Substance Abuse Counselors / Drug Counselors near Cicero, IL

Biography: Robert Allanson is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified in Drug and Alcohol Counseling (CADC) and holds his Certification as an Integrative Mental Health Provider (CIMHP). He received his undergraduate degree in Education from Elmhurst College as well as his Master's Degree in Community Counseling from the National Louis University. Robert has worked with a diverse population of adolescents and adults within the inpatient hospitalization as well as outpatient substance abuse and mental health settings. Robert's areas of focus have been addictions, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, and life transitions/adjustment related issues among many more. While taking a very client centered approach, he utilizes techniques from Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solutions-Focused Therapy. Using these therapeutic approaches he strives to empower clients and their families to take an active role in recovery employing their own strengths and resources in addition to learning how to modify and adapt them to the ever evolving seasons of life. Patient Care Philosophy My approach to patients is very much based on empowerment and collaboration. I believe each individual holds the tools and resources for healing within them. I strive to work with them to clarify these strengths and learn or problem solve strategies for adapting them. I integrate various evidence-based therapeutic approaches to foster not only healing, but wellness and a true sense of fulfillment. Therefore it is critical to take a holistic approach that emphasizes flexibility and adaptability to the ever changing seasons of life. How I Stay Well: Balancing my life with a wide range of activities has been very helpful for me. I feel it is very important to get a sense of accomplishment each day in as many of my valued areas of life as possible, within reason. With that I try to pick up a pencil and draw, sketch, or doodle something every day to keep my creative juices flowing. I also have made it a point to set specific time aside each day to play with my boys, whether that be going on epic adventures, building Lego masterpieces, or Jedi and lightsaber training in the backyard. Maintaining that sense of wonder and imagination has been a much needed treatment to balance out the stressors of work and life.

Biography: I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Biography: I am licensed in Illinois and South Dakota with 8+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Biography: I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy for behavior modification. However, I constantly make use of eclectic techniques as means of servicing my clients. I have worked with various populations of people such as children, adults, trauma victims, ADHD, behavioral/mentally ill individuals as well as, people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. I also have over 15 years experience in crisis work, case management, and case coordination all of which are necessary added services that help the provider administer quality care to the client and their families. I believe that my experience working in different therapeutic sectors as well as, various populations allow me to be effective in servicing people from different walks of life.

Care Philosophy: Talkspace partners with care providers who find satisfaction in providing therapy in a way that prioritizes the client's convenience and preferences. Because all therapy takes place virtually, through messaging, live virtual sessions, or both, providers can communicate more frequently and casually in comparison to traditional face-to-face therapy. Talkspace treatment methods are supported by scientific research and are committed to non-judgmental care that is inclusive and respectful of cultural and other identities. Talkspace patients are matched with the best provider for them based on their needs and availability during the registration process. Once matched with a provider, patients may change at any time, and may contact support to request a specific provider. *The above is attributed to Talkspace and not the provider.*

Biography: Theresa Kennedy Patton, LCAS is a Substance Abuse Counselor who practices in Chicago, IL. Theresa Kennedy Patton, LCAS is affiliated with Brightside Medical-Arizona.

Biography: I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence issues. I also have experience working with healthy boundaries and with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Biography: Hello, I am an LCSW who has worked over twenty years with Individuals and familial Trauma , DCFS navigation issues , Parenting struggles and Addiction. I provide a warm approach to whatever it is you may be struggling with . I have over twenty years experience working with Individuals and families Be it the needs for simple talking about your issues and providing guidance on such things as Coping with anxiety, i am here to assist with whatever your treatment goals may be .

Biography: Greetings citizens of the universe my name is Aaron Swerdlove and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Chicago Illinois. In 2003 I completed my Masters degree at The University of Illinois-Chicago, Jane Addams College of Social Work. Over the years I've learned a few things, for instance sometimes the best advice is the advice not given. Another thing I've learned is to not be so judgmental of others. Indeed I have begun a counseling/therapy practice and I do offer support, guidance, and understanding. My approach is integrative because there is not a one size fits all when it comes to problems and difficulties in life. The client's prerogative is super important . Adversity, difficulties, rough patches, problems, failures, etc are bound to happen in life and sometimes people need assistance to get through and understand what it is they are experiencing. I think therapy and counseling can be very useful in this endeavor. Making a little bit more space internally can result in more freedom and peace within. Changing the narrative of our storylines or understanding our experience in a different way can be liberating. Therapy/counseling can definitely help accomplish this. Go for it you are worth it. I'd love the opportunity to help.

Care Philosophy: Talkspace partners with care providers who find satisfaction in providing therapy in a way that prioritizes the clients convenience and preferences. Because all therapy takes place virtually, through messaging, live virtual sessions, or both, providers can communicate more frequently and casually in comparison to traditional face-to-face therapy. Talkspace treatment methods are supported by scientific research and are committed to non-judgmental care that is inclusive and respectful of cultural and other identities. Talkspace patients are matched with the best provider for them based on their needs and availability during the registration process. Once matched with a provider, patients may change at any time, and may contact support to request a specific provider. *The above is attributed to Talkspace and not the provider.*

Biography: I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor from the St. Louis area. I am licensed in Illinois and Missouri and have over 7 years of experience as a counselor. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Biography: I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have a depth of experience working in community mental health, substance abuse treatment centers, domestic violence and sexual assault centers, the public school system and private practice. I have extensive experience working with issues related to childhood trauma and abuse, addictions, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and LGBTQIA issues, including supporting individuals through the gender transition process. I strive to create an open, safe, and supportive environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared openly without fear of judgment. My clients have described me as safe, free of judgment, empathic, affirming empowering and warm. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to working with you!

Biography: I am licensed in Iowa and Illinois with 9 years of professional clinical work experience. I have a Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling, a Masters of Divinity with 4 Units of Clinical Pastoral Education, and over 15 years of Ministerial/Pastoral Practice. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & dementia caregiver stress. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Biography: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with over 20 years of experience working with children in school settings, adolescents with chemical dependency, and adults with chronic and severe mental illness. Most of my clinical experience has been spent helping adults with serious mental illness cope with their symptoms more effectively. I have worked with adults experiencing a wide variety of symptoms, including those associated with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder. I believe that each person is an expert on his/her own feelings, but behavior patterns are not always as obvious to the person engaging in them. I use an empathic, yet "no-nonsense" approach and help you to take accountability for your decisions and actions. I will work hard with you to find and change unhelpful behaviors, but I will not work harder than you. You hold the power and control to your own life; I will be here as a guide to help you get your momentum going in a more helpful direction. My clinical approach typically includes cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, or a combination of them. Above all, I want to ensure you feel comfortable with me because the process of making change is not always comfortable itself. I know that there is never an issue too small for which to seek help, and if you give yourself a chance and stick with it, you may be surprised how much better you can feel.

Biography: I am licensed in Illinois with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, life transitions and motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience in career counseling, counseling persons experiencing divorce and working with persons experiencing mental illness and their families. I have had the personal experience of dealing with mental illness in two family members, divorce and grief in the loss of one of my children. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am qualified to incorporate spirituality into the counseling if the client desires. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Biography: I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in Illinois with over 4 years of professional experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including alcohol/substance use, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, shame, and codependency. I believe you are the expert of your story, and I am here to learn how to support you the best I can. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I use a wide range of therapeutic techniques that combines motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, attachment, and humanistic. I like to learn more about what your values are and work together so your values can be more aligned with your actions and behaviors. I believe it takes strength and courage to ask for help and think it's amazing you were willing to take this first step. I am here to further support you and walk alongside you during this journey of growth and discovery. I look forward to working with you!

Biography: My name is Michael Peterson, and I have been working in the field of Social Work for about 10 years. I I am licensed in Illinois and have done counseling for about three years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have held a variety of different types of social work jobs (case worker, crisis clinician, therapist, and more), in a variety of different environments, which I feel gives me a deep, multifaceted approach to counseling. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Biography: I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. With more than 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients experiencing depression, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, unresolved grief, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with those that self harm and struggle with self defeating behavior as well as adults and children with intellectual disabilities and their families. My therapy style is person centered and strengths based. I believe in meeting the client "where they are at" and utilize Motivational Interviewing, active and empathetic listening as well as CBT and DBT therapies. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Biography: Hello, I am Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins, PhD, NCC, LCMHC, CCMHC, LCAS, CCS, SAP, MAC. I am a board certified clinical mental health counselor and addiction counselor with nearly 20 years of experience in behavioral health. I am licensed as a clinical counselor in the states of North Carolina, Illinois, and Alaska. I have a PhD in General Psychology from Northcentral University. I also have a master's degree in Community Counseling and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Chicago State University. I have worked in an adult inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient behavioral clinic, community-based mental health services, and residential substance abuse treatment programs. My counseling style is person-centered. I have a diverse therapeutic approach to counseling. However, my primary approach includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I specialize in mood disorders, anger management, addictions education, and relapse prevention. I believe that everyone has a story to tell; and I am here to listen. Giving voice to your concerns and issues is the first step to healing. We can accomplish this together. It would be my honor to work with you to assist you in reaching your healthy goals. Please let me know if you would prefer weekly sessions, and I will do my best to accommodate.

Biography: Leah Little, LMSW, CAADC is a fully licensed clinical social worker in the states of Michigan and Illinois, and a certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor. She obtained her MSW from the University of Michigan, with a concentration in mental health and interpersonal practice. Her graduate training was conducted at Michigan Medicine, in the Psychiatric Emergency Services. During this internship, she obtained extensive training in various evidence-based treatments, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Later in her career, while in government service with the U.S. Veteran's Health Administration, Leah was trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET). Leah has over a decade of work experience providing individual, family, and group therapy to adolescents and adults in community non-profit, hospital, and private practice settings. Her areas of treatment focus include life transitions, grief/loss, relationship or family issues, general stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, or coping with past trauma. Leah strives to create a safe, welcoming atmosphere where you can openly share thoughts and feelings, talk about your dreams and goals, be unashamed to cry, and maybe even laugh a little.

Biography: You will find that I love pairing creativity with intuition and a good pragmatic approach. I have over 15 years of experience in the field of behavioral health and addictions treatment. My experience with children, adolescents and adults has taught me that as humans, we share many common threads and themes. Yet, each person and family has their own distinct story. As such, I endeavor to respect those differences, acknowledge individuality and hold space based on your unique needs and expectations. By simply reading this bio and considering therapy you are moving with intention. For whatever purpose you are here. Do not miss an opportunity to recognize this step as progress. These self-directed moves are the combination of actions that ultimately propel you toward the direction you seek. We have been taught to expect that when we employ certain linear, orderly, step-wise or karmic principles that life will reward you. Although this may serve us well under certain conditions. As time unravels, the flaw in this theory becomes evident. Many of us come to find that maintaining wellness is complicated by factors that we may or may not have control over. We are deeply impacted by things like personal history, biology, traumatic experiences, relationships, and losses. Many of which we may not be equipped for. Therefore, we have to work to develop resilience, gain insight, and find relief. I'm reminded of the classic song, Tom Sawyer by Rush, "Always hopeful, yet discontent, they know changes aren't permanent, but change is". Our foundation of hope is this. Although changes may be unpredictable. They are not always permanent and never have to be unmanageable. Even though, at times, may feel that way. I value all questions, so please don't hesitate to reach out.

Biography: I am licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients including children, teens, and adults, with family conflicts, parenting issues, life changes, motivation, self esteem, & confidence, and with coping with addictions. I also have experience working with individuals with special needs including developmental and intellectual disabilities, and autism spectrum disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Biography: Hello! I applaud you for taking this step to move forward in your life seeking alternative solutions and support. My name is Luanne Maniacek and I have over 25 years of experience helping those motivated who struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions or those of family members, co-dependency, and care giving concerns. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois and Certified Alcohol and Drug Addictions Counselor, I've worked successfully with a wide spectrum of age groups, cultural back grounds, sexual orientation, and beliefs. I also have experience supervising graduate level therapist interns and therapist counselors working in community mental health centers as well as leading crisis intervention teams. My approach to therapy is strength based. I'd like to help you identify and capitalize on your strengths and find ways create new resources and skills in order to overcome your struggles. I use Interpersonal and Humanistic Modalities of treatment. For those struggling with addictions, I encourage either a disease model or harm reduction, whichever is clinically appropriate. My style is empathic and supportive, yet I'll challenge you at times, to promote your growth and movement towards positive change and success. I'm highly skilled at Motivation Interviewing and "listening between the words." In working with you, my first priority is coming to a complete understanding of your perspective, struggles, history, style, expectations, goals, and needs in therapist. Moving forward, open communication about your progress is vital, essential, and ongoing. Let's get started working together!