Discover how starting couples/marriage therapy can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
8 therapists available in Chicago
I believe in creating a collaborative and empathetic space with a deep respect for your unique experiences and strengths, because ...
About
I believe in creating a collaborative and empathetic space with a deep respect for your unique experiences and strengths, because therapy is not only about addressing challenges but also about empowering you to reconnect with your resilience and move forward with purpose.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of experience. I have worked with people across all ages and diagnoses, including those in crises. My experience includes supporting adolescents, adults, geriatrics, first responders, and veterans. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, and addiction.
I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. My therapeutic style is collaborative and compassionate, centering on each person’s unique needs. I draw on approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, solution-focused brief therapy, and exposure therapy.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to support, validate, and empower you while helping you feel understood. Wherever you are in your journey, I’ll walk alongside you with compassion and care as we work toward lasting healing and positive change.
Education and training
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I believe my role as a therapist is to provide a safe place for people to explore their true feelings without fear of judgment and...
I believe my role as a therapist is to provide a safe place for people to explore their true feelings without fear of judgment and find their best selves through the exploration of their values and the development of healthy living skills.
Lee Scott is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 11 years of field experience helping clients cope with feelings of stress, anxiety, grief and loss, low motivation, poor self-esteem, low confidence, depression, and emotional fatigue. He has worked with the homeless population, individuals struggling with mental health conditions, and elderly victims of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Lee believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. He establishes a healthy and constructive therapist-client relationship by understanding how people’s experiences and beliefs shape how they think about themselves and the world.
Lee received his Master of Social Work from Aurora University. He tailors care to individual needs and uses cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques.
Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and Lee is here to support you. He believes that truly supporting a person's growth includes occasionally challenging their viewpoints. Lee is ready to start the journey with you and encourages you to schedule an appointment today!
It takes courage to reach out. I am here to support you every step of the way....
It takes courage to reach out. I am here to support you every step of the way.
Mara Silvestri is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults aged 6 to 70. She supports individuals with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavior problems, parenting skills, grief, trauma, and attention deficit disorder. Mara has previous experience working in behavioral hospitals, intensive outpatient programs, and crisis intervention settings.
Mara received her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Marywood University. Mara draws from cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness-based methods.
Mara believes in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where individuals explore thoughts and emotions, identify goals, build skills, and foster a deeper self-understanding. Mara will meet you where you are, providing a space to heal and grow.
Through my own experiences with trauma and loss, I bring a genuine understanding of the profound impact adverse life events can ha...
Through my own experiences with trauma and loss, I bring a genuine understanding of the profound impact adverse life events can have, as well as the potential for resilience and empowerment that can emerge through the development of new coping skills.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 7 years of experience and certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I specialize in supporting individuals navigating trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, addiction, grief, and life transitions. Many of my clients seek support in managing overwhelming emotions, building healthier coping skills, and finding balance in their daily lives. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can work toward resilience, healing, and lasting change.
I earned my Master’s in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My counseling style is collaborative and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based practices to help clients build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and achieve meaningful progress.
I know how difficult it can be to take the first step toward seeking help, and I want you to know you don’t have to face challenges alone. Together, we can create a path forward that fosters healing, growth, and renewed hope. If you’re ready to begin this journey, I invite you to reach out and take the next step toward the support you deserve.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience and a wealth of expertise in multiple settings....
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience and a wealth of expertise in multiple settings.
Gary Zurawski is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCSW, CADC) with over 21 years of professional experience treating teens, adults, and seniors who are struggling to manage the negative effects of anxiety, depression, poor coping skills, family conflict, racial identity issues, substance use, dysfunctional relationships, and more.
Gary earned his Master's degree in Social Work from Loyola University— Chicago. He utilizes evidence-based therapies in his practice and believes that psychotherapy is a relational and collaborative process. As you work together with Gary, you can expect to uncover patterns in your thoughts and behaviors and gain greater control of areas that may seem uncontrollable through the use of effective coping skills. He creates a safe and non-judgmental environment where you will feel comfortable to explore personal struggles and deep-rooted issues at your own pace.
If you choose to move forward with Gary, he promises that you will be treated with empathy, respect, and love. Therapy is not a one-way street and in your open discussions, you will be a team, working together on a journey that can be both exciting and helpful to your life. Gary is looking forward to starting a new journey with you.
Everyone needs support at times, and I am here to meet each client where they are while working to capitalize on their strengths a...
Everyone needs support at times, and I am here to meet each client where they are while working to capitalize on their strengths and achieve their life goals.
Anna Richmond is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She works with adults and youth experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, difficulty concentrating, procrastination, loss, and more. She was previously a school-based therapist, helping families strengthen their dynamics. Anna also worked as a caseworker helping families experiencing domestic violence, homelessness, and other crises, deepening her understanding of the structural and societal factors that impact mental health.
Anna earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Chicago. She's a compassionate, strength-based therapist who values active listening and understanding your perspective. She uses unconditional positive regard and dialectical behavior therapy, which builds skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and relationships.
Anna loves working with people in all stages of life, and whether you're ready to dig deep or just know you want change. Starting therapy takes courage, and she honors that bravery. She provides a nonjudgmental space where you’ll be met with compassion, not shame. Wherever you are on your journey, she is here when you’re ready.
My goal, irrespective of where you find yourself in your journey, is to collaborate with you to enhance your overall wellness....
My goal, irrespective of where you find yourself in your journey, is to collaborate with you to enhance your overall wellness.
Logan Spicer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 6 years of experience in the mental health care industry. She is passionate about helping young adults, adults, and older adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Logan specializes in depression, anxiety, executive functioning, ADHD coaching, trauma, relationship issues, and career development/transitions.
Logan completed her Master's degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is a case manager for Cook County Mental Health Courts. This, coupled with her professional experience, enables her to provide the guidance and support her clients are seeking. Logan utilizes multiple treatment approaches, including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy (PCT) and solution-focused therapy (SFT).
Each one of us holds the capacity to carve out the life we desire despite the obstacles or detrimental habits that may hinder us. Individuals often underestimate their strength, and Logan believes she can assist in revealing that innate resilience. She eagerly anticipates the opportunity to collaborate with you and reaffirm your inherent strengths together.
I believe that everyone’s journey is unique and I try to meet clients where they are emotionally....
I believe that everyone’s journey is unique and I try to meet clients where they are emotionally.
Rachel Herman is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 8 years of experience. She has worked with children, adults, and adolescents in various settings including residential, foster care, and private practice. Rachel has experience and interest in working with children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, PTSD, relationships, communication, anger management, and social skills.
Rachel received her Master’s in Counseling from The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Rachel is trained in psychodynamic theory and incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, internal family systems, and motivational interviewing.
Rachel regards therapy as a partnership between client and therapist and strives to empower clients toward accomplishing their goals. Her counseling style is warm and empathetic, and she tries to meet clients where they are. Rachel believes everyone can change and is ready to help you improve your life.
*Children under the age of 8 must be seen for in-person sessions.*
You deserve dedicated time with a mental health professional — it can be life-changing.
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My go-to approach for helping people in couples/marriage counseling is the Gottman Method. I prefer this approach because it is rooted in extensive research on what makes relationships succeed or fail. The Gottman Method focuses on enhancing friendship, managing conflict, and creating shared meaning in relationships. I find the structured assessment tools provided by the Gottman Method particularly beneficial, as they help identify specific areas of strength and areas for growth in the relationship. By teaching couples practical skills for communication, conflict resolution, and building trust and intimacy, the Gottman Method equips them with the tools they need to navigate challenges and strengthen their bond. Additionally, the Gottman Method emphasizes the importance of rituals of connection and fostering positive interactions to nurture the friendship at the core of the relationship. Overall, the Gottman Method offers a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to couples therapy that can help couples build a more satisfying and enduring relationship.
I teach the following tools in couples/marriage counseling using the Gottman Method:
I know a client is making meaningful progress in couples/marriage counseling when several key indicators aligned with the Gottman Method are observed. Firstly, there is a noticeable decrease in the presence and intensity of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse—criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling—during conflict discussions. Instead, partners demonstrate greater awareness of these destructive communication patterns and actively work to replace them with healthier alternatives.Additionally, there is an increase in the frequency and effectiveness of repair attempts made by both partners during conflicts. Repair attempts, such as using humor, showing affection, or taking responsibility for one's part in the conflict, help to de-escalate tensions and foster a sense of connection and understanding between partners.Furthermore, partners demonstrate improved communication skills, including the ability to engage in softened startups, accept influence from each other, and turn towards each other's bids for attention and connection. These communication skills promote empathy, validation, and emotional intimacy, laying the foundation for a more satisfying and fulfilling relationship.Moreover, there is evidence of couples successfully implementing Gottman Method interventions and tools in their daily interactions outside of therapy sessions. Partners report feeling more connected, supported, and appreciated by each other, leading to an overall improvement in relationship satisfaction and well-being.Ultimately, meaningful progress in couples/marriage counseling using the Gottman Method is characterized by a reduction in destructive communication patterns, an increase in positive interactions and repair attempts, improved communication and conflict management skills, and a greater sense of connection and intimacy between partners.
Clients can supplement their time in couples/marriage counseling with various activities and practices aligned with the Gottman Method to enhance their progress and reinforce therapeutic gains. They can engage in regular discussions with their partner using Gottman's tools and techniques learned in therapy sessions, such as the softened startup or accepting influence. These discussions can focus on exploring each other's perspectives, needs, and feelings, fostering empathy, understanding, and connection between partners.Clients can also practice active listening and communication skills outside of therapy sessions by setting aside dedicated time for meaningful conversations with their partner. They can use Gottman's communication exercises, such as the “Love Map” or “Dreams Within Conflict” cards, to deepen their understanding of each other's inner worlds and strengthen their emotional bond.The use of Gottman's conflict management strategies in their daily interactions with their partner, such as taking breaks when tensions escalate, using “I” statements to express feelings, and engaging in collaborative problem-solving, can be beneficial as well. They can also make conscious efforts to recognize and address the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse—criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling—when they arise, promoting healthier and more constructive conflict resolution.Clients may prioritize quality time together and engage in activities that promote positive interactions and shared experiences, such as date nights, shared hobbies, or weekend getaways. These activities help couples build fondness and admiration for each other, strengthen their friendship, and create cherished memories that contribute to a resilient and fulfilling relationship.Ultimately, by actively engaging in these supplemental activities and practices outside of therapy sessions, clients can reinforce the skills and principles learned in couples/marriage counseling, deepen their emotional connection with their partner, and promote long-term relationship satisfaction and stability.
To prepare for your first couples/marriage counseling session using the Gottman Method, you can take several steps to ensure a productive and meaningful experience. Firstly, take some time to reflect on your relationship and identify specific areas of concern or issues you would like to address in therapy. Consider what you hope to achieve from counseling and any goals you have for improving your relationship.Next, discuss with your partner the importance of attending counseling together and the commitment required to actively participate in the process. It's essential to approach counseling with an open mind and a willingness to engage in self-reflection and growth.Additionally, familiarize yourself with the Gottman Method and its core principles, such as the Sound Relationship House Theory, the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, and the importance of bids for connection and emotional responsiveness. This will help you understand the framework and goals of therapy and empower you to actively participate in the process.Before your first session, consider jotting down any questions, concerns, or topics you would like to discuss with the therapist. Having a list of talking points can help you stay focused and make the most of your time in therapy.Finally, create a supportive and conducive environment for your counseling sessions. Choose a comfortable and private space where you and your partner can engage in open and honest dialogue without distractions or interruptions.By proactively preparing for your first couples/marriage counseling session in this way, you can set a positive tone for your therapeutic journey and maximize the potential for meaningful progress and growth in your relationship.
Couples therapy and marriage counseling, also known as relationship counseling, helps couples work through their specific relationship issues. Some examples of common focuses within couples therapy and marriage counseling include:
The types of therapy used in couples and marriage counseling include:
At Thriveworks, Couples/marriage therapy is led by licensed professionals — often licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) — who are experts in their field and best-equipped to help couples.
The Gottman Method of couples therapy is a research-supported approach designed to enhance relationships by bolstering the bond between partners, resolving conflicts, and fostering shared meaning in their relationship through comprehensive assessments and tailored interventions that improve communication, trust, and the overall health of the partnership.
If you’re facing persistent relationship problems, communication breakdowns, or unresolved conflicts that are impacting your emotional well-being and happiness, Couples/marriage therapy may be beneficial for you.
While marriage and couple’s counseling is typically recommended for couples who are experiencing persistent or severe relationship issues, any relationship can benefit from attending these sessions.
Marriage and couples counseling at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you and your partner.
On average, couples attend marriage and couples counseling for 12 weeks. However, couples & marriage counseling may last longer or shorter, dependent on the couples’ needs, the challenges they’d like to work through, and the pace of their progress.
At Thriveworks, we accept most major insurance plans, allowing many clients to pay as little as $0–$50 per session with their co-pay. We also offer self-pay options for those out-of-network or without insurance. Self-pay rates for talk therapy range from $160 to $240 for intake sessions and $135 to $195 for follow-ups, depending on your state. For psychiatry services, self-pay intake sessions are $255–$375, with follow-ups ranging from $175–$300, also varying by state. More information on current self-pay costs is available on our pricing page.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
Shown in CT
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