My name is Vanessa Hernandez, and I am a bilingual Licensed Social Worker (LSW), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), and founder of Embrace Counseling Center in Illinois.
I work with individuals who are navigating trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, substance use recovery, and life transitions. Many of the clients I support come from cultural backgrounds where mental health struggles are often carried quietly while trying to stay strong for family and community. Therapy can provide a space where those experiences can be explored with compassion and understanding.
As a Latina therapist, I recognize the importance of cultural identity, family dynamics, and intergenerational experiences in shaping emotional well-being. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel respected, understood, and empowered in their healing process.
My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed and holistic, integrating both traditional talk therapy and body-based approaches. I incorporate modalities such as EMDR and Somatic Experiencing to help clients process trauma, regulate the nervous system, and reconnect with their sense of safety and resilience.
I specialize in supporting individuals who are working through trauma, managing anxiety, healing from substance use challenges, and addressing the impact of chronic stress or pain on their emotional well-being.
I believe that healing happens when people feel safe enough to explore their experiences and reconnect with their inner strength. Therapy is a collaborative process, and it is an honor to walk alongside clients as they move toward greater balance, resilience, and well-being.
I offer services in English and Spanish.
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Inclusion of individual and group practices on our website does not mean we directly endorse or recommend their services. All of our members offer a free consultation and we recommend screening any and all potential therapists before beginning your therapy services. For any issues, please contact us via email. Therapists listed practice independently.
“Your email will be sent to the mental health professional. Latinx Therapy does not read your email. Please note that email communication may not be entirely secure. Sending an email through this page does not guarantee that the recipient will receive, read, or respond to it and spam filters could prevent its delivery. We recommend you follow-up via the mental health therapist’s practice if you do not hear back.”
If this is an emergency do not use this form. Call 911 or your nearest hospital.
