Racial Identity Therapists in Crystal Lake, IL

Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.

I am a clinical therapist committed to helping individuals navigate the tough times that life throws our ways. My work focuses on challenging the negative thinking patterns that add to depression and anxiety. I believe in a collaborative approach to help clients reach their full potentials. I am passionate about helping individuals who struggle with depression and anxiety. If you would like to schedule an appointment please reach out. I look forward to hearing from you.

One of the reasons I enjoy being a therapist is that there is no such thing as an "ideal" client. People are all unique in their own ways and no two cases are ever the same. I accept the challenges of resistant or unsure clients, in fact it brings me the greatest satisfaction to help someone that doesn't believe that therapy can help them.

I love to work with all kinds of people but especially those who feel misunderstood. We are individuals within a community of others, we do not exist in a vacuum. We have relationships, responsibilities, systems we function within, cultural norms, and daily interactions that can greatly impact our mental health. Because those dynamic and unique parts of you exist in your daily life, they should be explored on your healing journey. Around here, we will question things. We will question power, safety, the past, the present, and all the hopes of your future.

Maria believes that a journey of self-discovery and personal growth empowers individuals to develop self-love, self-worth, and deeper meaning in their lives. She encourages honesty, acceptance, and forgiveness in order to heal and release inner struggles. She creates a trusting environment integrating a collaborative approach to exploring issues and finding solutions.

You are capable of so much. We all are. When life becomes overwhelming, you may be challenged with feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, lack of motivation and so much more. Talking to a therapist can help you get through these challenging times. I am a licensed therapist with a background in art therapy and counseling. My goal as your therapist is to provide you with a safe space in order to work together through whatever may be causing you emotional difficulties. I have experience working with children, young adults, families and teenagers.

At Within Holistic Counseling, we believe in getting to the root of the problem. Traditional talk therapy has been proven highly effective, so we combine this with meditation based therapy and somatic psychology to make it even better. To create lasting change in your life, you need to understand where your feelings are coming from. We are clinically trained in psychological techniques as well as, having specialized training in mindfulness meditation and the ability to create a holistic framework that will assist you in getting to the root of your patterns to heal and change them. Your work will be tailored individually for you.

I am a Christian therapist that has been working in the field for over 30 years. I help people learn new ways of thinking and relating and provide tools to overcome depression, anxiety, subtance abuse, sexual addictions, and relational problems.

You may notice distrust of change, discomfort with a lack of direction, or maybe you numb or isolate when overwhelmed. You may also have friends and family you "should" be able to talk with, however without the space to explore and ability to give yourself permission, we often feel stuck or that something is missing.

I am a licensed clinical counselor with 5 years of clinical counseling experience working with individuals and couples. I focus on issues such as substance use, addiction, LGBTQIA+ issues, and life transitions. I also address career concerns, stress over life decisions, relationships, boundaries, and healthy habits for overall wellness. I draw from motivational interviewing, strength-based, trauma-focused solution-focused brief (SFBT), and psychodynamic modalities. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become the force of change they want to be.

My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.

I think of life as a cross-country road trip taking us on an adventure. The adventure can be exciting but also scary at times. We make choices on where we wish to go. However, the ride can be smooth or shaky and take us through dark tunnels, across bridges, rivers, and hills. I'm your assistant navigator offering support, encouragement, empowerment, but also challenging you forward towards your chosen destination(s). Together we navigate through any obstacles in order to help you achieve your goals and discover the life you want to live.

My clinical work is grounded in relational, cultural, and trauma-informed practices. Creating a safe and empathetic therapeutic relationship is essential to me, as it lays the foundation for building insight and fostering self-compassion in my clients. I deeply value the opportunity to collaborate closely with you, ensuring that your life resonates with your aspirations and dreams. I look forward to your call! I do provide a free 15 minute chat/consultation.

At times we find ourselves experiencing problems and difficulties. We may respond in ways to barely get by and keep moving forward. Sometimes we struggle to feel a sense of belonging or feel consumed with negative thoughts and emotions. Maybe it’s our past that is keeping us from being in the present moment or it’s adding to our overall stress. In therapy, we can identify new ways to cope with difficulties and other life struggles that may be hurting our overall health or relationships.

Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.