Find a therapist in Illinois — covered by insurance

I earned my master’s degree in social work from George Williams College and hold licensure in both Illinois and Wisconsin. My clinical experience spans work with diverse populations, including teens and adults navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. I am trained in several evidence‐based therapeutic modalities—CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR—which allows me to tailor treatment to each person’s needs and support meaningful, sustainable change.

I provide individual therapy as well as family and couples work. I value helping people move through life’s stressors, strengthen their coping skills, and recognize the progress they make toward their goals.

If you have questions about the services and supports available to you, your family, or your loved ones, I’m here to help. I’d also be glad to share more about what I enjoy most in the therapeutic process and how we can work together to build a healthier, more grounded life.

I graduated with my MSW from Aurora University in 2017, and I’ve continued to deepen my clinical training ever since. I’m trained in a variety of evidence‐based therapeutic approaches—including Gottman, EMDR, ACT, Motivational interviewing, and harm reduction—which allows me to tailor therapy to each person’s needs and goals.

Clients often tell me they appreciate my calm, collaborative style. I value getting to know who you are, understanding what matters most to you, and creating a space where you can explore challenges without judgment. My work is grounded in curiosity, compassion, and the belief that people grow best when they feel safe, supported, and genuinely understood.

If you’re looking for a therapist who quietly nods for 50 minutes, I may not be the best fit. My style is active, engaged, direct, and deeply relational.

I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, life transitions, and difficult interpersonal dynamics. Clients often describe feeling both genuinely supported and meaningfully challenged in our work together.

I believe therapy should help people gain insight, shift patterns, improve relationships, and move toward lasting change not just vent for an hour each week.

You’re capable and use to managing a lot, but lately life feels overwhelming.

I’m Ashley Walay, LICSW, and I work with BIPOC women and LGBTQ+ individuals, professionals, single parents, and military-connected individuals (including spouses, veterans, contractors, and civilian employees) experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, chronic stress, and life transitions.

I value clear, direct communication and tailor therapy to your needs, whether you want tools or space to process. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, balance, and confidence.

I have over 20 years of experience in healthcare. My career began as a pharmacy technician, then as an emergency room nurse, and later supervising behavioral health units at Mercy St. Louis before becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.This background allows me to understand mental health from both medical and psychiatric perspectives.

I believe that therapy works best when people feel understood, respected and safe. I have over 20 year of experience helping adults navigate trauma, depression, anxiety, identity exploration, grief/loss, life transitions and relationship challenges. Much of my career has been devoted to working with veterans and individuals who have faced difficult or traumatic experiences. I strongly believe in establishing a relationship of equals and mutual respect between therapist and client; one that leads to a guided journey of self-discovery and change.

First of all, I commend you for taking this huge step in prioritizing your mental health. My name is Dr. Theo and I am glad that you have allowed me to join you along your journey. As we walk together, my aim will be to help you build insights, and expand strengths. The moment we begin this journey, is the start of change in your life.

Clients often describe me as reliable, professional, and flexible in meeting their needs. My diverse experience allows me to connect with people from all walks of life. I pride myself on being a great listener with strong comprehension skills, offering a nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe to share and process.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been working with a variety of clients for 12 years. I believe healing happens through connection, time, and compassion. I’m committed to helping people understand their stories, navigate difficult emotions, and build healthier patterns that support the life they want to live.

I offer a warm, non‐judgmental space where you can explore what’s weighing on you at your own pace. My approach blends solution‐focused practices with a deeply human perspective—honoring your strengths, your resilience, and the unique experiences that shaped you. Whether you’re working through anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or seeking personal growth, I’m here to walk alongside you with honesty, empathy, and respect.