Authenticity vs. Attachment: Finding Balance for Emotional Well-Being
In my many years as a trauma therapist in Chicago, I have witnessed firsthand the delicate interplay between two fundamental human needs: authenticity and attachment. Drawing on the profound work of Dr. Gabor Maté, I have come to understand that our very survival depends on nurturing both these aspects of our being. Yet, as Dr….
How Bigorexia Impacts Mental Health Among Gay Men
Alright, let’s talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: bigorexia—also known as muscle dysmorphia. It’s like Captain America constantly pushing himself to be stronger, faster, and better—never quite feeling like he’s reached his full potential—obsessive, relentless, and never satisfied, where no matter how strong, toned, or built you are, your brain still screams,…
How Can Therapy For Parents Of Children and Adolescents With Gender Dysphoria Help?
Gender dysphoria can be a complex and overwhelming experience, not only for the child experiencing it but also for the parents trying to support them. As a therapist, I’ve seen firsthand the deep distress gender dysphoria can cause in families. One of the most common questions I receive from parents is, “How can I…
Empowered Self-Discovery: Combining CBT and Parts Work for Anxiety and Depression
Chicago, the vibrant birthplace of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, has gifted us with a therapeutic gem that, surprisingly, pairs beautifully with the stalwart Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). As a therapist in private practice, I often find myself blending these approaches in a way that makes me feel like a culinary genius concocting the ultimate…
Why Choose Counseling for LGBTQ Online Therapy?
Meet Kai. They’re 29, identify as nonbinary, and live in a rural Illinois town where the local idea of “progress” is putting a rainbow flag on the church bake sale table. Kai has been dealing with anxiety since middle school, compounded by a recent breakup and workplace microaggressions. They’ve Googled “LGBTQ therapy near me” about…