Therapy During COVID-19

Semillas Counseling PLLC now offers telehealth sessions to clients as an alternative

to an in-office visit, which can enable you to connect with our clinicians

while reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19 or further illness.

We're here to help. Don't isolate. Our therapists can support you as you navigate this unprecedented time.

Please continue to consult the Chicago Department of Public Health, the Cook County Health Department, or the Center for Disease Control (CDC) websites for updates and preventative measures so that you can care for yourself, your family, and help reduce the impact of COVID-19.

Michael Villarreal, Couples Counseling, Marriage Counseling EMDR, LGBTQ, Prepare Enrich Facilitator

Michael Villarreal, LCPC, NCC

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, State of Illinois #180010064

Clinical Director and Founder of Semillas Counseling PLLC.

My personal mission is my passion, to create a safe and meaningful therapeutic experience, generating a greater sense of self-acceptance and self-awareness, improving the quality of your relationships. Working collaboratively with each couple, I strives to foster a deeper sense of intimacy, commitment, and connection that will last a lifetime. I incorporate a caring, directive, solution-oriented approach to minimize the disconnection and expedite the healing process.

I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years, working in a private practice setting for over 6 years with a strong emphasis in working with couples and families in distress.

My approach incorporates training from the Evanston Family Therapy Center, Gottman Institute, Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Couples Institute. I am also trained in EMDR, a technique which can decrease symptoms and advance the therapeutic process. I am also a Certified Trainer of Mental Health First Aid (Adult) and also a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator.

Education: B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Community Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University.

Services available in English and Spanish.

Read my blog here.

Specialties include:

Anxiety and Stress Management
Communication Challenges
Conflict Resolution
Couples in Distress
Crisis Intervention
Depressive and Mood Disorders
Discernment Counseling
EMDR / PTSD/ Complex Trauma
Gender & Sexual Identity Issues
Group Counseling
Infidelity
Intimacy Issues & Sex Therapy
LGBTQ Issues
Multiculturalism
Premarital Counseling
Relationship and Marriage Counseling
Same-Sex Specialized Counseling
Sexual Identity

Accepted Insurance:

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Affiliate Provider:

Michael has also been recipient of Merlin W. Schultz Professional Development Grants awarded by the Schultz Foundation for Advancing Counseling. The Schultz Foundation facilitates positive change by ensuring that counselors and organizations are equipped to handle the emotional and social needs facing families and individuals across Illinois.

2019 Recipient - Yearlong Training in Narrative Therapy offered by Evanston Family Therapy Center
2017 Recipient – EMDR Training by the EMDR Institute, Inc.