Itasca
Itasca, IL 60143
Hi, I’m Dr. Sandra Juggar (she/her), a psychologist who works with adolescents (12+), adults, couples, and families. At the core of my approach is a belief that meaningful therapy begins with a genuine relationship. I bring my authentic self into the room and believe there is space for both humor and deep reflection in the therapeutic process. I want clients to feel comfortable talking openly, asking questions, and exploring the parts of life that may be difficult to understand on their own.
Therapy with me is collaborative and individualized. You are not a diagnosis or a checklist of symptoms, and I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I take time to understand your experiences, relationships, strengths, culture, and goals so that we can develop an approach that actually fits you. My role is to bring clinical knowledge, curiosity, and perspective while keeping you at the center of the work.
My clinical experience includes anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, ADHD and neurodivergence, perfectionism, life transitions, divorce, relationship and marital concerns, parenting and family challenges, co-occurring disorders, and recovery. I also have a strong interest in women’s health, including perinatal and postpartum mental health, and enjoy helping women navigate the emotional, relational, and identity changes that can accompany different stages of life.
Working with adolescents and families has also been an important part of my clinical career. My background includes diagnostic assessment and work with developmental, behavioral, and intellectual concerns, as well as supporting youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders and co-occurring anxiety, depression, and substance use concerns. My experience within therapeutic school settings has given me an understanding of how emotional health, family dynamics, behavior, and educational needs can intersect.
As a first-generation Polish American, I also understand that culture and family can add important layers to how we experience mental health. Values, expectations, communication styles, and generational differences can influence everything from relationships to how comfortable we feel asking for help. I welcome first-generation and culturally diverse clients who want space to explore these experiences without having to separate culture from the rest of their story.
My therapeutic approach draws from client-centered, solution-focused, emotion-focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) approaches, along with other evidence-based interventions tailored to the individual. Depending on what brings you to therapy, we may explore childhood experiences and established patterns, strengthen emotional awareness, develop practical coping strategies, or focus on changes you can begin making in everyday life.
I’m especially passionate about helping clients develop greater self-awareness, self-compassion, empathy, and appreciation for themselves and others. I also believe the basics matter. Sleep, mindfulness, movement, nutrition, and our daily routines can have a meaningful impact on emotional wellness, and these areas may become part of our conversations when they support your goals.
Outside of therapy, I’m a boy mom who spends plenty of time at soccer games. I love being outdoors, camping, traveling, and trying new experiences—and I’m an unapologetic true-crime fan. Family and culture remain important parts of who I am, both personally and professionally.
Ultimately, I want clients to leave therapy feeling heard, empowered, and more confident in understanding themselves. Therapy doesn’t have to erase every difficult emotion or give you a perfect answer. It can help you understand your patterns, strengthen your relationships, respond differently to challenges, and feel more equipped for whatever comes next.
Whether you’re navigating something new or finally ready to address something that has been with you for years, we can start where you are and build from there—together.