Tides Mental Health

Dr. Shirly Tharakan

PsyD

Pronouns: She/Her

Offering in-person (Chicago) & telehealth sessions

Therapy for children, adults & families navigating stress, change & emotional overload.

Grounded, compassionate care from a psychologist with over 30 years of experience.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Let’s Start Here

You’ve always tried to be the strong one—for your family, your partner, your community—but lately, it’s felt like too much. Maybe you're navigating a major transition, feeling stuck in patterns you can't explain, or just carrying more than you can manage alone. Perhaps you're a parent concerned about your child’s emotional well-being, or an adult who’s spent years putting others first and is now ready to turn inward. Whatever brings you here, you're looking for clarity, compassion, and meaningful support from someone who truly understands the complexity of human emotions

What would you say to someone who’s nervous or unsure about starting therapy?

Hi, I’m Dr. Shirly Tharakan, a psychologist at Tides Mental Health. With over 30 years of experience, I support children, adults, and families through life’s challenges with compassion and clarity. If you’re ready to feel more grounded and understood, let’s connect for a free consultation

What It’s Like to Work Together

With over 30 years of clinical experience, I provide a thoughtful and deeply informed space for healing and self-discovery. My work spans the full human lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults— and I bring a nuanced understanding of how our environment and lived experiences shape the way we think, feel, and relate. Whether we’re working through trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or identity concerns, I approach therapy with insight, curiosity, and deep respect for your lived story. I use evidence-based assessment tools and a warm, client-centered approach to guide our work together. You can expect a space where you're seen not just for your pain, but for your resilience. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, access new tools for growth, and move toward a life that feels more grounded, empowered, and authentically yours.

What can clients expect it to feel like in a session with you?

You can expect warmth, consistency, and curiosity. I aim to create a space that feels safe, honest, and deeply respectful. I’ll meet you exactly where you are—and together, we’ll explore what healing and change can look like in your life.

What’s one reason you’re passionate about the work you do?

Therapy has the power to create profound shifts—in understanding ourselves, in how we show up for those we love, and in how we heal. I do this work because I believe deeply in your capacity to change, even in the face of difficulty.

Clinical Specialties​

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Trauma and life transitions
  • Relationship and family dynamics
  • Child and adolescent development
  • Psychological testing and assessment
  • Women’s mental health
  • Identity and self-esteem concerns

Treatment Modalities

  • Psychodynamic and insight-oriented therapy – explores how past experiences shape current patterns
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – helps reframe thoughts and behaviors
  • Psychoeducation and skills-building – practical tools for emotional growth
  • Psychological and developmental assessment – diagnostic clarity for children and adults
  • Client-centered and trauma-informed care – rooted in empathy, respect, and individualized treatment

Populations Served​

  • Children, adolescents, and adults
  • Parents and caregivers
  • Individuals navigating cultural, relational, or generational stressors
  • Clients seeking psychological evaluations or diagnostic clarity

Training & Credentials​

  • Education: PsyD in Clinical Psychology
  • Special Focus: Psychological assessment and diagnostics
  • Languages Spoken: English and Malayalam
  • Experience: Over 30 years in academic, hospital, and private practice settings
  • Location: Offering in-person (Chicago) & telehealth services

Starting therapy is an act of courage—and also an act of hope. If something in these words resonates with you, I’d be honored to walk with you on this next step

Schedule Free Consultation Now

Insurance We Accept

We accept most major insurance providers and offer several convenient payment methods to ensure accessibility for your care. We also offer various payment methods, including credit cards, bank transfers, and electronic payments.