Marilyn Traynor, LCSW

Marilyn Traynor is a licensed clinical social worker with 40 years of practice in Illinois. She helps adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, and major life transitions. Her work often focuses on concerns that arise in midlife and later years, such as caregiver stress and aging-related issues.

She uses a calm, patient style and listens closely to what each person brings. Sessions tend to focus on understanding feelings, finding workable coping steps, and rebuilding a sense of purpose after loss or change. Conversations are straightforward and grounded in everyday concerns.

Marilyn draws on several practical therapy approaches. She uses techniques that help people notice unhelpful thoughts, learn new skills for handling intense emotions, and clarify personal values to guide choices. These tools are adapted to each person’s situation and goals.

People who come for help with chronic health challenges or caregiving strain often work on managing stress and preserving energy. Those facing relationship or intimacy issues look at patterns that cause pain and practice different ways of communicating. Addictions and trauma-related concerns are addressed with steady, paced work.

Her practice aims to be collaborative. Marilyn helps people set clear goals and follow a plan that fits their life. She welcomes those who want a thoughtful, experienced clinician to help them navigate difficult transitions and regain balance.

Therapeutic approaches and online care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on clarifying personal values and taking meaningful action even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present. It helps people facing life changes, chronic illness, and persistent anxiety to choose actions that matter to them. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors connect and teaches practical skills to change unhelpful patterns. It is often used for depression, anxiety, and stress management.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Marilyn will collaborate with each person to decide which methods fit their goals, needs, and preferences. She adapts techniques over time so therapy stays relevant to changing circumstances.

Session formats are not listed in the biography, so confirm current online options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life by reducing travel time and allowing appointments during workday breaks or from quieter locations. It can also accommodate people who manage chronic health issues or caregiving duties by making scheduling more flexible. Licensed professionals, including therapists, can use these approaches effectively in remote sessions while working with clients to tailor timing and tools to each person’s routine.