About Marlem Garcia
Focus areas
Adolescent / Teen Issues
Childhood Trauma
Pediatric Anxiety
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Family Issues
Pediatric Behavioral Therapy
Bullying
Parenting Counseling
Clientele seen
Children (<13)
Individuals
Teenagers (13-17)
Young adults (18-24)
Treatment approaches
Attachment-based
Sandplay
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Play Therapy
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English, Spanish
Getting to know Marlem Garcia
As a parent, you want the best for your child—but when they’re struggling, it can be hard to know how to help. You may feel overwhelmed, worried, or even exhausted from trying to navigate big emotions, challenging behaviors, or unexpected changes. I want you to know that you’re not alone.
I am passionate about supporting children, teens, and families as they work through life’s challenges. Whether your child is experiencing anxiety, difficulty with transitions, or struggles with emotional regulation, I provide a safe and supportive space where they can express themselves, build confidence, and develop the tools they need to thrive.
Therapy is not just about helping children—it’s about supporting parents, too. Together, we will explore ways to strengthen the parent-child connection, create a sense of balance at home, and empower you with strategies that make a difference in your child’s well-being. I believe that every family has unique strengths, and my goal is to help you and your child discover them.
I would be honored to walk alongside you on this journey. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own—let’s take the next step together.
What should a new client know about working with you?
At Individual and Family Connection, therapy is centered around the belief that children heal best when the important adults in their lives are included in the process. My work is grounded in our signature approach, Through the Eyes of a Child, which focuses on understanding a child’s behavior as communication and supporting the whole family in building connection, trust, and emotional safety.
When starting therapy, we begin with a thorough intake process to get to know your child’s unique strengths, challenges, and your goals as a parent or caregiver. From there, I typically meet with your child in weekly sessions and hold regular parent sessions to ensure we’re working together as a team. These sessions give you space to process, learn strategies, and feel supported—because your relationship with your child is the most powerful tool for change.
You can expect a warm, playful, and collaborative environment where your child feels safe to express themselves and grow, and where you feel empowered in your parenting journey.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
My process is collaborative, playful, and relationship-focused. We begin with a comprehensive intake session with the parent or caregiver, where I learn about your child’s strengths, challenges, and family dynamics. This helps us create a therapy plan that is tailored to your child’s unique needs.
Typical sessions with your child may involve play, art, storytelling, or games—tools that help them express emotions, process experiences, and build coping skills in a way that feels natural and engaging. Behind the scenes, every activity is grounded in clinical intention and guided by IFC’s Through the Eyes of a Child model, which centers on connection, emotional safety, and understanding behavior as communication.
Parent sessions are an essential part of the process. These give us space to review your child’s progress, explore parenting strategies, and address anything happening at home or school. My goal is to help your child grow while also supporting and empowering you in your parenting journey. Together, we create a space for healing, learning, and stronger family connection.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
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In-network insurances
Marlem Garcia, LSW has +40 in-network plans.
Don’t see your insurance?
It’s common for mental health providers to be out-of-network. Many insurance plans offer out-of-network coverage, so you may get partially reimbursed. Learn more
Office location
Marlem Garcia, LSW also offers online video visits for patients
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Aurora University, Master's in Social Work
NPI number
1770388761
How soon can I make an appointment with Marlem Garcia?
Generally, Marlem Garcia has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Marlem Garcia's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Marlem Garcia accepting new patients?
Marlem Garcia generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Marlem Garcia's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Marlem Garcia accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Marlem Garcia is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Marlem Garcia online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Marlem Garcia using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Marlem Garcia work with?
Marlem Garcia works with Individual and Family Connection.
Where is Marlem Garcia's office located?
Marlem Garcia has 2 office locations, including in River Forest and Spillertown, view full addresses on Marlem Garcia's profile.
What are common reasons for patients to see Marlem Garcia?
Marlem Garcia frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Marlem Garcia on their profile.
What languages does Marlem Garcia speak?
Marlem Garcia speaks English and Spanish.