Annie toner, M.A., ALMFT (she/her/hers)
Therapy for Life Transitions, Identity, and Finding Your Direction
You might feel like you’re at a fork in the road, navigating bumps, unexpected detours, and the fear of having to change course. It can feel overwhelming when everyone in your life seems to have a different map or expectation for your journey. Therapy can be a space to sort through those pressures, build self-confidence, and begin to trust your own direction.
I work with teens and young adults, as well as families, who are navigating the ups and downs of life transitions, relationships, identity, school or work challenges, and family dynamics. I focus on life transitions, relationships, identity, school or work challenges, and family dynamics. If you’re looking for a therapy experience that balances empathy with gentle challenge in a laid-back environment, you may be a great fit to work with me.
What Is It Like to Work With a Therapist for Life Transitions and Identity?
Clients often come to me feeling vulnerable but hopeful. In sessions, I meet you where you are, without judgment, and attune to what’s most needed in the moment. I use a collaborative approach to help you explore patterns, break cycles that aren’t serving you, and live more authentically in a space that feels laid-back, empathetic, and supportive.
When you enter my therapy room, you will be the driver of your healing and growth roadtrip, not a passive recipient of therapy. My role is to ride shotgun and help you process changes and unexpected forks in the road, while sharing tools and guidance to support you. The route we take is ultimately up to you, as you hold the map of your own journey.
Collaborative Therapy for Self-Discovery, Confidence, and Personal Growth
I use a collaborative approach, working with you as a partner in the process. Together, we explore the patterns and external stressors in your life, and identify ways to break cycles that no longer serve you. My goal is to create a space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported in making meaningful changes.
Therapist Who Values Connection, Creativity, and Authentic Self-Expression
Even before becoming a therapist, I've always been the kind of person who thrives on social connections. I relish those meaningful conversations, laughter-filled moments, and the beauty of human connections. I enjoy spending time with my cats and painting with watercolors.
I might be a good fit for you if you’re:
Looking for a balance of empathy and challenge in therapy
Navigating life transitions or relationship, identity, school/work, or family challenges
Interested in breaking cycles and living more authentically
Comfortable in a collaborative, attuned, and non-judgmental environment
Teens, young adults, and families seeking supportive guidance
Annie Toner is a staff therapist at Empower Family Therapy. She has completed her Master of Arts in Couple & Family Therapy and received her certificate in Sex Therapy from Adler University. She offers both in-person sessions and virtual sessions for clients in Illinois.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
What is it like to work with you?
Clients describe sessions with me as balanced between empathy and challenge. I meet you where you are, attune to your needs, and create a space to explore patterns, external stressors, and opportunities for meaningful change.
Who do you help best?
I work best with teens, young adults, and families navigating life transitions, relationships, identity, school/work, or family challenges. Clients often want to break cycles and live more authentically.
What should I expect in the first session?
The first session is guided by what feels most needed. I focus on listening, understanding your experiences, and helping you feel comfortable and heard without judgment.
What is your therapy approach?
I use a collaborative approach. Together, we explore patterns, identify external stressors, and create strategies to support growth and authentic living.
What do clients often say they appreciate about working with you?
Clients appreciate that I meet them where they are, provide empathetic support, and help them challenge patterns in a non-judgmental, laid-back environment.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes, I offer virtual therapy for clients in Illinois, in addition to in-person sessions in Oak Park, IL.