Photo of Natalie A. Stanish, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Natalie A. Stanish
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a M.S in Child Development & Family Studies, specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy, from Purdue University. I specialize in working with couples, parents and co-parents, families, teens and Adults. My systemic approach goes beyond the individual and addresses problems within the context of people's relationships and environment. I believe relationships form a key part of health & well-being and strive to help people work through/resolve their emotional injuries to achieve happiness & harmony internally (within one's self) and externally (in relationships).
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a M.S in Child Development & Family Studies, specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy, from Purdue University. I specialize in working with couples, parents and co-parents, families, teens and Adults. My systemic approach goes beyond the individual and addresses problems within the context of people's relationships and environment. I believe relationships form a key part of health & well-being and strive to help people work through/resolve their emotional injuries to achieve happiness & harmony internally (within one's self) and externally (in relationships).
(872) 204-1579 View (872) 204-1579
Photo of Julie Thomas, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Julie Thomas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA , NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I am trained at the highest level in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have received advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
If you're struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or if you're facing a big life decision, I can help! We'll work together to help you face these challenges head on. I have advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. My approach is strengths-based and designed to help my clients identify and remove barriers keeping them from living their best lives possible.
I am trained at the highest level in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have received advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
If you're struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or if you're facing a big life decision, I can help! We'll work together to help you face these challenges head on. I have advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. My approach is strengths-based and designed to help my clients identify and remove barriers keeping them from living their best lives possible.
(872) 245-0741 View (872) 245-0741
Photo of Poyesh Ganji, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Poyesh Ganji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
I have training in family systems therapy, Emotionally focused therapy, interpersonal trauma and attachment, and I am also a psychoanalyst in training at Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
You might look for individual therapy because you experience obstacles that happen again and again; you are trying to figure out who you are and what you want in life. You might be looking for couples therapy because you feel disconnected from your partner or have difficulty communicating; you fight or have difficulty with being intimate. You might be looking for family therapy because you don’t know how to connect with your kids; there is conflict in your family and you don’t know how to resolve it. You might be a person of color, immigrant or second generation and struggle with issues mentioned above.
I have training in family systems therapy, Emotionally focused therapy, interpersonal trauma and attachment, and I am also a psychoanalyst in training at Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
You might look for individual therapy because you experience obstacles that happen again and again; you are trying to figure out who you are and what you want in life. You might be looking for couples therapy because you feel disconnected from your partner or have difficulty communicating; you fight or have difficulty with being intimate. You might be looking for family therapy because you don’t know how to connect with your kids; there is conflict in your family and you don’t know how to resolve it. You might be a person of color, immigrant or second generation and struggle with issues mentioned above.
(458) 219-7228 View (458) 219-7228
Photo of Devon Migues, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Devon Migues
Counselor, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
I specialize in identity development & life transition work, harm reduction for individuals with substance use issues, relationship issues, mood & anxiety challenges, and supporting individuals who have endured trauma. I am a kink and poly aware therapist who enjoys working with relationships. I relying on an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens when working with relationship struggles. I am dedicated to serving Chicagoland’s LGBTQIA+ community and have a deep background in advocacy and direct service. I am especially dedicated to supporting TGNC individuals in the unique aspects of their journeys.
(773) 309-6652 View (773) 309-6652
Photo of Linda Williams, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Linda Williams
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Some of the frameworks I use are CBT, CPT, EFT, Narrative Therapy, ACT, IFS, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Existential, and Humanistic.
I identify as a Black, queer therapist and use feminine and non-binary pronouns. I have experience working with young adults, adults, and older adults for individual and couple’s therapy. Some of my specialty areas are anxiety, depression, complex trauma (racial, sexual, medical, developmental/childhood, intergenerational, and religious), life transitions, work stress, ADHD, postpartum and perinatal concerns, sexual functioning, kink/BDSM/poly, interpersonal relationships, grief, LGBTQIA+, and substance use.
Some of the frameworks I use are CBT, CPT, EFT, Narrative Therapy, ACT, IFS, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Existential, and Humanistic.
I identify as a Black, queer therapist and use feminine and non-binary pronouns. I have experience working with young adults, adults, and older adults for individual and couple’s therapy. Some of my specialty areas are anxiety, depression, complex trauma (racial, sexual, medical, developmental/childhood, intergenerational, and religious), life transitions, work stress, ADHD, postpartum and perinatal concerns, sexual functioning, kink/BDSM/poly, interpersonal relationships, grief, LGBTQIA+, and substance use.
(630) 828-6474 x2 View (630) 828-6474 x2
Photo of Laura Gossin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Laura Gossin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I am a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), trained in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and a graduate of The Family Institute at Northwestern University,.
I am a relational, systemic therapist who works with individual adults and couples. I believe most clients seek therapy because their approach to improving their lives is not working. They feel stuck and without direction. I help individuals and couples develop new strategies to improve their relationships, cope with significant pain and loss, and live more fulfilled and satisfying lives. My approach is empathetic, honest, interactive, and direct. I value client insight and recognize the importance of a trusting and open therapeutic relationship to bring about healing.
I am a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), trained in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and a graduate of The Family Institute at Northwestern University,.
I am a relational, systemic therapist who works with individual adults and couples. I believe most clients seek therapy because their approach to improving their lives is not working. They feel stuck and without direction. I help individuals and couples develop new strategies to improve their relationships, cope with significant pain and loss, and live more fulfilled and satisfying lives. My approach is empathetic, honest, interactive, and direct. I value client insight and recognize the importance of a trusting and open therapeutic relationship to bring about healing.
(312) 257-3505 View (312) 257-3505
Photo of Lucas Byron Swenink, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lucas Byron Swenink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Lucas has advanced clinical training in working with trauma survivors, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
Lucas specializes in working with individuals and couples who identify as part of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer population. Within the LGBTQ population, he has further expertise in working with those who wish to address the implications of their trauma history, HIV/AIDS-related health and wellness, Depression, Anxiety, issues related to Aging and Substance Abuse and Dependance related disorders.
Lucas has advanced clinical training in working with trauma survivors, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
Lucas specializes in working with individuals and couples who identify as part of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer population. Within the LGBTQ population, he has further expertise in working with those who wish to address the implications of their trauma history, HIV/AIDS-related health and wellness, Depression, Anxiety, issues related to Aging and Substance Abuse and Dependance related disorders.
(872) 221-6391 View (872) 221-6391
Photo of Ana N Hedenstrom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ana N Hedenstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Working with relationships, I use approaches related to somatic therapies, EFT (Emotion-Focused Therapy) and Gottman’s Method.
I believe that all healing happens within connection. All personal healing, in turn heals the collective. You are the creator of your own life. We will move down a path of self-actualization and change, utilizing your personal strengths to guide us. I am passionate about facilitating creative, client-centered and culturally-centered therapy. You are the expert on your life, and I will support you in transformative self-reflection and embodiment. When it comes to PTSD and trauma, I use somatic practices, EMDR Flash Technique, art therapy and attachment theory.
Working with relationships, I use approaches related to somatic therapies, EFT (Emotion-Focused Therapy) and Gottman’s Method.
I believe that all healing happens within connection. All personal healing, in turn heals the collective. You are the creator of your own life. We will move down a path of self-actualization and change, utilizing your personal strengths to guide us. I am passionate about facilitating creative, client-centered and culturally-centered therapy. You are the expert on your life, and I will support you in transformative self-reflection and embodiment. When it comes to PTSD and trauma, I use somatic practices, EMDR Flash Technique, art therapy and attachment theory.
(872) 204-0432 View (872) 204-0432
Photo of Dr. Lindsay Ellch, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Lindsay Ellch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
For couples, I utilize EFT and the Gottman method.
After training and working at universities across the country like Stanford, Emory, and Northwestern, effective therapy requires a few essential components: a strong therapist-client relationship, a supportive yet challenging environment, and a combination of skill-based and insight-oriented work. I work from an anti-oppressive, feminist framework to create a safe environment for understanding a person within their context and cultivating opportunities for exploration, insight, and healing to occur. I provide therapy for individuals and couples.
For couples, I utilize EFT and the Gottman method.
After training and working at universities across the country like Stanford, Emory, and Northwestern, effective therapy requires a few essential components: a strong therapist-client relationship, a supportive yet challenging environment, and a combination of skill-based and insight-oriented work. I work from an anti-oppressive, feminist framework to create a safe environment for understanding a person within their context and cultivating opportunities for exploration, insight, and healing to occur. I provide therapy for individuals and couples.
(415) 513-1117 View (415) 513-1117
Photo of Allison Schentrup, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Allison Schentrup
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I draw on my training in Gestalt, Gottman Method, EFT, and NARM to create a therapy space that centers you.
I want to help you live purpose led, pleasure-full life. I work with individuals and couples on all manner of relationships. In my couples work, I help partners rediscover intimate connection, learn more effective and compassionate ways of communicating, and rebuild trust. Often, I work with couples on co-parenting, life transitions, and mismatched desire. With individuals I support all of your relationships, whether you’re wanting to find love, deepen friendships, or understand your family. I also help individuals with managing anxiety, spiritual/religious trauma, and healing body image.
I draw on my training in Gestalt, Gottman Method, EFT, and NARM to create a therapy space that centers you.
I want to help you live purpose led, pleasure-full life. I work with individuals and couples on all manner of relationships. In my couples work, I help partners rediscover intimate connection, learn more effective and compassionate ways of communicating, and rebuild trust. Often, I work with couples on co-parenting, life transitions, and mismatched desire. With individuals I support all of your relationships, whether you’re wanting to find love, deepen friendships, or understand your family. I also help individuals with managing anxiety, spiritual/religious trauma, and healing body image.
(872) 666-9986 View (872) 666-9986
Photo of Ellie Paul, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Ellie Paul
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I am passionate about working with children & adolescents managing anxiety & depression; adults who are stressed or who have experienced trauma; OCD and ERP; and working with individuals or those involved in improving their relationships (couples or polycule therapy). I am proud to be an affirming clinician, supporting clients who identify as LGBTQIA+ & those from marginalized backgrounds. Working closely with parents as individuals or as part of a family system is also a specialty of mine. I understand the stress, pressure, love, & energy ever-present in parenting, & strive to help folx find methods, support, & balance.
I am passionate about working with children & adolescents managing anxiety & depression; adults who are stressed or who have experienced trauma; OCD and ERP; and working with individuals or those involved in improving their relationships (couples or polycule therapy). I am proud to be an affirming clinician, supporting clients who identify as LGBTQIA+ & those from marginalized backgrounds. Working closely with parents as individuals or as part of a family system is also a specialty of mine. I understand the stress, pressure, love, & energy ever-present in parenting, & strive to help folx find methods, support, & balance.
(872) 274-2134 View (872) 274-2134
Photo of Leah Whiteman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Leah Whiteman
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I provide therapy in-person and online, using a person-centered approach and emotionally focused therapy informed by attachment theory.
We all deserve a safe space to be our authentic selves, where we can find support during the most intimate and vulnerable moments. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership and am here to work with you and honor your unique experience. As we work together, I aim to foster a judgment-free, safe space and empower you with the tools and skills to help you thrive. There is no problem too big or too small, and my role is to connect you with the answers, break relational patterns, and reacquaint you with your most authentic self.
I provide therapy in-person and online, using a person-centered approach and emotionally focused therapy informed by attachment theory.
We all deserve a safe space to be our authentic selves, where we can find support during the most intimate and vulnerable moments. I view our therapeutic relationship as a partnership and am here to work with you and honor your unique experience. As we work together, I aim to foster a judgment-free, safe space and empower you with the tools and skills to help you thrive. There is no problem too big or too small, and my role is to connect you with the answers, break relational patterns, and reacquaint you with your most authentic self.
(773) 941-7074 View (773) 941-7074
Photo of Kari Harrison, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kari Harrison
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am an emotionally focused sex and relational therapist with over 10 years of experience in both individual and relational work.
I believe that each client has a story to share, stemming from a diverse and unique background - and seek to hold clients in a safe, nurturing space that is truly their own. My conviction is that it is the relationship between the therapist and the client that is ultimately what heals, and when it works, it is immensely powerful. I am passionate about exploring ways to help clients discover their own resiliency and live more authentically in order to create the mental and emotional space to reach their fullest potential.
I am an emotionally focused sex and relational therapist with over 10 years of experience in both individual and relational work.
I believe that each client has a story to share, stemming from a diverse and unique background - and seek to hold clients in a safe, nurturing space that is truly their own. My conviction is that it is the relationship between the therapist and the client that is ultimately what heals, and when it works, it is immensely powerful. I am passionate about exploring ways to help clients discover their own resiliency and live more authentically in order to create the mental and emotional space to reach their fullest potential.
(773) 839-4563 View (773) 839-4563
Photo of Stacey Seibold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Stacey Seibold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
EFT, SE, IFS, Gottman Method, CBT, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction that will help you achieve the quality of life you want.
I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are to walk alongside them as they heal & create their best life. We all at times go through periods when processing, whether towards change or healing, becomes necessary. I hope to make that process a bit more comfortable, so that you are not alone, and also to help you move through your journey with integrity and intention. Many of my clients report feeling it to be easier to approach difficult topics due to us having a friendly relationship as a foundation. I believe that foundation is in part created due to our efforts in seeing and validating their own internal strengths.
EFT, SE, IFS, Gottman Method, CBT, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction that will help you achieve the quality of life you want.
I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are to walk alongside them as they heal & create their best life. We all at times go through periods when processing, whether towards change or healing, becomes necessary. I hope to make that process a bit more comfortable, so that you are not alone, and also to help you move through your journey with integrity and intention. Many of my clients report feeling it to be easier to approach difficult topics due to us having a friendly relationship as a foundation. I believe that foundation is in part created due to our efforts in seeing and validating their own internal strengths.
(224) 261-7610 View (224) 261-7610
Photo of Lauren Zerbst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lauren Zerbst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60645  (Online Only)
I am attachment based in my work and pull from many therapeutic theories and disciplines such as somatic experiencing, IFS, David Search, Esther Perel, EFT, DBT, and Mindfulness practices to support her clinical interventions.
Asking for help can be a vulnerable and scary experience, but the results are often worth it. I am devoted to manifesting growth and stability with all my clients. I am an active, enthusiastic clinician who gives thoughtful feedback after listening carefully to the problem. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist specializing in working with people and populations wishing to explore their sexual identity, sexual functioning, communication, relationship styles, breaking up better, and different ways of living and loving in today's world. She offers evidence-based and out of the box ways of navigating life and relationships.
I am attachment based in my work and pull from many therapeutic theories and disciplines such as somatic experiencing, IFS, David Search, Esther Perel, EFT, DBT, and Mindfulness practices to support her clinical interventions.
Asking for help can be a vulnerable and scary experience, but the results are often worth it. I am devoted to manifesting growth and stability with all my clients. I am an active, enthusiastic clinician who gives thoughtful feedback after listening carefully to the problem. I am an AASECT certified sex therapist specializing in working with people and populations wishing to explore their sexual identity, sexual functioning, communication, relationship styles, breaking up better, and different ways of living and loving in today's world. She offers evidence-based and out of the box ways of navigating life and relationships.
(773) 672-2542 View (773) 672-2542
Photo of Anthony Borchardt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Anthony Borchardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Are you looking to make a change in your life but feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin? I support my clients through navigating the journey of personal growth and transformation, which can often feel confusing, difficult, and scary. As your therapist, I work to understand your struggles and strengths, so that we may walk step-by-step through your discomfort and toward your goals.
Are you looking to make a change in your life but feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin? I support my clients through navigating the journey of personal growth and transformation, which can often feel confusing, difficult, and scary. As your therapist, I work to understand your struggles and strengths, so that we may walk step-by-step through your discomfort and toward your goals.
(312) 584-2016 View (312) 584-2016
Photo of Dylan Saks, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dylan Saks
Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610  (Online Only)
As a couples therapist, I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), one of the only evidence based couple's interventions.
When life feels like a knotted ball of yarn, sometimes we need help finding a thread to grab. As a therapist, I support my clients in finding that thread. I work with clients who are experiencing work challenges, disability, life transitions, OCD, anxiety and depression. Couples often will come to me when they are feeling afraid and lonely in their relationship, and walking on eggshells. As your couples’ therapist I will work in supporting you to share with each other vulnerably and fully. I will help you to both see the injuries that have happened when feeling lonely and disconnected from each other and how to heal together.
As a couples therapist, I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), one of the only evidence based couple's interventions.
When life feels like a knotted ball of yarn, sometimes we need help finding a thread to grab. As a therapist, I support my clients in finding that thread. I work with clients who are experiencing work challenges, disability, life transitions, OCD, anxiety and depression. Couples often will come to me when they are feeling afraid and lonely in their relationship, and walking on eggshells. As your couples’ therapist I will work in supporting you to share with each other vulnerably and fully. I will help you to both see the injuries that have happened when feeling lonely and disconnected from each other and how to heal together.
(312) 313-6557 View (312) 313-6557
Photo of Luke Thimmesch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Luke Thimmesch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy, emotionally-focused therapy (EFT) for couples, and I am also working towards an advanced degree in theology.
Do you feel like no one truly knows you? Do you feel like if people knew the REAL you that you wouldn't be accepted or loved? Depression, shame, and anxiety are all common experiences as we reflect on our unwanted behavior, relational discord, past trauma, and family of origin. The motivation to change becomes all that much harder when you seek it out alone. You want to believe there is hope for a brighter day. Let's work together as we honor your resiliency and work towards healing because the question "what would you prefer?" is worth asking. You want to live a life of freedom. Let's boldly walk into that freedom together.
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy, emotionally-focused therapy (EFT) for couples, and I am also working towards an advanced degree in theology.
Do you feel like no one truly knows you? Do you feel like if people knew the REAL you that you wouldn't be accepted or loved? Depression, shame, and anxiety are all common experiences as we reflect on our unwanted behavior, relational discord, past trauma, and family of origin. The motivation to change becomes all that much harder when you seek it out alone. You want to believe there is hope for a brighter day. Let's work together as we honor your resiliency and work towards healing because the question "what would you prefer?" is worth asking. You want to live a life of freedom. Let's boldly walk into that freedom together.
(630) 937-1212 View (630) 937-1212
Photo of Lisa M. Demos, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Lisa M. Demos
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
With over 20 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
With over 20 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
(773) 451-8172 View (773) 451-8172
Photo of Meredith Farster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Meredith Farster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60707
My work is influenced by cognitive behavioral therapy, intersectional gender dynamics, racial trauma, navigating oppressive systems, relational/cultural modalities, attachment theory/EFT, Gottman and process oriented somatic complex trauma modality of NARM(Neuroaffective Relational Model).
Therapy is a space to explore who you are, were & want to be. Change and growth can be scary & difficult but also beautiful & freeing. My hope is to help you move through that process in the way that works best for you. Working toward a greater insight and awareness of our experiences can help us to embrace and enhance connection to ourselves and others. I provide culturally & racially conscious therapy services using the social work adage of beginning where my client is. I see my role as being present with my clients as they face and navigate the grey areas of life, while increasing agency, sense of self & healthy coping skills.
My work is influenced by cognitive behavioral therapy, intersectional gender dynamics, racial trauma, navigating oppressive systems, relational/cultural modalities, attachment theory/EFT, Gottman and process oriented somatic complex trauma modality of NARM(Neuroaffective Relational Model).
Therapy is a space to explore who you are, were & want to be. Change and growth can be scary & difficult but also beautiful & freeing. My hope is to help you move through that process in the way that works best for you. Working toward a greater insight and awareness of our experiences can help us to embrace and enhance connection to ourselves and others. I provide culturally & racially conscious therapy services using the social work adage of beginning where my client is. I see my role as being present with my clients as they face and navigate the grey areas of life, while increasing agency, sense of self & healthy coping skills.
(708) 295-3237 View (708) 295-3237
Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is for couples who are emotionally distressed, stuck in an unsatisfying relationship pattern or feeling deeply alienated. They may even believe the relationship is beyond repair. Very often, the partners display intense anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal in the relationship. In addition, EFT is helpful to couples and individuals who have difficulty expressing emotions and those who have trouble regulating emotions.

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

People need emotionally focused therapy because the need for others is built into the brain, but the pressures of daily life can erode feelings of love, and couples often do not have the skills to find their way back to the comfort of each other. Instead, they may be stuck in repetitive patterns of anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal. Emotionally focused therapy regards such strong negative feelings as expressions of protest over the loss of connection and turns them into pathways of reconnection.

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

Over the course of eight to 20 weekly sessions, couples de-escalate their negative emotional reactivity to one another so that they can listen to each other and be responsive to each other’s needs. Then the deep emotional and physical bond is restored, giving partners a sense of comfort and security, which they can use to solve whatever problems come their way. The therapist plays an active role, helping partners understand how anger and withdrawal are actually misguided cries for connection.

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

EFT is designed to help couples stuck in dysfunctional relationship patterns regain closeness and rebuild their relationship. Typically, such couples experience considerable distress, with partners feeling alienated and distrustful of one another, not certain their relationship can survive. EFT is also helpful to individuals experiencing attachment-related fears of loss; it helps them learn to use their fears as a way of eliciting the closeness they desire.