Therapists in Chicago, IL
![Photo of Michele Beth Williams, LCSW, MSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4507d671-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Beth Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with training in the Gottman method of Couples Therapy.
Do you want a happier, healthier life? With over 30 years of experience as a therapist, I provide individual and couples therapy in a supportive and caring atmosphere. Using a variety of methods, I meet my clients where they are and teach self-soothing, communication skills, stress management, and how to build a good support system.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with training in the Gottman method of Couples Therapy.
Do you want a happier, healthier life? With over 30 years of experience as a therapist, I provide individual and couples therapy in a supportive and caring atmosphere. Using a variety of methods, I meet my clients where they are and teach self-soothing, communication skills, stress management, and how to build a good support system.
![Photo of Stacey Seibold, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/538facff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Seibold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
EFT, SE, IFS, Gottman Method, CBT, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction that will help you achieve the quality of life you want.
I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are to walk alongside them as they heal & create their best life. We all at times go through periods when processing, whether towards change or healing, becomes necessary. I hope to make that process a bit more comfortable, so that you are not alone, and also to help you move through your journey with integrity and intention. Many of my clients report feeling it to be easier to approach difficult topics due to us having a friendly relationship as a foundation. I believe that foundation is in part created due to our efforts in seeing and validating their own internal strengths.
EFT, SE, IFS, Gottman Method, CBT, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction that will help you achieve the quality of life you want.
I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are to walk alongside them as they heal & create their best life. We all at times go through periods when processing, whether towards change or healing, becomes necessary. I hope to make that process a bit more comfortable, so that you are not alone, and also to help you move through your journey with integrity and intention. Many of my clients report feeling it to be easier to approach difficult topics due to us having a friendly relationship as a foundation. I believe that foundation is in part created due to our efforts in seeing and validating their own internal strengths.
![Photo of Izabella Bebenek, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/203c296e-5496-45fb-8538-476b10f4ca51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Izabella Bebenek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
My toolbox includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, the Gottman method, and solution-focused techniques.
Hi! I’m Izabella Bebenek (she/her). As a therapist, I specialize in exploring complexities within families, romantic relationships, friendships, or work relationships. I deeply believe the quality of our relationships determines the quality of our lives. During my time in this field, I have witnessed that every human being strives for social interaction, whether with a friend, partner, or family. I also noticed that dysfunctional patterns in any of these relationships might cause enormous pain in clients. I believe working with relationship conflicts might help clients change their life qualities.
My toolbox includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, the Gottman method, and solution-focused techniques.
Hi! I’m Izabella Bebenek (she/her). As a therapist, I specialize in exploring complexities within families, romantic relationships, friendships, or work relationships. I deeply believe the quality of our relationships determines the quality of our lives. During my time in this field, I have witnessed that every human being strives for social interaction, whether with a friend, partner, or family. I also noticed that dysfunctional patterns in any of these relationships might cause enormous pain in clients. I believe working with relationship conflicts might help clients change their life qualities.
![Photo of Grace Hicks, LCPC, NCC, MA, CGP, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/214c7177-2abc-45d8-916c-3d7a471b9d25/2/320x400.jpeg)
For couples looking for support, I utilize the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
Hello! I earned my MA from Northwestern University and have been honing my skills in private practice for six years. I use a relaxed and person-centered approach to help adults of all backgrounds authentically navigate the complexities of life. In a non-judgmental space, we will prioritize what is important to you. We will increase self-awareness by exploring relationship patterns, attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and meaningful memories. We will help daily life feel more manageable with mindfulness practice, communication/conflict management skills, and self-compassion.
For couples looking for support, I utilize the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
Hello! I earned my MA from Northwestern University and have been honing my skills in private practice for six years. I use a relaxed and person-centered approach to help adults of all backgrounds authentically navigate the complexities of life. In a non-judgmental space, we will prioritize what is important to you. We will increase self-awareness by exploring relationship patterns, attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and meaningful memories. We will help daily life feel more manageable with mindfulness practice, communication/conflict management skills, and self-compassion.
![Photo of Karina Tovar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b431aa78-5e93-402f-98a3-a61cc061c7c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I practice using a holistic lens, goal oriented mindset, social justice framework, transparency, feminist lens, spirituality (for those interested), multicultural, solution focused, CBT, Gottman method, harm reduction, and values work.
Clients that enjoy working with me are multicultural clients who are seeking a safe, non-judgmental environment. I provide a safe and respectful space for clients to express themselves, to cry, to laugh and to be their authentic self. My passion is to help people of color embrace their identity, break generational barriers, and live healthier lives. Areas of interest: seeking therapy for the first time (welcome!), multicultural/first generation experiences, trauma, navigating dating experiences, ADHD, depression, men of color, trauma work, boundary work, making difficult decisions, working on confidence, body image/body neutrality.
I practice using a holistic lens, goal oriented mindset, social justice framework, transparency, feminist lens, spirituality (for those interested), multicultural, solution focused, CBT, Gottman method, harm reduction, and values work.
Clients that enjoy working with me are multicultural clients who are seeking a safe, non-judgmental environment. I provide a safe and respectful space for clients to express themselves, to cry, to laugh and to be their authentic self. My passion is to help people of color embrace their identity, break generational barriers, and live healthier lives. Areas of interest: seeking therapy for the first time (welcome!), multicultural/first generation experiences, trauma, navigating dating experiences, ADHD, depression, men of color, trauma work, boundary work, making difficult decisions, working on confidence, body image/body neutrality.
![Photo of Meg Doster, ALMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1c6f9c9-3531-4374-baaa-d9342d149764/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meg Doster
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
With couples, I am trained in Gottman Method and integrate Emotional Focused Therapy as well.
I work with individuals and couples wanting to work on anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, conflict and communication, relational and religious trauma, grief, and low self-esteem. But what this really looks and feels like "people-pleasing" tendencies, shame, anger, fear of the unknown, and difficulty opening up with yourself and others. I am passionate about helping clients navigate these difficulties and helping them become unstuck.
With couples, I am trained in Gottman Method and integrate Emotional Focused Therapy as well.
I work with individuals and couples wanting to work on anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, conflict and communication, relational and religious trauma, grief, and low self-esteem. But what this really looks and feels like "people-pleasing" tendencies, shame, anger, fear of the unknown, and difficulty opening up with yourself and others. I am passionate about helping clients navigate these difficulties and helping them become unstuck.
![Photo of James Chamerlik, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c9775bb-ff87-4b79-b68c-7cf1917ed335/2/320x400.png)
I provide an affirmative safe space for both individuals, as well as couples, as a Level 1 Gottman Method Therapist.
As a kink-aware therapist and one that has experienced with polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, I hope to provide support to marginalized communities that face stigma, or that feel left out. I care deeply about social justice and work hard to dismantle oppression, as a vocal LGBTQ+ and feminist ally. As someone that became a therapist later in life, I apply my diverse experiences to my practice so that I may be more able to help you along your unique journey, or to uncover and address barriers that may prevent you from meeting personal goals or living a more authentic life.
I provide an affirmative safe space for both individuals, as well as couples, as a Level 1 Gottman Method Therapist.
As a kink-aware therapist and one that has experienced with polyamory and consensual non-monogamy, I hope to provide support to marginalized communities that face stigma, or that feel left out. I care deeply about social justice and work hard to dismantle oppression, as a vocal LGBTQ+ and feminist ally. As someone that became a therapist later in life, I apply my diverse experiences to my practice so that I may be more able to help you along your unique journey, or to uncover and address barriers that may prevent you from meeting personal goals or living a more authentic life.
![Photo of Dr. Julie Thomas, PhD, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6182e543-dd98-403b-9430-92a3eba4e84f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Julie Thomas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
I am trained at the highest level in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have received advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
If you're struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or if you're facing a big life decision, I can help! We'll work together to help you face these challenges head on. I have advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. My approach is strengths-based and designed to help my clients identify and remove barriers keeping them from living their best lives possible.
I am trained at the highest level in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and have received advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
If you're struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, or if you're facing a big life decision, I can help! We'll work together to help you face these challenges head on. I have advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship concerns. My approach is strengths-based and designed to help my clients identify and remove barriers keeping them from living their best lives possible.
![Photo of Karissa Hamilton, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b807ab5-d56c-4bc0-8e96-d3ae7e926378/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have completed Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use this method in my work with couples.
I am passionate about helping adult individuals and couples build connection, and more satisfying, healthy relationships, through addressing sex and intimacy issues; addiction, codependency, and the impacts of trauma. Together, we may untangle patterns of intimacy avoidance, attachment wounds, betrayal trauma, parentification, and emotional or covert incest. I believe healing occurs within relationship through collaboration, curiosity, and respect. I support this value in practice by working through a trauma-informed, multicultural lens, with a sex-positive/kink-affirming approach to intimacy, relationship, and sexual wellness.
I have completed Level 1 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use this method in my work with couples.
I am passionate about helping adult individuals and couples build connection, and more satisfying, healthy relationships, through addressing sex and intimacy issues; addiction, codependency, and the impacts of trauma. Together, we may untangle patterns of intimacy avoidance, attachment wounds, betrayal trauma, parentification, and emotional or covert incest. I believe healing occurs within relationship through collaboration, curiosity, and respect. I support this value in practice by working through a trauma-informed, multicultural lens, with a sex-positive/kink-affirming approach to intimacy, relationship, and sexual wellness.
![Photo of Lee Rotem, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e344770-40b4-47ac-83e8-ef4c8228d7d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a parent experiencing identity issues? Do you feel weighed down by societal and familial expectations and affected by emotional labor imbalances, big life changes, or burnout? I believe that a warm and collaborative therapy space is the essential for self-reflection and for finding courage to make changes, while feeling supported and seen. I integrate a psychodynamic lens with a solution-focused process to achieve your goals. I am a certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and practice this as well as Emotionally Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Are you a parent experiencing identity issues? Do you feel weighed down by societal and familial expectations and affected by emotional labor imbalances, big life changes, or burnout? I believe that a warm and collaborative therapy space is the essential for self-reflection and for finding courage to make changes, while feeling supported and seen. I integrate a psychodynamic lens with a solution-focused process to achieve your goals. I am a certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and practice this as well as Emotionally Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
![Photo of Melissa Littlefield, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c64625b5-f3e7-4e88-af47-75e557171f7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Littlefield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
When working with couples, I draw from both the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Have you been struggling with managing the changes life has dealt to you? I have worked with individuals from six months to ninety-eight years old, couples, and groups of individuals to support them in their life changes and help them address their needs through therapeutic interventions. My approach to therapy relies on the ability to create safety and developing a strong therapeutic alliance with you. I view this alliance as the vehicle for change that you are looking for. I want to work to meet you where you are at, so that you feel understood and heard in your experience.
When working with couples, I draw from both the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Have you been struggling with managing the changes life has dealt to you? I have worked with individuals from six months to ninety-eight years old, couples, and groups of individuals to support them in their life changes and help them address their needs through therapeutic interventions. My approach to therapy relies on the ability to create safety and developing a strong therapeutic alliance with you. I view this alliance as the vehicle for change that you are looking for. I want to work to meet you where you are at, so that you feel understood and heard in your experience.
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![Photo of Katerina Fager, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4590486d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
![Photo of Antonina (Nina) Lunetta, MA, LCPC, NCC, IMH-E](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/863846cc-ed05-4978-9a3a-db201e095582/2/320x400.jpeg)
I speak Spanish, & I use a combination of neuroscience, holistic health, the Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, PCIT, & psychoanalytical theories to help my clients, couples & families live up to their full potential.
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366
I speak Spanish, & I use a combination of neuroscience, holistic health, the Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, PCIT, & psychoanalytical theories to help my clients, couples & families live up to their full potential.
Relationships! We all have them, and at times, we all struggle with navigating them. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I offer a relatable & validating space where I assist my clients in improving direct & healthy communication, setting personal and professional goals and boundaries, and identifying, processing, and addressing life obstacles as they arise. And hopefully a touch of humor too ;D Now accepting new clients - email for soonest availability. To read more about Antonina, go to: www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release-service/495366
![Photo of Kim Vander Griend, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4043fa09-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Vander Griend
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Couples Work: Completed Level 1 &2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Transitions to Parenthood/Marriage, Pre-marital counseling,Communication Issues, Family Conflict Management, Trust Issues, Individual Work: Maternal Mental Health, Infertility, Pregnancy, Depression,Anxiety,Relationship Challenges,Executive Coaching,Traumatic Experiences,Grief.
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult, as it's hard to reach out for help. My goal is to make therapy feel less overwhelming through a collaborative partnership where together we identify your challenges and develop healthy coping skills. My style, rooted in warmth and humor, utilizes the therapeutic relationship to explore positive change and growth. Customized feedback and a range of strategies are provided drawing from evidenced based research and years of clinical expertise. I specialize in individual and couples therapy uniquely focusing on enhancing relationships, healing from the past, and thriving individually.
Couples Work: Completed Level 1 &2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Transitions to Parenthood/Marriage, Pre-marital counseling,Communication Issues, Family Conflict Management, Trust Issues, Individual Work: Maternal Mental Health, Infertility, Pregnancy, Depression,Anxiety,Relationship Challenges,Executive Coaching,Traumatic Experiences,Grief.
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult, as it's hard to reach out for help. My goal is to make therapy feel less overwhelming through a collaborative partnership where together we identify your challenges and develop healthy coping skills. My style, rooted in warmth and humor, utilizes the therapeutic relationship to explore positive change and growth. Customized feedback and a range of strategies are provided drawing from evidenced based research and years of clinical expertise. I specialize in individual and couples therapy uniquely focusing on enhancing relationships, healing from the past, and thriving individually.
![Photo of Ashley Ofosu, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1508b65e-dd6e-4bdf-983d-977a6f336324/1/320x400.jpeg)
I draw from psychodynamic theory, humanistic-existential, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), exposure therapy, Core Emotions/Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), and The Gottman Method.
Mediocracy is not enough when it comes to providing care for those with mental health disorders and relationship challenges. I believe in the importance of every person having access to quality mental health care regardless of their background. I believe that everyone has the capacity to grow and be resilient with the proper support, process, and support. Helping to guide my clients through their personal life journey with confidence and courage is my ultimate goal.
I draw from psychodynamic theory, humanistic-existential, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), exposure therapy, Core Emotions/Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), and The Gottman Method.
Mediocracy is not enough when it comes to providing care for those with mental health disorders and relationship challenges. I believe in the importance of every person having access to quality mental health care regardless of their background. I believe that everyone has the capacity to grow and be resilient with the proper support, process, and support. Helping to guide my clients through their personal life journey with confidence and courage is my ultimate goal.
![Photo of Payton Willis, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ff97523-0e5c-4a50-ae8d-e3342fd1b2ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize Emotion Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method to provide structure, space, empathy, warmth, and compassion.
We face many challenges and stages in life’s journey and navigating through its different phases can sometimes be a difficult process. I focuse on supporting clients through this difficult process and collaborating with a strong therapeutic relationship. The beauty of therapy is that it will look different for each person and will be tailored to specific needs. I also specialize in facilitating sustainable empowerment and personal growth for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community.
I utilize Emotion Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method to provide structure, space, empathy, warmth, and compassion.
We face many challenges and stages in life’s journey and navigating through its different phases can sometimes be a difficult process. I focuse on supporting clients through this difficult process and collaborating with a strong therapeutic relationship. The beauty of therapy is that it will look different for each person and will be tailored to specific needs. I also specialize in facilitating sustainable empowerment and personal growth for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community.
![Photo of Lori Yi Long - Lotus Root Counseling , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2e2a45e-942c-4d26-adea-e01cd9e4933d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lotus Root Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Our couple therapists mainly use Gottman Method.
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
Our couple therapists mainly use Gottman Method.
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
![Photo of Carolyn Raitt, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11bebb0e-00ae-4b30-a05c-911b2361d0b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive training in DBT, CBT, ACT, ERP, Mindfulness, the Gottman Method, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
I have extensive training in DBT, CBT, ACT, ERP, Mindfulness, the Gottman Method, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
To schedule a session, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am a queer-identified psychotherapist and have experience helping individuals with a wide variety of presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. In addition, I specialize in working with eating and/or body image issues, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and adolescent & young adult life transitions & identity development.
![Photo of Alexandra Bosco Luger, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f1a8275-aa24-494d-ac22-0b335dbeedde/2/320x400.jpeg)
I completed all 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy trainings and I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my clinical work.
Please visit my website for more information about my practice: www.DrAlexandraLuger.com
I completed all 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy trainings and I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my clinical work.
Please visit my website for more information about my practice: www.DrAlexandraLuger.com
![Photo of Melissa Martin, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fecaa1a-7d27-45bf-8163-e3bc84fbca7f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Martin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647 (Online Only)
Depending on the needs of the client, I use diverse modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT, CBT, client-centered, trauma-informed care, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, the Gottman Method, exposure work, and symptom management.
I am passionate about working with adults who are dealing with challenges including but not limited to: identifying and healing from trauma, identity exploration, interpersonal conflict, relationship with food and body, addictions, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, stress management, and ADHD. The goal of my work with clients is for them to increase authenticity and vulnerability within the therapeutic relationship first, then translate that success to their lives outside of therapy. I empower clients with coping skills and provide a safe space for learning effective communication of and connection to emotions.
Depending on the needs of the client, I use diverse modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT, CBT, client-centered, trauma-informed care, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, the Gottman Method, exposure work, and symptom management.
I am passionate about working with adults who are dealing with challenges including but not limited to: identifying and healing from trauma, identity exploration, interpersonal conflict, relationship with food and body, addictions, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, stress management, and ADHD. The goal of my work with clients is for them to increase authenticity and vulnerability within the therapeutic relationship first, then translate that success to their lives outside of therapy. I empower clients with coping skills and provide a safe space for learning effective communication of and connection to emotions.
See more therapy options for Chicago
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.