Photo of Derek Hefner, LCSW

Illinois

Derek Hefner, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Online Therapy
License #149.0281605 years of experienceAges 16+

Welcome! Therapy is so much more than just trying to convince yourself that everything’s okay—it’s about honoring your truth, exploring what’s beneath the surface, and creating space for real healing. If you’ve been carrying wounds for a long time, finding the right therapist can be a powerful first step toward change, and I’d be honored to be a part of that journey with you.

In our work together, you’ll find an affirming, supportive space where we can explore not just your current challenges, but the deeper patterns and relationships that shape your experience. We’ll work collaboratively to connect the dots between your past and present, build insight, and uncover skills and resources that support your growth and healing.

I welcome LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients and aim to create a space where you can feel truly seen and understood. I have experience working with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, autism, parenting, and couples dynamics. My therapeutic approach is grounded in psychoanalytic training, but I also draw from other evidence-based practices like DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy to best meet your needs.

Whether you’re just starting therapy or returning to it with new intentions, I’m here to walk alongside you as you create meaningful change in your life.

I work with

IndividualsCouplesFamily (Adults)Teens

Accepted insurances

  • 6 Degrees
  • 90 Degree Benefits
  • Aegis LLC
  • Aetna/ First Health
  • Aetna
  • Aetna Affordable Health Choices/ Aetna Voluntary
  • Aetna EAP
  • Allstate Benefits (through Allied Benefit Systems)
  • American Continental (Aetna Senior Supplemental)
  • Assured Benefit Administrators
  • Boon-Chapman Administrators/ Wellnet Healthcare
  • Christian Brothers Services

I specialize in

Treatment approaches

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Humanistic
  • Person-Centered
  • Solution Focused Therapy
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Psychoanalytic
  • Psychodynamic
  • Trauma Focused
  • Compassion Focused
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
  • Existential

Communities I work with

  • Transgender Allied
  • Non-Binary Allied
  • Queer Allied
  • Body Positivity
  • BIPOC Allied
  • Bisexual/Pansexual Allied
  • Gay Allied
  • Lesbian Allied
  • Intersex Allied
  • Healthcare Professionals
  • Sex-Positivity / Kink

Education

Master of Social Work

Aurora UniversityGraduated 2021