Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Crystal Lake, IL

I trained in medicine before I became a therapist, and it changed what I listen for. When a client tells me her chest tightens before every meeting, or that she can't stop thinking about a diagnosis, I take the physical side of that seriously.

I hold a PhD in health psychology and I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and Florida. My published research is on post-traumatic growth in women. Since 2020 I've also taught graduate counseling and psychology as an adjunct professor.

I see adults dealing with trauma and complex trauma, chronic illness, health anxiety, depression, grief, and major life transitions. I work with women through perinatal and postpartum struggles and through fertility challenges. I also see adolescents.

I speak English, Hindi, Arabic, and Urdu. If you're dealing with immigration, acculturation, or family expectations that don't translate easily, you won't have to explain that context to me first.

Clients often describe me as approachable, practical, and easy to talk to. Therapy should be a collaborative process, and I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself without fear of judgment. My style balances support with practical problem-solving, helping clients gain insight while also developing strategies they can use in everyday life. Above all, I want you to feel heard, understood, and supported as we work toward your goals together.

Sometimes you can look like you're holding everything together while quietly feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or exhausted. You may spend so much energy taking care of work, family, or everyone around you that there's very little left for yourself. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone.

I work with adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, panic, trauma, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive space where you can slow down, better understand what's contributing to your stress, and build practical tools that help you feel calmer, more confident, and more connected to yourself.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT). My decision to become a counselor comes from a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of others. I have always been naturally curious and interested in understanding people, the experiences that shape us, the patterns we develop, and the ways we navigate both adversity and growth.

Mental health and psychology have also been part of my world for as long as I can remember. As the daughter of a mental health counselor, I grew up with an appreciation for the importance of mental health, human behavior, and the therapeutic process. Over time, that early exposure contributed to my own passion for helping others.

Like many people, I have experienced my own share of life’s challenges and difficult seasons. Those experiences have shaped my understanding of resilience and deepened my compassion for the complexities of being human. They have also taught me that healing is not always linear and that sometimes we need support to move through the experiences that leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from ourselves.

It is a privilege to support people through vulnerable and meaningful moments in their lives. I see my clients as a whole person with a unique history, strengths, challenges, and capacity for growth. My hope is that you leave therapy not only feeling understood and supported, but also more knowledgeable about yourself, equipped with practical tools, and empowered to move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and resilience.

I understand what it's like to feel overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly on edge. Maybe you're emotionally drained, unmotivated, overthinking everything, or simply not feeling like yourself anymore. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family conflict, divorce, co-parenting, work stress, grief, low self-esteem, and major life changes. I also specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, emotional abuse, or narcissistic abuse. My goal is to provide a warm, down-to-earth, nonjudgmental, and safe space where you can feel understood, supported, and comfortable being yourself. You're not stuck. Healing is possible, and you do not have to go through it alone. When you're ready to take the next step, I'd be honored to support you on your journey.

Hi, I’m Carllie Meeks, a licensed therapist specializing in eating disorders, body image, and identity work. I hold a Masters degree from Loyola University Chicago and have extensive experience supporting adults in their recovery through a culturally responsive and trauma-informed lens. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies with compassion and curiosity, helping clients reconnect with their bodies and sense of self. I’m especially passionate about creating affirming spaces for BIPOC individuals navigating healing and self-acceptance

I am a dual board-certified psychiatric and geriatric nurse practitioner with over 25 years of healthcare experience, providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to young adults, adults, and older adults. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and behavioral or psychological symptoms associated with dementia and complex medical conditions.

My experience spans hospital care, rehabilitation, hospice, and long-term care settings, giving me a deep understanding of the connection between physical and mental health. I am especially comfortable supporting individuals with multiple medical concerns or those navigating life transitions related to aging, illness, or stress.

Making the decision to begin therapy is a meaningful step, and I am committed to creating a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly heard. With over 18 years of experience as a school social worker, I have had the privilege of helping children, adolescents, and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, understanding, and practical support. Throughout my career, I have worked with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, family conflict, grief, trauma, life transitions, school-related stress, low self-esteem, and difficulty managing emotions. I believe every person’s story is unique, and therapy should be tailored to your individual needs, strengths, and goals. My hope is to walk alongside you as you move toward growth, healing, and a more fulfilling life.

Are you wanting to make change in life, but are struggling to escape the same old patterns? Looking to empower yourself and create change in your life? I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has spent my career assisting men in achieving their goals, making lasting and fulfilling relationships, and facing life's challenges head-on. I have worked with adults across the lifespan to address concerns about relationships, behaviors, substance use, and more.

⭐ I’m Shelly Lewin, LCSW/LICSW, a therapist with 31 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, identity issues, and major life transitions. I provide virtual therapy across Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, New Mexico, and West Virginia, offering accessible, evidence‐based care to clients seeking meaningful and lasting change. I have 30+ years of experience in private practice and leadership roles at organizations including:

• The Joint Commission
• Northwestern Memorial Hospital
• Kaiser Permanente
• Common Spirit
• Mount Sinai Health System

This background allows me to offer deep clinical expertise paired with practical, real‐world understanding of how people heal and grow. My approach is warm, collaborative, open‐minded, and affirming. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for change, I’m here to walk beside you with steady support and clinically grounded guidance. I specialize in therapy for adults experiencing:

• Anxiety & panic disorders
• Depression & mood disorders
• PTSD and trauma recovery
• Substance use and addiction
• LGBTQIA+ affirmative care
• Men’s issues & identity exploration
• Life and career transitions
• Chronic illness & long-term stress

Additional areas of expertise include: Bipolar disorder, OCD, grief & loss, workplace stress, anger management, cultural/ethnic identity issues, expat adjustment, relationship issues, family challenges, and end-of-life concerns