Racial Identity Therapists in Illinois

With 8 years of experience as an adult psychiatrist and Board Certification, I specialize in Reproductive Psychiatry and Integrative Women's Mental Health. As a Harvard-trained physician with a Master of Science in Narrative Medicine from Columbia University, I've had the privilege of delivering lectures for prestigious organizations like The American Psychiatric Association. My primary aim is to empower you to thrive, moving beyond mere day-to-day management. I am deeply committed to equipping you with the knowledge you need to make well-informed choices regarding your health. Within a female-centered approach, I provide medication management and psychotherapy, prioritizing your well-being at the core of our work together. I firmly believe that women deserve exceptional support and care from the onset of menses through menopause. Our collaboration is based on a partnership, and I am dedicated to ensuring you feel genuinely acknowledged, supported, and heard throughout your journey. Additionally, I am deeply passionate about social justice and the exploration of racial and maternal healthcare issues. A significant portion of my practice is devoted to assisting women of color in navigating the unique challenges they face while seeking top-quality, culturally sensitive medical care. As a reproductive psychiatrist, I possess extensive expertise and training to guide you through hormonally-driven life transitions with evidence-based care. My knowledge of integrative and holistic healthcare enables me to craft tailored treatment plans aimed at enhancing your overall well-being. My work has been prominently featured across a variety of platforms and publications, including renowned outlets such as CNN and the Journal of the American Medical Association. Your health and well-being are at the heart of everything I do, and I look forward to supporting you on your journey to better mental health and overall wellness.

Hi, my name is Dr. Celia and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who opened my practice to help those who want to make a change in their lives. I specialize in working with trauma across the lifespan, which is how I know how significantly our brains and bodies can shift after a difficult event and/or a series of difficult life circumstances. Therapy is a space for us to explore how our past informs who we are. Being able to form meaningful relationships is a key part of our mental wellness, but it isn’t always so easy to do. Reach out for a consultation if you would like help making a change.

Feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, abandonment and rejection are inherent to the human condition. You may struggle with these feelings when you experience losses, transitions, relational separations, or instances of systemic injustice. You may be dissatisfied in your career or unsure of how to actualize your dreams. You may also feel disconnected with no intimate network of support, which can contribute to heightened depression and shame.   That's why I provide a safe space for you to unpack your painful burdens without feeling judged or condemned. We can identify and dismantle the effects of shame in your life, so you can experience the power of vulnerability. We can also work on uncovering your true identity and reclaiming your agency so you can experience wholeness in all areas of life. We often get stuck in unhealthy cycles because of self-defeating thoughts and beliefs. Sadly, our communities can sometimes contribute to these cycles, and can shame us into hiding our pain. If this resonates, I would be honored to walk alongside you. Together we can uncover the toxic messages affecting your mental health so you can heal and flourish!

I believe everyone has the narrative to their own story and the answer they seek is within; sometimes it just needs a little compassionate digging. Because therapy isn't a life time based resource, I believe in empowering individuals to discover and develop their own inner and outer resource pool as well as explore new coping techniques to continue to build resilience, empowerment, and nurture self compassion. My approach is race informed, trauma informed, and LGBTQIA+ friendly. 

I am Taja-Nia, an adolescent and young adult therapist who helps clients control their behavioral response to difficult emotions, adjust to change, and live a life that makes them proud. My work with youth in various fields helped me discover my passion for Black and brown youth in underserved communities. These experiences led to the pursuit of my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Bradley University, and my work in clinical settings. As a program specialist in a major inpatient psychiatric hospital and crisis line volunteer, I have helped clients in crisis regulate their emotions and develop lifestyle changes to promote overall wellness. This was done by working with them to identify triggers, exploring coping skills, and plan for next steps. I believe therapy is a collaborative process between the client and the counselor, with the client being the expert of their own life. As such, I create a safe space and act as a guide, assisting the client as they explore past and current issues, unhealthy patterns, and identify overall goals. I utilize evidence-based strategies and techniques from an integrated cognitive-behavioral, individual psychology approach. Additionally, I incorporate aspects of mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. Human behavior is learned and developed within social contexts. Each individual presents with unique views based on their developmental age, socioeconomic status, gender identity, familial background, and culture. Taking all of this into consideration, I meet clients where they are mentally and emotionally. Treatment is tailored to meet clients’ individual needs. I have experience with youth and young adults who present with anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, suicidal ideations and self-injurious behavior, as well as disruptive behavior, life transitions, and trauma. I work with clients between the ages of 11 and 30 to effectively address problematic areas and identify mutually agreed upon goals. Psychoeducation is provided to increase understanding which assists in that goal setting and optimal client functioning. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to promote client insight, challenge faulty thinking, encourage behavioral change, and empower clients to take control over their lives in ways that lead to mental, physical, and emotional wellness.