Couples Counseling Therapists in West Town, Chicago, IL
![Photo of Nicolas Kertesz, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61582421-4b23-4368-ab8c-e605634d753f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicolas Kertesz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Town, Chicago, IL 60647
With couples, I apply the Gottman method and emotional focused therapy.
Are you uncertain of where you're at in life either emotionally, mentally, or vocationally? Are you struggling to cope with feelings of anxiety or low self-esteem? I help folks from a variety of backgrounds, such as veterans, new parents, BIPOC, 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 healthy, positive light.
With couples, I apply the Gottman method and emotional focused therapy.
Are you uncertain of where you're at in life either emotionally, mentally, or vocationally? Are you struggling to cope with feelings of anxiety or low self-esteem? I help folks from a variety of backgrounds, such as veterans, new parents, BIPOC, 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 healthy, positive light.
![Photo of Eve Chalom, BC-DMT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a799e89c-6aa0-4a93-8ece-1226b0dddc1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Through insights and a therapeutic relationship that creates internal shifts, people are more able to effectively channel their emotions for positive effect in the world and live clearer, more contented lives.
I am comfortable working with a wide range of issues, and working with me is best for clients who are interested in not only talking through their problems, but physically moving about them and getting a felt sense of everything that’s going on. As a dance movement therapist, I think the body can be a marvelous source for solutions and insights, when the movement is approached in a way that’s comfortable and safe. Talking is also an important part of the process, as we are whole mind/body systems, and we work best when both are accessible and well connected to each other. Resolving and integrating the past is part of the work.
Through insights and a therapeutic relationship that creates internal shifts, people are more able to effectively channel their emotions for positive effect in the world and live clearer, more contented lives.
I am comfortable working with a wide range of issues, and working with me is best for clients who are interested in not only talking through their problems, but physically moving about them and getting a felt sense of everything that’s going on. As a dance movement therapist, I think the body can be a marvelous source for solutions and insights, when the movement is approached in a way that’s comfortable and safe. Talking is also an important part of the process, as we are whole mind/body systems, and we work best when both are accessible and well connected to each other. Resolving and integrating the past is part of the work.
![Photo of Julie Haran-Castaneda, MSW, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42781204-4c29-450f-9890-b47669ab18da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Haran-Castaneda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Town, Chicago, IL 60642 (Online Only)
As a therapist and licensed attorney, I am experienced in counseling individuals, assisting clients with problem solving, offering support and utilizing best practices. My certification is in Evidence-Based Practice. I focus on solution-oriented therapy in my work with individuals, couples and families. This includes CBT strategies, strengths-based and psycho-dynamic treatment modalities. We will work in a joint effort to meet your multi-dimensional needs. Our work together will include exploring your concerns from many perspectives to facilitate problem solving, improve functioning, and reduce negative symptoms.
As a therapist and licensed attorney, I am experienced in counseling individuals, assisting clients with problem solving, offering support and utilizing best practices. My certification is in Evidence-Based Practice. I focus on solution-oriented therapy in my work with individuals, couples and families. This includes CBT strategies, strengths-based and psycho-dynamic treatment modalities. We will work in a joint effort to meet your multi-dimensional needs. Our work together will include exploring your concerns from many perspectives to facilitate problem solving, improve functioning, and reduce negative symptoms.
![Photo of Emily Gabelman, LMFT, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c29c7117-babd-44ef-9bac-5031d829f8e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Gabelman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Town, Chicago, IL 60622
Hello! I am a sex, couples, and individual therapist who treats the following presenting issues: desire discrepancy, sex addictions, sexual pain, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, sexual trauma, anxiety or shame around sex, low libido, difficulty with orgasm, couples conflict, infidelity, lack of emotional connection, communication issues, depression, and anxiety
Hello! I am a sex, couples, and individual therapist who treats the following presenting issues: desire discrepancy, sex addictions, sexual pain, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, sexual trauma, anxiety or shame around sex, low libido, difficulty with orgasm, couples conflict, infidelity, lack of emotional connection, communication issues, depression, and anxiety
![Photo of Camila Richmond, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e891fdac-838d-42fa-b6ef-2c7642ed4fd4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Camila Richmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Town, Chicago, IL 60622 (Online Only)
It is common for human beings who experience trauma and life stressors to feel like their lives are unraveling. My passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience and also improve their lives. I enjoy working with adults of all ages. I am fluent in English and Portuguese. As a client-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative space and a vehicle for change.
It is common for human beings who experience trauma and life stressors to feel like their lives are unraveling. My passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience and also improve their lives. I enjoy working with adults of all ages. I am fluent in English and Portuguese. As a client-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative space and a vehicle for change.
![Photo of Gwen Clancy, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5103c6cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In her mind, the most important thing for a therapist to do is to be themselves while building a relationship.
Gwen Clancy graduated with a B.S. in Sociology from Illinois State University & a masters from St. Xavier University. She’s worked in agency settings since graduating college & really enjoys helping folks make forward progress in their lives. Her experience ranges from working with substance abuse, domestic violence, runaway/homeless youth & supervised residential for youth & those who have severe mental illness & are trying to re-integrate into the community. She describes those times as having been challenging & rewarding, as each person she’s worked with has taught her something valuable as a therapist.
In her mind, the most important thing for a therapist to do is to be themselves while building a relationship.
Gwen Clancy graduated with a B.S. in Sociology from Illinois State University & a masters from St. Xavier University. She’s worked in agency settings since graduating college & really enjoys helping folks make forward progress in their lives. Her experience ranges from working with substance abuse, domestic violence, runaway/homeless youth & supervised residential for youth & those who have severe mental illness & are trying to re-integrate into the community. She describes those times as having been challenging & rewarding, as each person she’s worked with has taught her something valuable as a therapist.
![Photo of Katy Ibur, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3bb662e-0e51-4a35-8b43-86b62bd4f74a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is psychodynamic and relational, where the therapeutic relationship is key in the healing process.
I support long-term couples struggling with conflict and disconnection who may feel unsure how to solve their challenges or rekindle their loving dynamic. I help couples improve communication skills, identify and express underlying vulnerable emotions, and ultimately deepen their intimacy and romantic connection. I also support folks with dysfunctional family and/or religious histories, who are interested in alternative healing approaches. This may entail witnessing the pain and patterns of the past, and then potentially reclaiming and reimagining their relationship with spirituality.
My approach is psychodynamic and relational, where the therapeutic relationship is key in the healing process.
I support long-term couples struggling with conflict and disconnection who may feel unsure how to solve their challenges or rekindle their loving dynamic. I help couples improve communication skills, identify and express underlying vulnerable emotions, and ultimately deepen their intimacy and romantic connection. I also support folks with dysfunctional family and/or religious histories, who are interested in alternative healing approaches. This may entail witnessing the pain and patterns of the past, and then potentially reclaiming and reimagining their relationship with spirituality.
![Photo of Celina Deal, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d088f87-3430-4b8b-9f99-1d0c24edbc1c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Celina Deal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West Town, Chicago, IL 60642
Waitlist for new clients
It is incredibly important for an individual's emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical components to work well together. I intend to approach every client from a holistic, person-centered, and emotionally focused framework to reach their goals. I enjoy walking alongside individuals and couples as they navigate trauma, relationship challenges, transitions, anxiety, and depression.
It is incredibly important for an individual's emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical components to work well together. I intend to approach every client from a holistic, person-centered, and emotionally focused framework to reach their goals. I enjoy walking alongside individuals and couples as they navigate trauma, relationship challenges, transitions, anxiety, and depression.
![Photo of Jenny Naguit, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28574504-1232-421f-b2a5-464c5a74da84/2/320x400.jpeg)
Every person deserves to feel heard and understood. Through compassionate listening, I work hard to build a healthy relationship with you, highlight your strengths, and collaborate to move you closer to living an authentic, value-driven life. I support people who are looking to change their relationship with themselves or others, heal from trauma & attachment wounds, and unburden from old narratives or patterns that no longer serve them. My approach is insight-oriented and facilitative. My style blends various therapeutic techniques with a mind-body emphasis and a coaching twist.
Every person deserves to feel heard and understood. Through compassionate listening, I work hard to build a healthy relationship with you, highlight your strengths, and collaborate to move you closer to living an authentic, value-driven life. I support people who are looking to change their relationship with themselves or others, heal from trauma & attachment wounds, and unburden from old narratives or patterns that no longer serve them. My approach is insight-oriented and facilitative. My style blends various therapeutic techniques with a mind-body emphasis and a coaching twist.
![Photo of Kevin Dale Clegg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6573d6da-8b43-4c85-ab47-98d3ef09a764/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Dale Clegg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Town, Chicago, IL 60622 (Online Only)
I meet clients where they are in their healing and partner with them on their journey.
Through therapy, I assist individuals, and families to develop needed skills and change patterns of behaviors to make the growth process easier. With a client-centered approach, we will develop goals together to help you overcome life’s hurdles. With empathy and without judgment, I will assist you with reaching these goals from a strengths-based perspective. As I believe we never stop growing and learning throughout our lives, I feel honored and privileged to help clients find their inner strength to achieve their goals. As I am aware that each client is unique with differing needs, I am experienced in a variety of techniques.
I meet clients where they are in their healing and partner with them on their journey.
Through therapy, I assist individuals, and families to develop needed skills and change patterns of behaviors to make the growth process easier. With a client-centered approach, we will develop goals together to help you overcome life’s hurdles. With empathy and without judgment, I will assist you with reaching these goals from a strengths-based perspective. As I believe we never stop growing and learning throughout our lives, I feel honored and privileged to help clients find their inner strength to achieve their goals. As I am aware that each client is unique with differing needs, I am experienced in a variety of techniques.
![Photo of Jasmine Capo, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb3ad760-b2b4-4a96-b2fe-f927806e5140/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specific areas of interest include working with individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, relationship and attachment concerns, difficulties with self-esteem, as well as those struggling with grief and trauma. I am also particularly interested in helping families navigate the complexities that come with divorce and/or separation.
My specific areas of interest include working with individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, relationship and attachment concerns, difficulties with self-esteem, as well as those struggling with grief and trauma. I am also particularly interested in helping families navigate the complexities that come with divorce and/or separation.
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![Photo of Christina Squiers, JD, AM, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d52cc55-96fd-44b2-9c85-00c56b7bd679/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Squiers
Pre-Licensed Professional, JD, AM, MSW
Verified Verified
West Town, Chicago, IL 60612 (Online Only)
With all clients, I try to cultivate a warm and collaborative relationship with humor and compassion.
If you've been feeling stuck, stretched too thin, or overwhelmed lately, I'm here to help. As a career changing therapist who has lived in 6 different states, I love working with people struggling with the transitions life can throw at us, both big and small, and anyone looking to make some changes to their life. As your therapist, it's my goal to create a warm, direct, occasionally funny, and always collaborative relationship where you feel comfortable and supported while pursuing your goals in therapy. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, burnout from corporate work, adult ADHD, CPTSD, and familial estrangement.
With all clients, I try to cultivate a warm and collaborative relationship with humor and compassion.
If you've been feeling stuck, stretched too thin, or overwhelmed lately, I'm here to help. As a career changing therapist who has lived in 6 different states, I love working with people struggling with the transitions life can throw at us, both big and small, and anyone looking to make some changes to their life. As your therapist, it's my goal to create a warm, direct, occasionally funny, and always collaborative relationship where you feel comfortable and supported while pursuing your goals in therapy. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, burnout from corporate work, adult ADHD, CPTSD, and familial estrangement.
![Photo of Amanda Lopez-Martinez, ALMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a34e4fa-e0b9-487c-9b55-1270a5bdf772/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Lopez-Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Town, Chicago, IL 60642
My goal is to make you feel seen and understood and to help foster your personal and relational growth. Working with me means discovering your strengths, building your ability to connect deeply, and learning to tap into your empathy, all while adding those skills to your ever-growing emotional toolbox. I believe that it is important to see the therapeutic relationship as collaborative– I am by your side as a teammate while you learn and grow as an individual and in your relationship. I gently and carefully challenge, all while being understanding in the process. Authenticity is valued in this space.
My goal is to make you feel seen and understood and to help foster your personal and relational growth. Working with me means discovering your strengths, building your ability to connect deeply, and learning to tap into your empathy, all while adding those skills to your ever-growing emotional toolbox. I believe that it is important to see the therapeutic relationship as collaborative– I am by your side as a teammate while you learn and grow as an individual and in your relationship. I gently and carefully challenge, all while being understanding in the process. Authenticity is valued in this space.
![Photo of Michael Luetkens, LPC, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd075d88-a3f8-4708-a340-64102f3d9f2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Luetkens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
West Town, Chicago, IL 60612
Have you been struggling to find a safe place to share your experience and feelings? Approaching change can be a vulnerable process, finding someone to engage in that process with can be even harder. I am here to walk along side you as you explore your experience with shame, trauma, perfectionism, abuse, anxiety, depression, identity, parenting, sexuality, attention and concentration difficulties, relationship challenges, grief, and your emotional experience. I aim to do so while maintaining my own cultural competency and acknowledging the larger systems of power and oppression within our society and their impact on our experience.
Have you been struggling to find a safe place to share your experience and feelings? Approaching change can be a vulnerable process, finding someone to engage in that process with can be even harder. I am here to walk along side you as you explore your experience with shame, trauma, perfectionism, abuse, anxiety, depression, identity, parenting, sexuality, attention and concentration difficulties, relationship challenges, grief, and your emotional experience. I aim to do so while maintaining my own cultural competency and acknowledging the larger systems of power and oppression within our society and their impact on our experience.
![Photo of Tomika S. Taylor, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0490878e-bb46-4421-9a22-d734ff420904/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tomika S. Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Town, Chicago, IL 60622 (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, adjustment disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, African-American trauma, Christian Therapy, grief, and ADHD.
This world can be overwhelming from managing day to day stressors to dealings with childhood trauma that is affecting your relationships today...yet you have made it this far! You and I both know it takes an especially resilient person to still stand after the trials and tribulations. If you are looking for a therapist to help identify your power, your strengths and will also assist you in achieving your goals, you may contact me for a consultation to see if my approach can help you on your journey.
I specialize in depression, adjustment disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, African-American trauma, Christian Therapy, grief, and ADHD.
This world can be overwhelming from managing day to day stressors to dealings with childhood trauma that is affecting your relationships today...yet you have made it this far! You and I both know it takes an especially resilient person to still stand after the trials and tribulations. If you are looking for a therapist to help identify your power, your strengths and will also assist you in achieving your goals, you may contact me for a consultation to see if my approach can help you on your journey.
![Photo of Payton Larsen, MA, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a2eb1f3-a2ed-4e8e-b50c-e2a17fe1469d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Payton Larsen
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Town, Chicago, IL 60642 (Online Only)
I love working with women, young adults, teens, college students, pre-marital couples and couples transitioning in cohabitation.
Hi! I’m a Counselor and EMDR Therapist. I’m a San Diego native and am new to the Chicago area! I am extremely passionate about helping clients find healing and freedom from the past, leading them to deep and meaningful relationships to themselves and others. My role as a therapist is to come along side my clients to empower them to compassionately examine and transform the parts of themselves that feel heavy, stuck, or destructive. In our sessions, you’ll be met with a therapist that values therapy that is both effective and intentional. It’s important to me that we both feel confident and hopeful about our work together.
I love working with women, young adults, teens, college students, pre-marital couples and couples transitioning in cohabitation.
Hi! I’m a Counselor and EMDR Therapist. I’m a San Diego native and am new to the Chicago area! I am extremely passionate about helping clients find healing and freedom from the past, leading them to deep and meaningful relationships to themselves and others. My role as a therapist is to come along side my clients to empower them to compassionately examine and transform the parts of themselves that feel heavy, stuck, or destructive. In our sessions, you’ll be met with a therapist that values therapy that is both effective and intentional. It’s important to me that we both feel confident and hopeful about our work together.
![Photo of Rielle Johnson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c46d7e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My area of expertise is in working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, relationship conflicts, substance abuse and various life transitions.
Seeking therapy is an honest first step in addressing an issue in your life. This may be a new issue, one that has been distressing for some time, or a problem that you may have explored in past treatment. Whatever the particular reason for seeking therapy, I aim to provide culturally sensitive, supportive care that leads to lasting personal growth and a sense of fulfillment.
My area of expertise is in working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, relationship conflicts, substance abuse and various life transitions.
Seeking therapy is an honest first step in addressing an issue in your life. This may be a new issue, one that has been distressing for some time, or a problem that you may have explored in past treatment. Whatever the particular reason for seeking therapy, I aim to provide culturally sensitive, supportive care that leads to lasting personal growth and a sense of fulfillment.
![Photo of Richa Vakharia, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/712c6e33-0a77-49cc-835c-7fcadb701615/1/320x400.jpeg)
In couples therapy, I will work to deeply understand your relationship history and how each of your unique experiences impact your partnership.
Sometimes, we feel something is stopping us from being the person we know ourselves to be. In individual therapy, it is my hope to help you identify those obstacles and work with you to achieve your goals. My approach to therapy is to prioritize cultural humility and empathy as we explore how your lived experiences shape your beliefs about yourself and the world. I will ask questions to spark new perspectives and gently offer my insight without judgment. Most importantly,
In couples therapy, I will work to deeply understand your relationship history and how each of your unique experiences impact your partnership.
Sometimes, we feel something is stopping us from being the person we know ourselves to be. In individual therapy, it is my hope to help you identify those obstacles and work with you to achieve your goals. My approach to therapy is to prioritize cultural humility and empathy as we explore how your lived experiences shape your beliefs about yourself and the world. I will ask questions to spark new perspectives and gently offer my insight without judgment. Most importantly,
![Photo of Deborah Gorton, PhD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b203b5fe-a962-444a-8f97-a0b6b5f54eb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work in collaboration with my clients to help move them towards reaching their full potential. I utilize both coaching techniques and research-validated behavioral change strategies in order to provide meaningful and lasting change. My experience and interest is in working with individuals, couples, and families. I understand that each professional relationship requires creativity, an understanding of the unique experiences and perspectives each individuals brings to the table, and a solid foundation of trust.
I work in collaboration with my clients to help move them towards reaching their full potential. I utilize both coaching techniques and research-validated behavioral change strategies in order to provide meaningful and lasting change. My experience and interest is in working with individuals, couples, and families. I understand that each professional relationship requires creativity, an understanding of the unique experiences and perspectives each individuals brings to the table, and a solid foundation of trust.
![Photo of Robin Zazove, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84ccf99c-8f63-4281-a805-98859cab7a55/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Zazove
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Town, Chicago, IL 60642 (Online Only)
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
See more therapy options for West Town, Chicago
Couples Counseling Therapists
Does couples counseling work?
Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.
When should a couple seek counseling?
Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.
How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?
The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.
How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?
The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.