Photo of Courtney Berry, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Courtney Berry
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
My experience also includes helping parent child relationships, eating disorders, and those who have been impacted by domestic violence or sexual abuse.
As a licensed therapist I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I believe in using therapy as a collaborative experience so that clients feel they have a comfortable and safe place to heal. My style is direct and compassionate while providing guidance and feedback so that client’s feel empowered to utilize healthy coping skills to best manage their stressors and symptoms.
My experience also includes helping parent child relationships, eating disorders, and those who have been impacted by domestic violence or sexual abuse.
As a licensed therapist I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I believe in using therapy as a collaborative experience so that clients feel they have a comfortable and safe place to heal. My style is direct and compassionate while providing guidance and feedback so that client’s feel empowered to utilize healthy coping skills to best manage their stressors and symptoms.
(815) 683-0707 View (815) 683-0707
Photo of Michelle A Gilliard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Michelle A Gilliard
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
My research and treatment has a heavy emphasis on childhood sexual abuse and trauma within the African American community.
Hello! Therapy should be a safe space in which you are able to be transparent, vulnerable and the driver to the change you would like to see in your life. As an experienced clinician, I am dedicated to collaborating with you to heal from past relationships, understand, recognize and heal from trauma and remove the barriers that may be negatively impacting your progress.
My research and treatment has a heavy emphasis on childhood sexual abuse and trauma within the African American community.
Hello! Therapy should be a safe space in which you are able to be transparent, vulnerable and the driver to the change you would like to see in your life. As an experienced clinician, I am dedicated to collaborating with you to heal from past relationships, understand, recognize and heal from trauma and remove the barriers that may be negatively impacting your progress.
(312) 815-1779 x1 View (312) 815-1779 x1
Photo of Hannah Hadley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Hannah Hadley
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have experience with adoptees, teens, young adults, adults, addiction, trauma, religious abuse/trauma, major life transitions, grief, the queer community, neurodivergent individuals, and a variety of mood and personality disorders.
It's all about connection. We all have such a unique cluster of life experiences, and I am here to aid in the facilitation of integration, self-acceptance, and relationship building. You may not know where to begin, or you may have specific therapeutic goals. No matter where you are right now in relation to yourself, I am here as a radically accepting, nonjudgmental, empathic practitioner to be with you in all parts of your journey. I am a deep nature and animal lover, traveler, and have a deep understanding of religious and spiritual communities while not being affiliated with any denomination or religion.
I have experience with adoptees, teens, young adults, adults, addiction, trauma, religious abuse/trauma, major life transitions, grief, the queer community, neurodivergent individuals, and a variety of mood and personality disorders.
It's all about connection. We all have such a unique cluster of life experiences, and I am here to aid in the facilitation of integration, self-acceptance, and relationship building. You may not know where to begin, or you may have specific therapeutic goals. No matter where you are right now in relation to yourself, I am here as a radically accepting, nonjudgmental, empathic practitioner to be with you in all parts of your journey. I am a deep nature and animal lover, traveler, and have a deep understanding of religious and spiritual communities while not being affiliated with any denomination or religion.
(312) 800-1563 View (312) 800-1563
Photo of Jeanine Cannella Howe, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jeanine Cannella Howe
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC, CDVP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I am also a Certified Domestic Violence Professional (CDVP) with years of experience.
Are you ready to make a change? "Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." Instead of ignoring problems, work with me to explore your challenges, set goals, and build on your strengths. Learn how to gain innovative ways of coping with life stressors. I incorporate approaches that will be most beneficial to the individual, couple, or family. I take a direct interactive collaborative approach. I believe our counseling relationship is important to your growth. The goal is to lead you to a more satisfied and balanced life.
I am also a Certified Domestic Violence Professional (CDVP) with years of experience.
Are you ready to make a change? "Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." Instead of ignoring problems, work with me to explore your challenges, set goals, and build on your strengths. Learn how to gain innovative ways of coping with life stressors. I incorporate approaches that will be most beneficial to the individual, couple, or family. I take a direct interactive collaborative approach. I believe our counseling relationship is important to your growth. The goal is to lead you to a more satisfied and balanced life.
(630) 733-1465 View (630) 733-1465
Photo of Karen Cannon, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Karen Cannon
Counselor, MA, LCPC , CADC , CDVP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Certified Domestic Violence Professional.
Establishing trust is essential for counseling and building a therapeutic relationship. At times during the building of this relationship, you may come to feel the most vulnerable. It will be at those times; you will have my undivided attention. Therapy allows individuals the ability to process through unexpected life circumstances as well as troubling event occurrence. At present, all appointments will be virtual. My office location has handicapped accessibility and I offer late evening as well as weekend availability for appointments.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Certified Domestic Violence Professional.
Establishing trust is essential for counseling and building a therapeutic relationship. At times during the building of this relationship, you may come to feel the most vulnerable. It will be at those times; you will have my undivided attention. Therapy allows individuals the ability to process through unexpected life circumstances as well as troubling event occurrence. At present, all appointments will be virtual. My office location has handicapped accessibility and I offer late evening as well as weekend availability for appointments.
(872) 206-9056 View (872) 206-9056
Photo of Edlicia Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Edlicia Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
I service various types of couples (heterosexual, poly, LGBTQIA, high conflict), various family compositions and individuals experiencing, abuse, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and identity issues.
Relationships are challenging and trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, worry, shame and guilt are just some of the things that can hinder you from not only achieving a healthy relationship but also being the best version of yourself. As a Couples and Family therapist I help individuals, couples and families achieve relationship satisfaction, gain a deeper understanding of self and each other and heal from wounds that are negatively impacting the ability to heal. I believe that each individual in a relationship has their own individual thoughts and beliefs that are impacted by childhood and the families we are born into.
I service various types of couples (heterosexual, poly, LGBTQIA, high conflict), various family compositions and individuals experiencing, abuse, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and identity issues.
Relationships are challenging and trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, worry, shame and guilt are just some of the things that can hinder you from not only achieving a healthy relationship but also being the best version of yourself. As a Couples and Family therapist I help individuals, couples and families achieve relationship satisfaction, gain a deeper understanding of self and each other and heal from wounds that are negatively impacting the ability to heal. I believe that each individual in a relationship has their own individual thoughts and beliefs that are impacted by childhood and the families we are born into.
(312) 598-1578 x1 View (312) 598-1578 x1
Photo of Wendy Malcolm, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Wendy Malcolm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Congratulations. You have taken the first big step for yourself and/or your relationship. The thought of therapy may feel a bit intimidating, but you won't know the difference it could make until you try. As a therapist with a specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling, I also help individuals, that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, infidelity, substance abuse, grief, divorce, and navigating a blended family. Together, we will set goals, acquire tools and develop coping mechanisms that will strengthen relationships, build confidence and uncover the true potential within each individual.
Congratulations. You have taken the first big step for yourself and/or your relationship. The thought of therapy may feel a bit intimidating, but you won't know the difference it could make until you try. As a therapist with a specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling, I also help individuals, that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, infidelity, substance abuse, grief, divorce, and navigating a blended family. Together, we will set goals, acquire tools and develop coping mechanisms that will strengthen relationships, build confidence and uncover the true potential within each individual.
(630) 454-9472 View (630) 454-9472
Photo of Dr. Kathryn Brandenborg, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Kathryn Brandenborg
Psychologist, PsyD, EMDR , Trained
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with developmental/relational trauma (very difficult childhoods, physical/emotional abuse, parents who struggled with their own mental health issues or substance abuse), sexual abuse survivors, women's issues (infertility, unhealthy/abusive relationships, poor self image, postpartum issues, etc.
In a safe and judgement-free relationship where you can first feel heard and understood, I can help you more fully understand the unhelpful relational, emotional, and/or thinking patterns that may need adjusting in order to help you live the life you'd like to live. I will offer support, direct feedback, & coping strategies to provide you with skills and more immediate relief, while we work toward increased insight and improved self-awareness, achieving lasting growth and change.
I specialize in working with developmental/relational trauma (very difficult childhoods, physical/emotional abuse, parents who struggled with their own mental health issues or substance abuse), sexual abuse survivors, women's issues (infertility, unhealthy/abusive relationships, poor self image, postpartum issues, etc.
In a safe and judgement-free relationship where you can first feel heard and understood, I can help you more fully understand the unhelpful relational, emotional, and/or thinking patterns that may need adjusting in order to help you live the life you'd like to live. I will offer support, direct feedback, & coping strategies to provide you with skills and more immediate relief, while we work toward increased insight and improved self-awareness, achieving lasting growth and change.
(866) 884-2704 View (866) 884-2704
Photo of Kavita Khara, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kavita Khara
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
I have provided therapeutic support to those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse.
I seek to empathically meet my clients where they are at. Together, we will build a therapeutic relationship in which your sense of safety and being supported is paramount. I work to bring about the changes you want, including greater functioning and life satisfaction. I strongly believe that each of my clients are an expert in themselves, and thus, I am optimistic that between both of our expertises, we can pinpoint the root of your struggles and collaborate on how you can thrive moving forward.
I have provided therapeutic support to those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse.
I seek to empathically meet my clients where they are at. Together, we will build a therapeutic relationship in which your sense of safety and being supported is paramount. I work to bring about the changes you want, including greater functioning and life satisfaction. I strongly believe that each of my clients are an expert in themselves, and thus, I am optimistic that between both of our expertises, we can pinpoint the root of your struggles and collaborate on how you can thrive moving forward.
(773) 492-6838 View (773) 492-6838
Photo of Jenny Choi LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jenny Choi LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
(917) 563-4037 View (917) 563-4037
Photo of Rashmi Pandey, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Rashmi Pandey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Trust is how I define myself! Building a strong therapeutic alliance through trust and confidence is quintessential to positive change in life! When life gets tough through *Difficulties in relationships, *Sadness or depression, *Feelings of anxiety or panic, *Difficulties controlling your anger, *Struggling with parenting issues, *Acculturation/Ethnic minority struggles, *Grief over the loss of a loved one, *Dealing with substance abuse in yourself or someone you care about... One should consider beginning treatment with a professional trained with brief, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach towards changes in core beliefs and restructuring the thought processes towards a better outlook.....and that's me!
Trust is how I define myself! Building a strong therapeutic alliance through trust and confidence is quintessential to positive change in life! When life gets tough through *Difficulties in relationships, *Sadness or depression, *Feelings of anxiety or panic, *Difficulties controlling your anger, *Struggling with parenting issues, *Acculturation/Ethnic minority struggles, *Grief over the loss of a loved one, *Dealing with substance abuse in yourself or someone you care about... One should consider beginning treatment with a professional trained with brief, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach towards changes in core beliefs and restructuring the thought processes towards a better outlook.....and that's me!
(847) 416-1460 View (847) 416-1460
Photo of Jade Hull, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Jade Hull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I primarily work with those who have faced past or ongoing traumas, sexual assault or abuse, domestic or gender-based violence, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
I primarily work with those who have faced past or ongoing traumas, sexual assault or abuse, domestic or gender-based violence, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
(773) 207-2098 View (773) 207-2098
Photo of Samantha Gehr, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Samantha Gehr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
), sexual abuse, women's issues & difficulties navigating life transitions.
To schedule sessions, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh Starting this process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Using warmth, empathy, direct feedback and skill building I can help you more fully understand yourself and your relationships and therefore feel empowered to start living the life you want to live. I firmly believe that healing comes from exploring how our past experiences have affected the ways in which we interpret and interact with our world in the present.
), sexual abuse, women's issues & difficulties navigating life transitions.
To schedule sessions, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh Starting this process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Using warmth, empathy, direct feedback and skill building I can help you more fully understand yourself and your relationships and therefore feel empowered to start living the life you want to live. I firmly believe that healing comes from exploring how our past experiences have affected the ways in which we interpret and interact with our world in the present.
(872) 215-4639 View (872) 215-4639
Photo of Stephanie Galioto, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Stephanie Galioto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Concerns that I often work with in therapy include complex trauma, systemic/religious abuse, bicultural identity, perinatal mental health, parenting, anxiety, depression, emotional awareness, relationship issues, and family dynamics.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you - Maya Angelou. Have you ever found yourself stuck within stressful relationships, triggering environments or confusing emotions? That "stuck" feeling can often lead to stagnation in our day to day lives, and uncertainty about the future. I address these struggles by utilizing a holistic, trauma-informed approach, which incorporates body-oriented, anti-oppression and harm reduction practices. These strategies allow me to focus on the strengths already within each client, while also uncovering past wounds that might be limiting growth.
Concerns that I often work with in therapy include complex trauma, systemic/religious abuse, bicultural identity, perinatal mental health, parenting, anxiety, depression, emotional awareness, relationship issues, and family dynamics.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you - Maya Angelou. Have you ever found yourself stuck within stressful relationships, triggering environments or confusing emotions? That "stuck" feeling can often lead to stagnation in our day to day lives, and uncertainty about the future. I address these struggles by utilizing a holistic, trauma-informed approach, which incorporates body-oriented, anti-oppression and harm reduction practices. These strategies allow me to focus on the strengths already within each client, while also uncovering past wounds that might be limiting growth.
(312) 635-4882 View (312) 635-4882
Photo of Center for Relational Transformation, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Center for Relational Transformation
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
Welcome to the Center for Relational Transformation. We are a group of relationship experts who can help you with any relationship issue or any psychological issue that stems from relational difficulties (depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, PTSD, neglect, abuse). Based on what we now know from the latest research in neuroscience, deep healing on a fundamental level is possible. Instead of just treating symptoms, we can cue up and facilitate "corrective emotional experiences" that can profoundly heal past hurt and trauma for both individuals and couples. You don't need to suffer any longer.
Welcome to the Center for Relational Transformation. We are a group of relationship experts who can help you with any relationship issue or any psychological issue that stems from relational difficulties (depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, PTSD, neglect, abuse). Based on what we now know from the latest research in neuroscience, deep healing on a fundamental level is possible. Instead of just treating symptoms, we can cue up and facilitate "corrective emotional experiences" that can profoundly heal past hurt and trauma for both individuals and couples. You don't need to suffer any longer.
(312) 646-4387 View (312) 646-4387
Photo of Lee Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lee Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I strive to cultivate a culturally-informed, sex and kink-positive space for clients to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I’m affirming of all expressions of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as non-traditional relationship structures. My background includes specific work with those who have experienced traumatic injuries, the sudden loss of a loved one, and interpersonal violence, as well as understanding and coping with complex medical diagnoses. I also work with folks experiencing distress related to anxiety, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
I strive to cultivate a culturally-informed, sex and kink-positive space for clients to process thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I’m affirming of all expressions of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as non-traditional relationship structures. My background includes specific work with those who have experienced traumatic injuries, the sudden loss of a loved one, and interpersonal violence, as well as understanding and coping with complex medical diagnoses. I also work with folks experiencing distress related to anxiety, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
(773) 974-8836 View (773) 974-8836
Photo of Veleka J Avant, Licensed Social Worker in Chicago, IL
Veleka J Avant
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60651  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I have experience working with a wide variety of concerns, including trauma, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse disorders, divorce, and career changes.
Do you feel like something needs to change in your life, but you can’t seem to figure out what that “something” is or where to begin? I would be honored to partner with you to access those things that bring you joy, clarity, and peace. I enjoy working with adults open to change and eager to develop patterns of thinking and behaviors that support the life they truly desire. Additionally, I specialize in addressing the unique challenges faced by BIPOC. You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s partner to create the blueprint for your next chapter. There is endless joy that lives within you, and it’s ready to be unleashed.
As a therapist, I have experience working with a wide variety of concerns, including trauma, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse disorders, divorce, and career changes.
Do you feel like something needs to change in your life, but you can’t seem to figure out what that “something” is or where to begin? I would be honored to partner with you to access those things that bring you joy, clarity, and peace. I enjoy working with adults open to change and eager to develop patterns of thinking and behaviors that support the life they truly desire. Additionally, I specialize in addressing the unique challenges faced by BIPOC. You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s partner to create the blueprint for your next chapter. There is endless joy that lives within you, and it’s ready to be unleashed.
(773) 867-5362 View (773) 867-5362
Photo of Kimberly Shapps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kimberly Shapps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
In addition to divorce counseling, my areas of specialization include relationship and peer issues, self-esteem, life transitions, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD.
I began my career as a practicing attorney representing women in abusive relationships in order of protection and divorce proceedings. As a therapist, I use my legal and therapeutic background to provide individual counseling prior to, during, and after divorce. Divorce is a traumatic life event that can have a ripple effect on nearly every aspect of one's life. I offer clients both concrete help to better understand the legal system and what they can expect from the process, while also working to gain deeper insight into what happened in the relationship and starting to heal from the experience.
In addition to divorce counseling, my areas of specialization include relationship and peer issues, self-esteem, life transitions, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, trauma and PTSD.
I began my career as a practicing attorney representing women in abusive relationships in order of protection and divorce proceedings. As a therapist, I use my legal and therapeutic background to provide individual counseling prior to, during, and after divorce. Divorce is a traumatic life event that can have a ripple effect on nearly every aspect of one's life. I offer clients both concrete help to better understand the legal system and what they can expect from the process, while also working to gain deeper insight into what happened in the relationship and starting to heal from the experience.
(312) 854-2823 View (312) 854-2823
Photo of Dr. Ella Yung, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Ella Yung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
childhood abuse, neglect), grief and loss, anxiety, identity development, relational and family conflict, and life transitions.
Greetings! Whether continuing therapy or trying it for the first time, I work to create a judgement-free, open, and safe environment for you to be authentic and to explore the struggles that bring you in. I believe no issue is insignificant and through the use of empathy, collaboration, and empowerment, we will journey through growth and healing together. I provide support by actively listening to your experiences and offering a space for ambiguity, direct feedback, reflection, and skill development that will allow you to work toward living the kind of life you want and becoming the version of yourself you want to be.
childhood abuse, neglect), grief and loss, anxiety, identity development, relational and family conflict, and life transitions.
Greetings! Whether continuing therapy or trying it for the first time, I work to create a judgement-free, open, and safe environment for you to be authentic and to explore the struggles that bring you in. I believe no issue is insignificant and through the use of empathy, collaboration, and empowerment, we will journey through growth and healing together. I provide support by actively listening to your experiences and offering a space for ambiguity, direct feedback, reflection, and skill development that will allow you to work toward living the kind of life you want and becoming the version of yourself you want to be.
(872) 266-4406 View (872) 266-4406
Photo of Raquel Wu, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Raquel Wu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
(773) 692-0273 View (773) 692-0273
Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.