Hi there! My name is Taylor Cohen. Growing up in Highland Park and attending HPHS, I have experienced firsthand the rewards and tremendous pressures of growing up on the North Shore. I am a compassionate, warm dedicated therapist who has a huge passion for helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges and help individuals become the best version of themselves through empowerment. After experiencing my own mental health journey, I discovered my calling as a therapist, was driven by a deep desire to assist others in recognizing that there can be hope and healing beyond our struggles. Throughout our therapeutic journey, expect tons of laughter, tears, and, most importantly, personal growth.
When working with me, you can expect a warm, authentic, and nonjudgmental safe space where you can navigate the processing of adverse experiences and uncomfortable feelings/emotions. While I embody a laid back warm, gentle, and nurturing approach, I also work with clients to foster accountability and self-awareness within reason. I always meet clients where they are at and would love to walk alongside this therapeutic journey with you. I believe there is not a one size fits all approach for every client. I work to integrate different approaches that fit clients’ needs. I implement person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), behavioral activation, and psychodynamic therapy into my work.
Here is a little bit about me! I obtained my undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona, majoring in psychology. Subsequently, I pursued my Master’s in Clinical Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Trauma at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Trauma Work
During my time in my Master’s Program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, I worked at Amita St Elizabeth Behavioral Health Hospital, gaining invaluable experience with a diverse population of children, adolescents, and young adults. In addition to providing individual therapy, I facilitated several Intensive Outpatient Level (IOP) of care groups for children and adolescents facing various mental health concerns at a high level of care. During my time at the hospital, I had exposure to a wide range of diagnoses and different forms of treatment. Many presenting concerns related to self-harm, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, family stressors, and trauma-related experiences. I am also TF-CBT certified.
Children and Adolescents
Kiddo’s and Teens nowadays face many pressures and stressors with school, finding one’s place in a social group, feeling left out/excluded, battling with low self-esteem, disordered eating, being bullied, sports, and achieving good grades is just a microcosm of what this population can experience. When working with children and adolescents, I put a lot of time into fostering the therapeutic relationship. I know that trust and, a sense of safety is so important when working with this population and I will do everything and anything to ensure your children and adolescents feel seen, understood, and validated. These developmental ages can be challenging, and I will work alongside with your child to provide the best support possible. I incorporate many different modalities that allow your child to explore their challenges, and allow for emotional expression via art therapy, play therapy, therapeutic games, and movement activities. We will have so much together, but we also will work towards the desired goals we have created.
Young Adults
I know how challenging, lonely, confusing, and scary this stage of life can be. My approach to working with young adults involves recognizing and respecting your autonomy and equipping you with the tools and skills you need to navigate the challenges and transitions of this important life stage. I strive to empower young adults to foster growth, gain self-awareness, develop resiliency, and create fulfilling and meaningful lives that you are so deserving of! Through our work, you will develop a deeper understanding of yourself, unravel and explore self-defeating beliefs, and overcome obstacles that have been hindering your progress.
For Fun…
Currently living in Chicago, for fun I indulge my love for exploring the restaurant scene, hanging out with friends, going to the gym, and always hunting down on a quest to find the best fro-yo. When I am not working I love to binge-watch tv (currently my top pick is The Summer I Turned Pretty), and keep up with the latest TikTok trends.