Dr. Yael Zahtz (she/her/hers)

Dr. Zahtz believes that therapy is a fluid process, there is no “one size fits all”. In her work with children, adolescents, and families she very much views each individual and/or family as their own entity with their own experiences, thoughts, feelings, ways of interacting, and values. No one entity is exactly like another, even if they come from the same race, gender, culture, community, or are members of the same family, go to the same school, or live on the same block. Therefore, her approach to therapy is to first gain an empathic understanding of the entity that is in front of her and then determine what approach or approaches may be the most helpful for that individual situation. In her work, especially with children, she loves to use various tools of communication such as toys, games, books, and art to help them express themselves, as well as learn new skills and ways of interacting with others. Dr. Zahtz tends to use a combination of theoretical models which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational techniques, and Systems based approaches. Dr Zahtz believes that especially when working with children, it is important to work within the systems in which they are embedded, such as the family and/or school. Her intention is to be warm, empathic, and kind with the goal of building a trusting relationship with her clients and their families. At the same time, she strives to provide necessary boundaries and can take a directive approach in order to support clients in making progress and reaching their goals.

Dr. Zahtz graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2018, where she earned a doctorate in clinical psychology. Her training included various community agencies and child welfare sites, working with clients ranging in age from 18 months through early twenties. Dr. Zahtz also earned a Master’s degree in education, and an Educational Specialist degree in school psychology in 2009. She worked as a school psychologist in various elementary and high schools in the Chicago area for several years before deciding to further her education and training. As the mother of four children , Dr. Zahtz has had many experiences as a parent, which helps her to relate to the challenges and joys of parenting.

Dr. Zahtz has been working at Rooted Connections Counseling since 2018, and treats various issues including disruptive behavior disorders (such as ADHD and ODD), anxiety, depression, and trauma based issues. She provides therapy to individuals aged two through young adulthood, including family and/or parenting support. Dr Zahtz is certified to provide Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT).

Services Dr. Zahtz provides:

• Therapy with children and adolescents
• Therapy with parents (parent training)
• Neuropsychological Assessment
• Parent Child Interaction Therapy

Dr. Zahtz’s Contact Information:

773-417-6342 ext. 2008

yzahtz@rootedconnectionscounseling.com