
Offering individual, couples, and adult family therapy in person in Vernon Hills, IL, and via telehealth in Illinois and PSYPACT-approved states.
Life's challenges and relationship struggles can feel overwhelming...
...but you don't have to face them alone.
I provide compassionate guidance to foster healing, promote personal growth, and strengthen your relationships, inspiring meaningful, positive change.
Here are some of my specialties...
.png)
NAVIGATING RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships can be complicated and difficult to understand and navigate, yet are central to our sense of well-being. Whether it’s with a partner, family member, or friend, I can help you gain clarity about challenges in your closest relationships, empowering you to make impactful changes that enrich your connections and your life.
COUPLES THERAPY
Poor communication, lack of intimacy, unresolved conflict, or betrayal can place considerable strain on romantic relationships. I provide empathic, directive support to help couples rebuild trust, heal emotional wounds, improve communication and intimacy, and create lasting, constructive growth.
ADULT FAMILY THERAPY
Differences in personality, values, and expectations can create family tension, leading to misunderstandings and lasting rifts. When conflicts persist, relationships suffer, sometimes leading to painful estrangement. I help families mend fractures, rebuild trust, and foster healthier connections through improved communication, healthy boundaries, and positive interactions.
EMERGING & YOUNG ADULTS
Tackling the undertakings that come with young adulthood can be exciting yet tricky to manage. I provide a safe space to explore struggles, gain clarity, and work toward a more fulfilling future. Together, we’ll address your unique circumstances and build the skills needed for personal growth, well-being, and success.
THERAPEUTIC INTENSIVES
When the traditional therapy hour isn’t enough, therapeutic intensives offer the added time for deeper exploration and resolution of emotionally charged issues, complex relational struggles, or crises. I offer extended individual, couples, and family sessions, offering ample time to roll up our sleeves and dive into the work intensively and comprehensively.
FINDING THE RIGHT WORDS CONSULT
Finding the right words to express feelings and needs, address sensitive issues, or approach tough conversations can be daunting. As the author of Communicating Courageously, I bring expertise to help you craft messages that articulate emotions, foster connection, and tackle complex topics with confidence.

Hi, I 'm Dr. Debbie Stern!
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and author with over 30 years of experience. Drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches, I bring curiosity, compassion, and deep engagement to the therapeutic process, helping clients uncover insights, receive meaningful feedback, and create lasting change.
Treatment Options to Fit Your Life
.png)
Come on in!
Visit me at PRA Behavioral Health in Vernon Hills, IL,
for the connection and intimacy that face-to-face sessions offer.
Let's connect online!
Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions, available across Illinois and in PSYPACT-participating states.
Live or travel out-of-state?