Photo of Center for Effective Artistry, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois
Center for Effective Artistry
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Our therapists hold diverse queer, neurodivergent, religious, and racial identities.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed in a world that's not designed for you? Stop designing your life around the world. Design your life around you. The Center for Effective Artistry specializes in working with clients exploring neurodivergence, ADHD, ASD, AuDHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, queerness, gender, race, religion, climate grief, and substance use. Our clients are tired of having therapists give them an "answer" that doesn't work. We offer an approach that is unique to each of our fantastic clients. As leaders in the neurodiversity movement, we think outside of the box, and aim to improve the field of mental health.
Our therapists hold diverse queer, neurodivergent, religious, and racial identities.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed in a world that's not designed for you? Stop designing your life around the world. Design your life around you. The Center for Effective Artistry specializes in working with clients exploring neurodivergence, ADHD, ASD, AuDHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, queerness, gender, race, religion, climate grief, and substance use. Our clients are tired of having therapists give them an "answer" that doesn't work. We offer an approach that is unique to each of our fantastic clients. As leaders in the neurodiversity movement, we think outside of the box, and aim to improve the field of mental health.
(773) 945-5289 View (773) 945-5289
Photo of Maira Iqbal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Maira Iqbal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60659  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate trauma-informed therapist that primarily works with individuals struggling with trauma/PTSD, ADHD, neurodivergent issues, relationship issues, chronic pain, physical disability, partner violence, substance abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, and other issues. As a daughter of South Asian immigrants, I have always been interested in working with traditionally overlooked communities. I have worked with individuals with dual diagnosis, domestic violence survivors, veterans, and LGBTQIA individuals.
I am a compassionate trauma-informed therapist that primarily works with individuals struggling with trauma/PTSD, ADHD, neurodivergent issues, relationship issues, chronic pain, physical disability, partner violence, substance abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, and other issues. As a daughter of South Asian immigrants, I have always been interested in working with traditionally overlooked communities. I have worked with individuals with dual diagnosis, domestic violence survivors, veterans, and LGBTQIA individuals.
(224) 529-3669 View (224) 529-3669
Photo of N. Anurag Ansari-Lahiri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
N. Anurag Ansari-Lahiri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to working alongside clients from marginalized ethnic and cultural backgrounds. More specifically, I specialize in working with queer and trans people who South Asians, immigrants, BIPOC, religious minorities (Muslim, Hindu, Jewish etc.) and in nontraditional relationship structures.
I am dedicated to working alongside clients from marginalized ethnic and cultural backgrounds. More specifically, I specialize in working with queer and trans people who South Asians, immigrants, BIPOC, religious minorities (Muslim, Hindu, Jewish etc.) and in nontraditional relationship structures.
(773) 985-6987 View (773) 985-6987
Photo of Jennifer Black, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois
Jennifer Black
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LBS1, MSEd
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
(224) 830-9800 View (224) 830-9800
Photo of Myrna Abdel-Aziz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Myrna Abdel-Aziz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Additionally, I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and aim to ensure each person feels welcomed when approaching the process of healing.
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.
Additionally, I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and aim to ensure each person feels welcomed when approaching the process of healing.
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.
(872) 713-9494 View (872) 713-9494
Photo of Mounia Sami, Pre-Licensed Professional in Illinois
Mounia Sami
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
I take on queer individuals and couples for various reasons.
Issues of self-esteem and self-worth are core to my practice. I also focus on identity work, trauma, and relationship with self and others. My work includes the exploration of my clients’ values and what is truly important to them, which leads to a meaningful and satisfying life. While warm and empathic, my therapeutic style also includes direct feedback and guidance to give you practical tools that will empower you to face the world despite your struggles.
I take on queer individuals and couples for various reasons.
Issues of self-esteem and self-worth are core to my practice. I also focus on identity work, trauma, and relationship with self and others. My work includes the exploration of my clients’ values and what is truly important to them, which leads to a meaningful and satisfying life. While warm and empathic, my therapeutic style also includes direct feedback and guidance to give you practical tools that will empower you to face the world despite your struggles.
(312) 584-3781 x524 View (312) 584-3781 x524
Photo of Alisha Hooda, Pre-Licensed Professional in Illinois
Alisha Hooda
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I enjoy working with BIPOC individuals (especially AADPI and South Asian), first- and second- generation immigrants, LGBTQIA+ identifying individuals, men’s issues, and those with religious or spiritual backgrounds.
Nothing human can be alien to me -Terence. Within the bounds of a safe relationship, I hope you can let the ugly, shameful and irrational parts of you breathe. Together, we can encounter them with compassion, as this is often where the work lies. I endeavor to create a warm holding environment for you as we explore issues more deeply and understand their origins through psychoanalytic, relational and existential perspectives. I share my conceptualizations with clients and provide psychoeducation to increase insight into our unconscious experiences, while honoring individual uniqueness, cultural nuances, and other complexities.
I enjoy working with BIPOC individuals (especially AADPI and South Asian), first- and second- generation immigrants, LGBTQIA+ identifying individuals, men’s issues, and those with religious or spiritual backgrounds.
Nothing human can be alien to me -Terence. Within the bounds of a safe relationship, I hope you can let the ugly, shameful and irrational parts of you breathe. Together, we can encounter them with compassion, as this is often where the work lies. I endeavor to create a warm holding environment for you as we explore issues more deeply and understand their origins through psychoanalytic, relational and existential perspectives. I share my conceptualizations with clients and provide psychoeducation to increase insight into our unconscious experiences, while honoring individual uniqueness, cultural nuances, and other complexities.
(312) 847-4065 View (312) 847-4065
Photo of Sumara Baig, Licensed Social Worker in Illinois
Sumara Baig
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
The majority of my experience comes from working with queer community, young people who caused harm, and survivors of sexual assault/domestic violence.
You have the answers - my role as your therapist is to collaborate and bring your capacities and experiences to the forefront. My personal identities (i.e. latine and South Asian), along with my education in psychology, religion, and social work, inform my practice through an anti-oppression lens that is affirming of people on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum, people of all sizes, genders, racial, and religious identities, parenting and non-parenting people, diverse relationship structures, kinksters, people who have been incarcerated, and people who work(ed) in survival economies (i.e. sex work).
The majority of my experience comes from working with queer community, young people who caused harm, and survivors of sexual assault/domestic violence.
You have the answers - my role as your therapist is to collaborate and bring your capacities and experiences to the forefront. My personal identities (i.e. latine and South Asian), along with my education in psychology, religion, and social work, inform my practice through an anti-oppression lens that is affirming of people on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum, people of all sizes, genders, racial, and religious identities, parenting and non-parenting people, diverse relationship structures, kinksters, people who have been incarcerated, and people who work(ed) in survival economies (i.e. sex work).
(773) 839-3839 View (773) 839-3839
Photo of Allison Grace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Allison Grace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Do you know what is wrong, but not how to fix it? My experience of 30+ years, enables me to offer effective and eclectic outpatient, psychotherapy. I incorporate research based techniques such as CBT and Positive Intelligence combined with practices such as Shamanism and Ho' Oponopono. I would be grateful if you would choose me as your Ally to find what will uniquely help you become your best self.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you know what is wrong, but not how to fix it? My experience of 30+ years, enables me to offer effective and eclectic outpatient, psychotherapy. I incorporate research based techniques such as CBT and Positive Intelligence combined with practices such as Shamanism and Ho' Oponopono. I would be grateful if you would choose me as your Ally to find what will uniquely help you become your best self.
(224) 505-2444 View (224) 505-2444
Photo of Sara Raja, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Sara Raja
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a trustworthy and compassionate collaborator to help you navigate challenges in your life? I am passionate about helping my clients process their pasts, problem solve and work through current issues, and create meaningful change in their lives. As a therapist, I am gentle and warm and I make it a goal to help clients feel comfortable quickly. By honoring your individuality and the unique circumstances that bring you to therapy, I can help you build upon your strengths, optimize your self awareness, and create the life you want!
Are you looking for a trustworthy and compassionate collaborator to help you navigate challenges in your life? I am passionate about helping my clients process their pasts, problem solve and work through current issues, and create meaningful change in their lives. As a therapist, I am gentle and warm and I make it a goal to help clients feel comfortable quickly. By honoring your individuality and the unique circumstances that bring you to therapy, I can help you build upon your strengths, optimize your self awareness, and create the life you want!
(630) 345-4743 View (630) 345-4743
Photo of Dr. Aysha Azimuddin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Illinois
Dr. Aysha Azimuddin
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Do you feel stuck and want to get “unstuck?” in your life? Mental health can influence all areas of your life, and it is invaluable to explore how mental health can drive the way you see and experience it. Therapy can help you navigate your emotional challenges and gain clarity on what factors make you thrive, and which ones limit you. You can learn to identify the patterns that make you stuck and how to change the script.
Do you feel stuck and want to get “unstuck?” in your life? Mental health can influence all areas of your life, and it is invaluable to explore how mental health can drive the way you see and experience it. Therapy can help you navigate your emotional challenges and gain clarity on what factors make you thrive, and which ones limit you. You can learn to identify the patterns that make you stuck and how to change the script.
(872) 206-9805 View (872) 206-9805
Photo of Salima Al-Alwi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Salima Al-Alwi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Are you going through a significant life transition? Whether it's a breakup, graduating from college, starting a new job, or adjusting to a new city, I can help. As a member of the BIPOC community, I understand the unique challenges and cultural expectations that you may be facing. I strongly believe that everyone has a story shaped by their experiences, and I am here to support you in creating the life and happiness you desire. We will work together to set goals and develop coping skills that will empower you to feel better and thrive. Let's increase your self-awareness and build the tools you need to navigate like with confidence.
Are you going through a significant life transition? Whether it's a breakup, graduating from college, starting a new job, or adjusting to a new city, I can help. As a member of the BIPOC community, I understand the unique challenges and cultural expectations that you may be facing. I strongly believe that everyone has a story shaped by their experiences, and I am here to support you in creating the life and happiness you desire. We will work together to set goals and develop coping skills that will empower you to feel better and thrive. Let's increase your self-awareness and build the tools you need to navigate like with confidence.
(630) 625-8308 View (630) 625-8308
Photo of Ezza Mustaffa, Counselor in Illinois
Ezza Mustaffa
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Hi, I'm Ezza and I'm so glad that you are here. My life’s work is to understand and strengthen human relationships, and to help others live an authentic and a meaningful life. As your therapist, my aim is to offer you a safe space to explore things in your life that may or may not be going well and become an active participant in your life. One of the ways that you will experience therapy with me is that it is a collaborative process aimed at getting you to notice, bring attention, and slow down especially when the world urges all of us to numb, ignore, distract, or speed up.
Hi, I'm Ezza and I'm so glad that you are here. My life’s work is to understand and strengthen human relationships, and to help others live an authentic and a meaningful life. As your therapist, my aim is to offer you a safe space to explore things in your life that may or may not be going well and become an active participant in your life. One of the ways that you will experience therapy with me is that it is a collaborative process aimed at getting you to notice, bring attention, and slow down especially when the world urges all of us to numb, ignore, distract, or speed up.
(773) 249-2921 x6 View (773) 249-2921 x6
Photo of Deborah Danner, Counselor in Illinois
Deborah Danner
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
You have had it and have reached your limits with all that is going on in your world. Our lives can sometimes feel like they are outside of our control. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, frustration, trauma, lack of motivation it is important for you to recognize you are capable of regaining control of your life. Together we will work towards helping you become more in control of your world. I offer in-person sessions on Monday's and virtual (tele-health) sessions during the week and on Saturday, and Sunday mornings.
You have had it and have reached your limits with all that is going on in your world. Our lives can sometimes feel like they are outside of our control. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, frustration, trauma, lack of motivation it is important for you to recognize you are capable of regaining control of your life. Together we will work towards helping you become more in control of your world. I offer in-person sessions on Monday's and virtual (tele-health) sessions during the week and on Saturday, and Sunday mornings.
(331) 208-5390 View (331) 208-5390
Photo of Tara Genovese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Tara Genovese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641  (Online Only)
Sometimes, you just feel like a fraud. Pretending to be excited for the weekend. People congratulate you at work for your achievement but never invite you to drinks or even a virtual happy hour at the end of the day. While you're not losing your mind, you're just not in the space you thought you'd be when coming to live in this country. I know you are going to hate to hear this, but you are not alone. Transitions are hard to maneuver at times and can take much longer than a few months to get through. And that's ok.
Sometimes, you just feel like a fraud. Pretending to be excited for the weekend. People congratulate you at work for your achievement but never invite you to drinks or even a virtual happy hour at the end of the day. While you're not losing your mind, you're just not in the space you thought you'd be when coming to live in this country. I know you are going to hate to hear this, but you are not alone. Transitions are hard to maneuver at times and can take much longer than a few months to get through. And that's ok.
(872) 221-8222 View (872) 221-8222
Sobia Khan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
I obtained my Master in Social Work degree at Aurora University. I began my career working as a group facilitator for the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI). I am trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a private practice setting. I am passionate about working with those in the BIPOC community and have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and other emotional and behavioral issues. I speak English, Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi and am currently accepting new clients.
I obtained my Master in Social Work degree at Aurora University. I began my career working as a group facilitator for the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI). I am trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a private practice setting. I am passionate about working with those in the BIPOC community and have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and other emotional and behavioral issues. I speak English, Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi and am currently accepting new clients.
(630) 394-6701 View (630) 394-6701
Photo of Zahra Somani Karamali, Pre-Licensed Professional in Illinois
Zahra Somani Karamali
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Zahra Somani is a Psychologist in Illinois . She has a BA in Secondary Education from DePaul University, an M. Ed in Educational Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and a Psy. D in School Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. As a school psychologist obtaining a clinical license, Zahra understands how school systems work and what resources are offered at schools. She can explain test results to parents in a manner that is easy to understand and connect it to how may show in the classroom. In her spare time, Zahra loves to bake and try to challenge herself with new recipes.
Zahra Somani is a Psychologist in Illinois . She has a BA in Secondary Education from DePaul University, an M. Ed in Educational Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and a Psy. D in School Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. As a school psychologist obtaining a clinical license, Zahra understands how school systems work and what resources are offered at schools. She can explain test results to parents in a manner that is easy to understand and connect it to how may show in the classroom. In her spare time, Zahra loves to bake and try to challenge herself with new recipes.
(224) 291-8550 View (224) 291-8550
Photo of Heidi M Ramirez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Illinois
Heidi M Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Dr. Heidi Ramirez is currently a post-doctoral psychologist. She graduated with a doctorate of psychology (Psy.D.) in clinical forensic psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles Campus. Her clinical experience consists of working with underserved populations, specifically with incarcerated adolescents and adult males. She began her training with children and adolescents who were assigned to a trauma-informed charter school in Los Angeles, CA and completed her pre-doctoral internship at a forensic psychological private practice in Tempe, AZ.
Dr. Heidi Ramirez is currently a post-doctoral psychologist. She graduated with a doctorate of psychology (Psy.D.) in clinical forensic psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles Campus. Her clinical experience consists of working with underserved populations, specifically with incarcerated adolescents and adult males. She began her training with children and adolescents who were assigned to a trauma-informed charter school in Los Angeles, CA and completed her pre-doctoral internship at a forensic psychological private practice in Tempe, AZ.
(872) 266-3819 View (872) 266-3819
Photo of Bianca Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Bianca Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Geneva, IL 60134
As an experienced and empathetic therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals who have overcome adversity and trauma, drawing from my own personal journey navigating challenges such as growing up in foster care and urban environments. With a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Erikson Institute, I offer tailored therapeutic interventions aimed at empowering clients on their paths to emotional well-being and self-discovery. My integrative approach creates a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their experiences and embark on a healing journey.
As an experienced and empathetic therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals who have overcome adversity and trauma, drawing from my own personal journey navigating challenges such as growing up in foster care and urban environments. With a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Erikson Institute, I offer tailored therapeutic interventions aimed at empowering clients on their paths to emotional well-being and self-discovery. My integrative approach creates a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their experiences and embark on a healing journey.
(847) 654-9346 View (847) 654-9346
Photo of Kristen Melchiori, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Kristen Melchiori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Kristen Melchiori has a wealth of experience working with clients in a variety of levels of care. Having worked in foster care, therapeutic day school, substance abuse residential, and community mental health, she is able to help clients navigate complex external systems. She is adept at handling crisis situations and helping clients manage the most difficult times in their lives. She uses a trauma informed approach to help individuals make new meaning in their lives and find their personal path to success.
Kristen Melchiori has a wealth of experience working with clients in a variety of levels of care. Having worked in foster care, therapeutic day school, substance abuse residential, and community mental health, she is able to help clients navigate complex external systems. She is adept at handling crisis situations and helping clients manage the most difficult times in their lives. She uses a trauma informed approach to help individuals make new meaning in their lives and find their personal path to success.
(331) 254-4290 View (331) 254-4290