Sometimes the identification of and the relationship with something bigger then yourself can be an important part of your healing journey.  The spiritual component of counseling focuses on a practical  integration of this into your everyday life  

     Welcome to my website. If you are here, it means that something in your life feels challenging. Whether you have a child who is struggling with anxiety, depression, social or school issues, or you are struggling yourself, finding the right therapist is very important.  I hope that through this website, you can get to know me a bit to help you make the right decision for yourself and your family. Feel free to call me; a conversation can help make this important decision. 

      I have been a Therapist/Counselor for over 25 years.  My practice is primarily child and adolescent (70%), and adult women (30%).  I have three areas of expertise in my work.  1) I do traditional talk counseling,  2) I do art therapy, and 3) I do spiritual counseling.  We will use one, two, or all three, depending on your needs.  Most clients who come to my office understand that they will be doing art, which is often why they come to me in the first place.  Parents understand art is a tool to better help their children communicate and adults often feel the need for an alternative form of expression for themselves.  Art skill is not necessary, just a willingness to explore and create.   

Wendy R. Lauter Licensed Counselor and Art Therapist

I use traditional verbal counseling skills and practices. Some methods I use are solution focused therapy, education, cognitive behavioral therapy, ACT, relational theory, and insight oriented therapy to increase coping mechanisms and help  improve quality of life. 

Level 1 IFS trained

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist

Oak Park/River Forest & Ravenswood Chicago, Illinois  (708) 488-8000. 

In-person and Telehealth

We all have another language inside of us, the language of metaphor.  Metaphor is often considered the language of children. Adults have this also.  Sometimes these symbols or images show us who we are, what we need to change in our lives, and how to make that change.  Creativity, images, and art material  are used to facilitate insight, strategies, and change.