Gottman Method Therapists in Chicago, IL
I have had advanced training in psychoanalysis, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Modern Psychoanalytic Group Therapy, and DBT.
I am a Psypact provider. I have a warm and interactive style and work to form a safe, trusting relationship with you. I adapt my approach to address your specific needs and can help you break behavior patterns quickly and improve relationships, self awareness, and self-esteem. I have advanced training in psychoanalytic, couple, group, and dialectical behavior therapy. I have expertise in treating eating disorders, personality disorders, addictive and compulsive behavior, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, high conflict couples, and grief and traumatic loss. I see adults, adolescents, couples, families and groups.
I have had advanced training in psychoanalysis, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Modern Psychoanalytic Group Therapy, and DBT.
I am a Psypact provider. I have a warm and interactive style and work to form a safe, trusting relationship with you. I adapt my approach to address your specific needs and can help you break behavior patterns quickly and improve relationships, self awareness, and self-esteem. I have advanced training in psychoanalytic, couple, group, and dialectical behavior therapy. I have expertise in treating eating disorders, personality disorders, addictive and compulsive behavior, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, high conflict couples, and grief and traumatic loss. I see adults, adolescents, couples, families and groups.
Do you struggle to complete your productive tasks no matter how much effort you put in? Or perhaps regardless of how you try to explain your brain to your partner, they just can’t understand?
Neurodiversity and communication. Whether you are neurotypical, neurodiverse, or a neurosurgeon, understanding and being understood can be challenging and frustrating. That’s where I can help.
I work with: anxiety + stress, life transitions, relationships (dating, pre-marital, marriage, peers), multicultural experiences, family dynamics, sexuality + identity, LGBTQIA+, sexual struggles, and am Gottman Level 1 trained.
Do you struggle to complete your productive tasks no matter how much effort you put in? Or perhaps regardless of how you try to explain your brain to your partner, they just can’t understand?
Neurodiversity and communication. Whether you are neurotypical, neurodiverse, or a neurosurgeon, understanding and being understood can be challenging and frustrating. That’s where I can help.
I work with: anxiety + stress, life transitions, relationships (dating, pre-marital, marriage, peers), multicultural experiences, family dynamics, sexuality + identity, LGBTQIA+, sexual struggles, and am Gottman Level 1 trained.
Healing can be a daunting process and I believe no individual should have to go through it alone. The healing journey is unique to each person therefore I strive to create a warm, accepting, and collaborative environment through non-judgment and cultural humility. My main goal is to empower clients to recognize their own resilience despite the obstacles they face. Through a person-centered and diversity affirming lens, I work to create a positive dynamic with each client, meanwhile helping you recognize the impacts that your thoughts and behaviors have on your ability to lead a fulfilling life.
Healing can be a daunting process and I believe no individual should have to go through it alone. The healing journey is unique to each person therefore I strive to create a warm, accepting, and collaborative environment through non-judgment and cultural humility. My main goal is to empower clients to recognize their own resilience despite the obstacles they face. Through a person-centered and diversity affirming lens, I work to create a positive dynamic with each client, meanwhile helping you recognize the impacts that your thoughts and behaviors have on your ability to lead a fulfilling life.
Hi there! I’m Rebecca (she/her), a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health, anxiety, grief, and relationship concerns. I work with individuals and couples navigating fertility challenges, pregnancy and postpartum transitions, and the emotional weight that often accompanies major life changes.
Now accepting new clients as of December 2025. I offer immediate availability for in-person sessions in Chicago and Evanston as well as telehealth therapy for clients across Illinois.
Hi there! I’m Rebecca (she/her), a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health, anxiety, grief, and relationship concerns. I work with individuals and couples navigating fertility challenges, pregnancy and postpartum transitions, and the emotional weight that often accompanies major life changes.
Now accepting new clients as of December 2025. I offer immediate availability for in-person sessions in Chicago and Evanston as well as telehealth therapy for clients across Illinois.
Christian Younginer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
It is ok to not be ok. As we go through life, stressors increase, anxieties grow, and we can forget what it means to just be. We bring to relationships a lifetime of experiences which can hinder us or help us. Through all of this haze, we can lose sight of taking care of ourselves, understanding our needs, and making choices with those needs in mind. Being a human is a work-in-progress. I see it as an honor to stand with someone as they confront, explore, renovate, and soothe the self. With work, I believe a person can find their shine.
It is ok to not be ok. As we go through life, stressors increase, anxieties grow, and we can forget what it means to just be. We bring to relationships a lifetime of experiences which can hinder us or help us. Through all of this haze, we can lose sight of taking care of ourselves, understanding our needs, and making choices with those needs in mind. Being a human is a work-in-progress. I see it as an honor to stand with someone as they confront, explore, renovate, and soothe the self. With work, I believe a person can find their shine.
You may be navigating a major life transition - adjusting to a new phase of adulthood, parenting challenges, menopause, career stress, or shifting roles in your relationships. Perhaps you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how past experiences continue to shape your present. Couples may be struggling to communicate, repair trust, or find alignment as co-parents. Whatever brings you here, you’re looking for a safe, compassionate space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported in making meaningful changes in your life and relationships.
You may be navigating a major life transition - adjusting to a new phase of adulthood, parenting challenges, menopause, career stress, or shifting roles in your relationships. Perhaps you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how past experiences continue to shape your present. Couples may be struggling to communicate, repair trust, or find alignment as co-parents. Whatever brings you here, you’re looking for a safe, compassionate space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported in making meaningful changes in your life and relationships.
Bienvenidos/Welcome.
Your healing journey is truly a brave step towards the new you, the one you have always dreamed of and the one that already lives inside of you. I am here to offer support and guide. Together we can honor this space to finally heal and find joy.
Su viaje a sanarse es uno de los pasos más valientes, lo cual ya sabemos existe adentro de ud. Este viaje tal como el de nuestros ancestros require apoyo y guías. Estoy aquí para apoyar, guiar y honrar este tiempo contigo donde mereces alcanzar lo que siempre imaginaste.
Bienvenidos/Welcome.
Your healing journey is truly a brave step towards the new you, the one you have always dreamed of and the one that already lives inside of you. I am here to offer support and guide. Together we can honor this space to finally heal and find joy.
Su viaje a sanarse es uno de los pasos más valientes, lo cual ya sabemos existe adentro de ud. Este viaje tal como el de nuestros ancestros require apoyo y guías. Estoy aquí para apoyar, guiar y honrar este tiempo contigo donde mereces alcanzar lo que siempre imaginaste.
There are times in life where we all feel overwhelmed. Whether the day to day grind is wearing you down or overwhelming anxiety is making it difficult for you to leave the house, I am here to be on your side. I am a big believer that effective therapy is a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist and that healing is achieved by working together. I take an integrative approach to therapy, where I tailor the therapy to fit the needs of the client. I am also trained in EMDR therapy for trauma treatment and Gottman level 3 certified for couples work.
There are times in life where we all feel overwhelmed. Whether the day to day grind is wearing you down or overwhelming anxiety is making it difficult for you to leave the house, I am here to be on your side. I am a big believer that effective therapy is a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist and that healing is achieved by working together. I take an integrative approach to therapy, where I tailor the therapy to fit the needs of the client. I am also trained in EMDR therapy for trauma treatment and Gottman level 3 certified for couples work.
If you find life and relating to be hard, messy, and fraught with suffering, there is nothing weird with you; it’s our common human condition. It’s natural at times to feel overwhelmed and confused by the world, by others, and even by yourself. It can feel lonely and scary, and it can keep you from becoming who you want to be. But the good news is you don’t have to go through it alone. Therapy can be a safe space where hope can be found, understanding can be gained, skills can be learned, and growth can be experienced. Whatever your presenting challenge or diagnosis, I would be honored to offer support and share in the experience.
If you find life and relating to be hard, messy, and fraught with suffering, there is nothing weird with you; it’s our common human condition. It’s natural at times to feel overwhelmed and confused by the world, by others, and even by yourself. It can feel lonely and scary, and it can keep you from becoming who you want to be. But the good news is you don’t have to go through it alone. Therapy can be a safe space where hope can be found, understanding can be gained, skills can be learned, and growth can be experienced. Whatever your presenting challenge or diagnosis, I would be honored to offer support and share in the experience.
My practice specializes in providing trauma-informed therapy with a focus on inclusivity and respect for diverse identities. I integrate client-centered principles, philosophically informed insights, and a commitment to creating a safe space to empower clients to navigate their therapeutic journey with authenticity and resilience. My approach honors the unique experiences and challenges of each individual, fostering a therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy and cultural humility.
Together, we embark on a collaborative journey towards personal growth, guided by a deep respect for the complexities of the human experiences.
My practice specializes in providing trauma-informed therapy with a focus on inclusivity and respect for diverse identities. I integrate client-centered principles, philosophically informed insights, and a commitment to creating a safe space to empower clients to navigate their therapeutic journey with authenticity and resilience. My approach honors the unique experiences and challenges of each individual, fostering a therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy and cultural humility.
Together, we embark on a collaborative journey towards personal growth, guided by a deep respect for the complexities of the human experiences.
Zibi Pawlowski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, CADC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
In today’s world, many tasks and responsibilities can easily become overwhelming as life throws us unexpected obstacles. We can become anxious, depressed, hopeless, feeling like there is no rhyme or reason to what we are going through, to what we are thinking and feeling, or even to life itself. We might choose to escape from our problems, angst, a sense of void, our past, or our daily thoughts through indulging in external gratifications, by using drugs and alcohol, sex, relationships, or other means. We often get stuck in our thinking, consumed by negative self-talk and perceptions of ourselves.
In today’s world, many tasks and responsibilities can easily become overwhelming as life throws us unexpected obstacles. We can become anxious, depressed, hopeless, feeling like there is no rhyme or reason to what we are going through, to what we are thinking and feeling, or even to life itself. We might choose to escape from our problems, angst, a sense of void, our past, or our daily thoughts through indulging in external gratifications, by using drugs and alcohol, sex, relationships, or other means. We often get stuck in our thinking, consumed by negative self-talk and perceptions of ourselves.
Simran is a South Asian psychotherapist with a passion for holistic health and wellness who believes in guiding you on your journey using self awareness, humor, and warmth. Simran is dedicated to serving people across the lifespan; adults, teens, couples, and families, and across all communities. She specializes in working with people who are seeking support for the following; self discovery (finding your core and who you are in this life), eating disorders (and all other forms of self harm), trauma (impactful life moments that manifest in unhealthy patterns of life), and all types of relationships.
Simran is a South Asian psychotherapist with a passion for holistic health and wellness who believes in guiding you on your journey using self awareness, humor, and warmth. Simran is dedicated to serving people across the lifespan; adults, teens, couples, and families, and across all communities. She specializes in working with people who are seeking support for the following; self discovery (finding your core and who you are in this life), eating disorders (and all other forms of self harm), trauma (impactful life moments that manifest in unhealthy patterns of life), and all types of relationships.
I work with individuals and couples with a variety of emotional and interpersonal concerns. I have a particular interest in working with issues around intimacy, sexuality, and identity. Sexual difficulties and dissatisfaction are surprisingly common. In fact, most of us will experience some sexual difficulties even in the best of relationships and at the best of times. However, misunderstood and unaddressed sexual difficulties can have a domino effect, negatively impacting how you view yourself, your partner, and your relationship. The result often entails unnecessary feelings of disconnection, frustration, anxiety, and shame, not to mention the loss of your sex life!
I work with individuals and couples with a variety of emotional and interpersonal concerns. I have a particular interest in working with issues around intimacy, sexuality, and identity. Sexual difficulties and dissatisfaction are surprisingly common. In fact, most of us will experience some sexual difficulties even in the best of relationships and at the best of times. However, misunderstood and unaddressed sexual difficulties can have a domino effect, negatively impacting how you view yourself, your partner, and your relationship. The result often entails unnecessary feelings of disconnection, frustration, anxiety, and shame, not to mention the loss of your sex life!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker whose approach to therapy is relational, collaborative, strengths-based and somatically oriented.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker whose approach to therapy is relational, collaborative, strengths-based and somatically oriented.
I believe there is incredible potential and hope for each person to have a fulfilling and meaningful life, even despite challenges in a person's background or current stressful situation. Each person possesses the resources within themselves to create the change they desire. Counseling simply facilitates unlocking those resources as providing additional "tools" for desired change. I enjoy working with a variety of people and consider it a pleasure to listen, encourage, offer these additional tools to move closer to a person's desired goals, healing, and happiness.
I believe there is incredible potential and hope for each person to have a fulfilling and meaningful life, even despite challenges in a person's background or current stressful situation. Each person possesses the resources within themselves to create the change they desire. Counseling simply facilitates unlocking those resources as providing additional "tools" for desired change. I enjoy working with a variety of people and consider it a pleasure to listen, encourage, offer these additional tools to move closer to a person's desired goals, healing, and happiness.
I believe that the counseling relationship is paramount for healing and requires authenticity, collaboration, and mutuality. In my clinical work, I prioritize LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent identities and believe that accessibility, inclusivity, and cultural humility are crucial for providing ethical and effective care. I use a relational therapeutic style that is person-centered, strengths-based, goal-oriented, and adapted to the needs of the individual. I believe every client has a unique story to share and that they are the expert on their own experience.
I believe that the counseling relationship is paramount for healing and requires authenticity, collaboration, and mutuality. In my clinical work, I prioritize LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent identities and believe that accessibility, inclusivity, and cultural humility are crucial for providing ethical and effective care. I use a relational therapeutic style that is person-centered, strengths-based, goal-oriented, and adapted to the needs of the individual. I believe every client has a unique story to share and that they are the expert on their own experience.
When life feels like a knotted ball of yarn, sometimes we need help finding a thread to grab. As a therapist, I support my clients in finding that thread. I work with clients and couples who are experiencing work challenges, disability, life transitions, OCD, anxiety and depression. Couples often will come to me when they are feeling afraid and lonely in their relationships, like they are walking on eggshells. As your couples’ therapist I will work in supporting you to share with each other vulnerably and fully.
When life feels like a knotted ball of yarn, sometimes we need help finding a thread to grab. As a therapist, I support my clients in finding that thread. I work with clients and couples who are experiencing work challenges, disability, life transitions, OCD, anxiety and depression. Couples often will come to me when they are feeling afraid and lonely in their relationships, like they are walking on eggshells. As your couples’ therapist I will work in supporting you to share with each other vulnerably and fully.
Essentially my goal as a culturally aware LCPC and AASECT certified sex therapist is to help people navigate their relationships with themselves, others, and their identity. I want clients to be able to see themselves in me and feel understood by someone who can relate. I have 18 years experience with LGBTQIA+ issues, individuals & couples. As a Lesbian Woman, the issues of the community are of great concern to me. I am a proud Kink, BDSM, polyamory affirming Psychotherapist. I bring a honest and open approach to therapy while helping you find hope. I truly work to meet you where you are and create a space where you are safe.
Essentially my goal as a culturally aware LCPC and AASECT certified sex therapist is to help people navigate their relationships with themselves, others, and their identity. I want clients to be able to see themselves in me and feel understood by someone who can relate. I have 18 years experience with LGBTQIA+ issues, individuals & couples. As a Lesbian Woman, the issues of the community are of great concern to me. I am a proud Kink, BDSM, polyamory affirming Psychotherapist. I bring a honest and open approach to therapy while helping you find hope. I truly work to meet you where you are and create a space where you are safe.
With couples, I apply the Gottman Method and emotional focused therapy.
Are you uncertain of where you're at in life either mentally, emotionally, or vocationally? Are you struggling to cope with feelings of low self-esteem or anxiety? I help folks from a variety of backgrounds, such as veterans, new parents, BIPOC, and queer and trans individuals through maintaining a validating space and tailoring my approach to suit your specific needs. I keep an open mind and awareness of current events to ensure I’m observing all of the nuances that come with your intersecting identities. I also encourage men in particular to explore and challenge their concepts of masculinity in a positive, healthy light.
With couples, I apply the Gottman Method and emotional focused therapy.
Are you uncertain of where you're at in life either mentally, emotionally, or vocationally? Are you struggling to cope with feelings of low self-esteem or anxiety? I help folks from a variety of backgrounds, such as veterans, new parents, BIPOC, and queer and trans individuals through maintaining a validating space and tailoring my approach to suit your specific needs. I keep an open mind and awareness of current events to ensure I’m observing all of the nuances that come with your intersecting identities. I also encourage men in particular to explore and challenge their concepts of masculinity in a positive, healthy light.
Self growth and seeking support is not always an easy thing to do. My commitment to you is that I will do my best to create a safe space to explore barriers and patterns in order to utilize your strengths and build a more fulfilling life. Whether you are experiencing a tough life transition, navigating relationships and identities or having difficulty managing emotional stressors, I will do my best to be a source of assistance.
Self growth and seeking support is not always an easy thing to do. My commitment to you is that I will do my best to create a safe space to explore barriers and patterns in order to utilize your strengths and build a more fulfilling life. Whether you are experiencing a tough life transition, navigating relationships and identities or having difficulty managing emotional stressors, I will do my best to be a source of assistance.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Gottman Method Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Evergreen Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Westchester
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.