Pamela Heilman, PsyD

Hello! My name is Pam Heilman. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to providing quality, evidence-based care to adults for treatment of issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, insomnia and OCD.

If you are reading this, chances are life feels like it has gotten out of control. Perhaps you are struggling with constant self-doubt, lack of motivation, or not feeling “good enough.” Social interactions may feel difficult and draining. Life may seem like it has lost meaning and purpose. It is hard moving through the world when it is a challenge to even get out of bed in the morning. When symptoms arise, it is human instinct to do what feels comfortable in the moment. With depression, this may mean staying in bed much longer than usual or isolating from others. Seeking temporary comfort often worsens symptoms over time. I have helped numerous clients to break out of the vicious cycle of depression.

I thoroughly enjoy getting to know my clients and helping them to discover the best version of themselves. One of my favorite quotes is: "The curious paradox is, when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change" by Carl Rogers. As I often tell my clients, you are not broken, you are human. We all have flaws, problems, and insecurities. When we can learn to love ourselves in spite of our flaws, this is the foundation for healthy change. I highly value integrity, respect, compassion, humility, and authenticity. I strive to provide care that exemplifies these values.

I offer individual therapy services for adults 18 and over. My specialties include the following: OCD, depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, health anxiety, insomnia, panic disorder and agoraphobia, grief, life transitions and self-esteem issues. I am a member of the International OCD Foundation and completed the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute for treatment of OCD in 2023. I utilize a variety of evidence-based therapy approaches including: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy(CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). I work closely with my clients to help them identify their treatment goals and approaches that may work best for their needs.

In 2024, I started my own practice, Heilman Psychological Services, PLLC. Currently, I am an independent contractor with OakHeart Center for Counseling and Mediation. I provide telehealth for clients in Illinois.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and integrative. I often work with clients to build awareness of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are associated with their concerns. This creates the opportunity to identify and alter patterns that are disruptive to overall mood and functioning. My ultimate goal is for clients to leave therapy feeling empowered to manage problems while also leading fulfilling lives.

When I am not working, I enjoy acrylic painting, drinking a good cup of coffee, long walks and hiking, and spending time with my husband and basset hound.