Ella Smith (she/her)
As we navigate a life with many ups and downs, there can be a lack of natural guidance to accompany those changes. Sometimes issues we may have thought were long resolved are still impacting the way we navigate relationships, challenges, transitional periods, and our self-image. As your therapist, I aim to help you grow through these experiences and feel empowered.
I have extensive experience working with children and families and am especially passionate about helping those navigating anxiety, trauma, attachment concerns, and relationship challenges.
I utilize a humanistic approach, centering the client and letting them tell me what they want to get out of our time together. I embrace cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as the most frequently used modality with my clients. CBT is a form of talk therapy that focuses on defining the relationship between one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I also draw from a systems-based approach, where I consider the role of family and other supportive relationships in promoting connection and personal growth.
In my practice, I lead with empathy and follow that with collaborative work. Whether you are beginning therapy for the first time or returning to therapy, the process can feel overwhelming. My goal is to make that process as comfortable as possible, where you feel safe and seen as yourself.
Languages
English
Things that bring me joy
water, being active, the sunshine, the outdoors, my friends, my partner, my family, a great book, a good audio-book on a long drive, and music that perfectly fits the moment.
Education
BA from Colorado State University
Focus: Social Work
MSW from University of Illinois Chicago
Focus: Social Work
License
Licensed Social Worker, State of Illinois
License Number: 150.129810
Clinical Supervisors
Shaysa Villa, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Payment & Insurance Accepted
Self Pay & Insurance
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO
Blue Choice PPO
Anthem PPO
CareFirst BCBS PPO
BCBS MyBlue Plus
Cigna
Self-Pay
Insurance Benefits Verification
If you would like to use your insurance benefits, Roamers Therapy LLC will need to verify your benefits before your first session.
To begin the benefits verification process, please click the link below.
Locations
While Ella’s offices are located in the South Loop, Chicago, within Dearborn Station and Lakeview for in-person sessions, she also welcomes and serves clients for online therapy from anywhere in Illinois. Clients from the Chicagoland area may choose in-office or online therapy and usually commute from surrounding areas such as River North, West Loop, Gold Coast, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lake View, Rogers Park, Logan Square, Pilsen, Bridgeport, Little Village, Bronzeville, South Shore, Hyde Park, Back of the Yards, Wicker Park, Bucktown, and many more.