Grief counselors and therapists in Skokie, IL

Welcome! I have 30 years of experience supporting people through a variety of life challenges. I am a trauma-informed therapist and my specialties include helping with anxiety, trauma, stress management, life transitions, and depression. My deep, intuitive understanding includes lived experience, and clinical wisdom that only comes with decades of practice and life.

My approach to therapy includes Somatic-Focused therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Compassion-Focused therapy, Polyvagal-informed, and Psychodynamic therapy. I am also a Certified Yoga Therapist so I am able to integrate the ancient tools of yoga into my work with you if you are interested; breath-based gentle movement, meditation, visualization, etc. The breath is the gateway to the central nervous system--calming and strengthening it is the key to reducing anxiety and healing trauma. This broad approach allows me to meet you where you are at while holding a safe, supportive space for you.

Working with others on their healing journey is my life's passion. We will start by building a strong, supportive relationship; warmth, compassion, and respect are at the very heart of my work. Our sessions will be tailored to fit your specific needs. I understand that seeking help can be difficult and it takes courage to take that first step. I will be honored to join you on your healing journey towards a more joyful life.

Hi there, I’m Shelia

Do you feel like the weight of the world is weighing you down? Life’s struggles are becoming unmanageable? Managing family, relationships and job is getting too hard?

I help clients find a healthy perception of themselves and strengthen their relationships. We can partner to identify what works and what doesn’t to create a new path that works better. I have experience with individual, family, and group modalities and will use an integrative approach based on your needs. This may include: client-centered, mindfulness, solution focused, and trauma-informed techniques.

I support clients through a warm, attuned, and relationship‐centered approach. My intention is to be collaborative, helpful, and grounded in trust‐based, relational work. If you’re ready for a space where your story is honored, I'm here. Sometimes we can struggle in how we connect, trust, and regulate our emotions throughout life, influencing our levels of anxiety, depression, and overall ability to manage mood. I have worked with persons with disabilities, children, adults, and families to help find balance.

Your hands are full right now: the anxiety that hums under everything, the stress of juggling relationships, career, and the self-care that keeps slipping to the bottom of your list. Maybe a transition has left you questioning who you are, or you're grieving the loss of someone you love, a relationship, or a future you'd imagined. Wherever you are, you don't have to carry it alone. I work with individuals through these moments, with a particular focus on women's health and wellness.