Emma Mannes, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Pronouns: she/her
Email: emannes@balancedawakening.com
Direct: 630-277-9663
accepting new clients
Availability and Scheduling:
Ms. Mannes sees clients online over video (telehealth) Monday through Friday. She also sees clients in-person at our 25 E Washington Ave (Downtown/Loop) office on Thursdays. Ms. Mannes has availability for new clients. If you’re interested in working with her, book an appointment below!
Welcome! I am so happy you are here. Therapy can be a scary and daunting step. Taking the time to address your needs, big or small, shows strength and courage and I will be right by your side with empathy and compassion.
I strongly believe prioritizing yourself and being the healthiest version of you impacts not only yourself but also those around you. Exploring the things that make us who we are creates opportunities for change. Delving into our thoughts, feelings, and actions can generate transformation and growth. I value looking inward and outward in order to develop a healthy relationship with yourself and others.
I believe that, when entering a space of vulnerability, it is important to feel safe and secure. As a woman therapist, my job is to provide you with a non-judgmental therapeutic environment to support you in your healing and growth. I am here to offer a collaborative approach to empower and foster change in your journey.
I use an integrative, personalized approach to therapy, drawing from a variety of evidence-based methods. This includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you better understand your thoughts and patterns, along with solution-focused and strengths-based strategies, Systemic Therapy, mindfulness practices, and Motivational Interviewing. Together, we’ll focus on building practical tools, insight, and confidence so you can navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and self-compassion.
I work with individuals who are navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, and family dynamics. Many of the clients I support are experiencing career burnout or change, questioning their sense of purpose or direction in life, or working to build stronger self-esteem and a clearer sense of identity. My goal is to offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can better understand yourself, feel more grounded, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Experience
I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings providing individual therapy to adolescents and adults. Previously, I have worked in educational spaces, outpatient treatment centers, and community-based agencies. I most recently provided home-based therapy to families with adolescents struggling with behavior issues.
THERAPIST SPECIALITIES
Anxiety
Relationship Issues
Life Transitions
Family Challenges
Career Change/Burnout
Life Purpose
Self-Esteem
Identity Development
Client focus
College/Emerging Adults
Adults
Moms
Medical Professionals
Location
Telehealth (IL)
Insurance Accepted
Aetna
BCBS PPO
Blue Choice PPO
United Healthcare/Optum
Licensure
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, IL, 149.024659
Education
Masters of Social Work, 2020, Michigan State University
Bachelors of Social Work, 2019, Calvin University
Client Testimonials
“Emma has been very supportive through major life changes for me. Her sweet and gentle nature made it easy for me to feel safe to open up to her. I leave each session with a new perspective or takeaway to integrate into my life. I am very grateful for her support and kindness.”

