Therapists in Chicago, IL

The search for a therapist is never easy and I believe fit and comfort are essential in providing effective therapy. I strive to make coming to therapy a comfortable experience and to provide a safe space. I work with people wanting to reduce their anxiety and depression to build skills, gain insight, and increase self-awareness. I find that life transitions, big or small, can have a resounding effect on a person’s well being. Finding balance and building on personal strengths in order to achieve identified goals becomes important in these moments, as well understanding the importance of self-confidence. I strive to work with clients to find themselves and their individual nature that can help them through whatever they may face.

Hi, I'm Dr. Greg. Helping clients cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues is the focus of my practice. I try to maintain a balanced approach using an individual blend of theory and insight, practical applications, and humor. This can include discussions of physical, emotional, mental, and metaphysical wellbeing. Anger, work stress, frustration, loss, trauma and life's unexpected complications can get in between us and a peaceful experience of living. Assisting people in overcoming these challenges is my life's work. Please reach out to someone if it seems your life is being directed by negative emotions.

Is it difficult for you to achieve your goals because of depression, anxiety, panic, or fears? For over 25 years I have provided a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where results can be obtained quickly. Do you experience the overwhelming impact of chronic disease on you and your family? Do you or a loved one have physical or medical problems that just seem too stressful or confusing to manage? Many people seek my help with asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart, and other chronic diseases and achieve better treatment results and a higher level of control in their lives.

You may come to see me for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it's the way you are feeling and other times it's an event or situation you find yourself in life. I have come to understand that what underlies our conscious concerns or problems is the root cause of our experience of sadness, anxiety, or general life dissatisfaction. We will work together in a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship to better understand and work-through unresolved issues that are getting in the way for you. You deserve to feel better and have a fuller life experience.

My clients are hard-working and desire a better quality of life. They are willing to be challenged, trying new techniques to move forward. I use information about normal developmental transitions to move people when they are stuck. The focus is on identity and spirituality as themes I weave into my work. This does not mean organized religion, rather concepts such as connections, acceptance, peace, and letting go. If you choose to combine religion and spiritualuity, for your own growth, that is your choice.

The search for a therapist may be exciting, but also a bit intimidating. I can appreciate how you may be feeling. Don't let this stop you from making life changes. Working as a therapist in many different settings has made me realize that the key to effective therapy is your comfort. When you feel comfortable with your therapist, you gain the ability to make meaningful life changes. I will do my best to create a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment, one in which we will work together to achieve your goals.

   •    COVID-19  UPDATE:   http://margaretgrau.net/covid/    •     I help people to discover the best within themselves, and to use their strengths to overcome internal and external obstacles to success. I am interested in working with a wide range of clients and concerns. My approach is to work collaboratively to resolve conflicts that may be impeding your progress.

(I currently am unable to take new patients). I work with individuals who feel anxious, sad, or are having difficulty in relationships, work, creativity, or with their physical well-being. I have worked extensively with individuals of many ages and backgrounds, including young adult, adult, and older adult men and women whose concerns surround issues of identity, grief/loss, low self-confidence, and painful inhibitions in success or fulfillment. I also work with individuals who are struggling with the effects of medical illness.

Perhaps you've found yourself stuck in self-defeating patterns of thinking or behavior – struggling with feelings or symptoms you can no longer ignore. Maybe life has thrown you a curve ball you can't manage with your existing coping skills. If the solution was simple, you'd probably have figured it out by now. Over 25+ years, I've helped numerous individuals and couples with diverse backgrounds, strengths and concerns to get "unstuck," make significant gains and achieve greater satisfaction in relationships, work and life in general.