Gurnee, IL
Portrait Health Centers
Hawkston Hall II 1790 Nations Drive, Suite 214 Gurnee, IL 60031 P: (847) 868-3435 F: (847) 859-5885 Map |
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Harry L Speer, MA, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
________________________________________________
Education: Northeastern Illinois University
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: including but not limited to: Aging Transitions and Wellness, Adjustment Disorders, Alcohol / Drug Use Disorders, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar, Career Counseling, Caretaking Stress, Chronic Pain / Illness Management, Codependency, Cognitive Deficits, Coping Skill Deficits, Depression, Divorce, Domestic Abuse, Eating Disorders, Emotional Dysregulation, Family Counseling, Gambling, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions , Marital and Relationship Counseling, Mood disorders, Obesity and Weight Loss, Obsessive and Compulsive Disorders, Parenting and Co-Parenting, Personality Disorders, Self-esteem, Self-harm, Sexual Addiction, Stress Management, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma
In therapy, I strive to create a safe environment because I understand that seeking help can be uncomfortable and perhaps difficult. After all, therapy is about change and growth. In our sessions, we can develop a collaborative relationship focused on empowering you and helping you develop the emotional agility you need to manage your life in a way that satisfies you. I will bring a respectful, client-focused style and curiosity to explore your goals and motivations to our relationship. I will also bring a holistic perspective and knowledge of a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic and Mindfulness. However, you are the expert on you; no one knows you as well as you do. You will bring that knowledge, that expertise, as well as a willingness to explore your goals, motivations and even ambivalence to our collaborative relationship. Together we can develop a map, and I will help you travel to your destination.
I attended Northeastern Illinois University, where I earned first a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and later a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree. I am currently enrolled in an alcohol and drug counselor certification (CADC) program. I have experience with individuals, couples and Partner Abuse Intervention Program (PAIP) and Substance Use treatment groups. I am a member of the American Counseling Association, The Illinois Counseling Association, the Illinois Mental Health Counselors Association and the Illinois Adult Aging and Development Association.
Personally, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I love a good story, whether in a book or movie. I enjoy learning; the world is so full of interesting places, people and ideas. I raise vegetables and enjoy cooking. Walking five miles a day is my most consistent exercise.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: including but not limited to: Aging Transitions and Wellness, Adjustment Disorders, Alcohol / Drug Use Disorders, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar, Career Counseling, Caretaking Stress, Chronic Pain / Illness Management, Codependency, Cognitive Deficits, Coping Skill Deficits, Depression, Divorce, Domestic Abuse, Eating Disorders, Emotional Dysregulation, Family Counseling, Gambling, Grief and Loss, Life Transitions , Marital and Relationship Counseling, Mood disorders, Obesity and Weight Loss, Obsessive and Compulsive Disorders, Parenting and Co-Parenting, Personality Disorders, Self-esteem, Self-harm, Sexual Addiction, Stress Management, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma
In therapy, I strive to create a safe environment because I understand that seeking help can be uncomfortable and perhaps difficult. After all, therapy is about change and growth. In our sessions, we can develop a collaborative relationship focused on empowering you and helping you develop the emotional agility you need to manage your life in a way that satisfies you. I will bring a respectful, client-focused style and curiosity to explore your goals and motivations to our relationship. I will also bring a holistic perspective and knowledge of a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic and Mindfulness. However, you are the expert on you; no one knows you as well as you do. You will bring that knowledge, that expertise, as well as a willingness to explore your goals, motivations and even ambivalence to our collaborative relationship. Together we can develop a map, and I will help you travel to your destination.
I attended Northeastern Illinois University, where I earned first a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and later a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree. I am currently enrolled in an alcohol and drug counselor certification (CADC) program. I have experience with individuals, couples and Partner Abuse Intervention Program (PAIP) and Substance Use treatment groups. I am a member of the American Counseling Association, The Illinois Counseling Association, the Illinois Mental Health Counselors Association and the Illinois Adult Aging and Development Association.
Personally, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I love a good story, whether in a book or movie. I enjoy learning; the world is so full of interesting places, people and ideas. I raise vegetables and enjoy cooking. Walking five miles a day is my most consistent exercise.
Kathy Smith, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
________________________________________________
Education: Benedictine University
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL & Naperville, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: ADHD, academic underachievement, addiction, adoption, alcohol abuse, Alzheimer’s anger management, antisocial personality, anxiety, Asperger’s syndrome, autism, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, child or adolescent, chronic impulsivity, chronic pain or illness, chronic relapse, codependency, coping skills, depression, developmental disorders, divorce, domestic abuse, domestic violence, drug abuse, dual diagnosis, EMDR, eating disorders, emotional disturbance, entitlement, family conflict, gambling, grief, infertility, internet addiction, learning disabilities, life coaching, mental retardation, narcissistic personality, obesity, obsessive-compulsive (OCD), oppositional defiance, parenting, peer relationships, self esteem, self-harming, sexual abuse, sexual addiction, sleep or insomnia, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, teen violence, testing and evaluation, trauma and PTSD, video game addiction, weight loss
My career in psychology began with graduate study at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (Chicago, IL), which included a certificate in Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, followed by completion of a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University (Lisle, IL). I am a member of the Illinois Counseling Association as well as the Association for the Development of the Person-Centered Approach.
My practice is grounded in positive, humanistic values that encourage personal growth and healing with a variety of treatment modalities. I believe each client deserves the most effective treatment tailored to their unique personality and circumstances. Many different issues can be addressed in counseling sessions, and may be appropriate for short-term solution-focused techniques, time-limited cognitive behavioral strategies, narrative therapy, skill-building exercises from the dialectical behavior therapy approach, or long-term supportive psychotherapy. If you are thinking about beginning the inner quest of counseling, I am here to walk with you on your journey.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL & Naperville, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: ADHD, academic underachievement, addiction, adoption, alcohol abuse, Alzheimer’s anger management, antisocial personality, anxiety, Asperger’s syndrome, autism, behavioral issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, child or adolescent, chronic impulsivity, chronic pain or illness, chronic relapse, codependency, coping skills, depression, developmental disorders, divorce, domestic abuse, domestic violence, drug abuse, dual diagnosis, EMDR, eating disorders, emotional disturbance, entitlement, family conflict, gambling, grief, infertility, internet addiction, learning disabilities, life coaching, mental retardation, narcissistic personality, obesity, obsessive-compulsive (OCD), oppositional defiance, parenting, peer relationships, self esteem, self-harming, sexual abuse, sexual addiction, sleep or insomnia, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, teen violence, testing and evaluation, trauma and PTSD, video game addiction, weight loss
My career in psychology began with graduate study at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (Chicago, IL), which included a certificate in Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, followed by completion of a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University (Lisle, IL). I am a member of the Illinois Counseling Association as well as the Association for the Development of the Person-Centered Approach.
My practice is grounded in positive, humanistic values that encourage personal growth and healing with a variety of treatment modalities. I believe each client deserves the most effective treatment tailored to their unique personality and circumstances. Many different issues can be addressed in counseling sessions, and may be appropriate for short-term solution-focused techniques, time-limited cognitive behavioral strategies, narrative therapy, skill-building exercises from the dialectical behavior therapy approach, or long-term supportive psychotherapy. If you are thinking about beginning the inner quest of counseling, I am here to walk with you on your journey.
Monica L. Reaves, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
________________________________________________
Education: Argosy University Chicago
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Included but not limited to academic underachievement, addiction, alcohol abuse, anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, borderline personality disorder, adolescent, coping skills, depression, drug abuse, dual diagnosis, emotional disturbance, grief, mandated clients, peer relationships, self esteem, stress, trauma and PTSD, workplace issues
Successful life management requires self-awareness, self-acceptance and balance. Knowing one's strengths and weaknesses is also important. My purpose as a Therapist is to help clients identify problematic thoughts and behaviors that interfere with living their best life. My approach to counseling includes: Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Positive Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My goal is to build an alliance with my clients and help them create a realistic growth and development plan to improve their quality of life.
Monica received her Masters in Community Counseling from Argosy University Chicago, and has a special interest in gerontology and counseling military service men and women and their families. Monica is well rounded in her experience, as she has worked with clients from various ages and cultural backgrounds. Monica has also worked in various settings, including a specialty behavioral health and substance abuse managed care organization, a substance abuse treatment center, and a behavioral health and wellness private practice.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Included but not limited to academic underachievement, addiction, alcohol abuse, anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, borderline personality disorder, adolescent, coping skills, depression, drug abuse, dual diagnosis, emotional disturbance, grief, mandated clients, peer relationships, self esteem, stress, trauma and PTSD, workplace issues
Successful life management requires self-awareness, self-acceptance and balance. Knowing one's strengths and weaknesses is also important. My purpose as a Therapist is to help clients identify problematic thoughts and behaviors that interfere with living their best life. My approach to counseling includes: Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Positive Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My goal is to build an alliance with my clients and help them create a realistic growth and development plan to improve their quality of life.
Monica received her Masters in Community Counseling from Argosy University Chicago, and has a special interest in gerontology and counseling military service men and women and their families. Monica is well rounded in her experience, as she has worked with clients from various ages and cultural backgrounds. Monica has also worked in various settings, including a specialty behavioral health and substance abuse managed care organization, a substance abuse treatment center, and a behavioral health and wellness private practice.
Nancy J. Lambert, RDN, CD, LDN
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Professional Speaker
________________________________________________
Education: Rutgers University
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL & Grayslake, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Mindful and intuitive eating, behavior modification, pre and post natal nutrition, infant nutrition, breastfeeding, pediatric nutrition, geriatric, weight management, eating disorders, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, celiac, gluten free, allergies, food sensitivities, sports nutrition and performance, vegan, vegetarian, stress management, corporate wellness, grocery store tours, cooking, gardening
Nancy is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian and has been involved in the food and nutrition field for most of her life. She has a certificate in weight management and is continually updating her education base with the latest research and trends in the science of nutrition. Experiences with nutrition counseling span the life cycle from pre and postnatal moms, through infancy, childhood and on to geriatrics. Her desire to eat quality food from quality sources has fostered a love for gardening and home cooking.
Food should be enjoyed. Eating well is easy; it seems to have become very complicated. The basis for wellness is a positive attitude, as well as a positive relationship with food. All foods can fit into a healthy lifestyle, as long as all food groups are included in amounts appropriate for the individual. Let’s see what’s working for you already and move on from there.
Nancy will help you recognize your motivations. Together we will develop a realistic plan for your attainable goals.
Nancy believes that nutrition is only one part of the health puzzle. She enjoys physical activity and appreciates methods that help one slow down and embrace a stress free lifestyle.
Click Here to learn more about the nutrition services Nancy offers and how they can benefit you and your family.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL & Grayslake, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Mindful and intuitive eating, behavior modification, pre and post natal nutrition, infant nutrition, breastfeeding, pediatric nutrition, geriatric, weight management, eating disorders, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, celiac, gluten free, allergies, food sensitivities, sports nutrition and performance, vegan, vegetarian, stress management, corporate wellness, grocery store tours, cooking, gardening
Nancy is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian and has been involved in the food and nutrition field for most of her life. She has a certificate in weight management and is continually updating her education base with the latest research and trends in the science of nutrition. Experiences with nutrition counseling span the life cycle from pre and postnatal moms, through infancy, childhood and on to geriatrics. Her desire to eat quality food from quality sources has fostered a love for gardening and home cooking.
Food should be enjoyed. Eating well is easy; it seems to have become very complicated. The basis for wellness is a positive attitude, as well as a positive relationship with food. All foods can fit into a healthy lifestyle, as long as all food groups are included in amounts appropriate for the individual. Let’s see what’s working for you already and move on from there.
Nancy will help you recognize your motivations. Together we will develop a realistic plan for your attainable goals.
Nancy believes that nutrition is only one part of the health puzzle. She enjoys physical activity and appreciates methods that help one slow down and embrace a stress free lifestyle.
Click Here to learn more about the nutrition services Nancy offers and how they can benefit you and your family.
Kari Holman, MA, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
________________________________________________
Education: The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Anxiety, depression, families of severe mental illness (i.e. Bipolar or Schizophrenia), LGBTQA, multicultural therapy, mood disorders, coping skills, teens/adolescents, adults, stress management, hair pulling/trichotillomania, life transitions, self-harm, EMDR
If you have ever tried a one-size-fits-all article of clothing, you know it never actually fits anyone very well. Kari views therapy the same way, and that is why she works with her clients to find the evidence-based approach that works best for him or her. Her outlook is “If you are putting your time and trust in me, the least I can do is give you customized care.” Kari also believes in including her clients in every step as an equal partner. You are the expert on you, and it is your care; you should have a say. Kari fully believes everyone has a natural capacity to be a happy and fully actualized person, but just as our natural talents need guidance and practice so do we as people!
Kari began her clinical career working with a culturally wide array of individuals coping with severe mental illness, including Schizophrenia spectrum disorders. There is little now that will faze her. She takes an eclectic approach to therapy, finding the approach that works best for each client. In addition to talk therapy, Kari employs techniques such as guided imagery for interested clients.
“Your story is fascinating, and I want to help you write the newest chapters.” ~ Kari
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Anxiety, depression, families of severe mental illness (i.e. Bipolar or Schizophrenia), LGBTQA, multicultural therapy, mood disorders, coping skills, teens/adolescents, adults, stress management, hair pulling/trichotillomania, life transitions, self-harm, EMDR
If you have ever tried a one-size-fits-all article of clothing, you know it never actually fits anyone very well. Kari views therapy the same way, and that is why she works with her clients to find the evidence-based approach that works best for him or her. Her outlook is “If you are putting your time and trust in me, the least I can do is give you customized care.” Kari also believes in including her clients in every step as an equal partner. You are the expert on you, and it is your care; you should have a say. Kari fully believes everyone has a natural capacity to be a happy and fully actualized person, but just as our natural talents need guidance and practice so do we as people!
Kari began her clinical career working with a culturally wide array of individuals coping with severe mental illness, including Schizophrenia spectrum disorders. There is little now that will faze her. She takes an eclectic approach to therapy, finding the approach that works best for each client. In addition to talk therapy, Kari employs techniques such as guided imagery for interested clients.
“Your story is fascinating, and I want to help you write the newest chapters.” ~ Kari
Samantha Augustine, MA, LCPC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
________________________________________________
Education: Adler School of Professional Psychology
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Including, but not limited to ADHD, Addiction, Anger Management, Asperger’s Syndrome, Autism, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Career Counseling, Impulsivity, Codependency, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Coaching, Men’s or Women’s issues, Relationship Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Racial Identity, Self-Esteem, Sexual Addiction, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, LGBTQ issues, Coping Skills, Self-Harm, Suicidal ideation, Dual Diagnosis, Crisis intervention, and Mindfulness
Samantha received her Master's of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor skilled at motivating, communicating and advocating for clients dealing with mental health and emotional disorders. Samantha strongly believes that therapy is a partnership between client and therapist, and that therapy provides a safe place to form a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. Through the therapeutic relationship, Samantha believes clients can learn to unlock their true potential, succeed, and grow. Samantha helps facilitate those changes using a wide variety of therapeutic techniques coupled with her empathic, nonjudgmental, and easy-going personality.
Samantha has experience utilizing the following evidenced-based therapeutic techniques: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, and Strengths Based approaches. Samantha has also had extensive training in Motivational Interviewing techniques for those struggling with ambivalence about important issues.
Additionally, Samantha places significant emphasis on a person's relationship within the community, as research has shown that natural support networks and being involved in the greater community are very important to one's sense of self and well-being. Samantha has experience with providing direct and indirect support for clients who struggled with developing linkages to their community, and through those new connections, Samantha experienced firsthand how her clients' relationships in the community opened pathways to success and healing in their lives.
In her spare time, Samantha enjoys painting, crocheting, and spending time with her family. She also enjoys bike rides and walks outside.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Including, but not limited to ADHD, Addiction, Anger Management, Asperger’s Syndrome, Autism, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Career Counseling, Impulsivity, Codependency, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Coaching, Men’s or Women’s issues, Relationship Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Racial Identity, Self-Esteem, Sexual Addiction, Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, LGBTQ issues, Coping Skills, Self-Harm, Suicidal ideation, Dual Diagnosis, Crisis intervention, and Mindfulness
Samantha received her Master's of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor skilled at motivating, communicating and advocating for clients dealing with mental health and emotional disorders. Samantha strongly believes that therapy is a partnership between client and therapist, and that therapy provides a safe place to form a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. Through the therapeutic relationship, Samantha believes clients can learn to unlock their true potential, succeed, and grow. Samantha helps facilitate those changes using a wide variety of therapeutic techniques coupled with her empathic, nonjudgmental, and easy-going personality.
Samantha has experience utilizing the following evidenced-based therapeutic techniques: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, and Strengths Based approaches. Samantha has also had extensive training in Motivational Interviewing techniques for those struggling with ambivalence about important issues.
Additionally, Samantha places significant emphasis on a person's relationship within the community, as research has shown that natural support networks and being involved in the greater community are very important to one's sense of self and well-being. Samantha has experience with providing direct and indirect support for clients who struggled with developing linkages to their community, and through those new connections, Samantha experienced firsthand how her clients' relationships in the community opened pathways to success and healing in their lives.
In her spare time, Samantha enjoys painting, crocheting, and spending time with her family. She also enjoys bike rides and walks outside.
Mercedes Compton, MA, NCC, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
________________________________________________
Education: Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Including but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, Abuse, Children and Adolescents, Trauma/Complex Trauma, Marriage/Family Conflicts, Crisis/Stress and Coping, Codependency, Impulse Control/Compulsive Behaviors, other Behavioral Issues, Bullying, Peer Conflicts, Anger/Stress Management, Suicidal Ideation/Self-harm Behaviors, Emotional Disturbance/Internal Issues, Self-Esteem, Loss and Grief, Personality Disorders, Parenting, Cultural Issues, Communication Conflicts, Life Coaching, Life Transition Issues, Sexual Abuse, Spirituality, Sexuality and Gender Issues, Dissociative Disorder, Mood Disorder
I believe every person of any age will experience some kind of emotional and psychological strains resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances in life at some point or another. Matters of mental and physical health states, healthy relationships, communications of all kinds are inevitable in our life journey as they determine one’s growth and functionality. Hence, when the path to a happy, secured life is interrupted due to conflicts -- emotional turmoil, a stressful transition, grief and loss, relationship challenges, or simple desire for personal growth, a therapeutic alliance between client and counselor can unruffle the way and puts the client ahead of the game.
My passion and aspiration in counseling is to work with children and adolescents and adults of different ages and culture. As a therapist, my priority is to build strong alliance with clients, provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can feel safe to challenge and express their deepest fears, self-doubt, shame, faith and trust issues, and interpersonal relationship issues. By utilizing empathic dialogue, I help the individual identify problematic thoughts and behaviors or self-limiting beliefs that interfere with living their best life. As well as help set realistic and achievable goals and treatment. I believe the fundamental principle of a therapeutic relationship includes a balance of support and challenge for growth and change to achieve.
My therapeutic approach is tailored to fit the needs of each individual client as each person carries a unique history, personality, and set of goals. There is no one theory or modality that fits all. In general, I employ practical, results-oriented treatments and integrated approach that are consistent with my clients’ core values. Therapy is a team effort, so I encourage collaboration in developing strategies and evaluating progress. It is a fulfilling yet humbling endeavor to work alongside each client.
I graduated from Trinity International University with a BA degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. I also bring to the team an additional and unique asset. I have, before changing field, 30+years of experience within the business arena. As well as my own experiences and journey of healing and growth of which cultivated my passion for counseling -hence, devout to live my life fully by connecting with others intentionally and deeply. Not to skip, in my spare time, I enjoy gardening, cooking, listening to good stories and music, joining humanitarian missions, and exploring and enjoying nature’s beauty.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Including but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, Abuse, Children and Adolescents, Trauma/Complex Trauma, Marriage/Family Conflicts, Crisis/Stress and Coping, Codependency, Impulse Control/Compulsive Behaviors, other Behavioral Issues, Bullying, Peer Conflicts, Anger/Stress Management, Suicidal Ideation/Self-harm Behaviors, Emotional Disturbance/Internal Issues, Self-Esteem, Loss and Grief, Personality Disorders, Parenting, Cultural Issues, Communication Conflicts, Life Coaching, Life Transition Issues, Sexual Abuse, Spirituality, Sexuality and Gender Issues, Dissociative Disorder, Mood Disorder
I believe every person of any age will experience some kind of emotional and psychological strains resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances in life at some point or another. Matters of mental and physical health states, healthy relationships, communications of all kinds are inevitable in our life journey as they determine one’s growth and functionality. Hence, when the path to a happy, secured life is interrupted due to conflicts -- emotional turmoil, a stressful transition, grief and loss, relationship challenges, or simple desire for personal growth, a therapeutic alliance between client and counselor can unruffle the way and puts the client ahead of the game.
My passion and aspiration in counseling is to work with children and adolescents and adults of different ages and culture. As a therapist, my priority is to build strong alliance with clients, provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can feel safe to challenge and express their deepest fears, self-doubt, shame, faith and trust issues, and interpersonal relationship issues. By utilizing empathic dialogue, I help the individual identify problematic thoughts and behaviors or self-limiting beliefs that interfere with living their best life. As well as help set realistic and achievable goals and treatment. I believe the fundamental principle of a therapeutic relationship includes a balance of support and challenge for growth and change to achieve.
My therapeutic approach is tailored to fit the needs of each individual client as each person carries a unique history, personality, and set of goals. There is no one theory or modality that fits all. In general, I employ practical, results-oriented treatments and integrated approach that are consistent with my clients’ core values. Therapy is a team effort, so I encourage collaboration in developing strategies and evaluating progress. It is a fulfilling yet humbling endeavor to work alongside each client.
I graduated from Trinity International University with a BA degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. I also bring to the team an additional and unique asset. I have, before changing field, 30+years of experience within the business arena. As well as my own experiences and journey of healing and growth of which cultivated my passion for counseling -hence, devout to live my life fully by connecting with others intentionally and deeply. Not to skip, in my spare time, I enjoy gardening, cooking, listening to good stories and music, joining humanitarian missions, and exploring and enjoying nature’s beauty.
John Kamilis, LCPC, CEAP
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
____________________________________________
Education: Illinois School of Professional Psychology
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Including but not limited to addictions, alcohol and substance abuse, adjustment disorders, adolescent/teens (12+), anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, codependency, coping skills deficits, depression, divorce, domestic violence and abuse, emotional dysregulation, family counseling, gambling, grief and loss, life transition concerns, marital and relationships, men’s issues, mood disorders, parenting and co-parenting, self-esteem, self- harm, sexual addiction, social anxiety, stress management, trauma and abuse, PTSD, workplace/organizational issues
I have accumulated over 20 years of experience providing individual counseling, family therapy, and marital counseling to adolescents, and adults dealing with various and concerns. I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and graduated with my master’s degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. During my career, I have worked with adults and adolescents with various emotional and behavioral issues. I have helped teens and their family recover from substance use and addiction issues. I have also worked with adults dealing with emotional and past traumas, as well as many forms of addictions and substance use concerns.
When someone starts therapy, I want to them to feel safe and comfortable to explore those personal issues about themselves they may have been hesitant to do before. Building a rapport and being genuine allow me to use the various therapeutic techniques in my toolbox like cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing techniques among other therapies. These allow to engage the client and get them on a path to a happy and healthier life.
In my personal life, I enjoy the outdoors, and like for hikes, camping, and spending time with family. I also giving back to the community by coaching recreational community softball team.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Gurnee, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Gurnee Office)
Specialties: Including but not limited to addictions, alcohol and substance abuse, adjustment disorders, adolescent/teens (12+), anger management, anxiety, behavioral issues, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, codependency, coping skills deficits, depression, divorce, domestic violence and abuse, emotional dysregulation, family counseling, gambling, grief and loss, life transition concerns, marital and relationships, men’s issues, mood disorders, parenting and co-parenting, self-esteem, self- harm, sexual addiction, social anxiety, stress management, trauma and abuse, PTSD, workplace/organizational issues
I have accumulated over 20 years of experience providing individual counseling, family therapy, and marital counseling to adolescents, and adults dealing with various and concerns. I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and graduated with my master’s degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. During my career, I have worked with adults and adolescents with various emotional and behavioral issues. I have helped teens and their family recover from substance use and addiction issues. I have also worked with adults dealing with emotional and past traumas, as well as many forms of addictions and substance use concerns.
When someone starts therapy, I want to them to feel safe and comfortable to explore those personal issues about themselves they may have been hesitant to do before. Building a rapport and being genuine allow me to use the various therapeutic techniques in my toolbox like cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing techniques among other therapies. These allow to engage the client and get them on a path to a happy and healthier life.
In my personal life, I enjoy the outdoors, and like for hikes, camping, and spending time with family. I also giving back to the community by coaching recreational community softball team.
Portrait Health Patient Coordinators
________________________________________________
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
*Available at all Portrait Health Centers Locations
As the title implies, a Patient Coordinator is the guide who literally takes your hand and leads you through the initial evaluation and serves as your advocate when the team of specialists design personalized treatment plans. Nobody should ever have to walk alone when learning about the treatment options and deciphering between myths and facts in healthcare. A Portrait Health Patient Coordinator will educate you and your family on the latest treatment options and will work to ensure that the focus remains on identifying the cause, and not merely treating the outward symptoms the patient is experiencing. Each Portrait Health Patient Coordinator is experienced in pediatric, adolescent, adult and senior care, and becomes your guide and advocate at Portrait Health Centers. Contact us to speak with a Patient Coordinator.
Email Me
*Available at all Portrait Health Centers Locations
As the title implies, a Patient Coordinator is the guide who literally takes your hand and leads you through the initial evaluation and serves as your advocate when the team of specialists design personalized treatment plans. Nobody should ever have to walk alone when learning about the treatment options and deciphering between myths and facts in healthcare. A Portrait Health Patient Coordinator will educate you and your family on the latest treatment options and will work to ensure that the focus remains on identifying the cause, and not merely treating the outward symptoms the patient is experiencing. Each Portrait Health Patient Coordinator is experienced in pediatric, adolescent, adult and senior care, and becomes your guide and advocate at Portrait Health Centers. Contact us to speak with a Patient Coordinator.