Therapy Session in Illinois

I am a compassionate mental health counselor who graduated from Southern Illinois University with a specialization in Health and Mental Health. I am deeply passionate about supporting children and adolescents as they navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, depression, school stress, trauma, and self-esteem concerns. My approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practices, ensuring that each young client feels heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where children and teens can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build confidence. My goal is to help clients uncover their strengths, gain clarity, and create a path toward personal growth and resilience.

I am a therapist who practices complete acceptance of you as a person and who seeks to encourage you to achieve a joyful and fulfilled life. I graduated with my Masters degree in Clinical Social Work at the University of Chicago, where I focused on trauma, child and adolescent mental health, and contextual third-wave therapies. I am most knowledgeable in treating anxiety, trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), phobias, sexual trauma, abusive dynamics, and self-injury. My approach is grounded in the honesty, collaboration, and authenticity of the therapeutic relationship. I will compassionately challenge you so that you can be free to live your life how you want to. Nothing is too strange, too dark, or too “insignificant” to go into. I care about your experience of what is challenging you, not whether it is logical or rational. Don't worry if you don't fit a category, I will happily work with you as you are.

Hi, I’m Elaine Smith. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, but more than that, I’m someone who believes in the power of healing, hope, and second chances. My passion is helping people move beyond the weight of trauma, anxiety, and life’s challenges so they can discover their strength and feel whole again. I know that reaching out for help isn’t always easy. That’s why I focus on creating a space where you feel safe, understood, and never judged. Together, we’ll explore your story at your pace, and I’ll walk alongside you as you navigate the hard parts and celebrate your progress. My approach is trauma-informed and culturally responsive, because I believe therapy should reflect who you are and honor your lived experiences. At the heart of it all, I see counseling as more than just sessions, it’s a journey of building resilience, finding your voice, and stepping into the life you deserve.

I am a clinical social worker who is personable and authentic. I lead my practice with humor and connection and always put my clients first. I graduated from Boston College School of Social Work with my MSW and a focus of Children, Youth, and Families. Through my specialty and training, I have been able to utilize my strong skillset working with school-aged children (5-18). I specialize in anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, and self-esteem concerns. My approach is solution-focused and prioritizes client empowerment and well-being. I am a nonjudgmental practitioner and am inclusive of all clients and backgrounds. My beliefs in therapeutic practice center on empathy and meeting clients where they are at, while also promoting growth and self-worth.

As a bilingual Spanish-speaking mental health counselor, I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate life’s challenges. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in social work from Northeastern Illinois University and a Master’s degree in social work from Dominican University. Throughout my career, I have worked with clients of all ages, with a particular focus on children and adolescents, helping them build coping skills, improve communication, and develop confidence in themselves. I provide a safe, empathetic space where clients can explore who they are, manage stress, and build practical coping skills. My mission is to help them gain confidence, reduce mental health symptoms, and develop resilience so they feel empowered to overcome barriers and thrive in their communities. I also enjoy working with families and parents, helping strengthen communication and understanding within the home. I believe healing happens when individuals feel seen and accepted for who they are, while also being supported in their personal growth. My areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, adjustment issues, cultural identity, and life transitions. Above all, I want clients to know that they are not alone — reaching out for help is a powerful first step, and I am here to walk alongside them on their journey toward wellness and success.

I’m a warm, non-judgmental therapist who truly values building real human connections with my clients. I bring empathy, a gentle presence, and even a bit of humor into the room, creating a safe and comfortable space where people feel seen and heard. I genuinely care for my clients not just as patients, but as people. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults, and I’m also experienced in supporting adults. I help clients navigate depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, self-injury, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, behavioral concerns, and family conflict. My therapeutic foundation is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but I draw from a variety of approaches to meet each client’s unique needs. I emphasize trust, authenticity, and helping clients connect with their values to guide meaningful change. My goal is to support each person in feeling safe enough to explore what’s going on inside and around them, and empowered enough to move toward the life they want. Therapy with me is about finding your footing again—and feeling like yourself.