Business Details
Mental Health Counseling Services in Palos Heights, IL
Maria Potter Counseling Services is a dedicated mental health practice serving individuals in Illinois. Our team of licensed professionals brings decades of combined experience in trauma recovery, anxiety and depression management, family counseling, and behavioral health. We specialize in creating personalized treatment plans that address each client's unique needs, utilizing evidence-based therapies and a compassionate, client-centered approach.Our counselors hold advanced degrees and certifications in clinical mental health counseling, with specialized training in trauma-informed care and domestic violence support. We maintain strict ethical standards and prioritize client confidentiality while fostering safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environments. Our practice offers both in-person and telehealth sessions to accommodate diverse client needs.
Services
Individual Counseling
Family Counseling
Trauma Therapy
Anxiety Treatment
Depression Management
Parenting Support
Stress Management
Behavioral Issues
Conflict Resolution
Self-Esteem Counseling
Highlights and features
- Our team includes counselors with over 20 years of clinical experience
- We provide personalized therapy tailored to individual needs
- Our services include trauma-informed care and domestic violence support
- We offer both in-person and telehealth session options
- Our counselors hold advanced degrees from accredited institutions
Services
Individual Counseling
Our individual counseling sessions provide personalized mental health treatment for adults, adolescents, and children. We address anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions through evidence-based therapeutic approaches. Each session focuses on developing coping strategies and promoting emotional growth in a safe, confidential environment.
Family Counseling
Family counseling helps improve communication and resolve conflicts within households. Our therapists address parenting challenges, behavioral issues, and relationship dynamics. Sessions focus on strengthening family bonds and developing healthier interaction patterns through structured therapeutic interventions.
Trauma Therapy
Specialized trauma therapy addresses effects of abuse, violence, and adverse life experiences. Our certified professionals use trauma-informed approaches to help clients process experiences and develop resilience. Treatment includes safety planning and emotional regulation techniques for lasting recovery.
Anxiety Treatment
Our anxiety treatment programs combine cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices. Therapists help clients identify triggers and develop coping mechanisms. Treatment addresses generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorders through structured, goal-oriented sessions.
Depression Management
Comprehensive depression management addresses persistent sadness and low motivation. Our approach combines behavioral activation with emotional processing techniques. Therapists work with clients to develop activity schedules and challenge negative thought patterns for improved mood regulation.
People
Maria Potter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Maria Potter has over 20 years of counseling experience, specializing in trauma recovery and child welfare. She provides individual and family therapy for anxiety, depression, and relationship issues using evidence-based approaches.
Julie S. Rios
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Julie Rios offers bilingual counseling services for depression, anxiety, and trauma. With experience in diverse settings, she creates safe therapeutic environments for clients across the lifespan using culturally sensitive approaches.
Paul Avram
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Paul Avram brings 20+ years of mental health experience to his practice. He specializes in workplace mental health and trauma recovery, helping clients understand their challenges within broader social contexts through holistic therapeutic approaches.
Monika Baraniak
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Monika Baraniak specializes in domestic violence recovery and substance use counseling. She uses client-centered approaches to help individuals develop self-awareness and resilience, focusing on strengths-based treatment for lasting personal growth.
Yaniz Rayo
Licensed Professional Counselor
Yaniz Rayo provides culturally competent counseling for trauma and life transitions. Her strength-based approach combines evidence-based practices with personalized care, helping clients build self-empowerment through tailored therapeutic interventions.
Questions
What types of counseling services do you offer?
We provide individual, couples, and family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults. Specialties include trauma recovery, anxiety and depression treatment, parenting support, and behavioral health services.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Cigna, Magellan, and Optum/United Health Care. Clients should verify their mental health benefits directly with their insurance provider before services begin.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Contact us via phone at (708) 907-5149 or complete our online appointment request form. Our staff will respond to schedule your initial consultation during available office hours.
Are telehealth sessions available?
Yes, we offer telehealth counseling services for Illinois residents. Virtual sessions provide the same quality care through secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platforms.
What is your cancellation policy?
A $45 fee applies for missed appointments without 24-hour notice. We require advance communication to reschedule sessions and maintain respectful use of our therapists' time.
Do you offer sliding scale fees?
Yes, limited reduced-fee services are available based on financial need. Please discuss payment options with our administrative staff to determine eligibility for our sliding scale program.
Reviews (6)
Amanda Pradun
Dec 02, 2021
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Maria is an amazing person and counselor! She’s down to earth, understanding, and she really cares. She helps you to understand yourself, and helps work through any issues you may be struggling with, and provides you with knowledge/tools to do so.. I immediately clicked with her the first time I met her. Also, her new Palos Heights office is fresh, warm, and welcoming! I’ll never go anywhere else.
Tony Gioiosa
Nov 27, 2021
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Avoid this practice.. ruined my marriage... talking to one therapist you find yourself being asked the same question you are asking for guidance..
Marissa Mangala
Nov 14, 2021
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I last updated this recommendation a year ago, and I still go to Maria on a frequent basis 4 years later. She's professional, insightful, honest and cares so much about her time with me. She has helped me learn so much about myself, my relationships and life in so many ways. I am so grateful to have her services and I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a counselor.
Additionally, her new office in Palos Heights is BEAUTIFUL, welcoming and well kept. If you're looking for coziness, she offers tea and coffee and snacks -- doesn't get much better than that!
Additionally, her new office in Palos Heights is BEAUTIFUL, welcoming and well kept. If you're looking for coziness, she offers tea and coffee and snacks -- doesn't get much better than that!
Kimberly Schmidt
Nov 02, 2018
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Maria's office is very welcoming she makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. I feel she is easy to confide in, and she helps you sort through this thing called life! Glad I found her.
Luz Raymond
Oct 28, 2018
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I have been going to Maria for counseling services for over a year now. I've recommended her to friends and family because I am truly satisfied with her services. She is down to earth, provides great techniques and advise to improve your quality of life. She is punctual. She doesn't take time from your session to talk about insurance as others counselors do. She usually will take 5 extra minutes after your visit. She recently moved to the 79th location and her offices are beautifully decorated. You feel calm just walking in. I love the assortment of teas she provides and I've made it my routine
Victoria Talerico
Mar 02, 2018
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She’s wonderful! She keeps me focused when conglomerate of stories to tell get all mixed together.
