Grief counselors and therapists in Downers Grove, IL

You deserve a therapist who knows the terrain. I’ve been where you are. I have experienced mental health from every angle—as someone who has done the deep personal work, as someone who has navigated the pain of losing loved ones to suicide, and now as a therapist. When I suggest a tool or a shift in perspective, it’s because I practice what I preach. I know the freedom that comes from setting boundaries and building a life you truly love, and I want that same transformation for you.

A perspective shaped by the world: Growing up with over 30 exchange students from around the globe taught me early on that everyone’s "normal" looks different. This curiosity follows me outside the office, too. This love for travel and culture keeps my mind open and my spirit curious—traits I bring into every session we share.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with 28 years of experience partnering with adolescents, adults of all ages and families. I am bilingual so I offer therapy in english and spanish.

Hey! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who values peace, authenticity, and creating a safe space for healing. As someone who loves exploring, learning, and finding meaning in life's layers, I bring a calm, empathetic, and thoughtful presence to every session.

Life comes with challenges—whether it's day-to-day anxiety, work stress, seasonal changes in mood, grief, or major life transitions. Having a strong support system can make all the difference, and sometimes an unbiased, compassionate person to talk to is exactly what you need. Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and while we haven't met yet, I'm glad you're taking this step.

I've been a healthcare social worker for nearly 10 years, supporting children, teens, adults, and families through life transitions, grief, serious illness, and challenging hospital experiences. These experiences have reinforced my belief that everyone deserves a space where they feel heard, understood, and supported.

Growing up, my family didn't talk much about emotions or healthy ways to cope. That experience sparked my passion for helping others build self-awareness, resilience, and confidence in navigating life's ups and downs.

My goal is to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you can be yourself, explore what's bringing you to therapy, and work toward meaningful, lasting change—at your own pace.

Deciding to come to therapy can be very scary. Sharing your most intimate thoughts with someone can be even more frightening. This is why I make sure that I create a very safe, caring, positive, and secure place where you can feel comfortable and know that you are with someone who truly cares about your well-being.

Are you tired of carrying things that are just too heavy for you to carry alone anymore? As a licensed professional counselor, I can help you carry that load. In my 12 years as a counselor, I've worked with families, children, adolescents, and adults of all ages in homes, outpatient offices, and online. I have a Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision, and have taught in graduate counseling programs, but my first love is working directly with individuals who are dealing with the effects of trauma, grief, burnout, or anxiety. I am a Christian and would be happy to incorporate your spiritual beliefs, whether Christian or not, into our work together, if desired.

I am adept at helping people with difficulties arising from childhood neglect and abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault. I think I do this through my kind, gentle, and accepting nature. My method of helping them move forward is the progressive building of trust and attachment, as well as education and holistic methods such as diet and movement.

I have a Master's degree in Social Work from Aurora University. I am licensed to practice therapy in the state of Illinois. I also completed a certification in Trauma Studies from Grand Canyon University. I have been working as a social worker since 2013, and been practicing as a therapist since 2022. I specialize in assisting individuals with depression and Complex PTSD and guiding them towards happier, healthier mental health.

Hello, I’m Shelia Ransom Jenkins, MSW, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience supporting adolescents, adults, couples, and families through life’s challenges. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered approach to therapy, creating a safe space where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered.

I hold a Master of Social Work and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and my professional background includes work in community mental health, educational settings, and clinical leadership roles. I have experience helping clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship and family conflict, behavioral concerns, life transitions, and stress related to work, school, and personal growth. I also have specialized training in perinatal mental health, supporting individuals experiencing postpartum depression and related mood disorders.

My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, and strengths-based interventions, tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative, practical, and rooted in trust.

Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, navigating a difficult transition, or seeking deeper self-understanding, my goal is to support you with empathy, clarity, and encouragement as you work toward healing and lasting change.