Steven Kirkilas , LCSW, CSW

Steven Kirkilas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and CSW with a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago and seven years of professional experience supporting people through difficult transitions. He approaches care with a client-centered, trauma-informed stance, meeting individuals where they are in a nonjudgmental way and tailoring interventions to each person’s needs.

Steven is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and he integrates somatic techniques and mindfulness practices into work with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other stress-related concerns. He blends practical strategies from cognitive and existential perspectives with a focus on emotional safety and self-awareness, helping clients build skills for regulation, resilience, and clearer relationships.

Skilled in addressing a wide range of issues including trauma and abuse, addictions, relationship and family concerns, grief, and challenges related to identity and self-esteem, Steven offers an empathetic environment for exploration and growth. He emphasizes collaboration, inviting clients to shape goals and the pace of change while providing experienced guidance rooted in clinical training and ongoing practice.

Therapeutic Approaches and Effective Online Care

Steven often uses Client-Centered Therapy to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where the therapist follows the client’s lead and helps clarify personal goals. This approach is useful for people seeking empathy, validation, and a collaborative path toward change.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is another frequent tool, offering structured techniques to identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. CBT can help with anxiety, depression, stress management, and building practical coping skills.

He is also trained in EMDR, a therapy that works with processing distressing memories and reducing the emotional intensity of traumatic experiences, often chosen by those coping with PTSD and trauma-related symptoms.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process; Steven works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, and he adjusts plans as progress unfolds.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility for engaging with these approaches. Through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text messaging, clients can access care from home or other convenient settings, choose formats that fit their schedules, and maintain continuity of support despite geographic or time constraints.