Thomas Kaufman

LCPC, LPC

Illinois

Practical, collaborative therapy for life challenges

Continue with Thomas

At a glance

Credentials

LCPC, LPC

License

LPC, Wisconsin / 5311-125; LCPC, Illinois / 180018397

NPI

1821366899

Experience

12 years

Languages

English

Location

Illinois

Details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. A license can be checked with the state board.

1. • Goal oriented
   • Motivation focused
   • Evidence informed

   About Thomas

   Thomas Kaufman is a licensed counselor who practices in Illinois. He holds LCPC and LPC credentials and brings 12 years of clinical experience to his work. He aims to make therapy straightforward and practical for people who are overwhelmed or stuck.

   Thomas focuses on helping people handle stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar mood concerns, and trauma. He also helps with relationship and intimacy issues, parenting challenges, addiction concerns, and workplace strain. He uses clear, goal-focused conversations to help people find next steps that feel doable.

   In session he combines different approaches to fit each person's needs. He draws on Motivational Interviewing to support personal motivation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to spot unhelpful thoughts and habits, and Client-Centered Therapy to keep the conversation grounded in what matters to the client. He also uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and elements of the Gottman Method when those approaches match a person's goals.

   Thomas aims for a collaborative style. He listens, asks straightforward questions, and helps set small, measurable goals. Sessions tend to focus on practical coping skills, clearer communication, and strategies to manage emotions and relationships.

   He works with adults on issues such as grief, career choices, ADHD, compassion fatigue, and life transitions. People who want direct, supportive guidance and a plan they can try between sessions may find his approach a good fit.

2. How Motivational Interviewing and ACT translate to online work

   Thomas commonly uses Motivational Interviewing to help people clarify values and build their own reasons to change. That approach focuses on asking open questions, reflecting what the person says, and supporting small shifts in motivation and behavior. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT, helps people notice difficult thoughts and choose actions that match their values, which can be useful for anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
   
   He also uses elements of Client-Centered Therapy to keep sessions grounded in the client's perspective, offering empathy and support rather than directive advice. Choosing the right mix of approaches is part of the work together. The therapist will collaborate with the client to decide which methods fit their goals and preferences and may adapt the plan over time.
   
   If you are considering online sessions, confirm the current session formats before booking since the biography does not list specific options. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy life, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when schedules are tight. It can also make it simpler to continue therapy during life transitions or when finding in-person visits is difficult. Licensed professionals, including this therapist, arrange the approach and pacing to suit each person's needs.

4. Areas of expertise

   Primary focus

   Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes

   Also works with

   AddictionsLGBTFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderDepressionCoachingCompassion fatigueADHD

   Additional focus areas

   Attachment issuesBlended family issuesCommunication problemsCoping with natural or human-caused disasterDivorce and separationFamily problemsFatherhood issuesForgivenessLife purposeMen's issuesPost-traumatic stressSocial anxiety and phobiaWorkplace issues

   Therapeutic approaches

   Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Gottman MethodMindfulness TherapyMotivational InterviewingNarrative TherapySolution-Focused TherapyTrauma-Focused TherapyInternal Family Systems

   Experience

   12+ years

   Listed in

   Wisconsin, Illinois

   Languages

   English

5. Frequently asked questions

   What concerns does Thomas help with?

   He works with stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar mood issues, trauma and abuse, relationship and intimacy problems, parenting, addictions, grief, and related concerns listed in his specialties.

   What is his therapeutic style like?

   Thomas uses a collaborative, goal-focused style. He listens, asks practical questions, and helps set small steps clients can try between sessions.

   What background and experience does he bring?

   He has 12 years of clinical experience and has worked with a range of adult concerns across emotional, relationship, and behavioral issues.

   What credentials and location are listed?

   He holds LCPC and LPC credentials and is based in Illinois.

   Which languages are supported and are international clients accepted?

   Sessions are offered in English. International clients are not currently accepted.

   What session formats are offered?

   The original biography does not list specific session formats. Please confirm current session options before booking.

   How are fees and billing handled?

   Cost varies with location and therapist availability. Sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

   How do I begin working with him?

   Use the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist's availability.

6. Online talk therapy is not emergency or medical care. Stopping or cutting down alcohol or other drugs can be unsafe without medical advice. In immediate danger? Crisis numbers

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