Meet the Team

Specializes in tweens, adolescents, adults, couples & families.

ADHD & neurodivergent-affirming

Dr. Kametta Clark
Therapist & Coach

My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey to wellness, and take you where you want to be. I create opportunities to express your narrative in a safe space, in a manner that is conducive to your well-being. I provide an inclusive judgment-free space regardless of background or identification. I help individuals gain insight into their own decisions, patterns of outcomes. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing a life transition or difficulty adjusting to change. Current clients describe my approach as warm, validating, and intentional.

I have assisted individuals with overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, identity issues, depression, sexual offenses, and complex grief. I enjoy the collaboration process that takes place when assisting clients to achieve their best selves. I believe hopefulness and intentionality are the primary components of a fruitful therapeutic relationship.

It is common to want change, but not know where to begin. I want individuals to understand that they can improve their quality of life through self-care and commitment to growth. I empower clients to take charge of their narrative through affirmation and science-supported interventions.

Specializes in adolescents & adults

Neurodivergent-affirming

Stephanie Vana
Therapist

The world we live in moves faster than we would like; filled with change, loss, and moving forward. My approach as a therapist is rooted in the belief that everyone has a different life story to explore, and that everyone is capable of change for the better. In sessions, we go on a tandem bike ride, exploring together through your lens, the best way for healing and positive change in your life. I help people find ways to live the most authentic version of themselves while navigating life’s toughest battles. My clients learn healthy coping skills, grounding and mindfulness techniques while also being able to process the things in life that are tough to talk about out loud. Trained in both art therapy and talk therapy, sessions can be all talk, all art, or anything in between!

I specialize in: grief/loss, trauma, change of life cycles, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergence, multicultural issues, anxiety/panic disorders, and depression.

I love to incorporate modern techniques with holistic methods whether it’s astrology, tarot, reflecting on pop culture, and any extensive knowledge of history and how it impacts us in the present day. 

I take pride in the power of creativity and healing through art making, no matter the artistic experience of the client. Whether it is the making of the piece, or what the piece means to you, all aspects are crucial to the therapeutic method.

I received my Master’s in Counseling; Art Therapy at Adler University in 2023 and my Bachelor’s in Psychology from UIC. I am trained extensively in Expressive Art Therapy and Adlerian Theory, but use an integrative approach relying on lived experiences to suit each client’s personal need.

Specializes in tweens, adolescents, adults, couples & families.

EMDR Trained

TraShona Fowler
Therapist & Coach

How many times today have you struggled with finding, accepting, and loving yourself? Are you the primary person everyone runs to with their problems while grappling with not only doing your job effectively but also trying to manage your own emotions around COVID19, the Racial Unrest, and Personal Issues? You deserve to be heard, understood, validated and supported. That is where our journey together begins. I help you discover what mental and emotional roadblocks are preventing you from finding your "happy"; as we together navigate those challenges. Healing is a journey but does not have to be one you take alone.

TraShona has extensive experience utilizing trauma-informed Cognitive Behavior therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and mindfulness-based therapies. She also works with clients with eating disorders and states the following:

My mission is to help individuals find paths to emotional and physical wellness. During my time as a behavioral health counselor at Pathlight formerly Insight Eating Recovery Center, I had the opportunity to work with our multidisciplinary team to offer the best outcome for our eating disorder recovery residents receiving treatment. In my role as a behavioral health counselor, I supported the team in addressing existing physical and mental health concerns using supportive, evidence-based therapeutic interventions that treated the whole person- body, mind and spirit.

TraShona believes that the most important aspect of effective therapy is by providing compassion, and understanding in a connected and safe space. She is committed to providing this space for her clients, by ensuring that the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative and connecting experience. TraShona values the privilege and honor to walk alongside clients through their journey of healing, self-love, and clarity, by empowering clients to enhance their inner potential, work through difficult and painful emotions, and live in the present moment with purpose and meaning.

Specializes in tweens, adolescents, adults & families

Celine Khalife
Therapist & Coach

When working with disadvantaged communities, it is necessary to recognize the systemic issues they may face to provide fully encompassing care while also allowing them to maintain a sense of autonomy.  My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, welcoming space for my clients to have the freedom to explore their innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a non-judgmental, uplifting way. I am passionate about decolonizing mental health care by working with 1st & 2nd generation immigrants as well as BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ identifying individuals to promote adjustment and overall empowerment. I strive to provide BIPOC empowering, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, sex positive, anti-racist, anti-imperialist, multicultural-based therapeutic care and treatment. 

My clients initially describe their emotions with fear or uncertainty since they haven’t felt safe enough to explore them, but through our time together, learn to see them with kindness and redefine their emotional abilities as personal strengths and superpowers. Although therapy can be hard work at times, I also believe it can be fun! I strive to incorporate art, music, astrology, pop culture, and other avenues as supplemental tools to establishing an authentic, lighthearted connection with my clients and exploring therapy in an alternative route.

I am a first-generation queer, Arab American therapist specializing in identity development and empowerment within marginalized groups. I work collaboratively with my clients and strive to be the type of counselor that you can rely on, relate to, and whom inspires you.

ADHD and Neurodivergent Specialist

Anequa Blakely

I am passionate about working with adults suffering from depression and anxiety due to narcissistic abuse, racial discrimination/trauma, or job-related stress. With specialized training and education in Applied Behavior Analysis and behavior patterns, I also help adults with learning disabilities such as ADHD and dyslexia who are having difficulties performing and processing in occupational or school settings.

I'm trained to treat clinical issues that affect us and our relationships day to day. I'm Adlerian, strength-based, and utilize applied behavior analysis (ABA), among other techniques, to help clients reach their goals. I work with my clients in a non-judgmental, supportive manner. It is my privilege to work with people in different stages of life and help them during their healing journey.

Specializes in adults & couples

Angel Tatum

Angel Tatum, LCSW, is empathetic, approachable, and direct in her therapy style. Her goal is to support clients in a non-judgmental and relatable way as they reach their goals.

Angel earned an undergraduate degree from University of Illinois, a Master's in Human Service Administration from Spertus Institute, and an MSW from Savannah State University. She spent years as an individual and family therapist and helps adolescents and adults struggling with depression, trauma, women's issues, addictions, family conflict, and more.

In therapy, Angel uses CBT, DBT, psychoanalysis, journaling, and more to put clients on a better path. In every case, she works to find the best treatment plan and guides clients to gain the skills they need to live a better life.

Specializes in tweens, adolescents, adults, athletes & families.

ADHD & neurodivergent affirming

Antonio Thomas

Are you feeling that the barriers in life are becoming overwhelming? Have you heard, “Get Over It” or "You'll be fine"? Sometimes we need a coach reminding us we can get over the hurdle even if we trip and fall. Many people need support in identifying barriers, adjusting thoughts and approaching feelings differently to pick themselves back up. You can regain the strength to overcome all hurdles in life while also understanding that sometimes we just don't feel like running the race. 

My experiences include working with underserved youth at sports camps, group homes, schools, juvenile centers, inpatient hospitals and in the community. My work is dedicated to giving Black and Brown people a space to just exist. I invite all clients to be their full selves and explore how that shows up in their world. I went to school knowing counseling approaches were not created with me in mind. I utilize several culturally based modalities to address trauma, anxiety, depression and substance abuse in my practice. Overall, empathy is my superpower and I rely on that to form and keep strong therapeutic relationships. 

Specializes in adolescents & adults

Justin Kozak
Therapist & Coach

Partnerships produce health and stability when they stem from equality and reflect realities and interests. I believe counseling is a partnership that assists you in exploring and addressing your mental, emotional, and behavioral needs. Being distressed can be caused by various issues and therapy exists to assist you in effectively managing those issues. Treatment should be diverse since the client’s issues are diverse, so treatment is tailored to the client’s particular needs, as opposed to a one size fits all approach. Let’s work together to find solutions to the issues you are experiencing whatever they might be.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 8+ years of experience in the field. I have provided counseling services to people ranging from ages 6 to 82. I have worked in numerous settings such as intensive inpatient, intensive outpatient, severe mental health facilities, outpatient substance abuse, outpatient mental health, and private facilities.

I was born and raised in the Chicagoland area and can relate to the challenges facing those who reside in this country. I am a down to earth, practical, and straight forward counselor. I rely on being empathetic and relatable to build a strong partnership with my clients. I love working with a diverse group of people from all walks of life.

Specializes in adults, couples, polycules, families, adolescents, & children

EMDR Trained

Liliana Alfaro
Therapist

Have you forgotten about how fun dates with your partner(s) used to be? Do you want to reignite the sex and intimacy that you had with your partner(s)? I'm here to help you find that laughter, spontaneity, and joy that you have been missing.

I offer an empathetic and client-centered environment for each of my couples, polycules, families, and the like. I make sure each member of the relationship feels heard. I believe every person is an expert of their own life and has innate wisdom within themselves. I am here to meet you where you are at and support you in living a life and cultivating relationships that align with your values.

As a Brown, Bisexual, First Generation Salvadoran-American woman/Latina, I prioritize providing sex positive, trauma-informed, and culturally affirming therapy to my clients. This includes, but is not limited to: affirming therapy for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), the Latine community, the LGBTQ2SIA+ community, people in Polyamorous and Consensual Non-Monogamous (CNM) relationships, and those at the intersection of these and other systemically marginalized communities. When working with clients, I will consider all their dimensions of culture and their intersectionality. In addition to therapy in English, I can also provide therapy in Spanish.

It is truly an honor to witness and support clients and their relationships throughout their therapeutic journey. I look forward to working with you along your unique life path.

Specializes in adolescents, adults, couples & families.

Finlay Sarafa McHale
(they/them)

As a therapist and healer, I believe it is necessary to have an intersectional understanding of systemic oppression and all the harm it can bring to an individual. I work with adolescents and adults who want to expand their skills for communication, trust, and radical self-acceptance. Healing happens in community, and I work with my clients to help them locate themselves in a resourced community. I use decolonizing/re-indigenizing practices to help empower my clients to live authentically, joyfully, and with as much safety as possible in an oppressive society.

As a mixed Suraye (indigenous Southwest Asian/North African), queer, nonbinary, disabled person, I believe strongly in decolonizing mental healthcare and approaching client needs based on client goals. A core tenet of social work is the right to client self-determination, and in partnering with you, my goal is to empower you to make the decisions you feel are right for you.

I specialize in sexuality and gender, trauma work, decolonization/re-indigenization, and disability. My clients of the global majority are often reconnecting or reinterpreting their identities, and my white clients are unlearning traumatic internalized white supremacy. Let's work together to create a healing space where you always feel seen and heard.

Specializes in children and parental support.

Tweens, teens and adults

Paisely Owens
Therapist

I believe each individual has the potential to achieve their ideal self through healing, self-compassion, authenticity, and understanding how to navigate through life’s challenges. My goal is to walk with each individual throughout their healing journey as they strive towards wellness and wholeness. As an eclectic therapist, I implement a variety of treatment approaches for each unique individual such as a relational approach, person-centered therapy, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy.  

I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who have personality disorders, depression, anxiety, self-confidence stressors, posttraumatic stress disorder, and sexual trauma. I also create a safe place for the LGBTQIA+ community. Through my warm, empathic approaches, and careful listening, I provide a non-judgemental therapeutic environment where clients feel heard and empowered.

Specializes in Adolescents (14+), Young Adult/ Adult, Groups/Families/Couples

Specializes in adolescents & adults

Spanish Speaking

Jorge Rodriguez
Therapist & Coach

If you’ve ever felt like there was something wrong with you then I’d like to offer to you that there is in fact nothing wrong at all and you are human just like all of us.  I too have felt this way many times. Through my own willingness to seek answers I have found that the clearest answers come with the need to be fully understood. This feeling of understanding is exactly what I’d like to offer you!  I believe in empowerment through understanding our resiliencies as strengths. I know that through my genuine, person-centered, and empathetic approach, I can support you in your own understanding of your needs. 

Through my experience as a counselor, I have helped others realize their trip ups to make better strides in actualizing the type of person they want to be. I utilize strength’s based, positive psychology perspectives, person centered practices,  as well as CBT inspired methodology to help others in overcoming the feelings and resulting actions and behaviors that arise from our feelings with depression and anxiety. I myself have navigated through my own turmoil of life and fully embrace that to deal with life’s natural stressors I had to normalize and accept my situation and my role in overcoming these barriers. 

I have established my practice through over 15 years in the service field working with families in the DCFS system, assisting individuals with mental health issues, providing group and individual counseling services to adolescent youth in the Chicago Public Schools system, and training in engaging youth to adults via group modalities in different settings (School Staff, Police Officers, International Community Development Teams).  These years of service have brought to me the gift of remaining connected to people and being a guide in helping others choose their motivations and capacities to achieve life goals. I am confident that together we can find the bridge to long lasting well-being. 

Specializes in Adolescents (14+), Young Adult/ Adult, Groups/Families/Couples

ADHD & neurodivergent affirming

Dr. Ashley Green
Therapist & Coach

Ashley's focus is to prioritize well-being to all who enter her therapeutic space, regardless if it is your first time or have been to therapy before. She will work to develop a therapeutic relationship that fosters trust and growth with unconditional positive regard. She will sit with any and all vulnerabilities, because listening to a person's story and lived experiences is a privilege.  

Ashley is a PhD student with passions for social justice, community, wellness, and overall well-being, She has a background in athletics that is also reflected in her research and advocacy. 

Her experience includes working as an LPC/NCC therapist in Illinois and as a basketball coach. Therapeutic methodology in counseling is based on Psychodynamic, Rogerian, and CBT frameworks. Most importantly, Ashley prioritizes and values people's culture, identity, and creates an inclusive experience to therapy. Positive Psychology and strength based approaches are utilized to build esteem and make space for any dreams, aspirations, wishes, and desires explored in sessions. 

Throughout her PhD program, she works on developing mental health programs and research in college athletics (NCAA). When she is not in session, she spends time working in the athletic department at Dominican University as a basketball coach and advocate for student-athlete mental health. Prior to counseling, Ashley played collegiate and professional basketball in the NCAA and Puerto Rico's Women's National Team. 

Ashley is a passionate counselor who will be there to encourage you in any stage of your therapeutic journey! 

Specializes in Individuals & Couples
Gottman Level 1 & 2

Currently not accepting new clients.

Doug Hansen, LMFT
Therapist

While in my room, you will find a safe space occupied by a light and lively personality. I will honor your story while valuing the immeasurable significance of context. As we work toward determining your path forward, I will show up and listen and ask you questions. By focusing our attention through the windshield while also checking the mirrors, we will explore the paths that have led you here and those that did not. 

I am inclined to banter and humor in the name of creating a safe space for you to become curious about yourself and share what you learn. I believe in your ability to change an attitude towards circumstances and foster self-awareness and motivation to support emotional understanding. 

Relationally, I am comfortable and competent in the intimate space of a partnered or family system. Identifying established relationship dynamics and developing new ones is essential to the work. This is an extraordinary opportunity to develop as a communicator, most notably as a listener, while facilitating the progress of your systems towards a common goal. 

I also work with: family issues (both past and present), anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, career concerns, dating + relationships, LGBTQIA+, and life balance.

A little bit about me:  I’m a psychotherapist in the Chicagoland area. I graduated from Adler University with my Masters in Couples and Family Therapy. I’m trained in Gottman Level 1 and 2, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have lived in the Pacific Northwest, Southeast Asia and Wisconsin, but Chicago has always been my home. I am fluent with the historical context, pride, pressures, expectations and zeitgeist of the area, which will serve us well as we separate you or your family from the trying experiences and challenges you experience.

Specializes in Individuals & Couples (18+)

Neurodivergent-affirming; Gottman Level 1

William McIntyre, ALMFT
Therapist

Do you struggle to complete your work or chores no matter how much effort you put to get to the finish line? Or perhaps no matter the many ways you try to explain something to your partner, they just don’t understand?

Neurodiversity and communication. Whether you are neurotypical, neurodiverse, or a neurosurgeon, understanding and being understood can be challenging and frustrating. That’s where I can help.

Our world assumes everyone is wired to experience themselves, their relationships, and their environment in a “neurotypical” or expected way. Not everyone processes things within these narrow expectations and are considered “neurodiverse”. You or someone you know may identify experiencing the world differently. This impacts your thought processes, organizational needs, communication, and comfort within our environment. Making it difficult to connect with others and meet others’ expectations of you.

For example, you and your partner know you love each other, but you can’t stop fighting and the fighting never leads to greater understanding. Fighting between partners tells us valuable information; it tells us what matters to you most. And with a few additions to your communication skill set, you and your partner can better understand what matters most to each other. Which means you can spend less time fighting and more time peacefully connecting with each other.

I also work with: anxiety + stress management, life transition, relationships (dating, pre-marital, marriage, parental and peers), multicultural experiences, family dynamics, sexuality + identity, LGBTQIA+, sex therapy, and am Gottman Level 1 trained.

Having a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Adler University here in Chicago, I am ready to help get you and your partner(s) back on track to reconnection like before, and a deeper connection like never before. And having a neurodiverse brain myself, I know the importance of building a life that was meant for your brain. I’ll help you find your own best way Instead of trying to fit the square piece of your brain into the triangle slot of our neurotypical based world.

FUN FACTS:

• I go gaga for games….in person, online, role play, puzzles, escape rooms… I’m always game to game.

• Breakfast all day, any day!

(Currently full. Add your name to Sheena’s waitlist)

Sheena Shukla
Therapist & Coach

Do you often feel strained while trying to straddle different worlds, cultures, and situations that require you to often shift personas? I am here to help you navigate the “double life” that children of immigrants and women of color often create as a reaction to straddling different cultural expectations and attitudes. I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults with alleviating their anxieties in regards to identity and forming life transitions.

I strive to meet my clients “where they are at” in their therapeutic journey. This means creating a warm and compassionate healing space where the therapeutic process is not rushed, but nurtured through strong relationship building between the therapist and client. It is essential for me to understand the clients' cultural context to create a strong therapeutic relationship that speaks to my clients' needs. I strongly believe in the power of talk therapy that is rooted in highlighting the strengths of my clients.

I have dedicated my career working with BIPOC youth in non-profit and educational settings providing educational and mental health services. I strive to practice cultural humility for the populations that I serve and encourage feedback. Bringing mental health and educational services for BIPOC clients is my passion and will be a lifelong journey.

Currently not accepting new clients.

Hi, I’m Erin Matthews.

I am a solo mother, sister, partner, friend and daughter. I go to therapy. I have a coach. I am a survivor of burnout. I live in a country that devalues me for the color of my skin and I am committed to going rogue for racial justice.

I would not ask you to do anything I wouldn’t do. Bring your shame. The secrets you keep near and dear. Feelings of overwhelm. I will be your partner through the pain and stress.

I believe the foundation of all successful therapy, counseling, coaching and mentoring is a warm and empathic relationship between therapist and client, and I do everything I can to forge and maintain a strong bond.