The Uses and Limits of a Mental Health Diagnosis
In times of distress or when mental health symptoms appear, many people wonder: “Do I have something?” “Is there a diagnosis for this?” Sometimes the question carries fear. Sometimes relief. Sometimes curiosity. Increasingly in therapy, we’re seeing people arrive already certain of the answer, often after reading an article or watching a video on TikTok. […]
Wellness Coach vs. Licensed Therapist: What’s the Difference and Who Should You See?
In today’s wellness-focused world, you’ve likely seen titles like “wellness coach,” “life coach,” and “licensed therapist” floating around, but how do you know what these terms mean? Whether you’re navigating stress, seeking support for mental health concerns, or simply trying to improve your overall well-being, it’s important to understand the key differences between a wellness […]
Stress, Burnout, and the Pressure to Perform
Chicago is a city of driven people. We take pride in this. Many of us juggle demanding careers, commutes, family responsibilities, social obligations, and the constant pressure to “keep it together.” On the outside, things may look successful and stable. On the inside, however, you may feel overwhelmed, depleted, or quietly struggling. Stress is often […]
Dr. Morgan Van Leer
Dr. Van Leer is a post-doctoral therapist providing therapy to adults in person and virtually. She has experience with a variety of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship dynamics, self-esteem, life transitions, ADHD, OCD, and trauma. She has expertise working with clients from rural backgrounds and those in unhealthy relationships. Dr. Van Leer believes […]
Dr. Lianna McDaniel
Dr. McDaniel is a post-doctoral therapist providing therapy to adults in person and virtually. She has experience with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and depression, relationship and identity concerns, stress and trauma, life transitions, and chronic health issues. She specializes in working with clients who struggle with shame and self-doubt due to their […]
Dr. Mary Kirschner
Dr. Kirschner is a post-doctoral therapist providing therapy to adults virtually. Her background and areas of expertise include: depression, anxiety, trauma, and health related issues such as ongoing physical issues and solid organ transplant processes. Her approach is collaborative in nature as she promotes overall personal wellness while helping clients work toward their goals. Dr. […]
Alyson Bell
Alyson is a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides therapy to adults in-person and virtually. Alyson has experience helping those with depression, anxiety, self esteem, interpersonal issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and other life transitions. She utilizes both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques, as well as distress tolerance, emotional regulation strategies, and […]
Rachel Kovacic
Rachel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy to adolescents and adults in-person and virtually. She has expertise in assisting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma or loss, self-esteem and self-worth, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. Rachel’s goal when spending valuable time with clients is to assist them in becoming more self-aware and fulfilled. For […]
Carolyn Simon
Carolyn is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing therapy to adults in-person and virtually with a focus on anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, self-esteem struggles, disordered eating, life transitions, work-life balance, and relationship difficulties. With an empathetic and compassionate stance, Carolyn utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, to foster […]
Morgan Sparks
Morgan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience providing therapy to adults and adolescents. She has expertise working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, chronic pain, life transitions, and relational difficulties. Grounded in compassion and humor, Morgan focuses on creating a non-judgmental space for her clients to connect deeply with […]