Therapists in Ravenswood, Chicago, IL

Finding a therapist who you connect with can be a daunting task. I know how truly important a strong therapeutic relationship is, which is why I am dedicated and passionate about forming a meaningful bond with each client I work with. Empathic, effective, and client centered mental health care are foundations to my therapeutic practice, and I aspire to create a space that is both welcoming, and safe for all clients.

Our clients are diverse people, some struggle with depression or anxiety, others seek clarity in communication and adapting to change. What you request assistance with is our goal, and we will empathize and assist you in navigating the therapeutic journey. You, the client, are in charge of your life and your change. Your therapist is here to help you look at your choices, provide new skills, and be a support. All the MyLCSW clinicians believe that therapy starts where the client is.

One of my core goals for therapy is to create a collaborative, safe, non-judgmental, and empowering environment for my clients. I believe that each client is the expert of their own story, and I am here in support of their process of change, healing, and self-exploration. I strive to help each person develop the awareness and skills to live their most fulfilling and authentic lives. ​ I have experience supporting clients of all ages with anxiety, depression, body image concerns, disordered eating, life transitions, grief and loss, relational difficulties, and sexuality and gender exploration.

Oftentimes, people come to therapy because they feel stuck in patterns that they can't shake, despite their best efforts--this may be creating symptoms of anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. I provide a safe, focused environment that allows my clients to explore themselves, their relationships, and their experiences in the world. I also offer special sensitivity to how cultural, racial, and societal issues affect an individual's life. The process is aimed at allowing people to clarify their own goals and move toward them, and to discover new ways of approaching life's challenges while becoming more aware of their personal values and needs.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in client-centered, relational approaches to mental health and healing. I earned my Masters in Social Work from the University of Michigan, and hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Fort Lewis College. Prior to joining Catalyst Clinical Group, I worked in a variety of hospital and healthcare settings, focusing on clients living with chronic illness. I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach to therapy, centering the needs and goals of each client. I have specific training and experience working with individuals who identify as part of LGBTQIA+ community.

Have you recently been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition and attempting to grieve the life that could have been? Or have you been having difficulty managing your chronic medical condition and experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or general stress? These tasks can be difficult to navigate alone, I am here to help you through your journey to wellness.

Change and growth happen within a safe and secure relationship. I am here to walk alongside you, offering compassionate curiosity, a safe space to explore your inner life, and deep insight. Wherever you are in your mental health journey, I’ll meet you there and together we can embrace the ambiguity of the human experience with humor, a sense of play, and compassion.

As a Prescribing Psychologist, I have the unique privilege to treat the totality of my patient's symptoms and fully support them along the way. I believe with the right support, each person can enhance his or her own interpersonal relationships. And sometimes, medication is a great option to enhance the progress made in therapy. I practice unconditional positive regard and attempt to balance humor with the occasional, yet necessary, curse word. Psychotherapy and psychopharmacology should not be a mystery and I try to make the process as comfortable and as real as possible.

I have openings for in-person or virtual daytime appointments. My clinical approach emphasizes creating a safe, non-judgmental space where I integrate relational and psychodynamic models as well as creative techniques such as music and art. As a relational therapist I believe the therapeutic relationship is crucial to healing, so it is important that I build trust and connection with each unique person. I also believe that past experiences play a significant role in how we approach work, relationships, and responsibilities, so I collaboratively guide clients in making connections from the past to their present circumstances.

Christina is a passionate advocate for children, teens, and adolescents in need. By using techniques like Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT, Christina helps clients develop a diverse tool kit to achieve their goals. Christina creates unique treatment plans for each client, providing therapy specific to their personal concerns such as anxiety, depression, school struggles, behavioral concerns, or family conflicts. Clients working with Christina find her to be warm, easy to connect with and flexible. Christina also takes a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy, allowing clients to feel safe to explore and grow.

I understand that life can be really uncomfortable. Whether it be difficulties with a friend, family member, or romantic partner, on-going anxiety and depression, perfectionist tendencies that prevent you from feeling comfortable at work or school, or major life pursuits like dating, identity exploration, or a big career change, I believe therapy can be a productive and effective way to help alleviate whatever is causing you discomfort.

We can all use a little help sometimes. Counseling can provide us with a space to explore our authentic selves and try out new strategies for coping with life's challenges, free from judgment. The individuals and families I support are typically seeking relief from feelings of sadness, anxiety or worry, shame, hopelessness, anger, or confusion. These feelings are often associated with divorce or separation, grief and loss, family issues, or childhood trauma. The feelings and circumstances can feel all consuming and difficult to manage, but you don't need to manage them alone.

I use a collaborative treatment approach and different behavioral therapies to help clients develop skills to live more effective and meaningful lives. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of supporting clients to reach their goals. I focus on each client and their level of need and recognize what works with one individual may not work for another. I use evidence based treatment to best support each client to help navigate their journey. I am passionate about mental health issues and strongly believe that given the right tools and resources, anyone can improve their mental health.

I believe in the inherent strength, competency, and resourcefulness of individuals, couples, and families; this guides my approach to work with clients. My role in the therapeutic process is to help you recognize and maximize those internal and interpersonal skills that you possess, while supporting you in the development of new adaptive techniques and strategies. Through this collaboration, we will work toward a clear understanding of what brings you to therapy, as well as opportunities for growth and acceptance. Effective therapy results in an affirmative response to the question: "Am I authentically living a meaningful and fulfilling life?"

Do you feel overwhelmed, stressed, exhausted, or out of control? Do you have difficulty stopping a constant stream of worries? Have you suffered a trauma that prevents you from experiencing peace of mind? Do you want to feel happier with yourself and in your relationships? Therapy can help you. In a confidential relationship, we can explore the reasons for your unhappiness and find ways to overcome them. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 38 years of experience in the treatment of individuals, couples, and families. I have extensive clinical experience in a wide range of emotional problems.

I am a queer, non-binary, trans therapist who believes each of us deserves at least one safe space to learn about and engage with our full selves. Therapy can be helpful as you navigate life’s everyday stressors, a difficult part of your history, past or ongoing trauma, or any feelings or circumstances that cause you pain or suffering. Therapy can also help you learn self-trust, build loving relationships, find ease in your mind and body, and move towards a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.

Mary and Tom Leo Associates has provided counseling for children, adults and families throughout the Chicagoland area since 1975. We are dedicated to assisting all members of the family through individual, play, couples, and family therapy. Additionally, we provide parent coaching and parent training classes. Our experts assist struggling parent(s) with their children's negative behaviors. MTLA also provides therapeutic visitation using a model of service provision that is designed for neutrality, safety, structure, and consistency. We make the onboarding process seamless as we are dedicated to assisting clients reach their goals!