The following groups may be of interest to you or someone you know. An initial assessment is required by calling Dr. Michael Athans at (847) 823-4444. Exact dates and times will be discussed at that time. Groups are facilitated by one or more doctoral psychology staff . Register early, as each group has limited capacity.
A small number of children learning appropriate social interaction, including sharing, communication skills, how to get along, etc.
A social skills group for youngsters learning the developmental tasks such as communicating feelings and needs, making friends appropriately, building self-esteem, and learning to cope with frustration/anger.
A socialization and support group for nine- and ten-year-old boys and girls in fourth and fifth grade. Topics may include but are not limited to the developmental issues related to growing up, peer relationships, study skills, inattention, how to communicate and express feelings more appropriately, etc.
For teenagers learning to cope with chronic illness, especially how to care for self, pain management, feelings regarding the illness, self-esteem, support, etc. Irritable Bowel Disease, including Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and abdominal pain are common illnesses that bring these adolescents together.
For grades 6, 7, and 8. A socialization skills and support group for boys of this age group to explore how to get along and make friends, share feelings, and better cope with frustration. Topics may include but are not limited to bullying, anger management, peer pressure, expectations, academic performance, identity issues, self-esteem, parental divorce, etc.
The group allows girls to share their thoughts and feelings on issues that are unique to female development. Common group themes include body image, rumors, family relationships, relationships with other females, dating, etc.
Boys and girls in grades 9–12 will meet weekly to explore relationship issues, peer pressure, expectations and achievement, identity issues, difficulty with parental authority, plans for the future, etc. They will also learn more about social cues; appropriate ways to respond to others, including bullies; etc. and learn ways to express feelings, especially anger and frustration. Participants will be able to identify their anger triggers and learn to respond differently with Cognitive-behavioral techniques, assertiveness and other interventions.
Build long lasting, rewarding relationships with others! Also, find new ways to prioritize your mental health and well-being by learning different techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy. Connecting with peers will show developmentally, concerns such as experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression and self-identity are not uncommon. This group will meet on Mondays from 6 to 7:30 PM beginning March 11th through May 20th. Please call for more details and to reserve a space due to limited numbers.
A Support Group for High Schoolers with Eating Disorders
EmpowerED Teens is an 8-week structured group therapy program for high school students who are navigating eating disorders or disordered eating patterns. Whether participants have been diagnosed or not, this group provides a safe, supportive space to explore challenges and develop healthier habits.
Join EmpowerED Teens to connect with peers who understand your experiences and gain practical coping skills for managing emotions and eating behaviors. Learn about nutrition and body image, debunk harmful food myths, and build long-term relapse prevention strategies.

Open to any high school students who struggle with food and eating. This 8-week, closed group meets Thursdays from January 9 to February 27, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM, at Athans and Associates in Park Ridge, IL. Sessions last 90 minutes, with a group size of 6-8 participants. Pre-registration is required.
A combination of didactic and support groups for parents with questions and concerns about childhood development, child discipline, the strong-willed or acting-out child, management of children’s homework, limit setting, sibling rivalry, effective communication with kids, co-parenting issues, and more. The time limit is 6 weeks.
An educational and supportive therapy group. Healing strategies focus on identifying emotional, behavioral, relationship, family, and lifestyle issues that promote a positive mood and a healthy sense of self.
Contact us today at (847) 823-4444 for more information and scheduling for any of our group counseling sessions.