Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Orland Park, IL

You’re capable and use to managing a lot, but lately life feels overwhelming.

I’m Ashley Walay, LICSW, and I work with BIPOC women and LGBTQ+ individuals, professionals, single parents, and military-connected individuals (including spouses, veterans, contractors, and civilian employees) experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, chronic stress, and life transitions.

I value clear, direct communication and tailor therapy to your needs, whether you want tools or space to process. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, balance, and confidence.

Welcome! My name is Kandice Hightower, and I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner specializing in family and psychiatric mental health. With over 18 years of experience as a nurse, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, knowledgeable care to every person I work with. I have experience treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Bipolar Disorder, and I truly enjoy helping clients feel understood, supported, and empowered. If you are ready to take the first step, I would be happy to support you on this journey. Book today!

Life can be difficult. We all need a little help sometimes navigating the peaks and valleys that come our way. My experience includes 19 years of working in both public and private therapeutic schools with children, adolescents and young adults. I enjoy helping those struggling with a variety of life challenges, particularly, with anxiety, depression, stress management, perfectionism and minimizing the occurrences of self-harm by providing clients with healthy replacement strategies.

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.

Hi, I’m Dr. Traore, PMHNP, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner passionate about helping clients find calm, clarity, and confidence in their daily lives. My background spans medication management, psychotherapy, and holistic care for individuals facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders. I hold a doctoral degree in nursing practice and bring years of experience supporting clients across diverse backgrounds. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and genuinely understood.

At the heart of my practice is a genuine desire to help people grow. I believe every person has the ability to create a life that feels meaningful, connected, and aligned with their values. My role is to walk alongside clients as they navigate challenges, build new skills, and discover what’s possible for them. My style is warm, direct, and growth‐oriented.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but my goal is to create a safe, collaborative, and supportive space from our very first session—whether you come as an individual or as a couple.

My client-centered, trauma-informed approach means your stories, values, and goals shape the work we do together. I help teens, adults, and couples heal from past trauma, grief, addiction, navigate anxiety and depression, and build stronger, healthier relationships.

As a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish), I’m sensitive to the cultural and relational contexts that shape who you are and how you connect with others.

For clients who desire it, I can also integrate spiritual reflection into therapy, always honoring your level of comfort.