“I’m more calm in dealing with my ex.”
L.N. Teletherapy April 27, 2021
Things have been much, much better and calmer at home. The tantrums my daughter was having almost daily have become mostly nonexistent, although we are still working through some issues with respect, accepting no for an answer the first time, etc. My daughter has become more self-aware, and she is able to identify some of her own behaviors, such as when she is overreacting, or unable to be flexible with a change in plans. On a whole, her demeanor has been more calm, reasonable, and understanding, and less rigid/argumentative… She enjoys meeting with Annie, and I have found my conversations/emails with Annie to be very helpful in navigating different situations at school and overnight camp, when third parties have been involved. Annie has been instrumental in reaching out to those third parties and helping put measures in place to best help my daughter [succeed] in those environments. This has been her first experience with therapy, and I cannot say enough good things about Annie. I think the most important piece in all of this was finding the right fit for both my daughter and our family, and Annie could not be a more perfect fit. I feel like I used to have to deal with obstacles/difficulties alone or with my husband, but now we have a great resource to help get through tough issues. I have enjoyed time with my daughter more since we have started coming, and I feel that I am spending less time disciplining her, though we are still working through issues as noted above.
Anonymous Northbrook Office September 23, 2019
[My son] has improved or learned better skills to cope with his anxiety (nerves) with new things and loud sounds. I believe our whole family has benefitted from Amber’s suggestions. He often talks about his sessions at dinner and it opens doors for the rest of the family to talk about situations and different coping strategies.
W.S. Skokie Office September 16, 2019
We have really connected well with Annie. She has been an incredible resource and support in helping us navigate through our divorce while co-parenting. This process has truly been a team effort and Annie has assisted in guiding us to change the way divorce looks and create a different approach to it all, especially keeping the kids #1. We are so grateful to have her as a part of our support team and recommend her to anyone!
C.B. Northbrook Office September 12, 2019
Since we started working with Annie, it is the first time I truly feel like my son has a therapist who understands him and his needs. I also feel like Annie understands us, his parents, and what we need. She has been very responsive to emails and phone calls. Best of all, she has been super proactive in problem solving both with the school (behavior plans) and us (recommending who we get in touch with at our son’s new school, what should be in place for him, what book we should read to try and understand him and his issues).
We have been through so many therapists and I was tired of introducing my son to yet another therapist who was supposed to help. With Annie, I think he’s found his person…
M.T. Northbrook Office September 12, 2019
Wow – so much I could say! Communication between the siblings has improved. The kids share strategies when faced with big emotions. The children all feel more empowered and most importantly, they feel safe and supported. They are doing really well, despite their traumas and less than ideal circumstances.
I say “all of the children” even though only 3 of the 5 are currently treated at NSFS because so much of what comes out of the sessions is shared by the kids with the other kids. At times, Julia has included everyone in sessions as well. The “team” spirit and encouragement of each other is the greatest gift.
NSFS providers have helped give me the strength, courage, and validation to stand up to abuse and keep the children safe. I could not have done this without the amazing support found here – in many ways, NSFS is our home away from home. I can never thank you all enough.
L.L. Northbrook Office September 12, 2019
I’ve seen my child improve on expressing herself.
M.K. Northbrook Office September 12, 2019
I have learned a lot about myself. I have opened up about my trauma. I have built skills to combat my anxiety/depression. I have learned coping strategies to help me in dark times. I have processed much of my past. I have analyzed the present. I have set goals for the future. I feel stronger. I feel smarter. I feel like I am ready to move forward. I am a better person, and I am so grateful.
K.M. Northbrook Office August 9, 2019
I have felt better talking about my emotions. It is expressing and sharing how I feel to solve these situations. It has made me a little more in peace. Over time I can see this having a big impact on me for the better.
M.G. Skokie Office July 17, 2019
I have noticed significant emotional growth in myself. I feel that I handle my anger better and I am able to communicate my feelings more effectively. I have a more healthy home environment and I can communicate my feelings better with my mom and dad.
E.H. Libertyville office July 15, 2019
My mental health has truly improved. My NSFS therapist is thoughtful, honest, flexible, and practical. She is willing to do anything to make me comfortable. She is transparent, trustworthy and understanding. Not to mention, my NSFS therapist has a great sense of humor. She uses many different strategies to help her clients, including art, mindfulness, taking walks, exposure therapy, geeky references, and more.
A.A. Libertyville Office July 12, 2019
I have seen my son grow more and more confident and capable managing his anxiety and feelings… Theresa is amazing with my son… He enjoys coming to therapy.
S.M. Skokie Office July 11, 2019
We have made enormous strides. My daughter saw Theresa for anxiety and then I started joining and now see Theresa as well. I am much more aware of what triggers both of us, taking a deep breath, and focusing on what really matters. My daughter and I are learning more about ourselves in a positive way. Theresa is outstanding and has been a blessing to our family.
M.S. Skokie office July 10, 2019
I am continuing to feel better about myself. Courtney helps me every week by listening, understanding, and giving me ways to cope. I am so happy that I made the choice to come to North Shore Family Services and I am so lucky to have the chance to work with Courtney.
C.P. Libertyville office July 10, 2019
I feel better. I have an objective person to talk to. We are new so still working on progress. My teen is also responding well. Samantha is so insightful and professional.
M. Northbrook Office June 9, 2019
She has had less fear about seeing her father. She has been able to express how she is feeling without being afraid. She has developed better ways of coping with fear and anxiety.
I have learned very effective ways of helping my daughter work through situations that are difficult even for an adult, let a lone a 3 1/2 year old.
Libertyville office May 23, 2019
Our daughter has had less fear about seeing her father. She has been able to express how she is feeling without being afraid. She has developed better ways of coping with fear and anxiety.
I have learned very effective ways of helping my daughter work through situations that are difficult even for an adult, let along a 3 1/2 year old.
J.L. Libertyville Office May 23, 2019
Julia has helped me to overcome some of my fears. She has also helped with ways to stop panic attacks or to calm me down if I am having a panic attack. Julia has also helped with my stress management, how to deal with stress, and how to eliminate stress. She has overall helped me learn useful tools to use during stressful times, when I’m having a panic attach, and when I feel angry.
E.S. Northbrook Office April 8, 2019
Our daughter has been more verbal with explaining how she is feeling and better able to stand up for herself when there is a disagreement. She enjoys coming and talking to Julia and I know she feels Julia is helping her. It is nice for our daughter to have someone to talk to about things going on in her life.
A.L. Northbrook Office April 2, 2019
She is more reflective and she has a better ability to deal with her stress. She communicates her feelings in a more productive way, and she has gained confidence.
M.P. Skokie Office April 1, 2019
We have been happy with our daughter’s therapist. She is very knowledgeable and connects well with our daughter. We are looking forward to seeing her progress as she continues to work more in depth with Julia. The waiting room as well as Julia’s office are warm and inviting. Email interactions with NSFS have been great. They’re all wonderful to work with. Five stars!
A.H. Northbrook Oiffce March 29, 2019
We’ve had a very positive experience at NSFS. Ms. Julia is great to work with and we strongly believe she advocates for our son on a continuous basis. There have been times we’ve asked (the parents) to meet with Julia separately to voice concerns and get advice with how to best handle situations. She’s been very receptive to those meetings when needed. It’s nice to know that Ms. Julia is in contact with our son’s teachers. She’s reassured us so many times through periods that are stressful – and that is so appreciated.
L.G. Northbrook Office March 29, 2019
Julia is great. I think our daughter is learning lots of tools for helping her. She is getting better at bedtime. She is more relaxed and calm. She is aware of how to help herself. I also think communication is better to be assertive when expressing herself. I’m happy with the outcome so far!
S.K. Northbrook Oiffce March 29, 2019
My son has matured a lot and is learning strategies to use both at home and in the classroom. I love that I’m also learning vocabulary and strategies to help him.
L.K. Northbrook Office March 27, 2019
Our son has been able to express himself at home and school as to how he is feeling. He has been better with organization and working toward goals.
C.M. Northbrook Office March 26, 2019
I have noticed our son becoming more open and willing to talk. He’s becoming more relaxed. I am very grateful that he has someone to talk to about things he may not want to talk to me (his mom) about. Julia is a blessing for my son and I’m very grateful for all her help she has given to my son for all this time he has seen her!
E.D. Northbrook Office March 25, 2019
Overall, we have been extremely happy with North Shore Family Services. All of the staff is very friendly and it is extremely clear that they care about the kids that they work with. We have seen great improvements with our son since we started a year ago. The skills he is learning with Julia are helping him feel successful at school and making our life at home easier. He has learned skills t help him control his behavior and shares those skills with everyone in the family so that we can support him. Having someone he can talk to has helped him cope with the difficult times and we are once again seeing our happy sill child. We couldn’t ask for more from a therapy office.
D.M Northbrook Oiffce March 25, 2019
He has grown so much in his ability to not run away from his difficult situations and to face his fears baby steps at a time. He was able to gain skills and we were able to develop a toolbox of strategies through Samantha’s help. We are very grateful for her help and this amazing place for not only him but me too, as I saw a counselor here as well. Thank you!
B.K. Northbrook Office March 23, 2019
Julia Woodson, Dori Mages and North Shore Family Services have been a lifeline for our family! We first met Julia when my then 7 year old son was getting frustrated at school and struggling with self confidence. She knew exactly how to get through to him and gave him the tools he needed to work through his frustrations and feel good about himself. And recently when my almost 10 year old daughter had us pretty freaked out as she was grasping to understand some really heavy stuff, I reached out in desperate need of guidance and Julia came through for us that same day. She was able to help her understand and make sense of her very confusing feelings in a way that I never could have. By the time we left her office we were both breathing so much easier. As my kids grow and change – and inevitably face new challenges – I feel so blessed to know that Julia, Dori and all of the wonderful, compassionate people at North Shore Family Services will be there for us when we need them.
L.G. Northbrook office March 20, 2019
Our son has gained more confidence at school. Moreover, he helps out more at home with chores, makes breakfast for himself, always is very attentive towards me, asks me how my day was, how was work, what I had for lunch. He started sleeping better, is less anxious about unexpected events. Overall, I see a positive change in my son
S.K. Park Ridge Office March 19, 2019
The growth I’ve seen in my son has been amazing. He has acquired skills that help him manage his anxiety and subsequent behaviors. He loves coming to see Theresa. The trust she develops is so amazing. She is compassionate and also has a balance when needing to help push my son and challenge himself.
I have recommended this practice as well as Theresa to quite a few families. The work you do is life changing. I thank you!
J.M. Skokie Office February 7, 2019
We have developed a wonderful and safe relationship with Julia Woodson. She has been a comforting support during a difficult family time and has helped us navigate these life changes. She has also been a second support for our son with some issues at school. She has been a great advocate for him and has help our family to know how to support him as well.
North Shore Family Services has been wonderful for our family.
S.W. Northbrook office February 5, 2019
Amazing transformation. Our son and us feel like a weight has been lifted off us – huge decrease in household anxiety. We have had a significant improvement in communication with our son.
He is learning lifelong tools – how to reflect, effectively communicate, self-awareness, consequences. We are beyond grateful for Theresa’s expertise. She is an excellent listener, critical teacher, and has had a very positive impact on our son’s emotional development.
I feel that I have learned from my son and Theresa. I have learned to implement the tools taught by Theresa, which has changed the way I communicate with our son.
Our one regret is that we didn’t reach out sooner – but we can just look to the future and watch our amazing son develop into a healthy young man.
S.R. Skokie office February 3, 2019
Amazing transformation. Our son and we feel like a weight has been lifted off us. Huge decrease in household anxiety. We have a significant improvement in communication with him.
He is learning lifelong tools – how to reflect, effectively communicate, self-awareness, consequences. We are beyond grateful for Theresa’s expertise. She is an excellent listener, critical teacher who has had a very positive impact on our son’s emotional development.
I feel that I have learned from my son and Theresa. I have learned to implement the tools taught by Theresa, which has changed the way I communicate with our son.
Our one regret is that we didn’t reach out sooner, but we can just look to the future and watch our amazing son develop into a healthy young man.
S.R. Skokie Office February 3, 2019
I have had a place to come and talk about whatever I want. No matter how little of a problem I thought it was. I was able to get advice from someone else. I felt safe coming each time and wanting to be here. I was able to learn how to deal with my stressors and take control of myself.
A.K. Northbrook office December 28, 2018
I have made a lot of progress. Courtney Baumann has been my therapist for a few months now. She is really helping me – more than she probably knows. I was encouraged from the first session when she outlined an 8 week plan for looking at the internal and external landscapes that influence thoughts, actions, and decisions. Courtney gave me homework that first week and continues to give me assignments each time we meet. As a teacher, I can’t tell you how much I value this kind of approach. In sessions she listens, asks pointed questions, calls me on my BS (my words not hers), and focuses on the positive things I am doing, and the progress I am making. I have been in counseling several times before and Courtney is the best therapist I have had. I told her during the first session about a major life event earlier in my life and that it was “behind” me as I had dealt with it in previous counseling and it did not have anything to do with why I am in counseling this time. While she never said anything at the time, we have come back to that “old” issue and I have learned so much more and that there is much more to learn. Amazing for something that was supposedly “put away” years ago. Courtney lends books freely, answers emails quickly, sends links and videos for further research outside of our sessions, and provides opportunity and motivation to improve. There is an art and science to helping people and Courtney has mastered both. She has the technical knowledge and intelligence to develop a treatment plan and focus on issues that are more important. She also has the art of counseling well in hand a she is creative, adaptive, humorous, and relatable. I feel lucky to have found Courtney as a therapist.
December 3, 2018
Courtney has helped me so much. I absolutely love seeing her every week. I appreciate all the things she is teaching me and helping me be a better person. The amount of compassion and understanding is amazing. Since coming to see her she has given me the want to enjoy life again and gives me the motivation and courage to better myself. She is definitely an asset to North Shore Family Services. I look forward to being able to continuously see her and grow.
C.P. Libertyville Office November 25, 2018
She’s been neutral to disliking going to three previous counselors, but Courtney has been a great fit for her. She seems to tailor the office environment specifically for when our daughter is there to make her comfortable, and Courtney’s quickly built her trust. Courtney is welcoming of my input and I’m more optimistic about our daughter’s mental health and our family relationships.
K.L. Libertyville Office November 23, 2018
My son has loved coming to therapy! Therapy has helped him have coping mechanisms and hold him accountable. Therapy gives him a safe outlet.
M.F. Northbrook office November 18, 2018
We’ve been able to communicate better with our daughter and have a better understanding of her misbehaviors – and the why behind them. We love working with Courtney. She really has a gift working with children. My daughter has already built trust with her and looks forward to her visits. Courtney has a tremendous ability to get to the root of the problem – but using a kind and nurturing voice. I feel very comfortable talking with her. I am very thankful that we have been able to have this opportunity to talk with Courtney and learn more about how we can help our daughter.
M.S. Libertyville office November 18, 2018
Our son has been doing better getting up in the mornings. He can catch himself if he is having a bad morning. He seems happier in general. He definitely is not fighting with his younger brother as much. He does not seem as emotional, and seems to be more of a happy kid. The other day he had a bad morning. When he got to school he sent me a text to apologize for his behavior.
B.W. Libertyville office November 15, 2018
We have been more planful and intentional in our parenting/discipline approach. We’ve been more aware of our daughter’s emotions. We’ve learned some easy techniques for addressing emotions and behaviors. We have more confidence in our parenting.
Our daughter has developed more confidence. She’s learned to control her anger towards her sibling. She’s learned techniques to calm herself and control her impulses. She’s learned how to more positively engage her sibling so that she plays with rules and boundaries. She’s learned to more effectively express herself and feels increasingly comfortable doing so.
A.B. Northbrook office November 14, 2018
We have been more planful and intentional in our parenting/discipline approach. We’ve been more aware of our daughter’s emotions. We’ve learned some easy techniques for addressing emotions and behaviors. We have more confidence in our parenting.
Our daughter has developed more confidence. She’s learned to control her anger towards her sister. She’s learned techniques to calm herself and control her impulses. She’s learned how to more positively engage her sister so that she plays within rules/boundaries. She’s learned to more effectively express herself and feels increasingly comfortable doing so.
A.B. Libertyville office November 14, 2018
We feel like we have someone in our corner. Whether it is through our sessions or thru emails, I feel like Julia always understand what we are going through and offers pertinent advice that is easy to apply to every day situations that we struggle with. Our daughter is learning to handle her emotions better and we have seen an improvement in her behaviors at home. We are all happy to have some tools in our toolbox for dealing with difficult situations.
T.P. Northbrook office November 9, 2018
My son has really grown a lot since coming here! His performance in school has improved and I often see him suing the techniques he learned to help him focus and control his frustrations.
L.K. Northbrook office November 8, 2018
Julia has helped both our kids manage their anxiety by giving them tools to use on a daily basis. Before coming to North Shore Family Services our son cried on a daily basis because he was always worried about something. After seeing Julia he never cries and if he’s worried he has learned how to talk himself through it without getting upset. Our daughter has also started seeing Julia and she has helped her with social issues along with anxiety. Julia has truly helped both kids!
L.F. Northbrook office November 8, 2018
Our daughter has started to handle/manage her stress. She hardly cries or feels nearly as overwhelmed as before. She is definitely better at handling stressful situations.
H.C. Northbrook office November 8, 2018
My son has grown so much in the year he has been working with his therapist. He is learning to have positive feelings about himself. And most importantly learning to reframe negative thoughts to positive thoughts. As parents feeling helpless it is heartbreaking to see your child feel so negative about themself but we are also learning the tools to help navigate thru his feelings. We will continue to work with NSFS and are very thankful for his therapist and the practice.
D.O. Northbrook Office September 29, 2018
Since my daughter has begun services her overall mood has improved. Therapy has given her an outlet for self-expression. Weekly, she is given goals that focus on self-improvement with an emphasis on socialization. She feels better expressing her feelings in a trusting environment. I am more than happy with the relationship she has developed with Theresa and the progress she has made.
J.E. Skokie Office September 12, 2018
I’ve felt a genuine connection with my therapist. She dives deep into my emotions and makes them feel valid. She’s not only an excellent listener, but she offers feedback if I’m okay with it. I look forward to every session with my therapist because I feel like it’s a step forward in bettering my mental health.
T.S. Skokie Office September 5, 2018
Our daughter is more confident. She had difficulty going to sleep and that has improved dramatically. She looks forward to her visits with Theresa and will talk about what she learned throughout the week. Theresa helped me find some lost faith within myself and the strength to stay centered in what matters most. We are so lucky we get to visit once a week. Thank you so much!
M.S. Skokie Office August 26, 2018
Our therapist has been amazing with our daughter. Her knowledge and patience have impacted our daughter in a meaningful way and I really can’t say enough about her care/therapy. I feel so fortunate to be a part of this practice. Everyone is always warm and welcoming.
I.M. Northbrook office August 15, 2018
She has developed much greater emotional maturity. She recognizes her emotions and has tools to begin processing them. I have observed her to have more confidence and a better outlook. She trusts her therapist, and is developing the skills she needs for emotional health in her life.
A.J. Northbrook office February 15, 2018
Our daughter has made substantial progress. There is still a ways to go, but we are headed in the right direction. Thank you!
M.N. Northbrook office January 15, 2018
She has been so amazing with our family. We started seeing her for our children. We see her now as well. She is always so responsive when I have emailed when faced with a difficult parenting situation. She understands my family dynamic. She has been the best thing for our family to get some tools to parent better and have a better family dynamic.
I.L. Northbrook office January 15, 2018
My house has become a much more peaceful and civil place! It has been very helpful to have our therapist explain to my kids different ways their behavior has had to change and improve. She does it in a playful way that keeps them open to the feedback (it is hard for me – they are not so open to my approach!). Once she has taught them a certain skill, she also gives me a tool to remind them about how to / not to behave in a non-threatening way. IT has made confronting bad behavior much easier for me, and gave me confidence in my parenting style.
I am so thankful for the help she has provided our family. Our stress level has plummeted. We still have our challenges, and there are good days and bad days, but we are worlds ahead of where we were.
K.T. Northbrook office January 15, 2018
She is absolutely wonderful. Both my children look forward to our time together.
Our son understands why he attends therapy (to help focus in school). I enjoy that he values the lessons learned in session.
I believe we are in a good rhythm now with our sessions. Like any good relationship, it takes time to build a trust and bond. We are not one year into our sessions and we are in a good groove. Our therapist understands the dynamics of our family well.
To quote our son, “I am happy and excited that she helps me a lot.”
I also am happy that she has a bond with both my children and is able to use sessions to relate to each of them.
K.G. Northbrook office January 15, 2018
The girls have been able to express their feelings about our divorce and just life in general and more specifically, how to get along with each other and how to deal with things when they go bad. While both girls have been given tools to deal with their anger or sadness I’m not sure these tools are used in the heat of the moment. I like the fact that they have an opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings with her. She will draw them out . They look forward to seeing her. In fact, they (we) would like them to see her more often. She has really connected with the girls and they are very comfortable with her. She has helped our family through a very hard time.
R.B. Northbrook office January 15, 2018
He is learning to cope with his feelings. He enjoys coming even when it’s hard work being done. He is happy to have a safe place to talk about difficult feelings.
Julia has been a great advocate for him. She is a good listener and knows how to draw him out when he starts to close down. They have fun playing games together too. I like that Julia checks in with me prior to his appointment to see if there is anything I want to share and calls me into session when there is something I need to know.
M.B. Northbrook office January 15, 2018
We truly couldn’t be any happier. Julia is the PERFECT fit for her. Julia is patient and loving – those qualities make it very easy for a young child with anxiety to feel “safe” to open up. I would refer anyone and everyone to come to North Shore Family Services.
In such a short period of time – I’ve seen a huge, positive difference in our daughter.
B.K. Northbrook office January 15, 2018
We’ve seen significant progress in his capability to manage his emotions without prompting and/or intervention. It’s been pretty amazing to watch in such a short period of time. The tools he’s learned he has retained with little reminding from us.
Thank you!
R.K. Northbrook office January 15, 2018
He has seemed more relaxed since starting therapy. He seems to be more reflexive on how he responds to situations. IT appears that things have improved in school as well. Thank you!
K.S. Skokie office January 15, 2018
His task completion has been his best skill since starting. Mrs. Julia is very kind and he really likes coming to her!
M.P. Northbrook office January 15, 2018
We’ve noticed our daughter better able to manager her emotions using techniques she’s learned in session. For example, we have seen her beginning to struggle with a frustrating situation and say “I’m going to use my wise mind.”
Overall we are very satisfied with the clinical and customer service we get.
M.H. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
He has learned new strategies to help him stay focused. He still needs to work at putting them into practice.
It’s been a good outlet for him to talk to Lisa about his struggles, and it’s allowed his dad and I to understand how at times our reactions may be negatively affecting him.
He feels very comfortable with Lisa and I’m pleased with how open he’s been in their discussions.
L.M. Libertyville office December 15, 2017
He has made great progress in terms of recognizing his emotional state and calming himself down. He continues to handle disappointment and frustration in better ways. He is also more receptive to constructive criticism and correction.
C.R. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
We have only been coming for a few weeks so far but thus far I’ve been very pleased. My son seems to feel comfortable with Julia, and we have already had some success with a few of the strategies she showed us. If nothing else, I already feel like we’ve made a step in the right direction.
L.K. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
We have only had a few sessions but I am happy to have a plan for dealing with my daughter’s behavior. Julia is very responsive and has a lot of good ideas. Our daughter loves coming here.
T.P. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
He has become much more open to trying and learning new things with less frustration. According to his 1st grade teacher he was very resistant at the beginning of the school year but now is willing to take more risks and make mistakes. He still gets frustrated at times and struggles with self-esteem, but Julia has been amazing at teaching him ways to cope and shift his mindset. She’s GREAT at making him feel comfortable and getting him to open up in a setting that could be really awkward for a 6-year-old boy.
North Shore Family Services seems like a very organized and well run organization!
L.G. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
We have identified many issues within our family that have attributed to our daughter’s lack of self-esteem. These issues have impacted her ability to perform in some social settings. Through talking with Lisa, we have been able to open the lines of communication between the four of us. We have developed much deeper relationships and truly enjoy each other. Our daughter has grown tremendously in the past four months – she is much more confident, secure with herself, and speaks her mind when she has something to say. The best part is that we have learned to listen and validate her feelings, not dismiss them, or always try to “fix them”.
She has learned many strategies to help her interact in social settings. I have witnessed her initiating conversations more often, offering appropriate comments and simply enjoying herself around her peers and adults.
Lisa has been a real joy to work with. We are thankful for all she has done to help Lauren – and all of us.
L.D. Libertyville office December 15, 2017
We have seen improvement in his ability to recognize when his emotions are starting to ramp up and get out of his control. He has been able to catch himself and utilize strategies he’s learning for self-soothing and calming. Him being in therapy has also helped the family dynamic by increasing effective communications amongst all of us who interact with him, particularly mom and dad. The most challenged relationship, between him and his dad, has improved and tension in the home has decreased overall.
A.A. Libertyville office December 15, 2017
My daughter’s anxiety has been much better. She has learned many different ways to calm herself. Since the anxiety has become more manageable, we have been able to discuss with Lisa some of the other issues that many young girls are dealing with (friends, school, being assertive). While I normally would not send my daughter to a counselor for this, I think hearing another person’s take on it, who is not her parents, is extremely helpful. My daughter feels very comfortable with Lisa Brickert and we are grateful for that.
A.W. Libertyville office December 15, 2017
We have seen a tremendous amount of growth in our son. We initially started therapy to help with managing our son’s outbursts and emotionality. We have worked through all of that and have since gone through the process of having him evaluated for ADHD and emotional difficulties. Our therapist has helped us throughout the process of working with the psychologist and the school to get the most accurate evaluation possible. Our son has since been formally identified with ADHD and anxiety. We have seen a huge amount of growth from our son and as a family.
As parents we have received many great resources and tools to better help our son be a happier child. We have felt continuously supported and heard during our work with her. She is our advocate and support to help our son be the best child he can be both at school and at home. We love our time each week and love the support we receive.
A.K. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
We’ve become more dedicated at home to his needs and the advice provided to us. He has become more self-aware of his anxieties and we’re helping him through that. He’s a tough nut to crack! She has been SUPER in gaining his trust. She’s got great ideas for him to try at home. She is incredibly talented! And we appreciate how vested she is in him!
K.R. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
I have noticed improvement in my daughter’s ability to control and manage her emotions. I appreciate that our therapist makes me feel like we’re working together and gives me great feedback. I don’t know what we would do without her. Our daughter looks forward to every weekly session and values her friendship with her. We are so grateful to have found North Shore Family Services.
M.O. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
Julia has been kind and warm. She was very receptive to our concerns and has taken the time to address / respond to many (many) emails.
J.G. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
We came for help with his anxiety and anger issues. It’s now only a few months and Julia has done so much for him!! He is managing his anger so much better and has been able to identify what triggers him! We are so proud of him and so thankful for Julia and all the tips / ideas she has given!
M.B. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
We couldn’t be happier with our son’s therapist. She is so good at getting to know our son and identifying issues that need work. She works well with him and gives me useful strategies to use at home too. She reaches out to the teachers at school and his psychiatrist to understand the whole picture. We really appreciate her thorough approach.
Scheduling and communication via email is so easy.
D.P. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
Our daughter’s ability to be self-confident while also advocating for herself has developed tremendously. We were fortunate enough to have developed a relationship with our therapist prior to her joining North Shore Family Services. Our daughter had always connected well with her, so we are happy to continue seeing her regularly. We feel that she has a very direct style with her that provides more progression than her previous therapist. What helps most is that our daughter continues to see value by seeing her, and it is not just a waste of time to her. She wants the time and the opportunity to talk to someone outside of her inner circle of friends and family. Many times, I have observed her utilizing tactics or techniques that she discussed with her therapist and they work in her favor, which makes her believe and trust what she is saying.
J.D. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
We have seen many improvements in our daughter. She has improved communication skills by listening, looking at the person who is speaking to her, and is usually more respectful. She has improved behavior and less anxiety. Our therapist has been not only a great therapist, but a great resource to us as well. She provides much needed counseling on skills to assist us in handling day to day behavioral issues. She has also recommended outside resources to use in evaluating our daughter. Very grateful.
M.W. Northbrook office December 15, 2017
He has developed strategies that have helped him to cope with his anxiety. His anxiety obviously exists but at a more appropriate level. It no longer interferes with his everyday tasks.
C.H. Northbrook office May 15, 2017
We brought our daughter because she had been exhibiting behavior related to anxiety related to vomiting, summer camp and some minor school and social issues. She has been seeing her therapist for about 10 weeks and we have seen a great improvement! She is collecting her tools/activities in a binder that she will be taking to camp. In the past few weeks, she has stopped collecting her worries to talk about and has been working on reframing her negative thoughts.
We are very pleased with her progress and plan to continue therapy until she leaves for camp. When she returns, we will see how she is doing and may continue on a bi-weekly or monthly basis.
M.S. Northbrook office May 15, 2017
I feel that therapy is helping our son tremendously. I have seen a whole new side of him in the last 3 weeks.
B.K. Northbrook office May 15, 2017
Our daughter has improved her behavior at home. She is able to recognize when she’s wrong and say sorry.
J.M. Northbrook office April 15, 2017
Our son’s therapist is wonderful. Her approachable style set my son at easy right away. We have been coming to her for about two months and my son looks forward to their time together. I know that we are early in their time together, but I have positive feelings that we are headed in the right direction.
My goal is to set him up for success for next school year.
K.G. Northbrook office April 15, 2017
I am really glad we are getting our son the help he needs. He has responded really well to his therapist. I can tell that she very quickly earned his trust (not an easy task). He is learning about awareness of his feelings. I have learned more about why he is reacting the way he is. He has some strategies that he is trying to practice. He has openly shared with me some instances of issues with me, and I make sure to point out he can talk to her about them. I think he will need some more time to practice and until I starting seeing some different behaviors.
M.H. Northbrook office April 15, 2017
We really feel like our son greatly benefits from his time with his therapist. He gets excited about the coping activities he’s learned and takes them seriously. He still continues to need reminders when he gets anxious at night but he is talking about it and knows how to take care of himself and reduce the worrying.
R.W. Northbrook office April 15, 2017
Our son’s therapist has been fantastic with him. She has helped address multiple issues and his given us ways as a family to work on the areas which our son is struggling on. It has been great because the exercises have given us new ways of helping our son understand feelings, how to address anger and how his actions can affect others. She is always helpful and she works great with our son and us. She listens well and answers all of our questions in a timely fashion.
M.C. Northbrook office April 15, 2017
He seems to be doing a better job at managing his emotions and using his intelligence in a more productive way. She has a good connection with him and her follow up has been fantastic. She has passion for her profession.
R.J. Northbrook office April 15, 2017
He likes talking to / playing with his therapist. We’re looking forward to seeing his general anxiety and fear being better as well!
S.D. Northbrook office April 15, 2017
We have seen some big improvements in his behavior. We are finding the behavior plan ideas and key phrases used regularly and both to be very effective. He looks forward to his session each week.
H.R. Northbrook office April 15, 2017
I am seeing more openness from our son. I do think therapy is helping him. He is very hesitant to coming, but once he does he talks and talks to his therapist. I know it’s hard for him but it’s worth it. This will help him. He even said tonight it was working a little. I believe he knows it is.
I am learning more about him and his feelings / thoughts.
S.M. Northbrook office March 15, 2017
We really like how Julia (our therapist) has been working with our daughter. She has a difficult time trusting people and opening up about what she’s thinking. Julia has created a great rapport with her, which helps so much. Julia is also giving our daughter a safe space to talk to her parents about delicate or uncomfortable subjects. All of this has helped her use the new coping techniques that she’s learning.
J.S. Northbrook office December 15, 2016
Our daughter’s worst tantrums are no longer as long or as intense, dramatically so, in fact. She discusses her emotional process with more ease and familiarity with each part than before. The calming tactics we have used are even more focused upon giving her space to speak. She has more confidence, drive, and a more even keel in her daily tasks. We feel that we have an ally in her mental health journey.
T.M. Northbrook office October 15, 2016
Our son has made a ton of progress. Issues are still there but not nearly as bad as they were. He has also been more assertive with his friends and classmates.
We feel he still needs to work on asking for help at school. He just feels that he should know it all. He is starting to get worried about finishing his work on time. It takes him longer because he doesn’t ask for help.
Overall, we are completely happy with the progress he has made in such a short time.
C.T. Northbrook office October 15, 2016
He has demonstrated that he has retained the knowledge and skills he has learned during his sessions. We are currently working on implementing them in the correct ways. We have noticed that while he still is experiencing a lot of frustration, he is stopping to think about how to handle it before continuing, even if it isn’t in the right context. He is still exhibiting behaviors we would rather not see, but we are seeing them far less frequently.
J.M. Northbrook office June 10, 2016
I have seen an improvement in our daughter’s mood and behavior! She feels like she is being heard, her feelings are validated, and she is working on strategies that can help her overcome difficult situations.
Although she is still working through the loss of friendships that were dear to her, she is making great strides to create new ones! I’d like to see her continue to work on the different aspects of friendship (gaining, maintenance, loss), as this will be important in her future and throughout her life. I am happy to say she has joined two organization that she really enjoys, where she has experienced positive interaction with the other students.
Other strategies our entire family has taken to stabilize her environment seem to be working. She has a student resource time for additional study. Everything is coming together.
C.A. Northbrook office March 5, 2016
With your help, our son has become more resilient, more responsible, and more independent. He has a better sense of how he should be treated by peers and has made better choices about choosing friends. He has learned strategies for calming himself. He is sleeping better and is more willing to take risks without being deterred by fear of being unsuccessful.
A.P. Deerfield, IL May 21, 2015
Since we have begun child therapy with North Shore Family Services, our 5 year-old daughter has become more confident and self-aware. She takes great pride in mastering her behavior and is working on being kind to herself when she has a setback. Her relationships with peers have improved and she has successfully attended birthday parties now. She loves coming to your office!
S.K. Lake Forest, IL May 21, 2015
You have helped our children make a lot of progress. We are now living in separate homes, are divorced, and are working through many transitions and behavioral challenges. Our kids’ therapists at North Shore Family Services have been kind, attentive, and helpful. Not only do you give our kids skills and strategies to help them cope with the changes, your advice and tools have been so helpful to us as parents. Our children have shown a lot of improvement and feel extremely comfortable. Thanks so much!
S.C. Northbrook, IL May 21, 2015
I have noticed a change in him. He handles himself and is maturing. I also believe as parents we are learning how to cope better when he is having a hard time with something. We are moving in the right direction.
M.R. Northbrook office May 15, 2015
He has become more resilient, more responsible and more independent. He has a better sense of how he should be treated and has made better choices about who he wants to be friends with. He has learned strategies for calming himself down (though we are still working on implementing them). He sleeps better and seems more willing to take risks without being deterred by fear of being unsuccessful.
A.P. Northbrook office April 10, 2015
My teen daughter has been working with Dori for about five months now and she has been amazing. She has helped my daughter think things through, see new perspectives, how to deal with friends and teen pressures, and how to break things down into do-able pieces so they don’t seem so overwhelming. She’s also worked with her on mapping out a schedule to fit everything in and be more organized mentally and literally. Dori has been an incredible support and a voice of calm and reason. So fantastic!
L.K. Deerfield, IL December 5, 2013
North Shore Family Services came HIGHLY recommended to me by a behavioral pediatrician for my 6 year-old son.
I had a great first impression when I emailed a bit about my son and the situation we are looking for help for and within an hour or two Dori, the owner of the practice, had already responded to my email! I was assuming I’d have to wait a day or two to hear back.
Upon the first meeting with her (my husband and myself alone), I was very comfortable and confident that she would be able to help my son as well as myself. My son has only seen her 8 times so far, but in those 8 visits we’ve seen a huge improvement in his behavior. Right before the start of the school year, Dori had suggested we find a “good fit” teacher for my son and she wrote a letter to the school recommending the personality type of a teacher he’d be best suited to have.
I love how she uses game playing and play therapy to teach him things like thinking before you react, the connection between positive behavior and good consequences vs. negative behavior and not so good consequences, etc. Dori is very down to earth and realistic with her suggestions on how to help my son. My son gets very proud of himself when he’s done something that he’s learned how to do from a suggestion from Dori. He’s excited to bring her things he’s drawn to show her and talk to her about. She is great with open communication with parents which is HUGE to me. I would highly recommend Dori Mages to any family that is looking for help for their child!
K.S. Antioch, IL October 6, 2013
I learned so much about myself and about how I want to be in the future. You helped me to control my anger and communicate better with people in my life. Thank you!
S.R.- a teenager Chicago, IL October 6, 2013
You taught me I could do things I thought I could never do. I feel good about that. So many people focus on what I do wrong and it really helped that together we focused on the positive and aimed for a brighter future.
T.T. Chicago, IL October 6, 2013
Thanks so much for your care and attention to our family. Your work with our daughter is really shown by her new found confidence in herself and her abilities. We are so glad we had the opportunity to work with you.
S.V. Chicago, IL October 6, 2013
The experience I have had so far with Dori has been unbelievably amazing. My daughter responded so well to her in the first five minutes of meeting her. Dori has this wonderful, magical gift of making kids feel so comfortable, loved, and supported. She also gives concrete strategies on how to deal with things, not just talking. I feel so lucky that we crossed paths. My daughter flourished from her time spent with Dori.
J.P. Glenview, IL September 27, 2013
My 6 year old son has been working with Dori Mages when he was 5. I had some initial concerns about beginning therapy for him at such a young age, but those were alleviated as soon as I met Dori and saw her interaction with my son. Dori is very kind and nurturing and she made my son feel comfortable opening up to her.
I saw behavioral changes in him almost immediately. Dori has not only helped me understand how to help make my son more comfortable dealing with anxiety, but has taught him tools needed to make those “worries” less scary.
I can’t say enough great things about Dori, I highly recommend her for anyone looking for family services.
J.B. Lake Zurich, IL September 21, 2013
Dori is a highly engaged professional who has worked wonders with our child through some difficulties he has faced with school. She is dedicated to bringing out the best in our young child. We have seen significant improvement in the last year and continue to work with her. Our son actually wants to see Dori more often and if we have to miss a week (due to other obligations), he has complained that we don’t see her enough.
She has been a wonderful advocate for our child both with the school and with our child’s other doctors. Her one-to-one work continues to give our child the skills he needs to achieve in his life. I am very happy that we found Dori.
S.C. Glenview, IL September 21, 2013
I have worked with Dori for years and trust her to provide the highest level of care to all of my patients. She has excellent clinical skills and a great sense of how to help families deal with a number of life circumstances.
Peter Dodzik Clinical Neuropsychologist/ Arlington Heights, IL September 21, 2013
I had the pleasure of working with Dori to ensure the success of one of my 1st grade students. From the start, Dori established an open line of communication between herself and the school. She was available to answer questions, provide insight to my observations and make recommendations based on the child’s needs. Dori was able to help our school formulate a behavior plan that suited the needs of the student complete with language that was easily understood and goals that were achievable. Dori worked with me to minimize setbacks and would check-in on a regular basis. She was an integral part of the home-school connection and truly helped to educate the whole child!
S.K. First grade teacher/Gurnee, IL September 21, 2013
Dori is a fabulous therapist. She is professional and experienced and goes the extra mile for each and every client. Her ability to establish relationships with clients, parents, and school staff is a unique approach not easily found. I have been a colleague of Dori’s for several years and have consulted with her and relied on her vast expertise on many occasions.
K.A., MSW, LCSW Des Plaines, IL September 21, 2013
Dori has done an awesome job with our second grade son and we have seen great improvements in both his focus in class and his interactions with his peers. We have excellent communication with Dori and as parents have been very involved with his therapy. Dori would make role-play booklets with my son to help him walk through situations at school and at home. This helps engage my son in his developing solutions to his issues, and served as a reminder for us to help reinforce these positive behaviors at home. Dori has helped my family immensely and I would recommend her to anyone looking for a therapist.
D.M. Gurnee, IL September 11, 2013
Dori is a colleague who has blown me away with her professional and clinical savvy. She understands families and children and makes therapy engaging, fun, and effective. I highly recommend Dori Mages and her staff to any family seeking child therapy, therapy for their teens, or parenting help!
Danielle M. Chicago, IL August 23, 2013
My grade-school aged son has been working with Dori Mages and the progress he has made is phenomenal. Dori’s approach is very hands-on, which works very well for my child. She has helped him how to be more flexible, more patient, to manage his anger more appropriately, to recognize important social cues, etc. She works one-on-one and in small groups, and utilizes all sorts of games to get the kids thinking about their behavior.
Dori has been a strong advocate for my child’s success at school, and has worked closely with me and his teachers to make sure that what he learns with her is carried over to the school setting.
She responds to her emails and phone messages at all hours, and has always gone the extra mile for our family.
M.D. Winnetka, IL August 23, 2013