Find a Therapist

Kasia Wereszczynska, LCPC, NCC, RYT, and Eagala Certified MHP, brings her extensive experience to the field of mental health counseling, working effectively with children, adolescents, families, and adults. Hailing from Poland, she has cultivated a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, which enhances her ability to create a healing environment conducive to personal growth and positive change. Kasia possesses significant training in crisis intervention, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and positive psychology, with specialties that include anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, self-esteem concerns, and stress management. For the past 18 years, she has committed herself to breaking racial barriers and instilling hope within communities. Her background includes roles in various settings, such as the mental health court system with Cook County Jail, hospital emergency rooms, community mental health agencies, and both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric hospitals. With a passion for giving hope to others, Kasia has made a profound impact as a crisis worker on the South Side of Chicago, which inspired her to establish the In Her Shoes Foundation. Her belief that hope is the most vital element for overcoming darkness resonates throughout her career. It would be an honor for her to support individuals on their journey toward healing and resilience.

Lora Wiens, PsyD, is a compassionate psychologist who understands the deep desire for self-love and meaningful, healthy relationships. She recognizes that these aspirations can often feel out of reach, particularly for individuals with past trauma, neglect, or abuse. Many individuals who seek her guidance come with histories of childhood trauma, facing diagnoses that stem from such experiences, including PTSD, Complex PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Dissociative Disorders. Lora's expertise lies in addressing how childhood trauma can profoundly affect self-perception, trust in others, and the pursuit of personal goals. At the Samaritan Center, she provides therapy for adults, couples, and adolescents, specializing in relationship issues, anxiety, PTSD, and LGBTQ topics. Lora has completed advanced coursework with the ISSTD and is actively engaged in a consultation group dedicated to treating adults and adolescents with Dissociative Disorders. Among the various therapeutic approaches she employs, Lora integrates Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to equip her clients with effective strategies for managing intense emotions, navigating challenging relationships, and overcoming addictive behaviors. Additionally, she offers EMDR and in-depth psychodynamic therapy, fostering genuine healing and growth.

Elaine Zachrel, LCPC, has a deep understanding of the struggles faced by individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and low self-esteem. She recognizes that for many, the challenge of simply starting the day can feel overwhelming. Her compassionate approach aims to help her clients reconnect with their strengths, cultivate self-compassion, and enhance their resilience. By integrating Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic and Relational modalities, Elaine crafts a personalized therapeutic journey for each client. As a Certified Health Coach, she is particularly skilled at guiding individuals in setting and achieving health and wellness goals. Elaine is dedicated to helping her clients discover a brighter future and lead fulfilling lives by developing effective skills to manage distress and embrace their unique experiences.

Jacqueline Zagrans, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), brings a wealth of experience and compassion to her practice, working with young children, adults, couples, and families. She graduated with a Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy from The Family Institute at Northwestern University, complemented by extensive clinical training at the Bette D. Harris Family and Child Clinic. As a clinical member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, the International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies, and the American Psychological Association, Jacqueline demonstrates her dedication to professional excellence. As a Perinatal Mental Health Clinician for the Perinatal Depression Program at Northshore University Health Systems, she focuses on the nuanced challenges faced by parents. Jacqueline employs strengths-based and family systems approaches in her practice, fostering a warm, directive, and empathic therapeutic environment. She believes that the foundation of healing lies in the client-therapist relationship, striving to create a compassionate space where clients feel safe and heard. She specializes in trauma treatment, couples therapy, women's issues such as postpartum depression, parent-child relationship dynamics, and navigating life transitions. Through her work, Jacqueline unlocks the potential for personal growth and resilience, guiding clients toward healthier, more satisfying experiences and relationships.

Salena Pesch is dedicated to providing compassionate support to individuals and families navigating trauma and mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. With years of experience, she partners with her clients to help them reach their goals for a healthier life. Salena understands that self-discovery is a crucial part of the therapeutic journey, offering guidance to those seeking to find their place in the world. With a firm belief in the importance of recognizing our shared humanity, she helps clients embrace their imperfections and find connection in their struggles. Specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy, Salena aids her clients in understanding the vital link between thoughts and behaviors, especially for those who have been impacted by trauma. She is particularly knowledgeable in working with young individuals questioning their gender identity or identifying as LGBTQ. No concern is too great for Salena; she welcomes anyone ready to take the first step toward healing. Whether through long-term collaboration or seeking a fresh perspective on a specific issue, her supportive approach is aimed at fostering resilience and empowerment.

Dr. Fluckin Therapy is a dedicated psychologist with over ten years of experience in private practice, proudly steering their own venture, Fluckin Therapy. This unique name encapsulates the complexities of the therapeutic journey, acknowledging both the profound benefits and challenges that come with it. Dr. Therapy understands the feelings of many clients who enter therapy hoping for immediate relief but often find the process to be more intricate than anticipated. They offer individual therapy via telehealth for children aged 11 and older, adolescents, and adults, focusing on anxiety, depression, and particularly on those facing more complex emotional landscapes. Dr. Therapy conveys a straightforward message: true healing requires confronting pain rather than avoiding it. They invite individuals to embark on this journey together, promising to provide the guidance, understanding, and support necessary for profound healing. With a wealth of personal and professional experience, Dr. Therapy is ready to demonstrate what effective therapy truly looks like.

Janet Vidales is a compassionate and dedicated clinical social worker and therapist with expertise in helping children, teens, parents, families, and adults in their 20s and 30s navigate through life's challenges. Life can often present unwanted circumstances, leading to feelings of pain, regret, or uncertainty about the future. Janet understands that individuals may grapple with personal losses, anxiety, or depression that seems insurmountable. She creates a safe space for both parents seeking guidance for their struggling adolescents and those young people who feel isolated and misunderstood. Reaching out for help may feel daunting, but with Janet's guidance, therapy can become a transformative experience that fosters healing and positive change. Together, they work to alleviate depression, unhelpful thought patterns, intense emotions, and the lingering effects of trauma, while simultaneously enhancing self-confidence, self-esteem, and relationships. Janet fosters a collaborative environment where clients can feel more at peace and regain control of their lives. Change may be a daunting prospect, but with Janet's support, clients can overcome hurdles and explore constructive pathways towards achieving the life they desire. Therapy is a valuable investment in personal growth and well-being, and Janet is committed to providing a warm, accepting, and open-hearted approach to every session.

Terese Westberg, MS, LCPC, is a dedicated counselor who believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue happiness. With qualifications from Northern Illinois University, where she graduated in 2001, Terese specializes in providing therapy for a diverse clientele, including children, teens, adults, and elders. She effectively addresses common challenges such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues through various therapeutic modalities. Utilizing Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Family Systems therapy, Terese collaborates with individuals, couples, and families to identify, evaluate, and challenge non-productive fears and beliefs. Her compassionate approach fosters the development of purposeful insights and behaviors, ultimately encouraging and restoring well-being in her clients.

Karly Bellich is a compassionate and dedicated counselor, holding credentials as an LCPC and MAC. She creates a safe, supportive environment where clients can honestly express their thoughts and concerns, forming the cornerstone of the therapeutic process. Karly collaborates closely with individuals to help them achieve their personal goals through an approach that is individually tailored, direct, and infused with empathy and compassion. With a strong focus on building trust and understanding in the therapeutic relationship, she illuminates areas of life that may feel dark or unapproachable, guiding clients on their journey toward wellness. Karly has extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, children, and families across various care levels and settings, including educational environments and both inpatient and outpatient hospitalization. Her specialties encompass a wide range of issues, including relationship concerns, self-injury, family dynamics, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, mood stabilization, and behavioral challenges. As a private contractor for Prairie Wellness Counseling Center, Karly offers both traditional talk therapy services and more creative therapeutic approaches in a safe and comfortable environment. She is genuinely honored to support individuals on their paths to more fulfilling lives.

Aubrey Benton, LCSW, is a compassionate therapist dedicated to supporting teens and adults through life's challenges. Specializing in marital and premarital counseling, relationship issues, and trauma and PTSD, she employs a range of therapeutic modalities, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), family and marital therapy, and attachment-based approaches. Her experience encompasses working with couples, individuals, and families, allowing her to tailor her methods to meet the unique needs of her clients. Aubrey's warm and empathetic nature provides a safe space for individuals to explore their emotions and experiences, fostering healing and growth in a supportive environment.

A is a dedicated therapist specializing in teletherapy, providing quality mental health services to clients from the comfort of their homes or while on the go. Known for creating a space where clients feel truly heard and understood, A builds authentic therapeutic relationships that foster healing. With a focus on women experiencing stress, overwhelm, and the need for guidance, A has successfully helped many navigate challenging emotional landscapes, including relationship issues and grief. A is honored to be part of each client’s journey toward empowerment and well-being, utilizing effective strategies from mindfulness-based therapy, compassion-focused approaches, and strength-based methods. Collaboratively, A and their clients work towards rediscovering their authentic selves and achieving personal growth.

Lou Gallagher, MA, LCPC, is a compassionate counselor dedicated to helping individuals navigate emotional pain, often stemming from false beliefs that obscure their true selves. With over 24 years of experience, Lou has had the privilege of assisting a diverse range of clients from various ethnicities, spiritual beliefs, and gender/sexual preferences. Lou creates a non-judgmental space that fosters collaboration, growth, and empowerment, inviting each person to explore and celebrate their unique purpose and passion. Lou specializes in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, anger management, and trauma, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. Additionally, Lou welcomes those who seek to integrate their spiritual beliefs into their therapeutic journey. Recognizing that each individual is unique, Lou employs a variety of therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic theory, family of origin insights, expressive techniques, mindfulness, and bodywork. Other healing techniques in Lou's toolkit include psycho-education, cognitive behavioral tools, dream work, and EMDR. This holistic and integrative approach ensures that clients receive the comprehensive support they need to thrive in their healing journey.

Rob Castillo, LCSW, is a compassionate and approachable therapist who specializes in guiding both teens and adults through the complexities of their mental health journeys. He is especially skilled in supporting clients dealing with addiction, mood disorders, and dual diagnosis. Utilizing a diverse range of therapeutic approaches, including Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing, Rob empowers his clients to recognize their own expertise in navigating life's challenges. He believes that through this collaborative journey of self-discovery, individuals can find their inner strength and achieve meaningful change at their own pace.<br /> <br /> Rob’s specialties extend to addressing issues such as anger management, depression, anxiety, and grief—providing a safe space for those coping with loss, including the loss of pets. He emphasizes the importance of balance in life and encourages clients to explore the nuances in their experiences. Additionally, Rob has experience working with mandated clients and is qualified to manage Department of Transportation Substance Abuse evaluations. Recently, he has expanded his practice to offer Telehealth services across multiple states, including Indiana, making his supportive care accessible to a wider audience.