Dr. Laurie Benton, a dedicated psychologist with a PsyD from The Chicago School, has been enriching the lives of clients since her graduation in 1998. With a focus on individuals of all ages, including preteens, children, teens, and adults, Dr. Benton cultivates a collaborative therapeutic environment characterized by empathy and responsiveness to her clients' thoughts and feelings. She is adept at seeing the world through her clients' perspectives, fostering a safe and accepting space where they can bravely explore the underlying reasons that led them to seek therapy. Utilizing various approaches, including trauma-informed and cognitive-behavioral therapy, Dr. Benton provides guidance as clients gain valuable insight and awareness into their life patterns. Her practice encourages individuals to express their thoughts, feelings, and reactions, aiming to break free from painful cycles and enhance feelings of empowerment and choice. Dr. Benton’s expertise spans a wide range of issues, including trauma and PTSD, anxiety, emotional disturbances, and relationship challenges. She also offers services in reunification, parent-child relationships, co-parenting, and parent training, supporting families as they navigate healing and develop adaptable coping strategies.

Lake County Counseling Center is dedicated to empowering individuals through a compassionate and holistic therapy approach. Specializing in clinical social work, they provide supportive care for a diverse range of clients, including preteens, children, teens, and adults. With a strong focus on addressing top issues such as depression and anxiety, Lake employs a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), to tailor sessions for each client’s unique needs. Their expertise also extends to parenting challenges, trauma and PTSD recovery, and enhancing self-esteem through positive psychology. Lake's nurturing demeanor and commitment to integrative care ensure a safe space for clients to explore their emotions and develop effective coping skills, fostering resilience and personal growth.

Julie Crowe McCarthy is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LCPC, NCC, CCC, MEd) who understands that life can sometimes lead individuals to feel stuck. The strategies that once seemed effective may no longer bring clarity, particularly during life transitions, relationship challenges, or a desire for something more fulfilling. Julie specializes in supporting teens and adults facing challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, and career counseling. Her therapeutic approach incorporates a variety of techniques such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), somatic therapy, Brainspotting, narrative therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), among others. Through her sessions, she encourages clients to process overwhelming feelings that may arise from work, school, family, or relationships. By fostering self-awareness and insight, Julie helps clients lead more peaceful and purpose-driven lives. Her goal is to guide individuals in recognizing their unique strengths and values through their personal narratives. Once clients embrace their inherent potential, they can develop the necessary skills to feel genuinely confident in their abilities. With a passion for supporting those committed to personal change, Julie emphasizes that while the journey may not always be easy, no one has to walk it alone.

Alana DeVaughn is a highly skilled counselor with over 20 years of experience in the counseling field, holding a Master's degree from National-Louis University. She has dedicated her career to providing individual, couples, and family therapy in a compassionate and supportive atmosphere. Alana’s approach is rooted in mindfulness-based practices and positive psychology, enabling her to effectively assist those facing anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship challenges. By creating a safe space for growth and healing, she empowers her clients to improve their overall quality of life. With a focus on humanistic and strength-based therapy modalities, Alana invites individuals of all ages to embark on their journey towards inner peace and emotional well-being.

Lisa Dvorak is a compassionate and skilled Licensed Professional Counselor with an MBA and MA, dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their emotional landscapes. She holds a safe and nurturing space for her clients, where healing and growth can flourish. Lisa's approach is warm and empathetic, characterized by her genuine belief that each person possesses the ability to live a fulfilling life. She specializes in addressing women's issues, family conflict, and parenting challenges through a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Positive Psychology, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Family Systems, among others. By actively listening to each client's unique story, Lisa equips them with effective coping strategies and lasting solutions to reclaim joy in their lives. Her rich tapestry of life experiences not only enhances her ability to connect but also fosters a non-judgmental and supportive environment. Lisa is committed to journeying alongside her clients, guiding them as they strive to embrace their authentic selves.

Meet Victoria Garrison, an experienced counselor with a deep passion for guiding individuals and couples through their unique journeys. With a strong background in various therapeutic approaches including Trauma Focused therapy, Emotionally Focused therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Victoria specializes in addressing the complex challenges faced by adults and elders. Her compassionate and client-centered style makes her an excellent choice for those seeking a safe space to explore personal, familial, or marital issues. In her work, she integrates techniques from Narrative Therapy, Family Systems, and Motivational Interviewing, fostering resilience and understanding. Victoria's warm energy and commitment ensure that her clients feel seen and heard, empowering them to make meaningful changes in their lives.

Adam Krieger is a seasoned Clinical Social Worker and therapist with over 20 years of experience in the field. He emphasizes the importance of clearly defining the problems at hand and identifying desired outcomes for effective therapy. Adam is dedicated to helping individuals and couples develop stronger relationships through effective communication, profound personal insight, and compassion. With a unique blend of empathy and humor, he adeptly supports those facing challenges such as relationship issues, depression, grief, infidelity, life transitions, family conflicts, and anxiety. He has a particular affinity for working with men who seek to address mental health challenges, enhance communication, and navigate relationship and sexual complexities. Adam is proficient in various therapy modalities, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), making him a versatile ally in the therapeutic journey.

Dr. Carol Paxton Cox is a compassionate psychologist dedicated to helping individuals of all ages, including teens, adults, and elders, discover hope and courage for personal change and healing. Her belief is that every life circumstance, relationship, and experience offers an opportunity for transformation and enhanced self-acceptance. Through her work, Dr. Cox assists clients in coping with loss, navigating difficult life transitions, and fostering personal growth. With extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children, she has successfully guided clients through a variety of challenges, including relationship issues, health crises, depression, trauma, anxiety disorders, and compulsive behaviors. Dr. Cox is well-versed in an array of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and psychodynamic approaches, among others. She also employs unique tools such as movies, TV, books, and pop culture as metaphors to enrich the therapeutic experience. Having completed a rigorous two-year CMED training with Caroline Myss, she integrates mind-body-spirit principles into her practice, using Archetypes to explore the symbolic meanings that permeate life events and interactions. Dr. Cox's warm clinical style and eclectic therapeutic techniques empower her clients, enabling them to harness their strengths and cultivate resilience amidst adversity.

Julie Pettinato, LCSW, is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist who understands that individuals are not alone in their struggles. In an era where many people report heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, Julie and her team at the Counseling Center of Grayslake stand ready to help. They are passionate about guiding those who have considered counseling to finally face their challenges head-on. This compassionate group specializes in assisting clients through issues related to depression, anxiety, and various addictive coping behaviors, ultimately aiming to resolve stubborn relationship problems for a happier, more peaceful home life. Just a few sessions could facilitate meaningful changes in her clients’ lives. Julie’s team employs Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) - the original form of cognitive behavior therapy - empowering clients with skills to manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so they can live in alignment with their true desires. Their goal isn't just to help clients feel better but to support them in achieving real improvement in their lives, reflecting their satisfaction toward personal goals. As the saying goes, the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago; the next best time is now. Investing in mental health is a valuable endeavor, and Julie looks forward to connecting with those ready to take the first step toward feeling happier, more fulfilled, and achieving their goals.

Aryn Rose, a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist, believes in the innate strength within each individual to find their path through life's challenges. She understands that clients can navigate their way through issues such as depression, anxiety, partner conflict, grief, and the effects of significant life changes with effort and a willingness to embrace new ideas. Aryn provides a supportive space where individuals can explore their situations and discover personalized strategies that empower them to become the people they aspire to be. By promoting introspection and reflection, she helps clients unlock new perspectives that are essential for personal growth. Recognizing that everyone grapples with more questions than answers at times, Aryn is committed to offering the support needed to gain fresh perspectives, ultimately guiding clients towards their most fulfilling lives. She looks forward to connecting with those seeking to enhance their journey of self-discovery.

Edward Senkpeil is a uniquely gifted counselor who believes in the meaningfulness of each person's life journey. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience, he recognizes that individuals may sometimes lose sight of their inherent worth and purpose due to life's challenges. Edward understands that personal history and life experiences intricately shape thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and behaviors. He provides tailored support to adolescents and adults facing a myriad of issues, including sexual addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, anger management, and relationship enhancement. Edward's therapeutic approach incorporates a myriad of modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment-based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Christian Counseling, among others. He appreciates the intersection of spiritual beliefs and mental health, welcoming and valuing the desire of clients to integrate their spiritual perspectives into the counseling process. This holistic approach aids individuals in becoming aware of the influences on their lives while equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate life's complexities. Through his empathetic guidance, clients rediscover their unique meaning and move forward on their journeys.

Debra Thurston, LCPC, brings over twenty-five years of clinical experience to her practice, adeptly working with individuals, families, couples, and groups. Her diverse background spans various clinical settings, including both inpatient and outpatient community mental health environments. Debra is experienced in addressing childhood disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, and family and marital issues, making her well-equipped to support a wide age range from children aged 6 to 10, teens, adults, and elders over 65. She employs an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating family systems and cognitive behavioral techniques, and tailors her methods to the unique needs of each patient. With a present-focused and goal-oriented approach, Debra emphasizes the importance of collaborative treatment planning, encouraging participation from family members and friends. She creates a positive and safe environment, empowering patients to navigate their personal challenges effectively. Debra is associated with North Suburban Counseling, P.C., which features a beautifully appointed, accessible office located conveniently for patients, reflecting their commitment to discretion and comfort.