Family therapy and counseling in Skokie, IL

I’m Annmarie O’Connell, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals through some of life’s toughest moments. My background is rooted in community mental health, where I’ve worked with people from all walks of life dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions.

I’m also trained in Brainspotting, a powerful therapeutic technique that taps into the brain-body connection to help clients process and release deeply held emotional pain. This approach, along with my real-world experience, allows me to support clients in a holistic, meaningful way. My work is deeply personal to me—because I’ve experienced firsthand how life-changing therapy can be.

I did not stumble into this work — I chose it, and I choose it every day. I am Bianca Gist, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Indiana.

I am also a former collegiate athlete, and that background shapes how I show up — I know what it feels like to carry a lot and still need someone genuinely in your corner. My experience is rooted in the spaces where people need the most and are often given the least — Chicago Public Schools, foster care, home-based services, and community mental health. Through my private practice, Her Sole Purpose LLC, I work with children, adolescents, student-athletes, and families using CBT, ACT, and trauma-informed care. I use what works for the person in front of me, not a one-size-fits-all approach. I work well with people navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and the weight of environments that were not built for them. Therapy with me is honest, grounded, and focused on what actually helps you move forward — not just cope.

If any of this resonates, I would love to connect.

Hi, I'm Brian. I specialize in helping with men's issues, anxiety, depression and relationships. I have experience working with individuals within the LGBTIQA+ community, Military/Veterans, and those who follow non-secular spiritual paths.

Life is a journey with many unexpected setbacks, life challenges and experiences. I am here to help you manage your journey. My practice is dedicated to providing quality mental health care to help people achieve goals or master skills aimed toward improving their quality of life. I've been practicing for 22 years.

I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside individuals, couples, teens, families, and groups as they navigate big life changes and tough emotions. I’m especially experienced with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, self-harm, grief and loss, spirituality, parenting, stress, and major life transitions.

I specialize in helping individuals who are navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges, alongside a wide range of life stressors and mental health concerns. I work best with clients who are motivated for growth and open to meaningful change, even when the process feels difficult. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day stress, stuck in long-standing emotional patterns, or struggling to heal from past experiences that continue to impact their present lives. In our work together, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can feel safe to explore what you're going through

I am committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and affirming environment where people from all backgrounds, cultures, identities, and life experiences feel respected and supported. My goal is to provide a safe place where you can be yourself, explore challenges openly, and discover your strengths. Together, we'll focus on meaningful growth, practical strategies, and helping you thrive on your own terms.

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!

I am a social worker and grief counselor, with over 6 years experience working with bereaved clients. I am also a director of mental health education for a grief focused non-profit, creating programs that educate on grief & loss awareness. While grief is my main focus, I hold a special place in my heart for all life transitions, including job/career changes, spiritual adjustments/abuse, and relationship losses.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been working with a variety of clients for 12 years. I believe healing happens through connection, time, and compassion. I’m committed to helping people understand their stories, navigate difficult emotions, and build healthier patterns that support the life they want to live.

I offer a warm, non‐judgmental space where you can explore what’s weighing on you at your own pace. My approach blends solution‐focused practices with a deeply human perspective—honoring your strengths, your resilience, and the unique experiences that shaped you. Whether you’re working through anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or seeking personal growth, I’m here to walk alongside you with honesty, empathy, and respect.