Ali McGarel

MA in Clinical Counseling
Accepting Clients

Hi, I'm Ali! I use a depth-oriented, personable, and directive approach to help clients start living the life they intend to live.

Therapist in Illinois
Supervised by Adam Fominaya PhD, LCP

Services
  • Individual
  • Couples
  • Group

About My Clients

It's easy to feel lost in life, going through the motions and struggling to find a purpose. Perhaps you're stuck in the same negative cycles, wishing you could break free and truly start living. I believe everyone has the ability to thrive and live a life that they love. You have the answers within you. Together, let's explore how you want to show up in the world. I especially enjoy supporting young adults and creatives who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

My Background and Approach

My approach is compassionate and motivational. I like to work as a team with my clients. You'll be in the driver's seat while I help you navigate from the passenger's side. We'll explore what matters most to you in life, and work to live in pursuit of those goals every day. We'll process any roadblocks in the way of living the life you mean to live. I use an integrative and depth-oriented approach, catering treatment to each specific client's needs. With a background in the entertainment industry, I especially enjoy working with creatives to process the unique emotional challenges associated with pursuing an artistic career. Inquire about my Therapy Group for Actors!

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I create a safe space to process the challenges that may come with living an authentic life. As a former working actress, I enjoy helping those in creative fields cope with uncertainty and connect with their purpose.

Techniques I Use

Specialties
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Depth Therapy
Other Techniques
  • Attachment Theory
  • Couples Counseling
  • Culturally Sensitive Therapy
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
  • Existential Therapy
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Psychoanalytic
  • Integrative Therapy
  • Philosophical Counseling
  • Relationship Counseling

Issues I Treat

Specialties
Anxiety Depression Relationship Issues
Other Issues
  • Attachment
  • Bipolar
  • Body Image Issues
  • Burnout
  • Career Counseling
  • Eating Disorders
  • Grief or Loss
  • LGBTQ-Friendly Therapists
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Polyamorous and Open Relationships
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Self-Esteem
  • Women's Issues
Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Optum
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
  • Evernorth
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 1 year of practice
  • Languages: English

Reach out to Ali