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Image of a client attentively listening to a counselor, representing the safe and supportive therapy provided on our individual therapy page. Discover a therapeutic environment where you can explore, heal, and grow. Our dedicated counselors offer personalized support to help you on your journey towards well-being.

At Bright Light Counseling Center, we believe that everyone has the potential to live a full and vibrant life. However, we know that sometimes life can get in the way of that, and it's not always easy to navigate the ups and downs on your own. That's where therapy comes in - it's a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and work towards creating the life you deserve.

Have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome?

Sometimes, seeking help from an expert is the best way to put things into perspective.

Bright Light Counseling Center Therapists

Professional headshot of Abia Hashmi, a compassionate female counselor in Illinois. Abia specializes in cultural and racial stress, anxiety, depression, life stressors, and therapy for women. With expertise in these areas, Abia provides personalized support to clients seeking therapeutic guidance.

Abia Hashmi, MA, LCPC, LPC

Therapy in Illinois, Texas, and Florida

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Kate Morales, MPsy, LPA

Supervised by Dr. Beth Marnix

Therapy in Texas

Professional headshot of Rian Richardson, a compassionate female counselor in Illinois. Rian specializes in cultural and racial stress, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and life stressors. With expertise in these areas, Rian provides personalized support to clients seeking therapeutic guidance.

Therapy in Illinois

Professional headshot of Julie Gruca, a compassionate female counselor in Illinois. Julie specializes in anxiety, OCD, phobias, life stressors, and relational concerns. With expertise and a caring approach, Julie provides personalized support to clients seeking therapeutic guidance.

Therapy in Illinois

Professional headshot of Adam Scartozzi, a dedicated counselor in Illinois. Adam specializes in chronic anxiety, existential dread, and therapy for men. With his compassionate approach and specialized expertise, Adam provides personalized support to clients navigating these challenges in their lives

Therapy in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Florida

Professional headshot of Dr. Beth Marnix, a licensed psychologist in Texas. Dr. Marnix specializes in trauma therapy, specifically working with women who have experienced family of origin trauma and chronic developmental trauma. She incorporates EMDR therapy to facilitate healing and recovery in her clients.

Therapy in Illinois, Texas, Indiana, and PSYPACT states

Individual Counseling

Individual therapy, also known as talk therapy or counseling, is a form of mental health treatment that involves one-on-one sessions between a client and a mental health professional, such as a counselor, social worker, psychologist, or therapist. As highly trained mental health professionals, we work with you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We will help you make sense of what is happening now and even what happened in the past. We will help you to develop coping skills and strategies to manage stress. Our goal is to help you live the life that you want to live. We can help you manage what is not working for you so that you begin to move towards living your best life. Our trained therapists will tailor your therapy sessions to address a wide range of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes and stressors, grief, and relationship issues. Our therapists will also meet you where you are on your path to figuring out who you are and who you want to be. We believe that therapy is helpful no matter if you are struggling with the impact of past traumas or want to feel better about who you are. Our therapists provide a safe and confidential space for you to talk about your experiences, and will work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan that is personalized to your unique needs and circumstances.

A therapy session between a client and therapist, showcasing the essence of individual counseling. Explore our counseling services near you in Austin, TX and Chicago, IL. Individual counseling is a personalized approach to address anxiety, depression, life stress, and relational issues. Experience the support and guidance of our skilled therapists as they help you navigate your unique journey towards healing and well-being.
Three joyful teens sitting on the grass, sharing laughter and camaraderie. This image on our individual counseling site page represents the positive impact of individual counseling for teens. Discover our counseling services near you in Austin, TX and Chicago, IL, offering personalized support for anxiety, depression, life stress, and relational issues. Let our experienced counselors guide your teen towards emotional well-being and personal growth.

Counseling for Teens

We have developed specialized knowledge and experiences in working with teens. We understand that this part of life is full of big choices, changes, and emotions. You are trying to figure out who you are, what you want to be, where you are going, all while coping with the day to day stressors of school, friends, family, and work. Individual therapy for teens aims to support your emotional well-being, enhance coping skills, and promote healthy development. Your therapist will create a safe and supportive space where you can openly express your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. You and your therapist will work collaboratively to explore your concerns, identify underlying issues, and develop effective coping strategies. During your therapy sessions, you may address a wide range of teen concerns, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, peer relationships, family conflicts, academic stress, and identity exploration.Your therapist also provides guidance and support for your parents and family, helping them understand your experiences and fostering better communication and family dynamics.

Counseling for Emerging Adults

We have developed specialized knowledge and experiences in working with college students and emerging adults. We understand that you are facing unique challenges during this part of life. You are navigating huge life changes through transitions and challenges related to education, career, relationships, identity, and independence. During counseling, our therapists will help you explore your values, goals, and identity, while also addressing challenges such as academic stress, career decision-making, developing healthy relationships, managing financial independence, and adjusting to newfound responsibilities. Your counselor will work collaboratively with you to understand your concerns, provide validation, and help you develop coping strategies, decision-making skills, and self-confidence. Your counseling sessions may involve discussions, exploration of thoughts and feelings, goal setting, skill-building exercises, and exploration of personal values and beliefs.

A counseling session with a young adult, engaging in open conversation and seeking support. This image on our individual counseling site page represents the value of individual counseling for emerging adults and college students. Discover our counseling services near you in Austin, TX and Chicago, IL, providing personalized support for anxiety, depression, life stress, and relational issues. Experience the transformative power of individual counseling as our skilled therapists guide you towards personal growth and well-being.
Image of a counselor and client sitting on a couch, representing the individual therapy page. Discover our counseling services for adults as you embark on a journey of personal growth and healing. Our dedicated counselors provide compassionate support and guidance tailored to your unique needs.

Counseling for Adults

We have developed specialized knowledge and experiences in working with adults. We understand that you are juggling many roles and responsibilities while trying to live a full life, establishing and maintaining meaningful relationships, and navigating career transitions or mid-life changes. We know that your past experiences, pains, and accomplishments have shaped who you are today. We are ready to meet you where you are and collaborate in therapy to address your unique experiences and concerns. You and your therapist will work together to address managing stress, improving self-esteem, addressing relationship issues, dealing with grief or loss, or managing mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. We will also help you identify long standing ineffective patterns of engaging with yourself and others and find ways to promote personal growth and positive change. The ultimate aim of individual therapy for adults is to support personal growth, enhance emotional well-being, and improve overall quality of life.

Counseling Tailored to You

At Bright Light Counseling Center, we believe that therapy doesn't have to be boring or stuffy - in fact, we think it should be fun! Our therapists are warm, engaging, and approachable, and we strive to create a relaxed and comfortable environment where you can feel at ease. We know that therapy is hard work - and we will go at your pace - even with an encouraging push. We'll work with you to help you rediscover your own strengths and resources, and empower you to take charge of your own life.​ 

 

Our team of expert clinicians is here to help you rediscover your own bright light, one session at a time. We understand that each person is unique, and that's why we take a personalized approach to therapy. Developing a supportive therapeutic alliance is our top priority. We'll work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan that's tailored to your individual needs and goals.  Our therapists provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can freely express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Individual therapy can be short-term or long-term, depending on your individual needs and goals.

 

Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes and transitions, relationship issues, or any other mental health concern, individual therapy can be an effective way to address these challenges. Our therapists are skilled at using evidence-based approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Exposure and Responsive Prevention (ERP) and more, to help you develop the skills and insights you need to overcome your obstacles and create a life that's worth living.

So, if you're ready to take the first step on your journey towards a brighter future, contact us today to schedule your first individual therapy session.

We can't wait to help you rediscover your own bright light, one session at a time!​​​​

We offer individual counseling with specific expertise in the following areas:

Relationship Problems and Conflict

Decision Making Difficulties

Difficulty with Work/Life Balance

Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence

Personal Life and Career Dissatisfaction

Grief and Loss

Let's rediscover your Bright Light.

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