Therapist Profile: Amanda Martinez

Education

• Aurora University MBA 2020
• Aurora University MSW 2022

Services

• Telehealth
• Client Focus: Adult
• Client Focus: Pre-teens & Teens (12-19)

Bio

Sometimes the people who appear strongest are carrying the most. You may be navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship stress, substance use concerns, or a major life transition while still trying to hold everything else together. If you feel exhausted, disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin, you do not have to work through it alone.

I’m Amanda Martinez, a licensed clinical social worker, trauma-informed therapist, Army combat veteran, military spouse, and advocate for healing and resilience. As a 20-year Army veteran with three combat tours and three years of experience counseling veterans, I understand that strength and struggle can exist at the same time. I also understand how difficult it can be to ask for help when you are accustomed to being the person others depend on.

I work with adults experiencing trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, addiction, self-doubt, emotional overwhelm, and significant life changes. Although I have a special commitment to veterans, service members, and military families, I warmly welcome individuals from all backgrounds who are seeking compassionate and meaningful support.

My approach is collaborative, honest, and tailored to your needs. Together, we can make sense of painful experiences, recognize patterns that may no longer be serving you, strengthen coping and emotional-regulation skills, and work toward greater stability, confidence, and connection. I draw from evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, CBT, ACT, DBT-informed skills, and trauma-informed care. Most importantly, I will see you as a whole person, not as a diagnosis or someone who needs to be “fixed.”

You can expect a respectful space where you will be heard without judgment, challenged with care, and supported at a pace that feels manageable. If previous counseling left you feeling unseen or misunderstood, I invite you to try again. You do not need to have the right words or a perfect plan before beginning.

Healing can begin with one honest conversation. If you are ready to feel more grounded and move forward with greater clarity and purpose, I would be honored to support you.

Certifications/Licenses

• License: Amanda Martinez (150.108134) Department of Financial and Professional Regulation IL Expires: 2027-11-30