Katharina Klakus, PsyD

I offer relational, person-centered therapy that focuses on safety, trust, and genuine connection and self-awareness. My goal is to help children, families, and young adults feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow and thrive. With young children, I use child-centered play therapy, allowing them to express themselves through play—their natural language. With older youth and young adults, I draw from a variety of approaches to best fit their needs and goals. I also meet regularly with parents to support the whole family’s growth and understanding. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University in Chicago. My training took place in both Chicago and the San Francisco Bay Area, including a predoctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at WestCoast Children’s Clinic in Oakland, CA. Over the years, I’ve worked with children and families across community mental health centers, hospitals, and schools. I’ve also supervised and trained psychology students and residents. My background includes therapeutic, collaborative psychological assessment—helping clients gain deeper understanding through the process. I speak English, German, and Polish. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and pets, being outdoors, running, reading, traveling, and getting creative. GETTING STARTED: After a 15 minute phone consultation, we can decide together if we’re a good fit. Every child and family is unique, and I take care to get to know you, your child, and what you’re hoping for from therapy. I typically begin with an initial parent meeting before meeting your child. Then, after every 5–7 child sessions, we’ll meet again to check in and collaborate. You are your child’s expert, and it’s important to me that parents feel included, supported, and equipped throughout the process. I offer in-person sessions for clients in Illinois and online therapy for older youth and adults in Psypact states. If you’d like to schedule a brief consultation, please call me at (312) 584-6739. More information can be found here: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/katharina-klakus-crystal-lake-il/1159641