Emily Mikuta, MA, LPC

Kids (3-10), Adolescents (10-18), College, Young Adults

Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Autism (ASD), Trauma, Bullying, Stressful Life
Transitions, Troublesome Childhoods, Behavioral Issues, Anger, Women’s issues

Hello! I’m so grateful you found your way here. I know how difficult and vulnerable it can feel to seek support, and I want you to know you’re not alone. By simply being here, you’ve already taken an important step toward your healing journey!

I grew up in Glenview, Illinois, part of Chicago’s North Shore area and attended
Glenbrook South High School. Growing up, I was a competitive dancer and was on the poms
team in high school. Dancing competitively was not just a passion of mine, but also my outlet,
my support system, and a way to manage the anxiety and self-doubt I was facing.

Like many adolescents, I faced my own struggles with anxiety and depression. Due to this, I began working with a counselor who made me feel truly seen, heard, and valued. That experience changed everything. It planted a seed that led me to where I am today: helping children, adolescents, and young adults find their voice, build resilience, and feel supported, just like I once needed.

I’m also a first-generation American, my parents immigrated from Poland before I was
born. Growing up, I found myself balancing two cultures, which sometimes made me feel
isolated and unsure of where I fit in. It was something I struggled with, especially in high school,
but over time, I’ve come to deeply appreciate and embrace my identity. This lived experience
helps me connect with clients who are navigating multicultural identities or feeling caught
between worlds, and I’m thankful to support them in finding strength and clarity in their own
unique stories.

After graduating from Glenbrook South, I earned my bachelor’s degree in
Clinical Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I then attended the
Chicago School to obtain my master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

During my time at the Chicago School, I was honored to be accepted into the Chi Sigma Iota Honors Society. Along the way, I worked at Leep Forward, a therapeutic day school for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. There, I learned how powerful play-based interventions can be, and how important it is to meet every client where they are.

During my clinical internship at Youth Services of Glenview/Northbrook, I had the privilege of working with children and adolescents through individual and group therapy. That experience reinforced my belief that healing starts with the therapeutic relationship, and that every client brings strengths worth celebrating.

Counseling to me means creating a safe and approachable space where people feel
empowered to grow, heal, and be their authentic selves. I feel so lucky that my position allows
me to share a space with such incredible kids, teens, and young adults.

When you work with me, you’ll find a space filled with safety, collaboration, empathy, empowerment, honesty, and humor. I recognize that every individual is unique, which is why I tailor my approach to meet each client where they are. Whether someone needs structure and skill-building or a space to process and explore, I draw from a range of therapeutic tools to support their specific goals and needs. No two people are the same, and I believe healing looks different for everyone, so our work together will reflect what feels most helpful and meaningful to you. It’s my mission to create a place where client’s feel genuinely seen and heard. If you’re reading this, I’m honored and excited to walk alongside you in your healing journey.

Children & Adolescents

Working with children and adolescents has always been a passion of mine and it’s the population I have the most experience with. So many children and adolescents carry big feelings without always having the words or tools to express them. I understand how overwhelming it can feel for young people to cope with internal struggles they don’t fully understand, and how confusing it can be for parents as well.

As someone who personally experienced depression and anxiety and benefited from counseling in my own adolescence, I know the power of feeling seen and supported at a young age. I love creating spaces where children and teens can explore their emotions, build confidence, and grow into more empowered versions of themselves, all while knowing they don’t have to go through it alone.

I also believe in the importance of including the client’s broader support system such as a guardian or teacher. Collaboration and consistency across environments can play a crucial role in a child’s growth and healing. I also utilize an activity-based and play therapy approach, tailoring sessions to each child’s interests and developmental level. Whether we’re drawing, playing card games, or engaging in imaginative play, these tools help build rapport, foster expression, and make therapy feel safe, engaging, and meaningful for each child.

College & Young Adults

College and early adulthood can bring immense pressure academically, socially, and personally. It’s a time filled with transitions, identity exploration, and big questions about who you are and where you’re headed. I understand firsthand how overwhelming this time can feel, and I strive to create a space where clients feel supported, grounded, and empowered to grow at their own pace.

My approach is rooted in person-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), helping clients build insight, develop coping strategies, and challenge unhelpful patterns. That said, I know therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, meaning what works for one person might not work for another. That’s why I stay flexible and collaborative, tailoring our work to reflect your unique needs, goals, and preferences.

Most importantly, I ensure that you’re an active participant in your own healing journey.

For Fun…

Outside of the office, I spend my time enjoying all that Chicago has to offer, especially eating at any and all restaurants I can find! I love spending time on Lake Michigan, whether it’s boating with family or soaking in the city views.

Staying active is important to me, and I’m a big fan of Barre and Lagree fitness classes. I also have a love for electronic music and often attend concerts and music festivals. At home, I’m usually hanging out with my adorable pug, Frankie. And as a fashion lover, I’ll never say no to a good shopping trip. These hobbies help me recharge and stay connected to what brings me happiness!

To schedule an appointment, Call or TEXT (847) 919-9096 or hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com