Therapists in South Elgin, IL

As a Latina, I understand the importance of culturally competent therapy, as well as the battles that the Latino community faces in society and stigma towards mental health. Therefore, it is crucial for me to understand your culture and diversity factors to have a better sense of who you are as a person in hopes that together we can explore ways in which I can help you reach your therapy goals. Throughout my years of practice, I have seen how different issues and symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress can weigh a person down; and obstruct the individual's ability to deal with the present moment.

Hello! Hola! My Name is Alma Llamas. I am a bilingual (Spanish/English) licensed professional Therapist. As a first-generation Latina, I understand the importance of finding someone who can understand and validate your culture “Tus Raices”, “Tus Valores”. I also understand the importance of providing culturally competent therapy, which is why I have developed an affinity for tailoring therapeutic approaches to address the societal issues impacting the Latino community.

This is kind of weird, isn't it, to "shop" for a therapist? I won't try to convince you that I'm the best therapist for you, but I can tell you that I love helping people learn how to help themselves. I worked in therapeutic day schools where I gained experience working with those struggling and/or experiencing ADHD, Autism, grief, trauma, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and depression. I have since used that experience to work with people of all ages wanting to find peace.

I work collaboratively with my clients to expand their insight into all the relevant factors and/or influences that are keeping them from reaching their full potential. These factors often include, but are not limited to; the identified stressor(s) that brought them into therapy; the effectiveness (or lack of effectiveness) of their current coping strategies; the influence past experiences and physical discomfort can have on their decision making and behavior; and increasing his or her awareness of their individual strengths and weakness. Simply put, I systematically help my clients make appropriate changes needed to meet their identified treatment goals.

My goal is to support you on your journey of self-discovery and help you create a peaceful and fulfilling life. I am deeply committed to assisting you in embracing your true power and understanding your inherent worth. With my compassionate and loving nature, I derive great joy from helping individuals enhance their lives. As a clinician, I have come to recognize that the most crucial aspect of counseling is the establishment of a strong connection and a sense of comfort between the therapist and the individual seeking support. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those I assist.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.

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.

Finding a therapist you or your child feels comfortable with can be an intimidating process at first. Sometimes, it can be difficult to trust and open up to someone who is a stranger. I strive to provide a caring and nonjudgmental atmosphere, where clients can be heard and respected. Therapy should be a journey for both client and therapist, exploring and working through issues together. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults as they deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, bullying, family conflict, grief, gender identity issues and oppositional behavior.

You are not alone. Whether you are unsure and struggling or ready to reach out for help for yourself, your child, teen or partner, we understand how difficult it is to have exhausted all your ideas and solutions. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, unsure and upset about the unwanted things that have and are happening around you. We are here to help guide you and those you love to develop the insight, understanding, and skills necessary to make life better. All the stress, discomfort, and pain you now feel can reduce and life can be and feel less worrisome and stressful. You can be at peace, hopeful, healthy, and feel happy again.

New Beginnings strives to help you experience wholeness and live a fulfilled life. Each of us is offered an abundant life that fulfills our souls. I offer understanding and care that inspires hope through encouraging and equipping people to grow. Therapy within a supportive environment allows for people to experience genuinely being known. I seek to offer clients a new experience of peace and joy in the midst of change and trials that are painful. I get to support and see people making long-term changes that enhance their life, allow them to receive healing, unconditional love, and impact the lives of those around them.