Ally Fein, MSW

Kids (3-10), Adolescents (10-18), Young Adults, and Colleges

Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma, Grief, Divorce, Disordered Eating, Stressful Life Transitions, Friendship Struggles, Substance Use, Suicidal Ideation

Welcome! My name is Ally Fein and I am so grateful to be joining the team at Inspire Counseling. I grew up in Deerfield, IL and have a strong understanding of the unique experiences that come with growing up in the Northshore. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Studies in Human Relations, a minor inSocial Work, and a certificate in Resilience and Trauma Informed Perspectives from The University of Iowa. I then attended Jane Addams College of Social Work in Chicago, IL for my Masters in Social Work.

Before joining the team at Inspire, I gained invaluable professional experience at two local High Schools — New Trier and Adlai E. Stevenson High School. I provided individual and group counseling support for students experiencing substance use issues, IEP/504/MTSS goals and social-emotional needs. I planned and co-facilitated student support groups on Executive Functioning and Academic Skills while emphasizing the importance of students’ wellbeing.

I also have a special spot in my heart for kids. I worked at Apachi Village Day Camp for five years through the summers of 2019 – 2024. I also was part of the Childcare team at Midtown Athletic Club for three years. In these roles, I found a true passion connecting with kids.

I love collaborating with teachers, families, and adolescents. Together, we identify alternative coping techniques and positive supports, and work on distress tolerance and emotional regulation. I believe working closely with adolescents and families is the key to growth, independence and confidence.

Working (and personally experiencing) the pressures of some of the nations top High School’s, I have a developed a deep understanding of the unique pressures young people face in today’s world, from academic stress to social struggles, and everything in between.

It also gained insight into the importance of building strong, supportive relationships with both students and their families. I’m grateful for the experience at New Trier, as it helped shape the way I approach therapy – with a balance of professional expertise and a genuine desire to meet my clients where they are in their journey. truly heard and supported.

That personal experience shapes the way I show up for my clients – with empathy, patience, and a deep respect for the courage it takes to be vulnerable. I believe therapy is not about “fixing”, but about helping you reconnect with your strengths, understand your patterns, and move toward the life you want to live. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe enough to be honest, challenged enough to grow, and supported every step of the way.

I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion and care. You don’t have to do it alone. Because of my own experiences with therapy, I know how valuable it is to have a space where you feel

Children (3-10)

Prior to joining Inspire, I worked for 5 years at Apachi Village Day Camp with kiddos during the summers of 2019-2024. I also worked in the childcare team at Midtown Athletic Club for three years.

Nothing makes me happier than helping a child overcome a challenge — whether it’s behavioral, emotional or socially — so they can enjoy their childhood as they deserve. I know every kid is a good kid at heart, and together we can try to release them from feelings or behaviors that hold them back at school, home or with their friends.

I also have learned the invaluable power of working closely with families, parents, siblings and all involved so every kid can shine and do their best.

Adolescents & College Self-Esteem & Confidence

During Jr High, High School and College — self-esteem and confidence is something everyone wants, but it’s one of the hardest times of life to achieve.

When you struggle with low self-esteem, even if no one knows it, it can can have a profound impact on your relationships, academics, and life choices and future career options. Most importantly, how we view ourselves impacts our life on a daily basis. I believe that everyone has the ability to change their inner narrative and create lasting and meaningful transformation in their self-esteem.

Together, we’ll work on shifting limiting beliefs, improving self-compassion, and ultimately cultivating a mindset that allows you to feel more confident and empowered in your daily life.

When you discovering your strengths, and see your value, you not only can create a life that aligns with your authentic self– but you can feel confident, secure and inspire others around you as well.

Substance Use & Eating Disorders

Substance Use and Disordered Eating often serve as coping mechanisms for deeper emotional pain, trauma, or mental health challenges. These issues can feel isolating, overwhelming, and often take a significant toll on both your physical and emotional well-being.

I take an integrative, trauma-informed approach to treatment, combining evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help build healthier coping strategies, and create lasting behavioral changes.

Recovery is a process, and while it’s not always linear, it is possible. I am here to offer support, guidance, and the tools needed to move forward, while recognizing the courage it takes to make that first step toward healing.

Anxiety, Depression and Suicidal Ideation

I understand how overwhelming it can feel when anxiety and depression take hold. It not only impacts the person experiencing these feelings, but everyone in their life as well.

I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to help find relief and the results you want. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Solution-Focused Therapy. These modalities help clients develop tools to challenge negative thought patterns, reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety and depression, and build lasting coping strategies.

I also emphasize self-compassion and mindfulness, helping you learn to be kinder to yourself during difficult moments and manage the stressors that often accompany anxiety and depression. My goal is to provide a safe and compassionate space where we can work together to manage these feelings, uncover their root causes, and help you rediscover balance in your life.

For Fun…

Outside of therapy, I’m an instructor at CorePower Yoga, where I get to share my love for mindfulness, movement, and self-care with others. Yoga has been a powerful tool in my own life for grounding, relaxation, and stress relief, and I’m passionate about helping others find that same sense of balance and connection within themselves. I’m deeply committed to living a life that nurtures both my body and mind, and I bring that same holistic approach into my work as a therapist.

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