Maria Shenkman, LCPC

I am an experienced clinician specializing in anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and complex life transitions. She provides evidence-based, integrative treatment that supports clearer thinking, improved emotional regulation, and sustainable behavioral change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and ADHD-focused interventions. My work centers on helping clients navigate anxiety, ADHD, trauma, identity challenges, and complex life transitions with clarity, stability, and self-trust.

My therapeutic approach blends evidence-based modalities with an integrative, relational style. I focus on helping clients understand the patterns that shape their emotions, behaviors, and values—because when we see ourselves clearly, we can finally choose rather than react. Through mindfulness, cognitive restructuring, emotional processing, and experiential exploration, I guide clients toward greater insight, healthier boundaries, and a more intentional way of living.

Over the years, I’ve supported individuals in private practice, school settings, nonprofits, and organizational environments. These diverse experiences have shaped my belief that transformation is possible for anyone willing to engage deeply and honestly with their inner world.

I also work from a multicultural lens and offer therapy in both English and Russian. My goal is to create a grounded, supportive space where you can explore your concerns, reconnect with your strengths, and build a life that feels purposeful and aligned with who you are becoming.

Therapeutic Approach
Maria integrates evidence-based psychotherapy with accessible mindfulness and experiential methods. Her work blends:
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills (DBT-informed)
• Emotion-Focused techniques
• Insight-oriented reflection
• Skills-based work for ADHD and emotional regulation

Her approach is collaborative, practical, and deeply compassionate. She focuses on helping clients understand the origins of their struggles, build emotional awareness, shift unhelpful patterns, and strengthen their sense of agency.

Specialties
• Anxiety
• ADHD
• Depression
• Trauma and emotional overwhelm
• Life transitions
• Identity development
• Relationship patterns
• Stress management
• Cultural or immigration-related concerns
• Emerging adulthood challenges
• Self-esteem and confidence

Issues Treated
• Anxiety disorders
• Panic
• Chronic stress
• Mood concerns
• Role changes & transitions
• Family conflict
• Relationship challenges
• Burnout
• Multicultural identity
• Perfectionism
• Emotional reactivity
• Attachment patterns
• Grief & loss
• Executive functioning struggles

Client Focus
Ages:
• Teens 13+
• Young adults
• Adults
• Older adults

Populations:
• Bilingual clients (English/Russian)
• Immigrants and first-generation individuals
• Students & emerging professionals
• Parents
• Highly self-reliant or high-functioning adults
• Clients navigating career and identity shifts

Types of Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT-informed skills)
• Emotion-Focused Therapy
• Psychodynamic / Insight-oriented
• Mindfulness Practices
• Strengths-based & Values-based exploration
• Experiential/Game Consulting (abridged description if desired)

Languages
• English
• Russian

Training & Credentials
• M.A., Clinical Psychology – Illinois School of Professional Psychology (2010)
• B.A., Applied Behavioral Sciences – National Louis University
• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) – Illinois
• C-DBT: Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy
• ADHD-CCSP: Certified ADHD Professional
• Certified in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
• Future direction: Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) training in progress