LCPC

Tamela Polanin, LCPC

Therapist in Illinois

Tamela is a LCPC therapist in Illinois.

20+ years of experience
Focus areas include Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues
Approaches include Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

● Accepting new clients

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See availability and next steps on BetterHelp.

About Tamela

Tamela Polanin is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with two decades of experience supporting people through trauma, relationship challenges, mood concerns, and life transitions. She offers trauma-focused, client-centered care that empowers individuals to lead healthier, more balanced lives. Tamela combines practical, evidence-informed methods such as EMDR and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral strategies with a collaborative style that honors each person as an expert on their own experience.

Rooted in family life and community, Tamela draws on both professional expertise and personal insight. She is a mother of three sons - one adult who is a parent himself and two teenagers - and has been married to her current spouse for 17 years. The family lives in the countryside where they raise registered pygmy goats, a setting that informs her calm, grounded approach to therapy.

Tamela works with clients of all ages and backgrounds and addresses a wide range of concerns including stress, anxiety, relationship and family issues, trauma and abuse, depression, addictions, grief, parenting, and more. She welcomes international clients and provides supportive, individualized care designed to help people navigate the complexities of healing and growth.

Approaches for Online Healing and Skill Building

Tamela integrates client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) into her online practice. Client-centered therapy focuses on listening, empathy, and supporting clients to lead their own healing - it is useful for people seeking validation, clarity, and a collaborative therapeutic relationship. CBT helps people identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, making it effective for anxiety, depression, and stress-related concerns. Tamela is also experienced with EMDR, a trauma-informed approach that helps process distressing memories and reduce their emotional intensity; EMDR is often used for trauma and related symptoms.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Tamela works with clients to understand their needs, preferences, and goals, and tailors methods accordingly. Together they decide whether short-term skills work, trauma processing, or a blended plan best fits the situation.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - clients can meet by video, speak by phone, or use live chat and text-based messaging when that format is more convenient. These options make consistent care more accessible for people with busy schedules, caregiving responsibilities, or geographic constraints, while allowing therapists and licensed professionals to adapt sessions to each client’s pace and comfort.

Frequently asked questions

How much experience does Tamela Polanin have?

Tamela Polanin has 20 years of experience in mental health and counseling.

Is Tamela Polanin a licensed therapist?

Yes. She holds the credential LCPC, which stands for Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. License details: IL LCPC 180.012372.

In which languages does Tamela Polanin provide therapy?

Tamela provides therapy in English.

Where is Tamela Polanin located?

Tamela is located in Illinois.

How can I work with Tamela Polanin as my therapist?

You can work with Tamela Polanin through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Tamela Polanin work with international clients?

Yes, Tamela Polanin works with international clients.

How much does therapy with Tamela Polanin cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.