Lakeshore Counseling Center was started approximately 30 years ago on the North Shore in Evanston, Illinois. We are a unique group of clinicians whose expertise and dedication to our clients and their individual needs is what makes us special. We are experts in configuring a treatment plan aimed at getting to the root of the issues presented. We are dedicated to this work; devoted and well trained with graduate degrees, post graduate trainings and more than 25 years clinical experience.
Many times people come in with very specific goals; we make those goals our goals. In order to facilitate ongoing processing and connection, we encourage and engage in many types of communication between sessions including shared thoughts, dream reports, journaling, reporting of significant events; all by way of voice message, e-mail, texting, phone or Skype calls.
We have a beautiful, warm, cozy office attainable by several methods of transportation. In fact, the Metra and CTA trains practically stop at our front door. We offer bottled water, very comfortable chairs, face-to-face connection and ongoing interaction producing a relaxed, safe environment.
We know how busy life can be, and we want to make sure that getting counseling is easy. Our clinicians are available by phone 24/7 and have appointment times days, evenings and weekends. We also are able to offer sessions in the office, in the home or on the phone/Skype as needed. We are open to doing ‘mini’ sessions (by phone; prorated) and early morning or late night contact when needed. We return phone calls within the hour with few exceptions. To top it off, we offer sliding scale fees as needed and initial consultations are done free of charge. When called for we recommend medication evaluations and are connected to four excellent psychiatrists.
Who we are
Monica Garcia, LCSW
In my work with clients, I have experienced the depth of human courage, joy, sadness, and determination. Each day I am grateful to work with my clients and guide them in the process of reaching their dreams, gaining insight, and believing in themselves. I cherish my ability to work with people — it is my personal and professional passion.
4 things potential clients should know about Monica
- If I won the lottery, I would continue doing what I’m doing. That may sound corny, but it’s true. I love my job. It is truly my honor to be in a sacred and safe space with my clients and help them navigate life’s joys and challenges.
- As a therapist, I take a collaborative approach, but I also feel strongly that I am in the room as a resource to present new ideas and strategies to help people reach their goals or process through their difficulties.
- The thing I enjoy most about my job is that there is something different every day. I identify as a multiracial woman and I welcome working with all clients. I also specialize in helping clients navigate the challenges of living within a society and systems that often marginalize and oppress.
- When I work with a client, I look for a connection. I’m there full on to be a partner and help them.
Diane Ofarim, LCPC
Working with clients to overcome obstacles in their lives is a deeply gratifying process. I’m in awe of the courageous and determined individuals I am privileged to work with, and I am dedicated to their quest for health and well-being.
4 things potential clients should know about Diane
- I have extensive expertise in the unique areas of negotiating multicultural and inter-religious issues that can face couples and families.
- I specialize in working with depression, anxiety, and unresolved past traumas, such as early parent loss, emotional unavailability of parents, alcoholism, and abuse.
- My methods involve developing insight that leads to behavioral change and heightened success in a person’s career and their relationships.
- I work with individuals, couples and families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most of our services are covered by insurance, including Blue Cross Blue Shield and UnitedHealthcare. We are also willing to verify your benefits during your free assessment.
We accept personal checks, credit/debit cards (MasterCard, VISA), cash and money orders.
This is a question that we will answer together, and can discuss during your introductory consultation. We will map a strategy to reach your desired outcome in the most efficient and least costly way. Each step of the way is collaborative and pursued with your best interests as the priority.
Yes, we have staff specifically trained to work with young children and offer guidance to their parents. Work with young children is done collaboratively with their parents.
Yes, working with adolescents and their families is a passion of the staff at Lakeshore Counseling Center. This is a particularly different yet exciting phase for many families. We can approach your concern with experience and creativity.
We are available for professional team building. We have a variety of different groups that we offer, ranging from parenting groups/lectures to postpartum support groups. We also can and do mobilize to respond to crises in the community.