being able to speak- about troubles across generations, exploring over time the creative ways these troubles can enter speech so that individuals and families can relate differently to themselves and those around them. We can listen together for what comes up in sessions that points to new ways forward in life and a greater sense of freedom that is tailored to you.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I enjoy working with young children, adults, couples and families. I received my MS in Marital and Family Therapy from The Family Institute at Northwestern University along with extensive clinical training at The Family Institute's Bette D. Harris Family and Child Clinic. I am a clinical member of The American Assoc. for Marriage and Family Therapy, Intl Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, Intl Society of Traumatic Stress, and the American Psychological Assoc. I am also a Perinatal Mental Health Clinician for the Perinatal Depression Program as part of Northshore University Health Systems.

I strongly believe in the importance of providing a safe, authentic, and accepting space for my clients to be able to take the brave steps necessary to obtain the growth and healing they desire. My personal and professional experiences have shaped my desire to support those who have been feeling stuck in a certain area of life, are struggling with life transitions and desiring skills to actively alter their current chapter. I commit to walk alongside my clients amidst their renewed strength, understanding, resilience, and hope.

Meet Pamela Star, Ed.S, NCSP: Over a decade of experience in public and private education inspired Pamela to become an advocate to empower parents to secure the education their child deserves. You don't have to navigate this alone! Services offered: Psychoeducational Evaluations, Educational Records Review, IEP/504 Meeting Prep and Attendance, Classroom Observations, Program Placement Consultation, Social Skills Groups, Executive Functioning Coaching, Girl Empowerment and Self-Esteem Groups.

Are you or your child struggling to navigate emotions, relationships, or life transitions? I am a dedicated and passionate mental health art therapist specializing in working with children, teens, and welcome working with adults. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth and self-discovery, expressive therapy can unlock profound insights and promote healing on a deep level.

At some point in life we all need a little help finding our way back to our sense of self and security. Life events, a global pandemic, mental illness, substance abuse, and trauma can take us all off course. Therapy can be what helps to guide us back to our path. I believe healing occurs in the context of human relationships, so I take a relational approach to therapy. Understanding and finding satisfying relationships are vital to our mental health and life quality. Children, adolescents and adults all want to be heard and understood, and therapy can aid in finding emotional connection.