Terry Dornak,Psy.D.

My Approach to Helping

More Info About My Practice

I am the Clinical Director of Chicago Psych Therapy Group, Inc., a holistic private practice in the Evanston area. The practice is open 7 days of the week, not including holidays. In addition to in-person therapy, we provide teletherapy sessions through video as well as phone. We are in-network with many forms of medical insurance including: BCBS, Humana, United, Cigna, Magellan, Aetna, and Tricare. I also accept out-of-network plans and self-pay.

Our office provides both in-office and teletherapy sessions. We offer sessions 7 days per week from morning to evening.

Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With

I am specifically knowledgeable in working with chronic pain, transgender transition, LGBTQ+ issues, PTSD, BDSMkink, personality disorders, polyamory, relationship issues, anxiety disorder, and mood disorders.

How Psychotherapy Can Help

Psychotherapy looks different for each person. In general, it provides a safe space to address problems, whatever those problems may be. Maybe that problem is that an individual just needs that safe space. By utilizing that space, one may gain a sense of safety, process their problems, or learn coping skills. Each individual's experience in the space may be different as their problems and goals will be different; however, psychotherapy helps each person in a similar way by helping individuals experience a greater satisfaction with life.

My View on the Purpose of Psychotherapy

My purpose in therapy is unique to each client. I truly believe in meeting each individual where they are at and addressing each person's individual needs. This may mean I help some individuals learn coping skills, while I work with others in processing their experiences and trauma.

What I Say to People Concerned about the Therapy Process

Take your time finding the therapist that fits you and your needs. It is totally okay to meet with multiple therapists for consultations before making a decision. Also, provide feedback to your therapist, as a great therapist will utilize that feedback and work to continue to meet your needs in the best way. Many people are nervous when they start therapy or change therapists and that is completely normal. Afterall, you are sharing your intimate thoughts and feelings with a complete stranger. So, it is common to need time to feel comfortable.

The Duration and Frequency of Therapy

The frequency of therapy is unique per each client. I do usually recommend starting therapy at one time per week to build rapport; however, I believe in meeting each person where they are at in their therapeutic journey. They may mean meeting once per week, once every other week, or even once per month.