Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Oak Park, IL

With over a decade of psychiatric nursing experience, I've built a practice around making people feel truly understood from the very first conversation. I'm fluent in English, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu, and I've found that meeting someone in their first language changes everything about how safe they feel opening up. I work with adults and teens navigating anxiety, depression, substance use, and eating disorders, combining medication management with therapeutic support to care for the whole person. My practice is fully virtual, so you can access care from wherever feels most comfortable for you.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but you don’t have to figure things out alone. I’m Tamara Whittleton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and major life changes. I focus on creating a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable talking openly while developing practical strategies for growth and healing

I believe meaningful change begins with feeling heard, understood, and accepted. My goal is to create a warm, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where children and teens feel safe being themselves while working toward positive change.

I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 22 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families in both school and mental health settings. I currently work in a school, helping students navigate social, emotional, behavioral, and academic challenges. I also have experience in an adolescent psychiatric hospital, where I supported teens struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.

I understand the unique pressures young people face today—from school stress, academic expectations, and fitting in with peers to family conflict, identity development, anxiety, depression, and parental stress. My approach is affirming, strengths-based, and solution-focused, combining empathy and a genuine sense of humor. I believe therapy doesn't always have to feel heavy and that laughter can be an important part of healing. Together, we'll build on your strengths to help you feel more confident, resilient, and empowered.

I have been a therapist for over twenty five years with a varied background including hospice, nursing homes, home care and individual counseling settings. I became a licensed, clinical social worker after graduating from the University of IL-Urbana 30 years ago.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of professional experience supporting children and families. Throughout my career, I have primarily worked with school-age children and their families, helping them navigate emotional, behavioral, and life challenges with compassion and practical guidance.

I grew up on the south side of Chicago. I am married and have two adult children. I have been a registered nurse for 30 years, primarily in women’s health and psychology and psychiatry nursing. I became a clinical mental health counselor 5 years ago, graduated from Bradley University.