Mirna Ballestas, Psy.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Mirna Ballestas is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience promoting holistic health and well-being for individuals, families, and communities. Licensed to practice in Illinois, she has dedicated her career to bridging mental health, medical care, and community wellness, with a strong focus on culturally responsive and trauma-informed care.
Dr. Ballestas earned her Clinical Psychologist degree in Bogotá, Colombia, before completing her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Health Psychology at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. She has served in both clinical and administrative roles within Chicago’s healthcare systems, including her work as Director of Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health at Sinai Health System. In addition, she provides consultation to the City of Chicago Mayor’s Office through the Mental Health Equity Council and is a consultant for NAMI Chicago (National Alliance on Mental Illness). She also offers corporate and community wellness trainings, as well as clinical supervision for doctoral psychology students.
Dr. Ballestas provides individual, family, couples, and group therapy for children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She also conducts comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments to support diagnostic clarity, treatment planning, and educational or occupational accommodations. Her clinical expertise includes working with mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, attention difficulties, learning challenges, cognitive disorders, acculturation and immigration-related concerns, and stress related to work-life balance.
She has worked extensively across hospital systems to develop integrative approaches to care, with a particular focus on supporting the wellness of healthcare providers. Her consultation and training work addresses topics such as trauma (acute, chronic, and complex), corporate mental health and workplace culture, burnout prevention, vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, health and wellness, and systems of care in high-need communities.
Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Object Relations Theory, Self Psychology, and Gottman Method principles, Dr. Ballestas practices from an integrative and trauma-informed framework. Her bi-cultural background and dual clinical training further inform her culturally sensitive approach, allowing her to meet the needs of diverse populations with empathy and relational understanding.
Personal Statement
Dr. Ballestas believes that wellness is a dynamic process involving mind, body, and community. She is committed to offering culturally responsive and compassionate care that empowers individuals and families to heal, grow, and thrive. By fostering resilience and understanding, she supports people in navigating life’s challenges while cultivating meaningful and balanced lives.
