Photo of Peter Agostino, LCPC, Counselor
Peter Agostino
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60639
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about supporting my clients as they each walk through their individual journeys. Above all else, I believe in empowerment of my clients to be the best, most self-aware, versions of themselves. I am particularly skilled in bringing a warm and comforting approach as we dive into difficult topics. I have also done extensive work with domestic violence.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about supporting my clients as they each walk through their individual journeys. Above all else, I believe in empowerment of my clients to be the best, most self-aware, versions of themselves. I am particularly skilled in bringing a warm and comforting approach as we dive into difficult topics. I have also done extensive work with domestic violence.
(773) 974-6896 View (773) 974-6896
Photo of Paula Carolina Castillo - Centro Castillo for Personal & Family Wellbeing, PsyD, Psychologist
Centro Castillo for Personal & Family Wellbeing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60639
At Centro Castillo for Personal and Family Wellbeing, our therapists strongly believe that we understand a person as part of their culture and family upbringing. Together we will discover what motivates you and use this knowledge to increase self-awareness in how you feel, think and act. With this insight, the ultimate goal is make the best decisions that will leave you feeling better and live a happier life. With 14 therapist in 3 offices throughout the city (Lakeview, Pilsen, and near Oak Park) we look forward to helping you and your family.
At Centro Castillo for Personal and Family Wellbeing, our therapists strongly believe that we understand a person as part of their culture and family upbringing. Together we will discover what motivates you and use this knowledge to increase self-awareness in how you feel, think and act. With this insight, the ultimate goal is make the best decisions that will leave you feeling better and live a happier life. With 14 therapist in 3 offices throughout the city (Lakeview, Pilsen, and near Oak Park) we look forward to helping you and your family.
(773) 622-6218 View (773) 622-6218
Photo of Mason Greenwood, PhD, LCP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mason Greenwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCP, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60639  (Online Only)
I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and achieve their personal goals. I truly value the counseling experience and find that individuals who are open to it make the most progress. I firmly believe that therapy is a collaborative effort, and the more you invest in it, the more you get out of it. My approach is all about finding the right balance between validating experiences, increasing awareness, and challenging you to grow from it all. My clients describe me as supportive, reliable, thought-provoking, and funny. I consider each characteristic to be of great value in counseling.
I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and achieve their personal goals. I truly value the counseling experience and find that individuals who are open to it make the most progress. I firmly believe that therapy is a collaborative effort, and the more you invest in it, the more you get out of it. My approach is all about finding the right balance between validating experiences, increasing awareness, and challenging you to grow from it all. My clients describe me as supportive, reliable, thought-provoking, and funny. I consider each characteristic to be of great value in counseling.
(618) 278-5168 View (618) 278-5168
Photo of Victoria Najjar, ALMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Victoria Najjar
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60639
As an Arab-Latina therapist, I specialize in supporting adolescents, teens, young adults, couples, and families through the unique mental health challenges and transitions that each phase of life and relationship entails. Utilizing evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches, I focus on healing from grief, trauma, self-esteem issues, anxiety, and depression. My practice is inclusive and affirming of all cultural, sexual, LGBTQIA+, and neurodiverse identities, providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where healing and growth can flourish.
As an Arab-Latina therapist, I specialize in supporting adolescents, teens, young adults, couples, and families through the unique mental health challenges and transitions that each phase of life and relationship entails. Utilizing evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches, I focus on healing from grief, trauma, self-esteem issues, anxiety, and depression. My practice is inclusive and affirming of all cultural, sexual, LGBTQIA+, and neurodiverse identities, providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where healing and growth can flourish.
(773) 786-9309 View (773) 786-9309
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.