Grief counselors and therapists in Frankfort, IL

My style is eclectic and strength based. I see human nature as intrinsically good. Sigmund Freud said we are bio-social animals. I believe a great deal in listening to one’s self talk. The more positive our dialogue with ourselves is, the more positive our dialogues with others and our lives are. I’m also experienced in CBT, DBT, MI, Solution Focused, ACT, Gestalt, Interpersonal, and person-centered counseling.

My training includes lots of wonderful supervision and workshops, a three-year certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Chicago, and two one month intensives with Virginia Satir, the founder of family therapy. Virginia taught that exploring the self is like mining gold. We all have gold inside of us. That is our basic goodness. A lot of emotional suffering is the result of being detoured from that basic goodness.

If you're struggling with addiction, carrying the weight of complex trauma, or trying to cope while managing a chronic health condition, I want you to know there's a way forward — and you don't have to walk it alone. I'm a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC) with over 16 years of experience across private practice, residential substance abuse treatment, medical social work, and the non-profit world. I've sat with people in their hardest, most overwhelming moments, and I bring that same steady, non-judgmental presence to every session.

Much of my work centers on substance use and recovery, complex trauma, and the emotional toll of chronic medical conditions. Whether you're in the thick of a crisis or finally ready to address something you've carried for years, I'll meet you exactly where you are — with compassion, real tools, and zero judgment.

Hi! I'm Dawn, and I'm excited to meet you. Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, depression, family stress, relationship difficulties, or painful experiences leave you feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure where to turn next. You may be trying to balance the needs of everyone around you while struggling to care for yourself. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, stress, panic disorders, anger management concerns, infertility, chronic illness, women's issues, family conflict, and relationship challenges. My background in children and family services and my training in infant and early childhood mental health allow me to support individuals and families through life's many transitions. My goal is to provide a compassionate space where you feel safe, heard, and supported while we work together to better understand your experiences and create meaningful, lasting change.

I have over 3 decades of experience working in the fields of mental health and social work. I work with youth, adults, and couples who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and school refusal.

I have spent my career learning and translating theories into practice with individuals, families, couples, and groups. For the last few years, I've gained deeper knowledge working with trauma, anxiety, couples, and the LGBTQIA+ population.

Welcome! Join me on a journey to reclaim your sense of self, direction and empowerment. As a person who has struggled with life's hardships, I am compeled to help others in these difficult times. My credentials include; Licensed Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC) and an Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP).

My name is Najm Zaman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, heal from trauma, and build lasting resilience!

My professional journey spans over 15 years across clinical practice, healthcare operations, and community leadership. I hold both a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Adelphi University. Throughout my career, I have served in diverse roles—from supervising foster care programs to leading community-based non-profit organizations and wellness initiatives. This background allows me to understand my clients not just in isolation, but within the broader context of their environments, families, and communities.

While I work with a wide range of individuals, my primary areas of specialization include:

• Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders
• Anxiety and Mood Management
• Life Transitions and Identity Development
• Youth, Young Adult, and Family Dynamics
• Relationships and Breakups