Amanda Martinez

Hi there! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a licensed therapist in Illinois, and for the past few years I’ve had the honor of supporting amazing kids, teens, and adults as they move through tough emotions like anxiety, depression, and self-doubt—and start to feel safer, stronger, and more confident in who they are. I’ve worked with people navigating all kinds of life experiences: everything from grief and trauma to relationship challenges, self-worth struggles, and major transitions like postpartum changes, gender identity exploration, or starting over in a new environment. I’ve also supported families through things like childhood behavioral concerns, emotional outbursts, perfectionism, and trauma recovery. My vibe in sessions? Think safe space meets deep healing meets gentle energy work. I believe strongly in the mind-body connection, and I love integrating Reiki and other calming tools into the process when it feels aligned for you or your child. I’ve always been that go-to friend or family member who wanted to help, problem-solve, and offer support from the heart. That deep care led me to become a social worker, and eventually a Certified Reiki Master Teacher. I completed my undergrad at Columbia College of Missouri and my master’s in social work at Aurora University. Whether we’re working together on stress, trauma, LGBTQ+ identity support, relationship concerns, or building confidence—my goal is to co-create a space where you can show up fully, feel safe being yourself, and explore healing without fear of judgment. Taking that first step can feel big—and a little scary—but you’re not doing it alone. I’m here to support you every step of the way.

My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and deeply rooted in the belief that healing is not one-size-fits-all. I provide a supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to safely explore their experiences at their own pace. I specialize in working with both adults and children navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and identity development.

As a trauma-informed therapist, I integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and somatic techniques, along with holistic approaches like energy work and Reiki when desired. My work is guided by empathy, intuition, and clinical skill, helping clients access not just symptom relief, but deep inner transformation.

Together, we’ll identify the patterns and protective strategies that may no longer serve you, gently process past experiences, and build practical tools to help you feel grounded, confident, and whole. Whether you're facing painful life transitions, parenting stress, or carrying wounds from the past, I’ll walk beside you as a steady, nonjudgmental guide on your path toward healing.

Clients can expect to leave our sessions feeling supported, empowered, and more connected to themselves. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you feel free to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences with honesty and curiosity. Whether we're working through anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, or life transitions, I tailor each session to meet your individual needs and goals.

Together, we’ll identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck and build skills to help you feel more emotionally regulated, self-aware, and confident in your daily life. My goal is not just symptom relief, but helping you reconnect with your inner resilience, set healthy boundaries, and experience growth on both a practical and emotional level.

Clients often leave our work with a deeper sense of clarity, stronger coping tools, and a renewed trust in themselves and their ability to create meaningful change. Healing is possible—and I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.