Laura Tracz-Gelis

I am a nationally certified, Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health from DePaul University. When working with clients, my goal is to create a welcoming and strength-based environment to facilitate self-understanding and growth.

My work aids adults, adolescents, and children. I have experience working with mood disorders, anxiety, depression, specific phobias, OCD, ADHD, and career counseling. My approach mixes holistic and evidenced-based approaches including Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Existential Therapy. The interventions I use are trauma-informed and have a mindful foundation.

Some specific populations I see include women who have Autism and caregivers and babies. Oftentimes when working with women who have Autism, we explore developing deeper connections with others, uncovering the impacts of societal norms, and building the confidence to be authentic. When working with caregivers and babies, I help individuals identify and change generational patterns and build attunement; ultimately helping families to connect more positively, deeply, and continuously.

In 2020, I became certified as an EMT and later worked in the ER at Stroger (Hospital of Cook County) as a Crisis Worker. These experiences informed my understanding of treating high stress and trauma, especially through the mind-body connection.

Understanding human nature and how systems work has always been a core part of my interests. Before becoming a psychotherapist, I received a Master of Science in Economic and Policy Analysis and was in data analytics and consulting for over 10 years.