Discover how starting Trauma/PTSD therapy can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
8 therapists available in Chicago
I believe in creating a collaborative and empathetic space with a deep respect for your unique experiences and strengths, because ...
About
I believe in creating a collaborative and empathetic space with a deep respect for your unique experiences and strengths, because therapy is not only about addressing challenges but also about empowering you to reconnect with your resilience and move forward with purpose.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of experience. I have worked with people across all ages and diagnoses, including those in crises. My experience includes supporting adolescents, adults, geriatrics, first responders, and veterans. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, and addiction.
I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. My therapeutic style is collaborative and compassionate, centering on each person’s unique needs. I draw on approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, solution-focused brief therapy, and exposure therapy.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to support, validate, and empower you while helping you feel understood. Wherever you are in your journey, I’ll walk alongside you with compassion and care as we work toward lasting healing and positive change.
Education and training
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I believe my role as a therapist is to provide a safe place for people to explore their true feelings without fear of judgment and...
I believe my role as a therapist is to provide a safe place for people to explore their true feelings without fear of judgment and find their best selves through the exploration of their values and the development of healthy living skills.
Lee Scott is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 11 years of field experience helping clients cope with feelings of stress, anxiety, grief and loss, low motivation, poor self-esteem, low confidence, depression, and emotional fatigue. He has worked with the homeless population, individuals struggling with mental health conditions, and elderly victims of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Lee believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. He establishes a healthy and constructive therapist-client relationship by understanding how people’s experiences and beliefs shape how they think about themselves and the world.
Lee received his Master of Social Work from Aurora University. He tailors care to individual needs and uses cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques.
Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and Lee is here to support you. He believes that truly supporting a person's growth includes occasionally challenging their viewpoints. Lee is ready to start the journey with you and encourages you to schedule an appointment today!
It takes courage to reach out. I am here to support you every step of the way....
It takes courage to reach out. I am here to support you every step of the way.
Mara Silvestri is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults aged 6 to 70. She supports individuals with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavior problems, parenting skills, grief, trauma, and attention deficit disorder. Mara has previous experience working in behavioral hospitals, intensive outpatient programs, and crisis intervention settings.
Mara received her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Marywood University. Mara draws from cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness-based methods.
Mara believes in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where individuals explore thoughts and emotions, identify goals, build skills, and foster a deeper self-understanding. Mara will meet you where you are, providing a space to heal and grow.
Through my own experiences with trauma and loss, I bring a genuine understanding of the profound impact adverse life events can ha...
Through my own experiences with trauma and loss, I bring a genuine understanding of the profound impact adverse life events can have, as well as the potential for resilience and empowerment that can emerge through the development of new coping skills.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 7 years of experience and certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I specialize in supporting individuals navigating trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, addiction, grief, and life transitions. Many of my clients seek support in managing overwhelming emotions, building healthier coping skills, and finding balance in their daily lives. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can work toward resilience, healing, and lasting change.
I earned my Master’s in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My counseling style is collaborative and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based practices to help clients build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and achieve meaningful progress.
I know how difficult it can be to take the first step toward seeking help, and I want you to know you don’t have to face challenges alone. Together, we can create a path forward that fosters healing, growth, and renewed hope. If you’re ready to begin this journey, I invite you to reach out and take the next step toward the support you deserve.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience and a wealth of expertise in multiple settings....
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience and a wealth of expertise in multiple settings.
Gary Zurawski is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCSW, CADC) with over 21 years of professional experience treating teens, adults, and seniors who are struggling to manage the negative effects of anxiety, depression, poor coping skills, family conflict, racial identity issues, substance use, dysfunctional relationships, and more.
Gary earned his Master's degree in Social Work from Loyola University— Chicago. He utilizes evidence-based therapies in his practice and believes that psychotherapy is a relational and collaborative process. As you work together with Gary, you can expect to uncover patterns in your thoughts and behaviors and gain greater control of areas that may seem uncontrollable through the use of effective coping skills. He creates a safe and non-judgmental environment where you will feel comfortable to explore personal struggles and deep-rooted issues at your own pace.
If you choose to move forward with Gary, he promises that you will be treated with empathy, respect, and love. Therapy is not a one-way street and in your open discussions, you will be a team, working together on a journey that can be both exciting and helpful to your life. Gary is looking forward to starting a new journey with you.
Everyone needs support at times, and I am here to meet each client where they are while working to capitalize on their strengths a...
Everyone needs support at times, and I am here to meet each client where they are while working to capitalize on their strengths and achieve their life goals.
Anna Richmond is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She works with adults and youth experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, difficulty concentrating, procrastination, loss, and more. She was previously a school-based therapist, helping families strengthen their dynamics. Anna also worked as a caseworker helping families experiencing domestic violence, homelessness, and other crises, deepening her understanding of the structural and societal factors that impact mental health.
Anna earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Chicago. She's a compassionate, strength-based therapist who values active listening and understanding your perspective. She uses unconditional positive regard and dialectical behavior therapy, which builds skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and relationships.
Anna loves working with people in all stages of life, and whether you're ready to dig deep or just know you want change. Starting therapy takes courage, and she honors that bravery. She provides a nonjudgmental space where you’ll be met with compassion, not shame. Wherever you are on your journey, she is here when you’re ready.
My goal, irrespective of where you find yourself in your journey, is to collaborate with you to enhance your overall wellness....
My goal, irrespective of where you find yourself in your journey, is to collaborate with you to enhance your overall wellness.
Logan Spicer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 6 years of experience in the mental health care industry. She is passionate about helping young adults, adults, and older adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Logan specializes in depression, anxiety, executive functioning, ADHD coaching, trauma, relationship issues, and career development/transitions.
Logan completed her Master's degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is a case manager for Cook County Mental Health Courts. This, coupled with her professional experience, enables her to provide the guidance and support her clients are seeking. Logan utilizes multiple treatment approaches, including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy (PCT) and solution-focused therapy (SFT).
Each one of us holds the capacity to carve out the life we desire despite the obstacles or detrimental habits that may hinder us. Individuals often underestimate their strength, and Logan believes she can assist in revealing that innate resilience. She eagerly anticipates the opportunity to collaborate with you and reaffirm your inherent strengths together.
I believe that everyone’s journey is unique and I try to meet clients where they are emotionally....
I believe that everyone’s journey is unique and I try to meet clients where they are emotionally.
Rachel Herman is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 8 years of experience. She has worked with children, adults, and adolescents in various settings including residential, foster care, and private practice. Rachel has experience and interest in working with children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, PTSD, relationships, communication, anger management, and social skills.
Rachel received her Master’s in Counseling from The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Rachel is trained in psychodynamic theory and incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, internal family systems, and motivational interviewing.
Rachel regards therapy as a partnership between client and therapist and strives to empower clients toward accomplishing their goals. Her counseling style is warm and empathetic, and she tries to meet clients where they are. Rachel believes everyone can change and is ready to help you improve your life.
*Children under the age of 8 must be seen for in-person sessions.*
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My go-to approach for helping people in PTSD/trauma therapy is trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). I prefer this approach because it integrates evidence-based techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with specialized interventions designed to address the unique challenges of trauma-related symptoms. TF-CBT typically involves several components, including psychoeducation about trauma and its effects, learning skills for managing distressing emotions and intrusive memories, cognitive restructuring to challenge and change unhelpful beliefs about the trauma, and gradual exposure to trauma-related triggers in a safe and controlled manner. I find TF-CBT to be highly effective in helping individuals process traumatic experiences, reduce symptoms of PTSD, and regain a sense of safety and control in their lives. Additionally, it emphasizes collaboration between therapist and client, empowering individuals to actively participate in their healing journey and develop coping strategies that they can continue to use long after therapy has ended.
In PTSD/trauma therapy, I teach the following tools:
I know a client is making meaningful progress in PTSD/trauma therapy when several key indicators are observed. Firstly, there is a noticeable reduction in the severity and frequency of trauma-related symptoms, such as intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance. Additionally, the client demonstrates improved emotion regulation skills, showing greater ability to manage distressing emotions associated with the trauma and maintain stability in their daily functioning. Another sign of progress is increased engagement and participation in therapy sessions, as the client becomes more open to exploring and processing difficult emotions and experiences. Furthermore, there is evidence of cognitive restructuring, with the client challenging and modifying unhelpful beliefs and thoughts related to the trauma, leading to a shift in perspective and decreased self-blame or guilt. Importantly, progress is also reflected in the client's improved ability to engage in meaningful activities, maintain relationships, and pursue personal goals, indicating a restoration of functioning and quality of life despite the impact of the trauma. Overall, meaningful progress in PTSD/trauma therapy is characterized by a combination of symptom reduction, improved coping skills, emotional resilience, and enhanced overall well-being.
Clients can supplement their time in PTSD/trauma therapy with various activities and practices to support their healing and recovery process. Engaging in regular self-care activities, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and hobbies, can help individuals manage stress, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being. Journaling can provide a safe outlet for processing thoughts, emotions, and experiences related to the trauma, facilitating emotional expression and insight. Additionally, practicing mindfulness and grounding techniques outside of therapy sessions can help individuals stay present, manage distressing symptoms, and cultivate a sense of calm and stability. Seeking out peer support groups or online communities for individuals with similar experiences can provide validation, understanding, and a sense of belonging, fostering connection and reducing feelings of isolation. Moreover, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and limiting substance use, can support physical and emotional health, complementing the therapeutic process. Finally, setting realistic goals and actively working towards them can provide a sense of purpose and empowerment, helping individuals regain a sense of control and agency in their lives despite the impact of trauma. By actively engaging in these supplemental activities and practices, clients can support their progress in PTSD/trauma therapy and promote long-term healing and resilience.
To prepare for their first PTSD/trauma therapy session, someone can take several steps to ensure a positive and productive start to their therapeutic journey. Firstly, they can gather relevant information about their trauma history, including specific events, triggers, and symptoms they have experienced. This can help provide a starting point for discussion and guide the therapist in tailoring the treatment approach to their needs. Additionally, they may want to reflect on their reasons for seeking therapy and identify specific goals or areas of focus they hope to address during the sessions. Writing down any questions or concerns they have about the therapy process can also be helpful, as it allows them to communicate their needs and expectations clearly to the therapist. It's important for individuals to approach therapy with an open mind and a willingness to engage in the healing process, even if it feels challenging or uncomfortable at times. Finally, taking care of themselves by getting enough rest, practicing relaxation techniques, and engaging in self-care activities can help them feel more grounded and prepared for their first session. By proactively engaging in these preparatory steps, individuals can set a strong foundation for their PTSD/trauma therapy journey and maximize the potential for positive outcomes.
At Thriveworks, Trauma/PTSD therapy involves dedicated efforts to address and navigate through past and/or recent traumatic events. Therapists specializing in trauma create a secure environment to process and heal from these experiences, aiming to reduce trauma-related symptoms and enhance overall quality of life.
Our Thriveworks providers use Trauma/PTSD therapy treatments like eye movement desensitization and reprocessing EMDR, CBT, and exposure therapy with the goal of helping clients process the traumatic events they have experienced so that they can to start feeling safe and secure again.
The symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can vary but often include:
The best way to overcome PTSD triggers is to seek the assistance of a professional therapist, such as those at Thriveworks, who can help you to understand and treat your PTSD triggers.
In most cases, a therapist who specializes in Trauma/PTSD therapy is the best type of mental health professional to address the symptoms of PTSD.
PTSD/trauma therapy at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
If a client is working through a single traumatic event that occurred as an adult, trauma or PTSD therapy may only take a few months, but in general, it can take a year or more to effectively treat trauma symptoms and PTSD. The duration of treatment is highly dependent on the client and the severity of their symptoms.
The success rate of therapy for PTSD depends entirely on the individual’s symptoms, commitment to attending sessions, and personal abilities.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
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