Dr. Monica Zabinski, Psy.D., LCPC

Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

Dr. Zabinski is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor committed to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care. She also serves as the Director of Training for doctoral-level psychology students, where she oversees clinical development and fosters excellence in professional training.

Dr. Zabinski earned her Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at National Louis University, where her research explored white racial identity development, immigration experiences, and antiracism efforts. She also holds a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University. Her research has been presented at national and international conferences, including the Illinois Psychological Association, the Association for Women in Psychology, and the International Council of Psychologists. She was also selected as a mentee in the Illinois Psychological Association’s Social Responsibility section, deepening her commitment to integrating social justice into therapeutic practice.

Dr. Zabinski provides therapy for adolescents (ages 12+) and adults, addressing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, identity development, work stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges. She has particular expertise in working with adolescents navigating family conflict, academic pressures, and identity formation. In addition to therapy, she offers comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments to support accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and educational or occupational accommodations.

Her professional experience spans community mental health centers, hospitals, trauma centers, and outpatient clinics. She incorporates evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care. Her therapeutic style is eclectic and client-centered, balancing structure with flexibility, and clinical expertise with warmth and humor, to create a safe and empowering space for clients.

Personal Statement

Dr. Zabinski believes that growth emerges through both struggle and joy, and she strives to help clients embrace vulnerability, discover resilience, and reconnect with their authentic selves. Guided by the idea that “we are cups, constantly and quietly being filled—the trick is knowing when to tip ourselves over and let the beautiful stuff out,” she views therapy as a collaborative journey of self-discovery and change. She considers it a privilege to walk alongside her clients as they deepen their self-understanding and work toward meaningful, lasting transformation.