Gottman Method Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL

Leon Abbey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
While I draw from various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, person centered, strength based, solution-focused, and Gottman method for couples therapy, I frequently use the EMDR approach to address and resolve various distressing experiences.
I also recognize the value of holistic care, acknowledging the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. I counsel individuals seeking to integrate their spiritual and faith-based beliefs into their therapeutic journey.
While I draw from various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, person centered, strength based, solution-focused, and Gottman method for couples therapy, I frequently use the EMDR approach to address and resolve various distressing experiences.
I also recognize the value of holistic care, acknowledging the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. I counsel individuals seeking to integrate their spiritual and faith-based beliefs into their therapeutic journey.

I speak Spanish, & I use a combination of neuroscience, holistic health, the Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, PCIT, & psychoanalytical theories to help my clients, couples & families live up to their full potential.
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366
I speak Spanish, & I use a combination of neuroscience, holistic health, the Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, PCIT, & psychoanalytical theories to help my clients, couples & families live up to their full potential.
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366

Maddie Persanyi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
The Gottman Method is based on research that aims increase connection, respect, and understanding using various skills within couples.
I work with clients who struggle with managing stress, anxiety, self-esteem or relationship issues. Common examples of issues these clients face are trouble setting boundaries, feeling overwhelmed, relationship issues, lack of self-esteem or difficulty managing their emotions. These clients are hoping to increase their coping skills in these areas and want resources to better navigate their symptoms or need a safe and nonjudgmental space to talk things through. Evaluating all aspects of life through a collaborative relationship, we can work to decide how my client can live a thriving, healthy life.
The Gottman Method is based on research that aims increase connection, respect, and understanding using various skills within couples.
I work with clients who struggle with managing stress, anxiety, self-esteem or relationship issues. Common examples of issues these clients face are trouble setting boundaries, feeling overwhelmed, relationship issues, lack of self-esteem or difficulty managing their emotions. These clients are hoping to increase their coping skills in these areas and want resources to better navigate their symptoms or need a safe and nonjudgmental space to talk things through. Evaluating all aspects of life through a collaborative relationship, we can work to decide how my client can live a thriving, healthy life.

Some of the therapeutic techniques I use include DBT, CBT, Social Rhythm Therapy, Internal Family Systems, ACT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and Meaning Centered Psychotherapy and the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
I specialize in working with Gen-Z and Millennial folks who are exploring their life purpose, navigating their evolving careers, and are actively ready to create meaningful change in their lives. I am highly trained in the treatment of anxiety, depression and mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. Some other topics I explore in my work are perfectionism, negative self-talk, shame, fear of failure, anger, executive functioning, people pleasing, imposter syndrome, social anxiety, co-dependency and issues within relationships. I also provide couples therapy to those wanting to strengthen or repair their relationship.
Some of the therapeutic techniques I use include DBT, CBT, Social Rhythm Therapy, Internal Family Systems, ACT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and Meaning Centered Psychotherapy and the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
I specialize in working with Gen-Z and Millennial folks who are exploring their life purpose, navigating their evolving careers, and are actively ready to create meaningful change in their lives. I am highly trained in the treatment of anxiety, depression and mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. Some other topics I explore in my work are perfectionism, negative self-talk, shame, fear of failure, anger, executive functioning, people pleasing, imposter syndrome, social anxiety, co-dependency and issues within relationships. I also provide couples therapy to those wanting to strengthen or repair their relationship.

Amanda Jonikaitis-King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RYT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additionally, I utilize evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, and Gottman Method couples counseling in my sessions.
Are you seeking clarity, balance, and a deeper connection to your true, authentic self? Navigating uncertainties about who we are and what we want in life can be challenging and isolating, but I'm here to help. I provide a judgment-free space where we can explore your core values and life purpose, helping you more easily and confidently navigate life's challenges. My expertise extends to couples counseling, where we can work on improving communication, understanding, and intimacy in your relationships.
Additionally, I utilize evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, and Gottman Method couples counseling in my sessions.
Are you seeking clarity, balance, and a deeper connection to your true, authentic self? Navigating uncertainties about who we are and what we want in life can be challenging and isolating, but I'm here to help. I provide a judgment-free space where we can explore your core values and life purpose, helping you more easily and confidently navigate life's challenges. My expertise extends to couples counseling, where we can work on improving communication, understanding, and intimacy in your relationships.

I have advanced training in the Gottman Method (level 3 trained) and EMDR for evidence-based trauma care.
Hi, I am Briana, your partner in growth and healing!
I am a licensed Couple/Marriage & Family Therapist serving clients in Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan. With a passion for helping couples, individuals, and families, I strive to foster meaningful change in a safe and supportive environment (with a little joke here and there, too).
In my approach, I believe you are the expert of your own life—no one knows you better than you! I see myself as a co-collaborator, helping you uncover the root causes of your distress and empowering you to create meaningful change.
I have advanced training in the Gottman Method (level 3 trained) and EMDR for evidence-based trauma care.
Hi, I am Briana, your partner in growth and healing!
I am a licensed Couple/Marriage & Family Therapist serving clients in Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan. With a passion for helping couples, individuals, and families, I strive to foster meaningful change in a safe and supportive environment (with a little joke here and there, too).
In my approach, I believe you are the expert of your own life—no one knows you better than you! I see myself as a co-collaborator, helping you uncover the root causes of your distress and empowering you to create meaningful change.

What sets my therapy apart is my unique integration of evidence-based interventions like the Gottman Method for couples and somatic and EMDR interventions for individuals overcoming developmental trauma.
As a culturally competent couples & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist with +four years of academic and clinical training, serving you uniquely is my highest regard. Some of the reasons my clients reach out include feeling stuck in familiar cycles, experiencing high levels of criticism or relational contempt, developmental trauma like sexual abuse or attachment wounds like emotional abandonment or betrayal. My approach is incremental, client-centered and holistic.
What sets my therapy apart is my unique integration of evidence-based interventions like the Gottman Method for couples and somatic and EMDR interventions for individuals overcoming developmental trauma.
As a culturally competent couples & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist with +four years of academic and clinical training, serving you uniquely is my highest regard. Some of the reasons my clients reach out include feeling stuck in familiar cycles, experiencing high levels of criticism or relational contempt, developmental trauma like sexual abuse or attachment wounds like emotional abandonment or betrayal. My approach is incremental, client-centered and holistic.

Couples Work: Completed Level 1 &2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Transitions to Parenthood/Marriage, Pre-marital counseling,Communication Issues, Family Conflict Management, Trust Issues, Individual Work: Maternal Mental Health, Infertility, Pregnancy, Depression,Anxiety,Relationship Challenges,Executive Coaching,Traumatic Experiences,Grief
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult, as it's hard to reach out for help. My goal is to make therapy feel less overwhelming through a collaborative partnership where together we identify your challenges and develop healthy coping skills. My style, rooted in warmth and humor, utilizes the therapeutic relationship to explore positive change and growth. Customized feedback and a range of strategies are provided drawing from evidenced based research and years of clinical expertise. I specialize in individual and couples therapy uniquely focusing on enhancing relationships, healing from the past, and thriving individually.
Couples Work: Completed Level 1 &2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Transitions to Parenthood/Marriage, Pre-marital counseling,Communication Issues, Family Conflict Management, Trust Issues, Individual Work: Maternal Mental Health, Infertility, Pregnancy, Depression,Anxiety,Relationship Challenges,Executive Coaching,Traumatic Experiences,Grief
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult, as it's hard to reach out for help. My goal is to make therapy feel less overwhelming through a collaborative partnership where together we identify your challenges and develop healthy coping skills. My style, rooted in warmth and humor, utilizes the therapeutic relationship to explore positive change and growth. Customized feedback and a range of strategies are provided drawing from evidenced based research and years of clinical expertise. I specialize in individual and couples therapy uniquely focusing on enhancing relationships, healing from the past, and thriving individually.

I hold additional certifications in Gottman Method couples counseling, somatic healing, and trauma-informed yoga therapy.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of your work and personal life, constantly battling anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout? Do you want to make a change, but you’re not sure where to start? I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, and we shouldn't wait until things become unmanageable to get support. My therapeutic approach combines processing with skill-building. We will seek to understand past and present difficulties and the thoughts, feelings, behaviors, relationships, and lifestyle factors contributing to these difficulties. I will also provide you with practical tools to help you not only heal but thrive.
I hold additional certifications in Gottman Method couples counseling, somatic healing, and trauma-informed yoga therapy.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of your work and personal life, constantly battling anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout? Do you want to make a change, but you’re not sure where to start? I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, and we shouldn't wait until things become unmanageable to get support. My therapeutic approach combines processing with skill-building. We will seek to understand past and present difficulties and the thoughts, feelings, behaviors, relationships, and lifestyle factors contributing to these difficulties. I will also provide you with practical tools to help you not only heal but thrive.

I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), the Gottman Method, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), integrating these modalities to create personalized and effective treatment plans
In relationships, when we feel unheard, unseen, and invisible, it’s instinctual to yell—not to hurt the other person, but to soothe the ache inside of us. These moments often trigger a chain of painful interactions, and before we know it, things spiral out of control. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, relationship challenges, infidelity, and attachment struggles—and the complexities of adjusting to new cultures. I work to uncover the deeper needs beneath the conflict, offering practical tools to help improve communication, rebuild trust, and reconnect with one another.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), the Gottman Method, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), integrating these modalities to create personalized and effective treatment plans
In relationships, when we feel unheard, unseen, and invisible, it’s instinctual to yell—not to hurt the other person, but to soothe the ache inside of us. These moments often trigger a chain of painful interactions, and before we know it, things spiral out of control. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, relationship challenges, infidelity, and attachment struggles—and the complexities of adjusting to new cultures. I work to uncover the deeper needs beneath the conflict, offering practical tools to help improve communication, rebuild trust, and reconnect with one another.

Dr. Jen Rafacz is a generalist first when working with individuals and couples for a wide range of clinical problems & psychosocial stressors. Their approach integrates techniques from multiple schools of therapy: behavioral, narrative, mindfulness, emotionally, cognitive and parts works. They use flexibility to apply appropriate approaches to each individual’s specific problem areas, personality styles and social context including race, sexual orientation, gender, religion and ethnicity. With individuals, they have experience addressing: depression, anxiety, life transitions(retirement/divorce), improving health& stress management.
Dr. Jen Rafacz is a generalist first when working with individuals and couples for a wide range of clinical problems & psychosocial stressors. Their approach integrates techniques from multiple schools of therapy: behavioral, narrative, mindfulness, emotionally, cognitive and parts works. They use flexibility to apply appropriate approaches to each individual’s specific problem areas, personality styles and social context including race, sexual orientation, gender, religion and ethnicity. With individuals, they have experience addressing: depression, anxiety, life transitions(retirement/divorce), improving health& stress management.
Meet Our Gottman Method Therapists

I can help you with a variety of issues: infidelity (healing from an affair, rebuilding trust, helping you figure out why you are cheating), attachment and changing your attachment style, fighting about the same issues, escalated conflicts (high conflict couples), adoption, biracial and interracial relationships, multicultural issues, anxiety, depression, and stress management. I can help individuals and couples decide whether they want to stay together or break up / divorce.
I can help you with a variety of issues: infidelity (healing from an affair, rebuilding trust, helping you figure out why you are cheating), attachment and changing your attachment style, fighting about the same issues, escalated conflicts (high conflict couples), adoption, biracial and interracial relationships, multicultural issues, anxiety, depression, and stress management. I can help individuals and couples decide whether they want to stay together or break up / divorce.

Loren Mercola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Type 73
Verified Verified
Online Only
IS THE LIFE YOU ARE LIVING NOW THE LIFE THAT WANTS TO LIVE IN YOU? If not, I can help! Create the reality you want. Dare to dream. Find your passion. Change directions. Discover your untapped potential. Celebrate relationships. Enrich your spirit. Live your best life by being your BEST self! With a collaborative counseling/coaching style, I offer guidance, support, education and strategies to empower you to achieve your goals and live a healthy, balanced life. Working together will provide you with opportunities to grow and learn to:
Accept Accountability for your
Choices, Actions & Reactions
IS THE LIFE YOU ARE LIVING NOW THE LIFE THAT WANTS TO LIVE IN YOU? If not, I can help! Create the reality you want. Dare to dream. Find your passion. Change directions. Discover your untapped potential. Celebrate relationships. Enrich your spirit. Live your best life by being your BEST self! With a collaborative counseling/coaching style, I offer guidance, support, education and strategies to empower you to achieve your goals and live a healthy, balanced life. Working together will provide you with opportunities to grow and learn to:
Accept Accountability for your
Choices, Actions & Reactions

Denise K Netko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
In our modern world, many of us recognize the need to take time to slow down and get in tune with ourselves and our relationships. I actively engage with clients in a reflective process to explore current life stressors, challenges, & behavioral patterns. A relational framework is utilized to help guide clients through an exploration of how current and past relationships influence their lives. Within the context of a safe and trusting therapeutic environment, I help clients to identify the steps needed to overcome challenges and promote positive change.
In our modern world, many of us recognize the need to take time to slow down and get in tune with ourselves and our relationships. I actively engage with clients in a reflective process to explore current life stressors, challenges, & behavioral patterns. A relational framework is utilized to help guide clients through an exploration of how current and past relationships influence their lives. Within the context of a safe and trusting therapeutic environment, I help clients to identify the steps needed to overcome challenges and promote positive change.

Michela Stevenson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work exclusively with individuals and couples navigating major life transitions, including marriage, postpartum, and parenthood. This includes supporting individuals through complex medical decisions or trauma related to pregnancy. Clients come to me struggling with communication and overwhelming stress. 67% of couples report a decline in relationship satisfaction after becoming parents, you are not alone, and help is available. I will work with you find new ways to advocate for yourself, and connect with your partner in a way that aligns with your values and goals.
I work exclusively with individuals and couples navigating major life transitions, including marriage, postpartum, and parenthood. This includes supporting individuals through complex medical decisions or trauma related to pregnancy. Clients come to me struggling with communication and overwhelming stress. 67% of couples report a decline in relationship satisfaction after becoming parents, you are not alone, and help is available. I will work with you find new ways to advocate for yourself, and connect with your partner in a way that aligns with your values and goals.

Kaitlin Naatjes
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
An integrative and holistic approach to change, healing, and future growth. Assessing your own being, needs, and internal control while promoting health in the mind-body-and soul. Therapy can heal relationships in your personal and professional worlds. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, communication skills, grief, infertility, eating disorders, etc., you do not have to struggle alone. As a licensed clinical therapist, I commit to diligently working in collaboration with you to bring about the change you desire. I am an experienced therapist, trained yoga instructor, and reiki practitioner.
An integrative and holistic approach to change, healing, and future growth. Assessing your own being, needs, and internal control while promoting health in the mind-body-and soul. Therapy can heal relationships in your personal and professional worlds. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, communication skills, grief, infertility, eating disorders, etc., you do not have to struggle alone. As a licensed clinical therapist, I commit to diligently working in collaboration with you to bring about the change you desire. I am an experienced therapist, trained yoga instructor, and reiki practitioner.

Are you feeling disconnected from your body, your sexuality and relationships? My clients come to me struggling with pain, shame, guilt and/or the pressure to perform. In every first session I reassure my clients, as I will reassure you now, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in reproductive and sexual medicine, I support individuals and partnership/s cultivate authenticity within themselves, their sexuality and within their relationships.
Are you feeling disconnected from your body, your sexuality and relationships? My clients come to me struggling with pain, shame, guilt and/or the pressure to perform. In every first session I reassure my clients, as I will reassure you now, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in reproductive and sexual medicine, I support individuals and partnership/s cultivate authenticity within themselves, their sexuality and within their relationships.

I value helping clients with various issues such as: romantic relationships, infidelity, dating, attachment styles/mismatches with partner, family issues, conflicts, depression, and trauma, I can work with you individually or with your partner. My time and experience working in various areas of counseling for adults, adolescents, and couples have provided me with the foundation for providing both a productive and collaborative therapy experience. I continue to learn cutting-edge research to help clients with their problems.
I value helping clients with various issues such as: romantic relationships, infidelity, dating, attachment styles/mismatches with partner, family issues, conflicts, depression, and trauma, I can work with you individually or with your partner. My time and experience working in various areas of counseling for adults, adolescents, and couples have provided me with the foundation for providing both a productive and collaborative therapy experience. I continue to learn cutting-edge research to help clients with their problems.

An important focus of my practice is empowering individuals and couples to build more enduring and fulfilling relationships. I use an insight-oriented approach to stop the cycle of unhappy, dysfunctional connections while developing more gratifying relationships. Understanding your unique interpersonal dynamics improves your capacity to have better relationships in every aspect of your life, whether work, friends, and family.
An important focus of my practice is empowering individuals and couples to build more enduring and fulfilling relationships. I use an insight-oriented approach to stop the cycle of unhappy, dysfunctional connections while developing more gratifying relationships. Understanding your unique interpersonal dynamics improves your capacity to have better relationships in every aspect of your life, whether work, friends, and family.

Allowing yourself to be supported is the first step towards becoming your best self. However, without adequate support, overcoming feelings of sadness, overwhelm, disconnection or insecurity can be an exhausting and isolating experience. This is why I understand the importance of finding the right therapist. You may be seeking to feel truly heard and understood without judgment by someone you can trust to help you feel more grounded, confident, and satisfied in your everyday life. As a therapist, my main goal is to create that safe and trusting relationship to guide and empower you towards achieving ultimate personal growth.
Allowing yourself to be supported is the first step towards becoming your best self. However, without adequate support, overcoming feelings of sadness, overwhelm, disconnection or insecurity can be an exhausting and isolating experience. This is why I understand the importance of finding the right therapist. You may be seeking to feel truly heard and understood without judgment by someone you can trust to help you feel more grounded, confident, and satisfied in your everyday life. As a therapist, my main goal is to create that safe and trusting relationship to guide and empower you towards achieving ultimate personal growth.
See more therapy options for River North, Chicago
Nearby Gottman Method Therapists Searches for River North, Chicago
- Dearborn Park
- Little Italy
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Near West Side
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop
Nearby Searches for River North, Chicago
- Greektown
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Old Town
- Old Town Triangle
- Printers Row
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop
Gottman Method Therapists
How does the Gottman method work?
One of the core doctrines of the Gottman method is that negative emotions hurt relationships about five times more than positive emotions help them. Thus, couples require five times more positive interactions than negative interactions with each other. The therapist will guide clients on how to improve communication and understanding of each other to manage conflict and have their emotional needs met. The therapist will also advise couples on how to repair relations with each other when conflict arises, and therefore avoid lasting damage.
Is the Gottman method evidence-based?
Yes, this method is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy. The method is based on more than 40 years of research by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, the psychologists who developed the method. The Gottmans analyzed decades of data to draw conclusions about what types of interactions are likely to lead to specific results, and which interventions are most likely to lead to success. Studies have found that this approach leads to improvements in relationship satisfaction, intimacy, communication skills, and a lower rate of divorce.
How long does the Gottman method take?
The duration of treatment depends on the specific challenges clients face. Sessions are typically 60 to 90 minutes long, and an average course of treatment is around 10 sessions. In some cases, such as for couples dealing with a critical problem, the therapist will suggest an intensive course of treatment, with daily sessions over the first two to four days. Treatment is complete when the couple is satisfied and has met the goals they’ve set, and when the therapist believes they have the skills to continue on their own.
Is the Gottman method effective?
Through the Gottman method, couples can achieve changes that are real and sustainable. This treatment has been used for more than 40 years; the method is supported by empirical research, including randomized controlled trials that have demonstrated effectiveness in improving relationship outcomes for couples. Like any talk therapy, success or failure depends in large part on how committed the clients are to making positive changes and working toward results.