Find a Therapist

Dr. Cary Klemmer, a Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, holds a PhD and is dedicated to affirming the dignity, worth, and rights of all individuals to pursue a joyful existence. Specializing in issues like depression, trauma, PTSD, and anxiety, Cary recognizes how societal imbalances, such as racism, sexism, and homophobia, can impede personal happiness. By addressing these challenges, Cary aims to alleviate suffering that may lead to limiting beliefs and behaviors. With a relational-psychodynamic and trauma-informed approach, Cary creates a therapeutic environment where clients can explore and affirm their experiences, define their vision for happiness, and collaborate to overcome barriers. Having worked with individuals of all ages, from children in play therapy to couples and immigrant families, Cary strives to be an ally for people of diverse body sizes and abilities, while also affirming queer identities and relationships. Partnering with clients, Cary is committed to helping them realize their authentic selves and achieve fulfillment.

Jennifer Klesman, LCSW, is an accomplished Clinical Social Worker and therapist known for her book, 'You Can't Stay There: Surviving a Breakup One Moment at a Time.' She understands the courage it takes to share experiences and engage in self-improvement and strives to create a nurturing, nonjudgmental environment that fosters personal growth. With a firm belief that a strong client-therapist relationship is a catalyst for progress, Jennifer specializes in supporting adolescents and adults as they navigate life's challenges and stressors. Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, dating struggles, trauma, and self-esteem. Jennifer is particularly passionate about helping individuals who feel trapped in unfulfilling relationships and guiding them through the complexities of dating. As a geek/nerd-informed, sex-positive, and kink-aware therapist, she brings a unique perspective to her practice. Drawing from her love for gaming, cosplay, and art, she incorporates Narrative therapy, DBT, ACT, and CBT as effective counseling tools to empower her clients to better understand themselves, relate to the world, and pursue a fulfilling life.

Daniel Kobosky, MAC, holds a Master's Degree from Loyola University and a national certification in addiction counseling (NCAC1). He specializes in working with adults and elders, focusing on mood disorders, coping skills, and substance use concerns. Daniel's therapeutic approach emphasizes active collaboration, creating a nonjudgmental and respectful environment that aligns individual behaviors with personal values. He encourages clients to set their own therapy goals, facilitating a process that helps them recognize and maximize their internal and interpersonal skills. With two years of training from the Linehan Institute, he is foundationally trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), focusing on emotion regulation skills. In addition to offering individual therapy sessions, he provides teletherapy services to individuals facing barriers to traditional in-person visits, ensuring that assistance is accessible to those in Illinois and Indiana. Daniel's commitment to fostering well-being shines through in his compassionate and strength-based methods.

Dr. Rachael Ellison is a dedicated Clinical Neuropsychologist with a PhD, specializing in cognitive rehabilitation tailored to each individual’s unique strengths and specific problem areas. With a focus on comprehensive neuropsychological testing, she works diligently to help her patients uncover crucial insights into their brain functioning. Dr. Ellison partners with her clients to enhance their cognitive, social, physical, and emotional well-being through a holistic approach to therapy. Her extensive expertise encompasses areas such as traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer’s, trauma and PTSD, and various cognitive disorders. At the forefront of her practice is a commitment to addressing intersecting identities and the impact of systemic injustice on mental health, making her a compassionate ally for those navigating these challenges. Currently practicing at Michigan Ave Neuropsychologists, Dr. Ellison combines her knowledge with an understanding of the complexities involved in cognitive rehabilitation, always striving to create an environment where healing can thrive.

Heather Frank is a compassionate and skilled psychologist, holding a PsyD and CGP, dedicated to providing tailored support to teenagers and adults facing a variety of challenges. She practices from an insight-oriented, collaborative, and individualized approach, creating a nurturing environment where individuals can feel heard and understood while also being encouraged to explore new perspectives on their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. It is her intention that therapy serves as a valuable resource, equipping clients with tools to alleviate immediate stressors while delving into the underlying meanings of distressing symptoms and patterns for lasting transformation.<br /> <br /> With expertise in relationship and family of origin concerns, emotional, physical, and sexual trauma, grief and loss, as well as mental health issues specifically relevant to college and graduate students, Heather emphasizes women's health and wellness, prenatal and postpartum adjustment, and life transitions, including career changes and navigating divorce. She also supports couples in mending trust, enhancing effective communication, and nurturing connection.<br /> <br /> Heather is a strong advocate for the efficacy of group therapy and is actively pursuing advanced training in modern psychoanalytic group psychotherapy at the Center for Group Studies in New York, further enriching her capacity to facilitate meaningful therapeutic experiences in both individual and group settings.

Jennifer Coren, a licensed professional counselor, understands the challenges that come with life's transitions. She specializes in providing relationship support and guiding individuals who feel stuck or anxious, offering a nurturing space for personal reflection. Recognizing how anxiety can impact various aspects of life, including mood, self-esteem, relationships, work, and sleep, Jennifer employs a holistic approach that addresses her clients as a whole. Her compassionate demeanor and expertise create an environment where healing and growth become possible for all who seek her guidance.

Elissa Sarno, PhD, is a dedicated psychologist whose approach is deeply rooted in the therapeutic relationship she establishes with each client. She fosters a safe and welcoming environment through her empathy, authenticity, and sense of humor, working collaboratively with clients to achieve their unique goals. Elissa helps clients identify, express, and comprehend their emotions, allowing for improved emotional management. Her therapy practice aids in understanding and transforming relationship patterns that may contribute to clients' distress. Elissa encourages open discussions about the therapeutic relationship, as these conversations can illuminate other relationships in clients' lives. She supports clients in processing how their social identities, family dynamics, and school or work environments influence their experiences. With a focus on empowering clients to enact positive changes in their lives and relationships, Elissa is committed to guiding them toward greater self-understanding. Her expertise encompasses anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem challenges, and a range of other concerns, including those relevant to LGBTQ+ identities. Elissa looks forward to the opportunity to support clients on their journey to healing and growth, exploring the possibility of a fruitful partnership in therapy.

Brittany Lakin-Starr, PhD, TEP, is a warm and compassionate licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience guiding individuals and families through various challenges. She specializes in treating mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and a range of concerns for clients of all ages, including preteens, children, teens, adults, and elders. With a focus on anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, behavioral issues, relationship challenges, and life transitions, Brittany employs insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral therapies along with family systems approaches. Certified in psychodrama and trained in specialty techniques such as Gottman Couple's Therapy and Prolonged Exposure for PTSD, she is uniquely equipped to address the diverse needs of her clients. Prior to co-founding the Chicago Center for Growth and Change, Brittany worked at Illinois Masonic Medical Center for seven years and imparted her knowledge as a faculty member at Loyola University Chicago while frequently lecturing at Northwestern University School of Medicine. Additionally, she has been featured on The 50 Minute Hour podcast, discussing the transformative power of psychodrama. At the Chicago Center for Growth and Change, Brittany leads a dedicated team of clinical psychologists committed to providing individualized care in a safe and nurturing environment, offering specialized treatments tailored to improve clients' mental health and overall quality of life.

James Lampe is a dedicated and experienced clinical social worker and therapist, holding an MSW, PhD, and LCSW. With over thirty years in practice, he has developed a deep understanding of psychoanalytic theory and technique. James specializes in treating adult individuals and couples facing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, alongside addressing complex relationship issues and fostering personal growth. He is committed to establishing a unique therapeutic relationship with each client, ensuring that personalized growth unfolds according to their individual journey. Whether someone has struggled with unsatisfying patterns in life or seeks clarity on their motivations, James provides insight-oriented psychotherapy grounded in psychoanalytical principles. Additionally, he offers compassionate counseling for challenges associated with serious illness, declining health, and grief. As a valued faculty member instructing the doctoral program at the Institute for Clinical Social Work, James combines his academic insights with practical, empathetic therapy, guiding his clients toward meaningful change.

Alison Lautz, LCSW, ACM, and RYT, is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist based in the vibrant heart of downtown Chicago. With a commitment to supporting professional adults, mothers, teens, and college students, she expertly navigates clients through life transitions, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, chronic stress, and self-esteem issues. Alison's extensive background in yoga, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness enriches her therapeutic practice, allowing her to offer a holistic approach that complements traditional therapy methods. With 15 years of experience, she is particularly passionate about aiding women facing perinatal mood disorders, infertility, high-risk pregnancies, perinatal loss, and adjustments to motherhood. Her warm personality and extensive training create a nurturing environment for clients, fostering the peace and success they seek. Utilizing a client-centered approach along with diverse therapeutic techniques like CBT, ACT, and mindfulness, Alison encourages individualized growth and transformative change, guiding her clients to become the best versions of themselves.

Colleen Lennon is a compassionate clinical social worker and therapist, dedicated to helping individuals navigate the challenges of modern life. With a strong understanding that relationships, work, finances, and social dynamics can often feel overwhelming, Colleen recognizes the signs of burnout, anxiety, and depression that many face in today’s fast-paced world. She specializes in a wide array of issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, stress management, work/life balance, relationship challenges, life transitions and adjustments, as well as financial difficulties. As a Certified Financial Social Worker, Colleen brings valuable expertise in addressing money disorders and the stress associated with financial matters for both adolescents and adults. Emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and a holistic, person-centered therapeutic approach, she adeptly utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy techniques to empower clients in understanding how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interconnectedly influence their lives and relationships. Colleen tailors her approach to align with the unique needs and interests of each individual, fostering a collaborative therapy process. She is deeply committed to creating a safe, judgment-free space where individuals can explore their challenges and work towards meaningful changes. Motivated by an unwavering belief in her clients’ potential, Colleen is dedicated to helping them uncover and develop their inner strengths.

Dr. Melanie Levine understands that life challenges can feel overwhelming, particularly when individuals find themselves navigating times of uncertainty, such as a sudden medical diagnosis or the loss of a relationship. Even expected life transitions, like welcoming a new baby or relocating for a job, can lead to unexpected emotional responses. Her practice emphasizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), offering evidence-based interventions for adults grappling with depression, anxiety, and chronic health conditions. Through the integration of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles, she empowers her patients to lead meaningful lives rooted in their core values. Dr. Levine considers it an honor to provide psychological care and collaborates closely with her patients to establish personalized goals and practical strategies to cope with their current challenges. She is dedicated to leveraging each person's unique strengths and fostering hope through warmth, support, respect, and encouragement.

Maddie Lewandowski is a licensed professional counselor who deeply understands the feelings of being lost and disconnected from daily life that many individuals experience. She recognizes that many people struggle with reliving painful past moments or fearing what the future may hold. With a passion for supporting survivors of various types of trauma, Maddie's expertise spans a wide range of stress and trauma disorders. She tailors her therapeutic approach to meet the individual needs and goals of each client. Through modalities like traditional talk therapy and EMDR, Maddie assists her clients in discovering meaningful growth on their healing journeys. She firmly believes that finding peace is an inward voyage and is committed to helping her clients chart their paths towards healing and self-discovery.