At a glance
Best fit for: Spanish-speaking, first-gen and cultural identity, immigrant families, parenting and new moms; teens and adults.
Approaches: psychodynamic.
Who Am I?
Hello, I’m Carolina Cotts (she/her/hers), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a first-generation college graduate, and a proud Latina of Puerto Rican heritage.
I specialize in working with:
- People with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem
- Teens who need a place to talk and process what’s on their mind
- Young adults learning that adulting can sometimes suck
- Adults just trying to get through the day
- New moms navigating their new role
- Latinas hoping to connect with another Latina about first-gen and cultural issues while sustaining the culture
- People interested in exploring spirituality
- Those navigating life transitions
How I help
My role is to provide a non-judgmental space where you can freely express yourself, so bring your notebook, comfy blanket, or favorite coffee. I’ll be your cheerleader, and be your biggest advocate. I’ll help you understand the patterns beneath your emotions and relationships so you can respond differently. I’m a warm, trauma-informed, insight-orientated, relational therapist who balances emotional validation with gently challenging you toward change.
What a session with me is like
As a new client, expect me to greet you in professional attire, and by professional I mean Nikes and jeans, maybe a sassy t-shirt. I encourage you to do the same. This space is yours and mine, and I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, and supported. You can expect me to use Spanglish and occasionally sing a song I don’t know the words to. I’ll approach things with curiosity, because you’re the expert on your life, and a session with me is supportive and non-judgmental with a gentle nudge here and there.
What I believe
I believe that one of the most powerful tools in therapy is the relationship itself. I believe healing can begin when we feel seen, heard, and safe enough to show up as our authentic self. I believe in breaking barriers and healing from generational trauma. I believe humor is good for the soul. I believe you’re the driver with full control of your therapy journey, and I’m the passenger, your partner in healing, ready to jump out and help push if the car breaks down. And I believe change is possible when you give yourself permission to heal.
A little more about me
Outside of work you can usually find me spending time with some of my favorite people, sharing laughs and making memories. One of my greatest joys is being a first-time grandmother to my sweet granddaughter. I’m also a proud mom to three amazing children, 28, 23, and 21, and a wife to my husband of almost 23 years. Family means everything to me, and along with my relationship with God, they are the anchor and foundation that keeps me grounded.
A few common questions
Are you accepting new clients?
Yes
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes, I see clients virtually across Illinois, and in person at our Forest Park office.
Do you speak any languages besides English?
Yes, I speak Spanish and often use Spanglish in session.
What do you help with most?
Anxiety, depression, self-esteem, first-gen and cultural identity, generational trauma, boundaries, life transition, and new-mom support.
What insurance do you take?
BCBS PPO, BCBS HMO NorthShore, Optum/United Healthcare, Cigna, and Aetna.
- AetnaBCBS HMO NorthshoreBCBS PPOCignaOptum/United
