- CBT methods
- Mindfulness practice
- Trauma-focused work
About Steven
Dr. Steven Hurley is an Illinois psychologist (IL Psychologist 071007009) with 19 years of clinical experience. He works with adults facing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, relationship concerns, addictions, grief, and issues around intimacy and self-esteem. He also addresses sleeping problems, anger, coping with life changes, and LGBT-related concerns including aspects of sexuality and sexual issues.
Dr. Hurley uses a practical, action-oriented approach. He encourages clients to make changes they can sustain. Sessions focus on identifying patterns, learning specific skills, and testing new ways of responding to old problems. He describes therapy as a collaborative effort where the client chooses and practices new strategies between sessions.
His training includes a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology and a Master of Arts in General and Theoretical Psychology. Early work included time in a children’s psychiatric hospital, community mental health, and a post-doctoral residency in substance abuse and rehabilitation. He has experience teaching at college level and supervising trainees.
Clinical roles over the years have included private practice, medical director for home-based mental health services, and clinical director of mental health intake for a state prison facility. He has worked with geriatric patients in nursing settings and with people involved in the criminal justice system. More recently he has assisted veterans applying for VA disability benefits.
In session he blends evidence-based techniques with reflective discussion. He may draw on cognitive behavioral approaches, mindfulness, psychodynamic ideas, and solution-focused methods to help people manage symptoms and make practical life changes.
Approaches used in online sessions and what they involve
Dr. Hurley often works from cognitive behavioral therapy, existential therapy, and mindfulness approaches. Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing new behaviors to reduce anxiety, depression, and patterns that feed guilt. Existential therapy looks at values, meaning, and personal responsibility to help people clarify what matters and make choices that fit their priorities. Mindfulness therapy teaches attention and awareness skills to reduce reactivity and manage strong emotions like shame or anger.Choosing the best approach is a collaborative process. He will work with the client to match methods to specific goals, needs, and preferences. That way sessions spend time on the techniques that feel most useful and practical for daily life.
The biography does not list specific session formats, so confirm current online options before booking. In general, online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. Many people find that using evidence-based methods in remote sessions helps them practice skills between meetings and apply changes to everyday situations.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
19+ years
Listed in
Illinois
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he address?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, relationship and intimacy issues, addiction concerns, grief, self-esteem, and related challenges.
How does he approach guilt and shame?
He uses practical, action-focused work that looks at patterns and helps people test new ways of responding to guilt and shame without promising specific outcomes.
What is his clinical background and experience?
He holds a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, an MA in General and Theoretical Psychology, and has 19 years of experience across private practice, prison mental health, and geriatric services.
What credential does he hold and where does he practice?
He is an Illinois psychologist listed as IL Psychologist 071007009 and practices in Illinois.
Are sessions offered in other languages or internationally?
Sessions are offered in English and international clients are not currently accepted.
What session formats are used?
The original biography does not specify session formats; please confirm current session options before booking.
How much do sessions cost?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, use the crisis numbers.