Therapists in Illinois

• B.A. in Human Services from National-Louis University • MSW from Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work • Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe Throughout our lives we are challenged by obstacles that can be difficult to manage on our own. Reaching out for help in those times can be incredibly difficult. Working with a therapist during those struggles in life can help find the insight into some of the most rewarding and positive changes we make; leading to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. The first step in making changes in your life begins now. I have been working the mental health field for over 16 years with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, grief & loss, addiction & co-dependency issues, and relationship or family dynamics. I have provided services in outpatient, inpatient, residential, as well as rehabilitation long-term care settings to clients ranging in age from adolescent to geriatric, both in individual and group sessions. My professional philosophy stems from the belief that every person deserves to live fully; with hope for the future and the self-respect to believe you are worthy of it. I believe every individual is capable of change and possesses the resiliency within ourselves to improve our lives. We will work together to identify the aspects of yourself that are not working for you and discover a healthier direction for your life.

Welcome! I am a person, who like many other human beings, has skills and talents. As a qualified mental health care provider with a doctorate in Clinical/Community Psychology, I have been using my talents to help people afflicted with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychological disorders. While I appreciate the wide-range benefits of an eclectic approach, I prefer and tend to apply cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and sociocultural models in counseling and therapy sessions. I view life as a journey in which we, as human beings, use our mind, body, and spirit to solve problems, overcome adversity, and enjoy life. Besides helping people alleviate symptoms derived from mental illness, I provide support for personal growth within the context life coaching and wellness sessions. The span of my career is more than twenty years. The local and global scopes of my vision as a healer, have led me to provide community psychology services in Chicagoland, numerous cities in other parts of the United States, and Ghana (Africa). These community-wide services entail conducting presentations at community health fairs, disseminating information for various type of awareness campaigns (examples: suicide prevention, domestic violence, PTSD, HIV/AIDS, smoking cessation, substance abuse, and Covid19). Moreover, I have imparted information about mental health through the media. I love providing psychological services! I am grateful to be gifted as a healer! Furthermore, I look forward to serving you! Enjoy balance in body, mind, and spirit, Dr. Athena Porter

Background: I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I graduated from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology with a master’s degree in clinical psychology. Additionally, I have obtained certificates in Grief Counseling and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery. I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and/or grief related to their relationships or in their daily lives. I have an eclectic background working in the school system, social services, Early Intervention with the State of Illinois, and private practice. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement afterward. Using a non-judgmental and collaborative approach to therapy we will work together to find your strengths and utilize those strengths to meet your desired goals. Who I Treat: I work with adults, couples, and teens utilizing both client-centered and holistic approaches. My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, gender identity, and LGBTQ issues. I have a particular passion for working with those struggling with or recovering from Narcissistic Abuse. My Treatment Approaches: Client-Centered Therapy / Insight Oriented Therapy / Mindfulness/ CBT / Grief / Problem Solving

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the state of Illinois with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples . I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, communication issues, career challenges, life stage transitions, anger issues and overall life stress. My counseling style is positive and welcoming. I strive to make the counseling process non intimidating, productive and comforting . My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused and internal family systems therapies.I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek therapy and to take the first steps towards making changes in your life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and North Carolina with over 20 years of professional work experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, couple, family and relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and grief and loss. I get to know you as a unique individual and this understanding powers your path forward. I listen more than I talk, but I also frequently give out of session assignments that are tailored just for you. I am deeply spiritual yet I make our sessions solely about you, what you believe and what you want to address and change. You are always put first and will feel heard, understood and welcomed.

I am licensed in Arizona with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

I am licensed in Illinois with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in Illinois, Missouri, and Texas, with over 11 years of experience in the mental health field. I am a Certified OCD Specialist and have received training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I have extensive experience supporting clients who are navigating stress and anxiety, motivation challenges, self-esteem and confidence concerns, career difficulties, addiction, psychotic disorders, and depression. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and that you possess many strengths that can help you overcome the challenges you face. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and taking that first step toward change is a powerful one. I am here to support and empower you on that journey.

I am licensed in Illinois (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) with 9 years of experience working directly with clients. I have worked in private practice and hospital settings with a very wide variety of populations. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. My approach is broadly cognitive-behavioral with a particular emphasis on mindfulness-based approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I have personal experience in the performing arts so I do understand some of the unique concerns of artists as well. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Education: MS in Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I have extensive experience helping clients navigate diverse issues including anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, professional challenges and personal growth. My therapeutic practice centers on creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their emotions, develop stronger communication skills, and work towards healing and integration. I'm particularly passionate about addressing challenges related to self-care, isolation, life transitions, parenting challenges, and interpersonal relationships. I also have expertise in occupational counseling, healthcare, leadership, and family businesses. In my free time I am a dedicated partner and mom of two boys. I am passionate about nutritious cooking, holistic and spiritual development, lifelong learning, community building, financial planning, and travel. I have lived abroad, speak Spanish, and enjoy working with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I bring a holistic perspective to therapy, understanding that each person's experience is multifaceted. Whether you're struggling with workplace stress, relationship difficulties, or seeking deeper personal understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise. My goal is to help you build resilience, discover your inner strengths, and create meaningful, positive change in your life.

I am licensed in Illinois with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

As a seasoned therapist with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice focuses on creating a compassionate, affirming space for clients navigating diverse experiences, including LGBTQ+ identities, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress, and interpersonal challenges. My approach is particularly attuned to the unique needs of individuals experiencing social anxiety, workplace stress, life purpose exploration, and emotional healing. I'm committed to supporting clients through transitions like midlife changes, young adult challenges, and relationship transformations. My therapeutic style centers on building self-love, improving communication, and helping clients overcome feelings of isolation and shame. I offer a warm, non-judgmental environment that honors each person's individual journey, with specialized understanding of multicultural experiences and diverse life circumstances.

I am licensed in Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in Illinois with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.