Welcome!
I look forward to supporting you on your journey
Therapy for Life Transitions
I'm Laura Adams, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience helping people navigate difficult life events—bereavement, workplace stress, and supporting a loved one through mental health or addiction challenges.
My clients are capable and successful in many areas of their lives, but they're exhausted from trying to hold it all together. They care for others but forget to put on their own oxygen mask first, leaving them worn out and running on empty.
My approach is shaped by experience across diverse settings and roles. I believe all people have strengths to work through their challenges—they just sometimes need support along the way. I work from a strengths-based, ACT-informed perspective, which means we'll look at your situation with curiosity and compassion, not judgment, and work toward solutions that fit your life.
While much of my work is short-term and focused on easing acute symptoms, sometimes current struggles mask deeper concerns like trauma that need a closer look. Whether we meet for three months or three years, I'm here to help you move through adversity in a way that aligns with your values and feels meaningful to you.
“I have known Laura for over a decade and can confidently say she is an exceptionally responsive and reliable professional. With more than 30 years of experience in the behavioral health field, she brings a depth of knowledge and clinical expertise that is evident in everything she does. Beyond her experience, she is a truly compassionate person who is deeply supportive and consistently offers thoughtful insight and guidance. I can genuinely recommend her as a therapist without reservation”.
Blair Famarin, LCSW,
National Director of Business Development
The Menninger Clinic
Working With Me
I got into this work because I don't believe people have to "hit bottom" for things to change. Depression, anxiety, addiction, and personal crises happen to all of us, and getting help shouldn't feel stigmatizing or daunting. I believe your symptoms are your nervous system trying to protect you and deserve compassion, not judgment. I use a direct but warm approach, offering regular feedback and practical suggestions so you can continue making progress between sessions.
Crisis and change are unavoidable, but you can learn to move with them instead of against them. Together, we'll build the skills you need to face what comes rather than avoiding it or wishing it away.
If this speaks to you, let's set up a consultation to see if we're a good fit. I work with clients in person in Chicago and offer virtual therapy across Illinois.
A little more about me
Master of Social Work, Wayne State University
2007 Member of the Year: Northern Illinois Employee Assistance Professionals Association
2017 Spirit Award recognizing a professional who has assisted clients in a specialty area of behavioral health
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, State of Illinois: 149-006483
Therapy Dog Handler: Pet Partners
Volunteer: PAWS Chicago since 2017
MY SPECIALTIES
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I help people who are so busy caring for others, they forget to care for themselves. We will create a plan to help you prioritize your needs while still attending to your life’s responsibilities.
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As someone with extensive EAP experience and lived experience in many workplace settings, I can help you create a plan to cope with your workplace challenges.
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Career changes, losses, health challenges, and changes in identity are all common experiences in midlife. This is a time of life that is both stressful and very rewarding.
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A cancer diagnosis, whether in yourself or a loved one, is terrifying. I am here to help you through this very difficult time.
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I provide support and guidance to people who are dealing with a loved one with a substance use or mental health problem.
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For many people, pets are an integral part of the family and losing a beloved pet is very painful. We will work together to honor your pet’s life and help you move forward at your pace.