Elizabeth Diaz, LCSW

Whatever brings you to therapy is valid because it’s your experience. Whether you’re here to unpack a specific event or question if you “even need” therapy, I’m here to listen, be present, and help you make sense of it all.

Specialization and training

I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Many of my clients have experienced or been witnesses to traumatic events, such as sexual abuse (including childhood sexual abuse), traumatic loss, and cultural and environmental traumas, such as navigating multiple cultural lines & expectations or lack of access to critical resources or care as a child.

I have second-level training in working with exceptional individuals, such as those with adjustment disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and developmental disabilities (DD), including autism and dyslexia.

As a trauma therapist, my work includes trauma-informed recovery support for neurotypical, exceptional, and twice exceptional individuals. My experience working with children and families and understanding development guides my work with adults and couples. I provide clients with practical grounding tools you can use in everyday life.

Outside of the therapy space

I am a professional flutist, recreational runner, mom to two young children, and first-generation Mexican-American. These are pieces of me that may not directly relate to our work, but which I hold in my identity and inform the lens I see through as we work together.

What is it like working with me

I am a very visual and concrete person. As such, clients often comment on the vivid imagery I use to convey my thoughts and reflections. I am present in the moment and will share my thoughts with clients and couples so you don’t have to guess. I am a highly curious person and will ask questions to learn more about you, and will take a moment to sit and reflect on what you’ve shared.

We work together to develop a therapeutic relationship that is rooted in developing insight.

Education

  • University of Chicago - Master of Arts in Clinical Social Work

  • Loyola University Chicago - Bachelor of Arts in Music 

  • Loyola University Chicago - Bachelor of Science in Psychology 

  • Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris -  Concours de Flute Traversiere et Musique de Chambre - Sont reçus à l'unanimité

Memberships

  • National Association of Social Work (NASW) 

  • International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP)

  • National Association of Social Work for Groups (NASWG)

Other Roles & Nominations

  • Abuse Prevention Specialist & Author of Sexual Abuse Prevention Curriculum for School-Aged Children  - Children's Advocacy Center of North and Northwest Cook County  (Past)

  • Clinical Field Consultant for Graduate Students - University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration (Past)

    • Hold seminars for second-year clinical graduate students, helping them bridge their academic education with real-life experience as a therapist.

  • Board Vice President, Northwest Center Against Sexual Assault (Present)

  • Adjunct Professor, National Louis University School of Social Work (Present)

    • Course: Trauma Prevention, Intervention, and Recovery Practices

  • Mexican Civic Society of Illinois/ La Sociedad Civica Mexicana de Illinois · (2008)

    • Recognition Award for Outstanding Dedication to The Mexican Community

  • BrightSpots Nominee, Center for Exceptional Children (2025)

    • “Bright Spots are individuals making a real difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities through their active and effective work to enhance the individual’s safety and success through the prevention of and response to maltreatment, i.e., neglect, abuse, and bullying! “