AEDP Therapists in Chicago, IL
I am a trauma-informed psychotherapist who borrows from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy ( AEDP), and other psychodynamic approaches.
I am a queer, second-generation immigrant Latiné psychotherapist who partners with folks to navigate the demands of a society that are so often limiting and oppressive to us. I'm passionate about working with people of the global majority, adults who grew up in dysfunctional family systems, and queer folks who have historically felt different or othered. Therapy can be a chance to slow down and become curious about what in ourselves might need our attention. As you embark on your journey toward self-awareness, I will work with you to explore the aspects of yourself that have been disowned or burdened by pain.
I am a trauma-informed psychotherapist who borrows from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy ( AEDP), and other psychodynamic approaches.
I am a queer, second-generation immigrant Latiné psychotherapist who partners with folks to navigate the demands of a society that are so often limiting and oppressive to us. I'm passionate about working with people of the global majority, adults who grew up in dysfunctional family systems, and queer folks who have historically felt different or othered. Therapy can be a chance to slow down and become curious about what in ourselves might need our attention. As you embark on your journey toward self-awareness, I will work with you to explore the aspects of yourself that have been disowned or burdened by pain.
Natasha Ceballos | Sex + Relationship
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Eroticism is adult play: ideally it is expansive, vibrant, joyful, and stress-free. Living in a sex-shaming society damages our ability to have an easy relationship to our erotic, sensual, and sexual identities. Sometimes that damage can lead to conflict and disconnection with ourselves and intimate others. We long for our relationships to be a safe haven from the chaos of our lives. When that isn’t the case, it can lead us to feel lost, uneasy, and wondering how to find our way back to a feeling of security. Cultivating embodiment is how we journey back into a full, meaningful, and pleasure-centered life with self and others.
Eroticism is adult play: ideally it is expansive, vibrant, joyful, and stress-free. Living in a sex-shaming society damages our ability to have an easy relationship to our erotic, sensual, and sexual identities. Sometimes that damage can lead to conflict and disconnection with ourselves and intimate others. We long for our relationships to be a safe haven from the chaos of our lives. When that isn’t the case, it can lead us to feel lost, uneasy, and wondering how to find our way back to a feeling of security. Cultivating embodiment is how we journey back into a full, meaningful, and pleasure-centered life with self and others.
I take a body and emotion focused, experiential, and relational approach to therapy and am a Level 1 AEDP therapist.
Every person has the potential to live with more freedom, joy, ease, and love, and therapy supports us to realize this potential. Many of my clients have been hurt in relationships — both presently and in the past — and yearn to heal from these experiences and find freedom from overthinking, self-criticism and doubt, anxiety, chronic busyness, control, depression, addiction or problematic substance use, and fear of being left or overwhelmed by others. My goal is to help you uncover who you truly are and live with more peace, acceptance, embodiment, autonomy, confidence, satisfaction, intimacy, and joy.
I take a body and emotion focused, experiential, and relational approach to therapy and am a Level 1 AEDP therapist.
Every person has the potential to live with more freedom, joy, ease, and love, and therapy supports us to realize this potential. Many of my clients have been hurt in relationships — both presently and in the past — and yearn to heal from these experiences and find freedom from overthinking, self-criticism and doubt, anxiety, chronic busyness, control, depression, addiction or problematic substance use, and fear of being left or overwhelmed by others. My goal is to help you uncover who you truly are and live with more peace, acceptance, embodiment, autonomy, confidence, satisfaction, intimacy, and joy.
I work with people who want to deeply understand themselves, create more meaningful connections with others, and learn new ways of coping with pain and life's challenges. Many people seek therapy because they are dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD and the effects of trauma, and relationship challenges. But often, those are broad terms for more subtle issues—dissatisfaction, stuckness, loneliness, feeling lost, or experiencing difficult feelings about oneself or others. Whatever your specific concern, therapy can promote growth, change, and more freedom in your life.
I work with people who want to deeply understand themselves, create more meaningful connections with others, and learn new ways of coping with pain and life's challenges. Many people seek therapy because they are dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD and the effects of trauma, and relationship challenges. But often, those are broad terms for more subtle issues—dissatisfaction, stuckness, loneliness, feeling lost, or experiencing difficult feelings about oneself or others. Whatever your specific concern, therapy can promote growth, change, and more freedom in your life.
In my therapeutic practice, I specialize in creating a dynamic, empathic and supportive environment. I will work to empower and guide you in developing healthy coping strategies, deeper more satisfying relationships, and the skills and space to process your emotions and move forward confidently into your own authenticity.
In my therapeutic practice, I specialize in creating a dynamic, empathic and supportive environment. I will work to empower and guide you in developing healthy coping strategies, deeper more satisfying relationships, and the skills and space to process your emotions and move forward confidently into your own authenticity.
I love helping people find meaning and purpose in their lives. We live in anxiety-provoking and stressful times; in this challenging climate, I want to assist you in feeling connected and engaged. Your individual struggles may stem from anxiety, depression, or addiction; sometimes difficult past experiences or traumatic losses create a feeling of being lost or stagnant. Together we'll explore your history, values, and experiences of the world around you, building your story and path to a more vibrant life.
I love helping people find meaning and purpose in their lives. We live in anxiety-provoking and stressful times; in this challenging climate, I want to assist you in feeling connected and engaged. Your individual struggles may stem from anxiety, depression, or addiction; sometimes difficult past experiences or traumatic losses create a feeling of being lost or stagnant. Together we'll explore your history, values, and experiences of the world around you, building your story and path to a more vibrant life.
I am trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy ( AEDP), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), and Narrative Exposure Therapy, and I am continuing to pursue further training in these modalities.
Hi! I work alongside individuals or couples who are eager to connect, change and grow. I have a soft spot for teenagers finding their voice and learning to advocate for themselves, adults who are emotionally overwhelmed, and couples who feel disconnected and are uncertain about their future together. Many of my clients are deeply reflective and want more than just coping skills — they are looking for a space to be engaged and to be known, to speak honestly about their experiences, and to slowly, consistently make changes that they feel proud of.
I am trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy ( AEDP), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), and Narrative Exposure Therapy, and I am continuing to pursue further training in these modalities.
Hi! I work alongside individuals or couples who are eager to connect, change and grow. I have a soft spot for teenagers finding their voice and learning to advocate for themselves, adults who are emotionally overwhelmed, and couples who feel disconnected and are uncertain about their future together. Many of my clients are deeply reflective and want more than just coping skills — they are looking for a space to be engaged and to be known, to speak honestly about their experiences, and to slowly, consistently make changes that they feel proud of.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you—like perfectionism, people-pleasing, obsessive thinking, or chronic self-doubt? I often support individuals carrying the weight of these symptoms, relationship struggles, or childhood dynamics that continue to impact them today. I work primarily with adults who want to understand themselves more deeply and find relief from the inner tension that’s hard to explain but exhausting to carry. I also enjoy working with individuals who are new to therapy or talking about their emotions in general.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you—like perfectionism, people-pleasing, obsessive thinking, or chronic self-doubt? I often support individuals carrying the weight of these symptoms, relationship struggles, or childhood dynamics that continue to impact them today. I work primarily with adults who want to understand themselves more deeply and find relief from the inner tension that’s hard to explain but exhausting to carry. I also enjoy working with individuals who are new to therapy or talking about their emotions in general.
I offer a safe, supportive space and am licensed in WI and IL, with AEDP Level 1 certification.
Currently Accepting New Clients in Chicago, Milwaukee and across IL & WI.
For a long time, life may have felt overwhelming, even if everything on the surface looks "fine." You might tell yourself, “I’m fine, it could be worse,” yet underneath, there’s a constant sense of tension, exhaustion, and burnout. Maybe you feel detached and have become skilled at hiding your pain so no one seems to notice. This can leave you feeling lonely, even when surrounded by others, and stir up complex emotions like guilt, shame, or resentment. Deep down, you long to live more authentically, but looking inward feels overwhelming.
I offer a safe, supportive space and am licensed in WI and IL, with AEDP Level 1 certification.
Currently Accepting New Clients in Chicago, Milwaukee and across IL & WI.
For a long time, life may have felt overwhelming, even if everything on the surface looks "fine." You might tell yourself, “I’m fine, it could be worse,” yet underneath, there’s a constant sense of tension, exhaustion, and burnout. Maybe you feel detached and have become skilled at hiding your pain so no one seems to notice. This can leave you feeling lonely, even when surrounded by others, and stir up complex emotions like guilt, shame, or resentment. Deep down, you long to live more authentically, but looking inward feels overwhelming.
Ngozi warmly invites you into the therapeutic space where you will be unconditionally supported to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviors regarding lived experiences. Safety, connection, gentle accountability, and active listening are priorities in her intention as your therapist. When things feel heavy and hopeless, Ngozi hopes you will trust her to bring her expertise to collaboratively find the relief and balance that you seek.
Ngozi warmly invites you into the therapeutic space where you will be unconditionally supported to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviors regarding lived experiences. Safety, connection, gentle accountability, and active listening are priorities in her intention as your therapist. When things feel heavy and hopeless, Ngozi hopes you will trust her to bring her expertise to collaboratively find the relief and balance that you seek.
As humans, we have a need to be seen, heard, and understood. Our relational needs are particularly important when in a place of struggle. As your therapist, I will strive to hold space, offer safety and connection as you reimagine and change your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around. I am experienced and passionate about working with individuals, groups, and queer couples. Areas of focus include anxiety, addiction, spiritual trauma and deconstruction, LGBTQ identity work, and grief.
As humans, we have a need to be seen, heard, and understood. Our relational needs are particularly important when in a place of struggle. As your therapist, I will strive to hold space, offer safety and connection as you reimagine and change your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around. I am experienced and passionate about working with individuals, groups, and queer couples. Areas of focus include anxiety, addiction, spiritual trauma and deconstruction, LGBTQ identity work, and grief.
Life can sometimes feel like a web of expectations, uncertainty, and pressure to achieve something or be someone else. My approach as a therapist is about slowing down, taking an honest look at yourself, and embracing the messy, real, and beautiful reality of being human. I believe healing comes from true acceptance—not the passive "just get over it" kind, but the deep, transformative acceptance that happens when you fully embrace who you are. Together we can explore what it means to be you, unpacking experiences that have shaped you and desires that drive you.
Life can sometimes feel like a web of expectations, uncertainty, and pressure to achieve something or be someone else. My approach as a therapist is about slowing down, taking an honest look at yourself, and embracing the messy, real, and beautiful reality of being human. I believe healing comes from true acceptance—not the passive "just get over it" kind, but the deep, transformative acceptance that happens when you fully embrace who you are. Together we can explore what it means to be you, unpacking experiences that have shaped you and desires that drive you.
You’re self-aware and capable but still feel stuck — navigating anxiety, ADHD, identity shifts, major transitions or just want to feel better in the life that you have and have it feel optimized and meaningful. You want more than coping skills: deeper insight, practical tools, and a life that truly fits. At Thrive Ahead Co., our therapists, occupational therapists, dietitian/nutritionist, and art therapist collaborate to support your whole self — mind, body, and environment. Together, we help you untangle patterns, build sustainable systems, and move toward authenticity, confidence, connection, and joy.
You’re self-aware and capable but still feel stuck — navigating anxiety, ADHD, identity shifts, major transitions or just want to feel better in the life that you have and have it feel optimized and meaningful. You want more than coping skills: deeper insight, practical tools, and a life that truly fits. At Thrive Ahead Co., our therapists, occupational therapists, dietitian/nutritionist, and art therapist collaborate to support your whole self — mind, body, and environment. Together, we help you untangle patterns, build sustainable systems, and move toward authenticity, confidence, connection, and joy.
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety and distress. Many feel stuck in unsatisfying experiences. We can gently explore these experiences in ways that can loosen their "grip", and bring innate healing resources into play, cultivating a deeper sense of ease and opportunity in everyday experience. The dissolving of these unsatisfying patterns, and the appearance and growth of more satisfying ones, happens in both individual and relationship therapy.
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety and distress. Many feel stuck in unsatisfying experiences. We can gently explore these experiences in ways that can loosen their "grip", and bring innate healing resources into play, cultivating a deeper sense of ease and opportunity in everyday experience. The dissolving of these unsatisfying patterns, and the appearance and growth of more satisfying ones, happens in both individual and relationship therapy.
A break-up, loss, anxiety, or adjusting to a life transition are common issues addressed in therapy. Most people go through difficult times; therapy helps you to gain better insight into your struggles and make lasting changes. Therapy can truly change how you see yourself, how you feel, and how you experience life. I work to create a judgment free, safe environment using a strength-based, holistic approach to meet your individual needs. I have extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, though this is just one of the tools in my toolbox. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that is tailored towards you. My style is
A break-up, loss, anxiety, or adjusting to a life transition are common issues addressed in therapy. Most people go through difficult times; therapy helps you to gain better insight into your struggles and make lasting changes. Therapy can truly change how you see yourself, how you feel, and how you experience life. I work to create a judgment free, safe environment using a strength-based, holistic approach to meet your individual needs. I have extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, though this is just one of the tools in my toolbox. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that is tailored towards you. My style is
Do you feel not "enough"? Do you struggle with people-pleasing? Likely, you’ve spent much of your life hiding your true self—shaping yourself to fit what others want or accept. You may find yourself in relationships or situations with people who just don't "get" you. Somewhere along the way, you were taught that expressing yourself is wrong—that you should hide your emotions or needs because they're not okay. You have no idea what you need or you fear you will be rejected for having needs at all. You feel alone in your relationships, yearning for community of people who accept you for you.
Do you feel not "enough"? Do you struggle with people-pleasing? Likely, you’ve spent much of your life hiding your true self—shaping yourself to fit what others want or accept. You may find yourself in relationships or situations with people who just don't "get" you. Somewhere along the way, you were taught that expressing yourself is wrong—that you should hide your emotions or needs because they're not okay. You have no idea what you need or you fear you will be rejected for having needs at all. You feel alone in your relationships, yearning for community of people who accept you for you.
My belief is that every person has the ability to excel if given the proper assistance and every client is entitled to a healthy quality life. With this in mind, I have volunteered my time and resources to helping underachieving and struggling clients.
My extensive mental health educational background consists of Degree in Professional Counseling/School Counseling, an Illinois State Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a certified Crisis Intervention Specialist, certified Trauma Informed trainer and a certified Adolescent Trauma Specialist.
My belief is that every person has the ability to excel if given the proper assistance and every client is entitled to a healthy quality life. With this in mind, I have volunteered my time and resources to helping underachieving and struggling clients.
My extensive mental health educational background consists of Degree in Professional Counseling/School Counseling, an Illinois State Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a certified Crisis Intervention Specialist, certified Trauma Informed trainer and a certified Adolescent Trauma Specialist.
Are you struggling with depression, fear, loneliness, or a sense of being trapped in life? Are you living with painful memories and emotions which cause you to feel insecure? Or, like me, are you a native of a different country and facing cross-cultural realities that only immigrants understand? If you are hoping to transform your hardships into empowerment, I will be able to create the space and provide the expertise into helping you find internal strength to re-write your life story.
Are you struggling with depression, fear, loneliness, or a sense of being trapped in life? Are you living with painful memories and emotions which cause you to feel insecure? Or, like me, are you a native of a different country and facing cross-cultural realities that only immigrants understand? If you are hoping to transform your hardships into empowerment, I will be able to create the space and provide the expertise into helping you find internal strength to re-write your life story.
You’ve lived through moments that have shaped you — stories that haven’t fully been told, emotions that haven’t found a place to land, experiences that still feel heavy in your body and heart.
Maybe you’re navigating the weight of trauma, the exhaustion of anxiety, the fog of depression, or the confusion of life transitions. Maybe old wounds are showing up in your relationships, or you’re trying to find your voice after years of being strong for everyone else. Whatever has brought you here, I meet you with care, respect, and genuine curiosity about your story.
You’ve lived through moments that have shaped you — stories that haven’t fully been told, emotions that haven’t found a place to land, experiences that still feel heavy in your body and heart.
Maybe you’re navigating the weight of trauma, the exhaustion of anxiety, the fog of depression, or the confusion of life transitions. Maybe old wounds are showing up in your relationships, or you’re trying to find your voice after years of being strong for everyone else. Whatever has brought you here, I meet you with care, respect, and genuine curiosity about your story.
Rebekah Luiten
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Rebekah, Luiten, LCPC, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I utilize Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems when working with complex issues.
Are you overwhelmed, exhausted, and can’t remember the last time you felt good? Maybe it seems like the treadmill of life never stops and you feel like you are always one second from falling off. You want to feel good in life. You want, desperately, to be present for the people you love and, even, maybe, for yourself.
I am passionate about helping people move from pain, tension, and chaos into integration, wholeness, and freedom. I work with teens and adults to help them make sense of their experiences of pain, release the burdens that have been weighing them down, and find more joy.
I utilize Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems when working with complex issues.
Are you overwhelmed, exhausted, and can’t remember the last time you felt good? Maybe it seems like the treadmill of life never stops and you feel like you are always one second from falling off. You want to feel good in life. You want, desperately, to be present for the people you love and, even, maybe, for yourself.
I am passionate about helping people move from pain, tension, and chaos into integration, wholeness, and freedom. I work with teens and adults to help them make sense of their experiences of pain, release the burdens that have been weighing them down, and find more joy.
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AEDP Therapists
Who is AEDP therapy for?
Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) is for adults who have experienced emotional pain in the past that, because it has not been adequately addressed and processed, interferes with current functioning. The problems might manifest in a number of different ways, from excessive anger to relationship difficulties to PTSD to eating disorders, poor self-esteem, and depression. They may also be accompanied by physiological symptoms. AEDP helps people accept and digest challenging emotional experiences.
Why do people need AEDP?
People need AEDP as a way to manage distressing emotions—including anger, shame, and guilt—that in some way hamper the ability to function and form satisfying relationships in the present. The therapist-client relationship is believed to provide corrective emotional and relational experiences that facilitate positive changes in brain function, forge pathways for processing traumatic experiences, and allow resolution of emotional pain.
What happens in AEDP therapy?
Once individuals have established a strong bond with the AEDP therapist and the therapist has established a safe and secure environment, clients are encouraged to explore their most painful emotional experiences. They may be asked to pay attention to disquieting body sensations as well as to psychological discomfort. Individuals learn how to process emotions, rather than avoid them. Through the strength of the therapist-client bond, each session is intended to provide a powerful positive experience for individuals, enabling growth.
What problems does AEDP treat?
AEDP is intended to treat the unprocessed emotional pain caused by earlier distressing experiences, which commonly includes behavioral avoidance of current situations and experiences for fear that they will reactivate painful feelings. Emotional pain and avoidant behavior play a role in a wide array of mental health conditions, which is why AEDP is applied to the treatment of a range of disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship difficulties, and eating disorders.