Julia Rodriguez, LCPC, OTR (She/Her)
Child, Teen, and Family Therapy for ADHD, Autism, and Anxiety in Oak Park and Illinois
When daily life with a child feels like a constant struggle, big emotions, misunderstandings, or family interactions that seem to spiral quickly, it can leave everyone feeling exhausted and discouraged. Many of the kids and parents who reach out to me feel like they’ve already tried many things and nothing has really helped. Often, they’re hoping for someone who can help them understand what’s going on and help life start to feel easier.
My work focuses on supporting children, teens, and families navigating autism, ADHD, anxiety, and medical anxiety. I work with both kids and the adults who care for them so that everyone can better understand each other and move through daily life with more ease and confidence.
A Relaxed, Flexible, and Child-Centered Therapy Space
Sessions with me are relaxed, informal, and welcoming. My office is designed to be physically comfortable and flexible, with many ways for kids and families to express themselves, including options to work through emotions with or without talking.
Some children want to talk openly about difficult things. Others show their experience through activities or shared experiences. Both are welcome.
Understanding Your Child’s Brain, Emotions, and Behavior
A big part of my approach is helping kids and parents understand how their brain and body work. When families understand why certain reactions, emotions, or behaviors happen, it becomes much easier to find strategies that actually help.
I help kids learn what their body and brain are trying to do for them, what happens when things feel overwhelming, and what they can do to support themselves in those moments.
Over time, many clients develop a stronger sense of self-acceptance, self-advocacy, and confidence. My goal is to help children and families become experts on themselves, understanding what helps them feel better and how to move toward what matters most to them.
A Practical Approach to Family Support
I bring genuineness, curiosity, compassion, and creativity into the therapy process. Clients often share that they appreciate having a space where they feel truly understood and accepted, while also learning practical ways to make daily life easier.
When I’m not at work, you might find me out for a walk, meditating, spending time with friends and family, or at the library. I collect quotes, fun socks, and persist in sending mail to people the old fashioned way - with a postage stamp! Knowing how to enjoy life helps remind me to live in kind, generous, and helpful ways.
I may be a good fit if:
Your child is navigating autism, ADHD, anxiety, or medical anxiety
Your family is experiencing frequent big emotions, conflict, or communication struggles
Daily routines like school, community activities, or home life feel overwhelming
Your child often feels misunderstood or frustrated
You want help understanding how your child’s brain and body respond to stress and emotions
Your family wants practical ways to help life feel calmer and more manageable
Julia Rodriguez is based in Oak Park, Illinois and offers in-person therapy in Oak Park as well as virtual sessions for clients across Illinois.
She works with children, teens, families, and parents, providing individual therapy, family therapy, and parenting support.
Julia is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Occupational Therapist (OTR/L). While she does not provide occupational therapy services, her occupational therapy background helps inform her mental health work with children and families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is it like to work with you?
My sessions tend to feel relaxed and informal. My office is designed to be welcoming and physically comfortable, and there are many ways we can work together — through conversation, activities, or shared experiences. Some kids talk a lot, others show me their experiences in different ways. Both are welcome.
Who do you tend to work best with?
I work best with children, teens, and families navigating autism, ADHD, anxiety, or medical anxiety. Many families reach out when daily life feels very difficult — with frequent big emotions, misunderstandings, or struggles at home or school.
What should we expect in the first session?
The first session is mostly about getting to know each other. I want to understand what daily life has been like for your child and family, what’s been difficult, and what you’re hoping will feel different. We’ll start identifying what might help.
How do you help kids who have big emotions or behavioral challenges?
I help kids understand how their brain and body respond to stress and emotions. Once kids understand what’s happening inside them, we can build strategies that actually work for them when they start to feel overwhelmed.
Do you work with parents as well as children?
Yes. Parents are an important part of the work I do. I help parents better understand what their child may be experiencing and develop tools that support both the child and the whole family.
How does your occupational therapy background influence your work?
While I do not provide occupational therapy services, my occupational therapy training helps me think about how the body, emotions, environment, and daily activities all interact. That perspective often helps families better understand what may be contributing to their child’s challenges.