Monica Zabinski

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Psy.D.) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 8 years of experience helping individuals navigate the complexities of the human experience. I earned my doctorate from National Louis University and have spent my career working across diverse settings, including community mental health, hospitals, and trauma centers.

In my practice, I specialize in working with teens (12+) and adults facing anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, and complex life transitions.

Whether you are a student navigating academic pressure, a professional facing burnout, or a teen exploring your identity, you might feel like you’re constantly "performing" for others. You may often be the "fixer" everyone relies on, but inside, you feel stuck, exhausted, or uncertain of your own path. You need a space to stop performing and start sorting through what no longer serves you. Your goal is to regain agency, quiet the noise, and find a clear path forward that aligns with your actual values.

I describe my therapeutic style as eclectic, genuine, and deeply human. I believe that growth happens when we feel safe enough to be fully ourselves, so I bring authenticity and even a little humor into the session. I often use the 'garage' metaphor: therapy is like cleaning out a cluttered garage—we start by pulling everything off the shelves to see what we have. It might look like a bigger mess at first, but it is a necessary step to decide what still serves you and what you are ready to let go of.

Clinically, I draw from evidence-based frameworks including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP). When working with medical professionals and students, I focus on burnout prevention, moral injury, and the perfectionism that often comes with high-pressure careers, ensuring our work is as practical as it is profound.

In our first session, my primary goal is to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you feel seen and heard. Starting therapy can feel intimidating, so we move at a pace that feels right for you. We will spend time discussing what brought you here and what 'better' looks like for you—whether that is gaining concrete tools to manage anxiety, finding clarity in a relationship, or simply feeling less 'stuck.'

For my clients in the medical field, this first session is often about finally setting down the 'provider' hat and focusing on your own needs. You can expect a collaborative environment where we begin to map out your goals. By the end of our first meeting, I hope you feel a sense of relief and empowered with the knowledge that you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone.