About Us
About Montesano Psychological Center
A women owned therapy practice in Illinois founded to make mental health care accessible to rural and suburban communities.
A Therapist in Antioch, Illinois Founded on Personal Experience
Montesano Psychological Center began with Dr Liara Montesano’s personal understanding of the barriers facing rural and suburban communities seeking mental health Lake County IL. As a teenager, she witnessed her mother struggle to find bilingual therapy in a small town with limited resources. That experience revealed how traditional mental health systems fail populations outside urban centers through geographic barriers, insurance complications, and impersonal corporate models. Dr Liara Montesano founded this women owned therapy practice Illinois to be different: a place where small teams, small caseloads, and genuine human connection form the foundation of care. When you call Montesano Psychological Center, a licensed clinician answers the phone because we believe every interaction matters. We serve traditionally underserved communities as a therapist Antioch Illinois with virtual therapy that combines evidence-based excellence with the personal attention of a small practice.
Clinical Excellence Through Supervision and Small Caseloads
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need immediate support, please visit SAMHSA’s National Helpline or call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Meet our team
Our Professional Team
Meet Our Founder
Dr. Liara Montesano, Psy.D
Dr. M as she’s affectionately known views humans beings as having vast amounts of potential that is often diminished by different complications/circumstances. Dr. M’s passion is helping her clients flourish and become the best versions of themselves.
Today, Dr. M works with adults and teens at the Montesano Psychological Center and engages in individual/group/equine assisted psychotherapy. Having a strong background in existential philosophy and person-centered psychotherapy Dr. M’s priority is designing a unique and individualized treatment plan for all those under her care that incorporate the client’s goals and desires for their future and well being rather than her own.
In addition, Dr. M is the Director of Clinical Training at Guada Psychological Services. At Guada she trains and supervises aspiring clinicians in evidence based psychotherapies such as: CBT, ACT, H-E, Person Centered Therapy along with teaching warmth, empathy and genuineness within the therapeutic relationship.
Education and Training
After finishing her BS in Clinical Psychology at Florida State University, Dr. M, completed a Master’s degree and worked in low income communities engaging in home visits and safety checks with the FACT team. Followed by her work in community psychology Dr. M spent two years providing care to individuals with traumatic brain injuries before spending an additional five years of intensive study at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology where she earned her Doctorate. Through this schooling she engaged and trained in health psychology, outpatient care, inpatient care and community psychology at some of the most prestigious and rigorous training sites in the Chicago area such as: Northwestern University’s Family Health Center in Humboldt Park, The Circle Center for Women, Riveredge Hospital and Illinois Masonic Medical Center.
Areas of Expertise
Dr. M provides therapy to individuals who struggle with insecurities, self-doubt, loneliness, obsessive thinking, phobias, depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and many other challenges that compromise their quality of life. Her office offers a place where people can explore themselves and find ways to better cope with their lives without losing what makes them uniquely them. Without imposing any agendas on you, Dr. M will work to meet you where you are at in your journey and act as a guides towards positive treatment outcomes.
Reach Montesano Psychological Center
Get In Touch With Us
Our services
Comprehensive Holistic Mental Health Care
I can’t say enough good things about this clinic! The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and attentive. They take a holistic approach to health and truly listen to your concerns. After following their advice, I’ve noticed a huge improvement in my energy levels and overall wellness. Highly recommend!
This clinic is a gem for anyone seeking natural and comprehensive care. From the friendly front desk staff to the expert practitioners, everyone made me feel valued and cared for. The naturopathic treatments were tailored to my specific needs, and I finally feel like my health is on the right track.
The clinic offers top-notch services and a welcoming atmosphere. The doctor took the time to explain everything in detail and offered practical solutions to improve my health naturally. My only suggestion would be to reduce wait times, but overall, it was an excellent experience.
I’ve visited many clinics before, but this one stands out for its compassionate approach. The practitioners here truly care about your well-being and focus on treating the root cause of your issues rather than just the symptoms. I feel healthier and more balanced than ever!
