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 questioning if you “even need” therapy, I’m here to listen, be present, and help you make sense of it all. 

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 (inlcuding childhood sexual abuse),  traumatic loss, and cultural and environmental traumas  such as navigating multiple cultural lines and expectation or lack of access to critical resources as a child. 
I have second-level training in adjustment disorders, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)  and developmental disabilities (DD)  and disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and dyslexia. As a trauma therapist, my work includes trauma informed recovery support for exceptional  and twice exceptional individuals. 

My experience and fondational experience working with children and families and  understanding development guides my work with adults and couples. . 
I incorporate mindfulness-based therapy techniques, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MSBR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and meditation, into individual and small group sessions, as well as provide clients with practical grouding-based tools they can use in everyday life.

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

  • 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!