PuttingFamilyFirst

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MM Portrait of Marilyn Medow
Online therapist

Marilyn Medow

Calm guidance for stress and family challenges

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Credentials
LCSW
Experience
35 years
Licensed in
Illinois
Languages
English
Format
Online sessions

About Marilyn

Marilyn Medow is a licensed clinical social worker with 35 years of practice in Illinois. She helps people dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and family concerns. She creates a calm, nonjudgmental space where people can talk about what matters.

Taking a first step toward help is framed as an act of courage she respects. Early in her career she focused on domestic violence, child welfare, and crisis intervention. That foundation gave her deep experience with trauma and practical response skills.

Background and approach

Over time she added many therapeutic methods to her toolbox and blends those tools to match each person's needs. Marilyn uses a straightforward style that aims to give new perspective and practical ways to change everyday patterns. She often points out small shifts that lead to clearer choices and less pain.

Her work includes helping clients sort out difficult family dynamics and parenting challenges. Her training began with an undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point and continued with a master's degree from Smith College. Those studies led to a decades-long career in psychotherapy and social work.

She describes therapy as a collaborative process and stays with clients through the different phases of their work. Marilyn says she came to this work after benefiting from therapy in her own life. That personal experience informs her belief that people can heal and find new direction.

She aims to support each person with respect and practical guidance.

Approaches and online care that fit family life

Marilyn draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address trauma and related problems. She uses trauma-informed methods that help people understand their reactions and learn step-by-step coping skills for overwhelming memories or stress. These techniques aim to reduce reactivity and increase a sense of control over daily responses.

She also applies practical skills-based strategies that focus on improving communication and problem solving. These approaches teach clear ways to handle conflict, set boundaries, and manage caregiver or family stress so everyday interactions feel less tense.

Finding the right approach is a joint process. Marilyn works with each person to decide which methods match their needs, goals, and preferences. She adjusts plans over time so therapy stays useful and relevant to the issues that matter most to the client.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to meet. Video calls approximate face-to-face sessions when conversation and visual cues are helpful. Phone sessions can be easier when schedules are tight. Live chat and text-based messaging let clients check in between sessions or use shorter, more frequent touchpoints. These options make it simpler to fit therapy into a busy family life and to keep continuity when circumstances change.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of concerns does Marilyn address?
She helps with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and family issues, plus related concerns such as self esteem, communication problems, and caregiver stress.
How would you describe her therapy style?
Her style is practical and direct. She listens, offers new perspectives, and works on small changes that can reduce pain and improve daily life.
What is her clinical background?
She has 35 years of professional experience and began by specializing in domestic violence, child welfare, and crisis intervention before expanding into broader trauma work.
What credentials and location are listed?
She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, with license IL LCSW 149000969 and practices from Illinois.
Which languages and international options are available?
Sessions are offered in English and she accepts international clients.
What session formats are offered?
Sessions are available as video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
How are fees 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 her?
Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.

Specialties and expertise

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Experience
35 years
Licensed
Illinois
Languages
English

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