Michelle Lawrence, MA, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois, known for her warm and open approach to counseling individuals, families, and couples. With a Master's in Clinical Professional Psychology from Roosevelt University, she specializes in navigating women's issues, family conflict, and relationship troubles. Michelle is committed to fostering a non-judgmental and accepting environment, making trust and collaboration foundational elements of her practice. She helps clients address a range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, mood disorders, and self-esteem issues, using various therapeutic approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), the Gottman Method, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. As a professional with personal experience in relationship management, being married with two children, Michelle nurtures strong therapeutic bonds with her clients, providing them with a safe space to share their personal stories.

Laura Lee Nelson is an accomplished therapist and licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who specializes in providing counseling for individuals, couples, and families. With expertise in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relational challenges, addictions, loss, and grief, Laura believes in fostering a strong therapeutic relationship founded on acceptance and empathy. Her commitment is to understand the unique needs of her clients, guiding them to recognize their inherent strengths and empowering them to navigate unresolved challenges in their lives.

Dr. Linda Heying, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience, is dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their unique challenges. She understands the feelings of being stuck or losing control in one’s life and relationships, and works closely with her clients to design personalized therapeutic plans. With expertise in a variety of therapy modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and the Gottman Method, Linda offers a holistic approach, considering the body, mind, and spirit in the healing process. Her compassionate engagement fosters a safe environment for clients dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and relationship dynamics. Committed to guiding clients through all life transitions, she also excels in working with step-families and addressing self-esteem issues. Mindfulness and meditation are integral to her practice, enriching her therapeutic process and empowering her clients to find balance and resilience in their lives.

Colleen Mary Llacsa is a compassionate clinical social worker and therapist who firmly believes that there is always hope for change and improvement in life. She understands that individuals may feel overwhelmed by pain and suffering, and that at times, it may seem like things will never get better. Colleen is dedicated to guiding her clients towards renewed hope and meaningful life changes. She knows that taking the first step by asking for help can be the beginning of a transformative journey. With her support, clients experience growth, eventually reaching moments where they can reflect and say, 'I am happy; I feel joy and peace.' Colleen brings a wealth of experience in helping people overcome significant challenges and fosters an environment that instills confidence in their resilience. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that the human spirit can endure and thrive. Together with her clients, Colleen works to visualize their ideal life, exploring feelings, and creating a pathway to achieve those aspirations. The journey toward a fulfilling life starts now.

Don Milazzo is dedicated to helping individuals navigate through challenging times in their lives. He understands the struggles of feeling over-stressed, unhappy, uncomfortable, unfulfilled, and unprepared to move forward. In his compassionate practice, he creates a safe and confidential environment where clients can develop the necessary tools to address and work through the discomfort and frustration they face, ultimately guiding them towards a more complete and satisfying life. Don specializes in individual counseling, couples and pre-marital counseling, trauma and grief, and has extensive experience in managing depression, anxiety, and anger. His client-centered, interactive counseling style is effective with adults, children (ages 7 and up), and adolescents facing a diverse array of concerns, including relationship issues, parenting challenges, career obstacles, stress, and anger management. By integrating cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, solution-focused techniques, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and EMDR, Don fosters an environment that empowers his clients. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and Don is here to support you in taking those transformative steps toward change.

Yvette Mitchell, LCSW, is a compassionate and skilled Clinical Social Worker who understands that a desire for change can lead to significant personal growth. As a Systems Therapist, she employs a strength-based approach to assist individuals, couples, and families in navigating the challenges that disrupt their lives. Yvette is dedicated to helping those facing chronic stress, relationship discord, family conflicts, and the emotional distress stemming from chronic illnesses. With a focus on collaboration, she fosters a positive environment conducive to change, empowering her clients to work through their challenges. Yvette believes that everyone encounters life's difficulties, and she is committed to guiding her clients on the journey towards creating a better, happier version of themselves. Her expertise spans various therapy types, including Couples, Family/Marital therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, making her a versatile ally in the therapeutic process.

Janet Mullen, LCSW, is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist who believes that every individual considering therapy is unique. Whether a parent is seeking strategies to manage their child's behavior, a child grappling with low self-esteem, or someone aiming to come to terms with a difficult past or combat anxiety and depression, Janet fosters a warm, safe, and accepting atmosphere crucial for personal growth. Her commitment to providing a secure environment allows clients to explore their lives, find balance, and determine a way forward. Janet offers various therapy models tailored to each person's needs. For parents, she provides guidance in developing effective and loving parenting skills or addressing challenges related to anxiety, loss, and behavioral issues. Understanding that children's issues are complex, Janet emphasizes holistic treatment that involves both the child and the parent. For adults facing anxiety, depression, or organizational challenges, options include mind-body approaches and the empowering Internal Family Systems model. Clients utilizing this model often report a heightened sense of connection to themselves and reduced triggers from past pain.

Jennifer Knox is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who specializes in helping individuals, couples, and children navigate their struggles with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. With a warm and caring approach, she establishes meaningful therapeutic relationships that empower her clients to work towards mutually determined goals. Jennifer offers a variety of therapy types, including play therapy, family and marital counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, and person-centered therapy. She has extensive experience working with diverse populations and is trained in addressing domestic violence and post-abortive syndrome. Through her individualized sessions, clients are encouraged to embrace their strengths and begin living their life to its fullest potential.

Stella Nicholson, CAADC, is a compassionate therapist and president of Stella M. Nicholson and Associates in Lombard, Illinois. With a career in the addiction and mental health field dating back to 1978, she specializes in guiding Adult Children of Alcoholics, co-dependents, alcoholics, and addicts through their healing journey. She is skilled in eclectic therapy approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and works with individuals, couples, and families to foster resilience and recovery. Beyond her private practice, Ms. Nicholson serves as a consultant and trainer for treatment facilities, mental health organizations, schools, and hospitals, specializing in program development and implementation. Her dedication is evident in her mission to help clients piece their lives back together, and she has also authored two insightful workbooks. Additionally, Ms. Nicholson conducts interventions for families struggling with substance abuse issues, providing vital support to those affected by addiction.

Courtney Osbourne is an esteemed counselor with over 14 years of experience, recognized for her deep commitment to supporting individuals as they navigate the complexities of life. At the Covenant Intuition Center, she cultivates a space where clients are encouraged to explore their relationships, both with themselves and with others, including their creator and social circles. Courtney holds certifications as an Anger Management Treatment Professional and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional through the International Association of Trauma Professionals.<br /> <br /> Her expertise spans across a myriad of challenges including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, and various life transitions. She understands that while clients often seek counseling for specific behaviors or emotional challenges, there are often deeper, more intricate issues at play. This insight informs her holistic approach, addressing not only mental health but also factors like nutrition, lifestyle, and spirituality in the healing process.<br /> <br /> With a repertoire of therapeutic modalities at her disposal, including Expressive Arts, Trauma Focused therapies, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Courtney is adept at tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of preteens, children, teens, and adults. Her dedication to fostering emotional well-being and resilience resonates throughout her practice.

Inner Peace Therapies understands that the decision to seek counseling can be daunting. Recognizing that no one is immune to life's stressors, Inner Peace believes in the transformative power of even small changes. The practice aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment for clients on their journey to healing. Through a collaborative approach, individuals can explore their emotional needs and confront challenges, ultimately uncovering their true potential. With a focus on strengths and integrating complementary therapy methods, Inner Peace Therapies guides clients towards wellness, happiness, and tranquility. The practice prides itself on culturally sensitive care, ensuring compassionate support for clients from all walks of life. Led by a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Inner Peace Therapies brings over 17 years of clinical experience. The therapist is EMDR level 11 trained and has expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Attachment theory. Advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) allows for a focused approach in working with couples, enhancing safety and connection within relationships. Together, Inner Peace Therapies collaborates with clients to identify strengths and develop positive coping strategies, finding solutions that promote overall wellbeing.

Firas Qureshi is a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor based in Illinois, holding a Master's degree from Roosevelt University. His mission is to cultivate a safe and supportive environment for those seeking therapy. With extensive experience addressing a diverse range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation, Firas has worked with children, adolescents, and their families. He understands that each individual is unique, and therefore, he adapts his therapeutic approach to meet the specific needs of each client. Known for his authenticity and openness, Firas is dedicated to collaborating with clients to discover the most effective strategies for their personal growth. He is eager to accompany you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. In his leisure time, Firas enjoys working out, playing video games, reading, and cherishing moments spent with family and friends.

At Responders Wellness Center, we cater exclusively to first responders, ER staff, and veterans. Dr. First, a dedicated psychologist with a PsyD, boasts 13 years of experience as a former Chicago Police Officer, which informs her understanding of the unique challenges faced by first responders. The center was established to provide essential support for individuals dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and other related issues stemming from their critical roles. Recognizing the concern many may have about engaging in therapy while safeguarding their careers, Responders Wellness Center prioritizes privacy and confidentiality, featuring a discreet entrance and exit. The services offered include individual therapy, yearly wellness checks, crisis intervention training, and both individual and group critical incident debriefing. The team specializes in evidence-based therapies such as EMDR, CBT, and trauma-based interventions, along with informative presentations on officer and firefighter wellness, CIT, peer support, and stress management. Every psychologist at Responders Wellness Center shares a history of serving as first responders or has substantial experience working with this community, ensuring a deep understanding and empathetic approach in all therapeutic practices.