Photo of Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I lost my dad, husband, became an empty nester and changed jobs all in the same year and so I know a lot about grief, transitions and regaining energy in recovery.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
I lost my dad, husband, became an empty nester and changed jobs all in the same year and so I know a lot about grief, transitions and regaining energy in recovery.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
(630) 491-4239 View (630) 491-4239
Photo of Winona Desarmes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Winona Desarmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, ALMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Winona Desarmes is an Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. She has a Master's of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy. Winona is experienced in working with a range of issues including mental health disorders, substance use, family concerns, autism spectrum disorders, grief, trauma, and couple's conflicts. She specializes in working with families and couples. Winona is trained in Cognitive Behavior, Dialectical Behavior, Solution Focused, Structural and Systematic therapy. Before LifeStance, Winona was working in a program for substance abuse as a couple and family therapist.
Winona Desarmes is an Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. She has a Master's of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy. Winona is experienced in working with a range of issues including mental health disorders, substance use, family concerns, autism spectrum disorders, grief, trauma, and couple's conflicts. She specializes in working with families and couples. Winona is trained in Cognitive Behavior, Dialectical Behavior, Solution Focused, Structural and Systematic therapy. Before LifeStance, Winona was working in a program for substance abuse as a couple and family therapist.
(708) 627-9463 View (708) 627-9463
Photo of Phyllis Laughlin, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Phyllis Laughlin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Waitlist for new clients
Life is all about relationships--beginning with the one you have with yourself. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to explore your underlying feelings leading to a better understanding and acceptance of who you are and who you can be. I will provide you a supportive relationship as you re-gain control of your life. Changes within often change relationships with others and that can be challenging, even frightening, yet rewarding. We will work together to strengthen emotional bonds with loved ones, cope with grief and loss, deal with trauma, and maintain a sense of inner balance.
Life is all about relationships--beginning with the one you have with yourself. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to explore your underlying feelings leading to a better understanding and acceptance of who you are and who you can be. I will provide you a supportive relationship as you re-gain control of your life. Changes within often change relationships with others and that can be challenging, even frightening, yet rewarding. We will work together to strengthen emotional bonds with loved ones, cope with grief and loss, deal with trauma, and maintain a sense of inner balance.
(773) 980-6971 View (773) 980-6971
Photo of Steve Spaccarelli, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Steve Spaccarelli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
I believe that times of crisis can also be times of transition and development. As a therapist, I strive to help clients put family and individual crises in the proper perspective, so they can begin to mobilize their own resources for change. Acceptance and insight into oneself and one's situation are powerful tools that therapy can enhance, both for adults and children of all ages. I have years of therapy experience helping clients cope with painful and difficult situations, including addiction/compulsions, damaged relationships, bereavement/loss, and abuse. The first session can be a powerful and positive step.
I believe that times of crisis can also be times of transition and development. As a therapist, I strive to help clients put family and individual crises in the proper perspective, so they can begin to mobilize their own resources for change. Acceptance and insight into oneself and one's situation are powerful tools that therapy can enhance, both for adults and children of all ages. I have years of therapy experience helping clients cope with painful and difficult situations, including addiction/compulsions, damaged relationships, bereavement/loss, and abuse. The first session can be a powerful and positive step.
(708) 402-8984 View (708) 402-8984
Photo of Erika Figgers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Erika Figgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Erika Figgers is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Masters of Social Work from Indiana University. Erika has experience working with individuals impacted by mental health, trauma, substance abuse, HIV, grief/loss, and homelessness. She is passionate about her work because she feels everyone has the capacity to learn, change, and create a better quality of life. Erika approaches her clients with holistic counseling to look at all areas of their life to create strategies to meet their needs.
Erika Figgers is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Masters of Social Work from Indiana University. Erika has experience working with individuals impacted by mental health, trauma, substance abuse, HIV, grief/loss, and homelessness. She is passionate about her work because she feels everyone has the capacity to learn, change, and create a better quality of life. Erika approaches her clients with holistic counseling to look at all areas of their life to create strategies to meet their needs.
(708) 401-9091 View (708) 401-9091
Photo of Andre T. Johnson: Therapy Health Clinic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Andre T. Johnson: Therapy Health Clinic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I've been a therapist for over thirty-three years. I'm passionate about helping clients navigate through debilitating mental health illnesses such as anxiety, depression, traumas, grief/ loss, medical conditions, and other personal, relational, cultural, and social and spiritual struggles by providing knowledge and strategies to establish better ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
I've been a therapist for over thirty-three years. I'm passionate about helping clients navigate through debilitating mental health illnesses such as anxiety, depression, traumas, grief/ loss, medical conditions, and other personal, relational, cultural, and social and spiritual struggles by providing knowledge and strategies to establish better ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
(708) 726-9659 View (708) 726-9659
Photo of Bertha Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Bertha Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to partnering with clients to identify strategies that can help them work through life’s difficulties. I understand the complex relationship between thinking and emotions, as well as the impact it can have on mood. I treat issues of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and (sexual) trauma, substance use/abuse, grief/ loss and complex family dynamics. I have many years of experience of working with diverse populations and assisting them with developing and reaching their goals. I identify as a social work first focusing on life issues to mitigate mental health issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to partnering with clients to identify strategies that can help them work through life’s difficulties. I understand the complex relationship between thinking and emotions, as well as the impact it can have on mood. I treat issues of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and (sexual) trauma, substance use/abuse, grief/ loss and complex family dynamics. I have many years of experience of working with diverse populations and assisting them with developing and reaching their goals. I identify as a social work first focusing on life issues to mitigate mental health issues.
(708) 742-8571 View (708) 742-8571
Photo of Christine Look, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Christine Look
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
It might include building stronger communication or stress management skills, understanding how to work with thoughts and feelings to recover from depression, or to learn how to set boundaries or heal from loss.
Dr. Christine T. Look is a Psychologist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1998. Dr. Look works with individuals, couples, and families facing life challenges. As a psychologist, she sees therapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist. Her role is to provide a safe and confidential space for clients, to understand the nature of their concerns and the challenges facing them. Together, Dr. Look works with clients to identify therapy goals that will create positive changes in their life. The process of therapy is individual.
It might include building stronger communication or stress management skills, understanding how to work with thoughts and feelings to recover from depression, or to learn how to set boundaries or heal from loss.
Dr. Christine T. Look is a Psychologist in Illinois who has been practicing since 1998. Dr. Look works with individuals, couples, and families facing life challenges. As a psychologist, she sees therapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist. Her role is to provide a safe and confidential space for clients, to understand the nature of their concerns and the challenges facing them. Together, Dr. Look works with clients to identify therapy goals that will create positive changes in their life. The process of therapy is individual.
(708) 766-7139 View (708) 766-7139
Photo of Brittney S Brooks, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oak Park, IL
Brittney S Brooks
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MA, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
I am aware of the ways that loss can either bring us together, or pull us apart- and in couple therapy with me, you will learn how to work as a team to heal your wounds.
If you’re struggling to cope with past traumas, I can help you identify how this is showing up in your present and offer the tools that will create the path to your desired future. Trauma impedes our natural ability as humans to be able to identify and reach goals, and connect and form relationships with others. I know that this can all be worked through with a positive therapeutic relationship and guidance to rediscovering the inner knowing you possess about what you truly need to thrive. My personal approach to therapy is what allows for others to connect with me- I am laid-back, direct, funny, caring, and non-judgement.
I am aware of the ways that loss can either bring us together, or pull us apart- and in couple therapy with me, you will learn how to work as a team to heal your wounds.
If you’re struggling to cope with past traumas, I can help you identify how this is showing up in your present and offer the tools that will create the path to your desired future. Trauma impedes our natural ability as humans to be able to identify and reach goals, and connect and form relationships with others. I know that this can all be worked through with a positive therapeutic relationship and guidance to rediscovering the inner knowing you possess about what you truly need to thrive. My personal approach to therapy is what allows for others to connect with me- I am laid-back, direct, funny, caring, and non-judgement.
(708) 809-2289 View (708) 809-2289
Photo of Nicole Boehne, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Nicole Boehne
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
My clinical specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Female Health, Menopause, LGBTQ, Transgender Youth,Premartial,Marriage,Grief,Parenting/ Parenting Children w/Special Needs.
Trying to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I’m here to make this process easy and help you find relief. I believe in a person’s capacity for change and the ability of each of us to reach our life goals. I’ll work with you to identify and remove the obstacles you have been facing. With humor and creativity, we will create the supportive environment you need to achieve your goals. I am passionate about connecting with people, and helping them to gain new ways of coping with life’s stressors.Ready to feel like yourself again?
My clinical specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Female Health, Menopause, LGBTQ, Transgender Youth,Premartial,Marriage,Grief,Parenting/ Parenting Children w/Special Needs.
Trying to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I’m here to make this process easy and help you find relief. I believe in a person’s capacity for change and the ability of each of us to reach our life goals. I’ll work with you to identify and remove the obstacles you have been facing. With humor and creativity, we will create the supportive environment you need to achieve your goals. I am passionate about connecting with people, and helping them to gain new ways of coping with life’s stressors.Ready to feel like yourself again?
(708) 223-2432 View (708) 223-2432
Photo of Monica Umlauf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Monica Umlauf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I believe that most people, at some point in their lives, may face challenging issues, be it job or family stress, relationship issues, death, or illness. My philosophy as a practitioner is to help those dealing with such issues to find support and help in facilitating change where it is needed in order to relieve some of the strain and enhance life experiences. My style is compassionate and individualized. While therapy should always be a forward progress, the pace of each person's therapy should be suited to the individual.
I believe that most people, at some point in their lives, may face challenging issues, be it job or family stress, relationship issues, death, or illness. My philosophy as a practitioner is to help those dealing with such issues to find support and help in facilitating change where it is needed in order to relieve some of the strain and enhance life experiences. My style is compassionate and individualized. While therapy should always be a forward progress, the pace of each person's therapy should be suited to the individual.
(708) 695-8788 View (708) 695-8788
Photo of Shantel Mitchell-Cooley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Shantel Mitchell-Cooley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I understand the unique challenges that illness, caregiving and grief add to your life and I can help. Living with chronic illness, cancer, multiple sclerosis, or dementia is unchartered territory which leads to stress and overwhelm and sometimes, depression and anxiety. I am here to help you navigate your way through to find a place of resilience.
I understand the unique challenges that illness, caregiving and grief add to your life and I can help. Living with chronic illness, cancer, multiple sclerosis, or dementia is unchartered territory which leads to stress and overwhelm and sometimes, depression and anxiety. I am here to help you navigate your way through to find a place of resilience.
(405) 679-2562 View (405) 679-2562
Photo of Donna Ferraro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Donna Ferraro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60304  (Online Only)
I provide non judgemental and subjective feedback to clients who may have emotional, behavioral and mental health disorders. My keen understanding of diverse backgrounds allows me to be highly responsive to a client's individual needs and circumstances. I am also very passionate about staying current with the latest evidence-based research and techniques which may be able to benefit my clients. Building a strong rapport with my clients is of the utmost importance, allowing me to accurately assess and treat my client's emotional/mental health needs.
I provide non judgemental and subjective feedback to clients who may have emotional, behavioral and mental health disorders. My keen understanding of diverse backgrounds allows me to be highly responsive to a client's individual needs and circumstances. I am also very passionate about staying current with the latest evidence-based research and techniques which may be able to benefit my clients. Building a strong rapport with my clients is of the utmost importance, allowing me to accurately assess and treat my client's emotional/mental health needs.
(708) 401-9583 View (708) 401-9583
Photo of James Chmielewski, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
James Chmielewski
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I have been working in the mental health field for nearly two decades, with a diverse array of clients: adults, adolescents, children, families, couples, groups, foster care, substance abuse, mental illness and more. I offer telehealth services and/or my office is conveniently located near public transportation and off street parking. I offer day, and evening appointments and will work with you, or your insurance, to assure coverage. I would like the opportunity to build a collaborative therapeutic relationship with you and provide you with the support, honesty and understanding we all need to grow.
I have been working in the mental health field for nearly two decades, with a diverse array of clients: adults, adolescents, children, families, couples, groups, foster care, substance abuse, mental illness and more. I offer telehealth services and/or my office is conveniently located near public transportation and off street parking. I offer day, and evening appointments and will work with you, or your insurance, to assure coverage. I would like the opportunity to build a collaborative therapeutic relationship with you and provide you with the support, honesty and understanding we all need to grow.
(773) 417-5784 View (773) 417-5784
Photo of Joleen D. Hartland, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Joleen D. Hartland
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
" I strongly believe in the strength of the human spirit and work with people to capitalize on their strengths. My clients find me empowering and supportive. One of my strengths is challenging thoughts that limit who you can be and what you can do. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor. I graduated with a Master's Degree in Counseling/Psychology from Illinois Benedictine College. I provide professional counseling and consultation to individuals, couples, , and families.
" I strongly believe in the strength of the human spirit and work with people to capitalize on their strengths. My clients find me empowering and supportive. One of my strengths is challenging thoughts that limit who you can be and what you can do. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor. I graduated with a Master's Degree in Counseling/Psychology from Illinois Benedictine College. I provide professional counseling and consultation to individuals, couples, , and families.
(708) 406-2304 View (708) 406-2304
Photo of Sadiyah Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Sadiyah Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Do you have a case of "Monkey Mind” over thinking or can’t stop thinking? Do you believe you are not enough? Are you feeling stuck and not sure how to move forward? Do you struggle with the funky blahs? I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Self Mastery Coach, and I am dedicated to helping women facilitate powerful change through joyful self-realization that aligns with their values and dreams. I support women who find themselves in this space and together we identify the root cause of unconscious storylines that shape beliefs, behaviors, and patterns of thinking that limit wellness and healing.
Do you have a case of "Monkey Mind” over thinking or can’t stop thinking? Do you believe you are not enough? Are you feeling stuck and not sure how to move forward? Do you struggle with the funky blahs? I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Self Mastery Coach, and I am dedicated to helping women facilitate powerful change through joyful self-realization that aligns with their values and dreams. I support women who find themselves in this space and together we identify the root cause of unconscious storylines that shape beliefs, behaviors, and patterns of thinking that limit wellness and healing.
(708) 787-8620 View (708) 787-8620
Photo of Robert Bender, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Robert Bender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Rob Bender, LCSW, CADC, helps clients experience immediate and sustained relief, improved mood, and enhanced performance. He supports children, adolescents and adults with identifying and building on strengths. Rob received an undergraduate degree from Illinois Benedictine and an MSW from Aurora University. He has over 20 years of experience in corporate therapy, private practice, schools, and juvenile probation. In addition to his counseling experience, Rob served as an adjunct professor for graduate and undergraduate clinical programs at Aurora University. In therapy, Rob specializes in a strength-based, solution-focused approach.
Rob Bender, LCSW, CADC, helps clients experience immediate and sustained relief, improved mood, and enhanced performance. He supports children, adolescents and adults with identifying and building on strengths. Rob received an undergraduate degree from Illinois Benedictine and an MSW from Aurora University. He has over 20 years of experience in corporate therapy, private practice, schools, and juvenile probation. In addition to his counseling experience, Rob served as an adjunct professor for graduate and undergraduate clinical programs at Aurora University. In therapy, Rob specializes in a strength-based, solution-focused approach.
(708) 627-2338 View (708) 627-2338
Photo of Dennis R. Verville, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Dennis R. Verville
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of behavior problems in children and adolescents, as well as depression and anxiety in individuals of all ages. I also specialize in the treatment of relationship problems and the psychological management of acute and chronic medical disorders, particularly cardiovascular disorders and encopresis. I help people gain insights into their difficulties and teach them skills that will facilitate the resolution of their difficulties. When requested, I confer with attending physicians and, in the case of minors, with their teachers and/or school social workers. I am on the medical staff of Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of behavior problems in children and adolescents, as well as depression and anxiety in individuals of all ages. I also specialize in the treatment of relationship problems and the psychological management of acute and chronic medical disorders, particularly cardiovascular disorders and encopresis. I help people gain insights into their difficulties and teach them skills that will facilitate the resolution of their difficulties. When requested, I confer with attending physicians and, in the case of minors, with their teachers and/or school social workers. I am on the medical staff of Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge.
(708) 231-0598 View (708) 231-0598
Photo of Susan A Gabel, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Susan A Gabel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP-II, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Life can throw a lot of stressors our way, and for many, this can lead to feelings of anxiety, shutdown, and/or overwhelm. Early childhood experiences have a significant impact on how we respond to stress. I specialize in treating complex or attachment trauma and have training in treatment modalities which support the brain’s and body’s natural capacity to heal. I work with teens, adults, and specifically therapists, to increase awareness of underlying patterns and assist in the healing of unprocessed events. My role is to provide support as we work together towards increasing your overall emotional capacity and regulation.
Life can throw a lot of stressors our way, and for many, this can lead to feelings of anxiety, shutdown, and/or overwhelm. Early childhood experiences have a significant impact on how we respond to stress. I specialize in treating complex or attachment trauma and have training in treatment modalities which support the brain’s and body’s natural capacity to heal. I work with teens, adults, and specifically therapists, to increase awareness of underlying patterns and assist in the healing of unprocessed events. My role is to provide support as we work together towards increasing your overall emotional capacity and regulation.
(331) 267-6389 View (331) 267-6389
Photo of Higher Ground Wellness Group, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Higher Ground Wellness Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Higher Ground Wellness Group’s mission is to provide a safe therapeutic space for all people, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our vision is to end stigma in BIPOC communities regarding seeking mental health services, by increasing awareness and access to mental health resources. It is a courageous choice to seek therapy and with over 50 years of combined experience, Higher Ground Wellness Group is committed to providing extensive, high quality therapeutic services for individuals, couples, families in a safe and non-judgmental environment that reinforces emotional, physical, and mental wellness.
Higher Ground Wellness Group’s mission is to provide a safe therapeutic space for all people, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our vision is to end stigma in BIPOC communities regarding seeking mental health services, by increasing awareness and access to mental health resources. It is a courageous choice to seek therapy and with over 50 years of combined experience, Higher Ground Wellness Group is committed to providing extensive, high quality therapeutic services for individuals, couples, families in a safe and non-judgmental environment that reinforces emotional, physical, and mental wellness.
(708) 340-0963 View (708) 340-0963
Grief Therapists

How long does therapy take for grief?

There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?

Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?

Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?

Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.