Practical Adult Counseling & Therapy in Grayslake, IL

Onward provides both in person and virtual counseling (talk therapy) to help with understanding and overcoming emotional, behavioral, social, and other challenging situations that life may bring us. I am skilled at helping with issues related to problematic anger, anxiety, depression, and stress. I am  experienced and confident in my ability to help you or someone you know to start feeling better.

Click “Schedule Appointment” in the menu or call us (847-924-0261) to get started.

Onward Center Services

OUR SERVICES

We provide individual counseling and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy group counseling for a wide range of issues that impact the lives of those we serve. Listed below is a brief list of some of the issues we may be able to assist you with. If you are experiencing a problem you do not see listed, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Anxiety can feel overwhelming, making even daily tasks feel difficult. In our sessions, we will work together to understand the root causes of your stress and develop practical strategies to help you regain a sense of calm and control. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

Depression can feel like a heavy weight, making motivation and joy feel out of reach. In our sessions, we will work together to explore the roots of these feelings, challenge negative thought patterns, and create gentle, actionable steps to help you regain a sense of purpose and satisfaction.

Trauma can deeply disrupt your sense of safety and peace, often keeping your mind trapped in past distress. Through the lens of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, we will create a gentle, grounded space to help you observe these patterns without judgment. Together, we’ll build mindful awareness and practical tools to process these experiences, allowing you to cultivate resilience and reconnect with the present moment

We’ll work together to identify your unique triggers, break unhealthy patterns, and build lasting resilience.

We’ll explore the underlying roots of reactions and develop compassionate, practical strategies for better communication and control.

We will focus on challenging your inner critic to cultivate self-compassion and build a more balanced, positive relationship with yourself.

Anger is a normal human emotion, but when it feels out of control, it can impact your relationships and well-being. In our sessions, we’ll work together to identify your personal triggers, understand the root of these responses, and build mindful awareness and practical strategies to help you communicate your needs calmly and respond with greater control.

Conflict in relationships can create significant distress, making communication feel impossible. In our sessions, we will work together to identify negative communication patterns, understand the root causes of tension, and build practical skills to help you express your needs compassionately and resolve conflicts constructively. You deserve to feel heard and connected.

Through the lens of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, grief is seen as a profound and natural response to loss. We’ll create a compassionate, non-judgmental space to honor your sorrow. Together, we’ll build mindful awareness to help you navigate the waves of loss without being overwhelmed, allowing you to gradually process your emotions and find a gentle path toward healing.

Onward Center Meet Councelors

MEET YOUR COUNSELOR

Learn more about your counselor below.

Onward Center - Ron Bristow

Ronald Bristow, LCPC

Works with: Adults 18+

I began practice in 2010 and since that time have had the opportunity to spend time with people from all walks of life. From practicing counseling in a penitentiary to the community, and a number of stops in between, I have had the chance to see people through seemingly epic ups and downs on the path of getting back to feeling like themselves again.
I am very aware of how challenging counseling can be and try to make it as easy as possible for everyone. I view our time together just like two people hanging out trying to solve a puzzle. I am upbeat, easy going, frequently use humor (or try), and believe that together we can make progress no matter what challenges we may be facing.

Onward Center Insurance

INSURANCE

We are in-network providers for the following insurers: Aetna, BlueCross Blueshield, Optum/United Healthcare/United Behavioral Health.

We currently do not accept Medicaid or Medicare insurance plans.

In-network counseling for Aetna in Lake County
Blue Cross Blue Shield Logo
Optum Logo
In-network counseling for United Healthcare in Lake County
Make An Appointment

Questions? Send us a message!

Call or click “Schedule Appointment” button in the menu to see available meeting times.