Maria is one of our bilingual therapists. She received her Master of Social Work degree and has been in the field for 3 years. She helps clients address life issues and assists in minimizing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. She works with individuals as young as 6 years old, as well as families, and ensures she establishes achievable goals to help each client succeed. She integrates CBT, DBT, solution-focused, mindfulness, and other techniques in treatment but ensures to always work together with the client to increase mood and contentment in life.

Maria habla Español, le ayuda a individuos y familias a establecer metas de salud mental para vivir una vida saludable. Ella ha trabajado con clientes por 3 años. Está disponible para trabajar con todo tipo de individuos sin importar su género o raza. Maria se asegura que en cada sesión sus clientes se sientan cómodos y seguros en un ambiente donde no serán juzgados.

Social Work Intern

Meera was a student from UIC school of Social Work and was here earning her master's degree. Meera had over 30 years  experience providing social services in a variety of settings. Her own experiences as a child of Indian immigrants led to an ongoing interest in how people integrate their intersecting identities, including language, cultural expectations, gender roles, and community values. Meera will truly be an amazing social worker due to her beautiful core values!

Clinical Intern

Brigete was an intern at Mindful Behavior from St. Augustine and she was in charge of creating clinical forms, gathering resources for our clients, conducting intakes, attending to client's when they needed assistance, and created mental health presentations. We are super proud of Brigete for completing her internship hours and wish her the best in her future endeavors!

Clinical Intern

Jovany completed his internship with us for his Bachlor's Degree from the National Lewis Univeristy. He conducted intakes and case management and ensured client's needs were met and the client fell safe when entering the clinical process. We congratulate Jovany for successfully graduating and moving on to bigger and better things!

Shakea has over a decade of experience providing comprehensive mental health care, with a focus on addressing the needs of clients in nursing homes in collaboration with their families. She specializes in therapy for minors, young adults, and families, with expertise in reunification therapy. ShaKea utilizes evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques, to help clients stabilize and reduce symptoms. Her therapeutic style is client-centered and resource-oriented, ensuring that all available supports are integrated into treatment. She also emphasizes the mind-body connection to help clients recognize how physiological responses can influence decision-making and functioning in daily life. ShaKea values continuous learning and personal development, and enjoys spending quality time with her family.

Aashwi has extensive experience working in the mental health field, most notably with eating disorder recovery and grief therapy. She is also skilled in working with PTSD/C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, general stress, and other adjustment disorders. As a neurodivergent desi woman, she understands the unique struggle of finding a counselor who will understand you in your cultural context, and strives to fill that gap. She approaches her clients with respect, compassion, and humor, emphasizing the collaborative relationship in counseling. She utilizes an eclectic mix of interventions from Rogerian person-centered therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and Gestalt therapy. She believes strongly that counseling benefits everyone, and is passionate about making this tool accessible to all communities. Aashwi is fluent in Gujarati and Hindi, and can comfortably counsel in Urdu and Punjabi.goes here

Erika is dedicated to empowering individuals, couples, and families to achieve mental wellness and build healthier relationships. She has a particular focus on working with children, adolescents, and young adults, specializing in managing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and other life challenges. Erika utilizes CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care, along with her expertise in crisis intervention and strength-based practices. Erika's approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and person-centered care, integrating techniques from solution-focused therapy and mindfulness practices. She believes awareness and acceptance are crucial steps toward meaningful change, helping clients rewire their perspectives on relationships and commit to healthy, sustainable transformations. Fluent in Spanish, she ensures accessibility for Spanish-speaking clients. Erika is committed to bridging gaps in mental health services and looks forward to guiding clients toward a more fulfilling and balanced life. If you’re ready to take the first step toward improved mental health and well-being, Erika is here to support and guide you on this journey. goes here

Clinical Intern
I am passionate about providing exceptional mental health care and supporting individuals on their journey toward well-being. Mental health is a vital aspect of our lives, and learning to prioritize it can greatly enhance our overall quality of life. I offer a safe, non-judgmental, and accepting space for everyone, where compassion, empathy, and unconditional positive regard are at the forefront of my practice. My goal is to help you develop effective coping mechanisms to navigate life’s challenges.
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Dominican University and am currently pursuing my Master’s in Mental Health at North Park University. It would be an honor to work alongside you in your journey toward healing and growth.
Hablo Español.
“There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.” — John Green

Social Worker Intern

I am currently a mental health intern pursuing my Master’s degree at the University of Illinois Chicago. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Southern Illinois University and bring over 15 years of social work experience, working with various at-risk populations. For the past eight years, I have served as a Child Welfare Specialist with the Department of Children and Family Services, where I have honed my skills in case management, community outreach, and advocacy.

I am passionate about advocating for mental health and providing education to the Latinx community in both English and Spanish. I believe that when individuals experience trauma or significant life stressors, their lives can feel as though they are unraveling. My commitment is to help clients—including adults, children, and families—heal and rediscover a healthy perception of themselves, allowing them to build stronger relationships and live with a sense of peace, wholeness, and safety.

I focus on offering compassionate and effective therapy services, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual I work with.

Social Worker Intern

I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Social Work with a specialization in Mental Health at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Before returning to school, I worked in patient financial counseling within a healthcare system, where I gained valuable insights into the importance of ethical and equitable healthcare. As an Arab American, my personal and professional experiences have deepened my understanding of the critical need for accessible mental healthcare for all individuals.

I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to seek help and be met with compassion. My approach is to serve as a supportive partner in each person's unique journey, empowering them to take control of their circumstances. I focus on helping individuals develop the skills and tools necessary to navigate life’s challenges, while respecting their autonomy.

I am particularly passionate about helping individuals address symptoms of depression and anxiety. At my core, I am deeply committed to helping others thrive and live fulfilling lives.

Social Worker Intern

I am a Clinical Mental Health intern, currently pursuing my Master’s in Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago, with the goal of becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to continue practicing individual therapy. I am deeply committed to social justice and human rights, and I believe in empowering clients by recognizing them as the experts in their own lives.

My approach is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to safe, supportive spaces where they can develop tools and coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges. With experience in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with marginalized populations, I prioritize practicing cultural humility in my work. I’m also passionate about continuous learning, meeting new people, and valuing feedback, which helps me tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.

Clinical Intern

I am a client-centered, solution-focused therapist dedicated to trauma-informed care and empowerment. My practice provides a supportive space where you can explore challenges, build resilience, and find practical, value-driven solutions. Believing that you are the expert in your own life, I collaborate with you to navigate life transitions, manage stress and anxiety, strengthen self-esteem, and cultivate healthy relationships.

Passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals, I integrate a social justice perspective, acknowledging the impact of systemic oppression on mental health. My goal is to foster a therapeutic environment that reduces blame and guilt, celebrates diversity, and promotes healing.

Currently pursuing my Master’s in Counseling at Northwestern University, I am committed to providing inclusive, affirming, and effective support tailored to your unique needs.

Clinical Intern
I am pursuing my master’s at DePaul University. Having completed my undergraduate degree in sociology, my academic background allows me to understand how societal structures influence individual lives. My passion lies in helping others, inspired by the support I’ve received throughout my own mental health journey. As a Hispanic, neurodivergent queer individual, I am committed to assisting those in my communities and those beyond them. I believe in the power of holding space and fostering empathy for all, driven by my strong values of multiculturalism and social justice.

My therapy approach is grounded in empathy and inclusivity, emphasizing a client-centered perspective that values each individual’s unique experiences. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, fostering resilience and personal growth. Additionally, I integrate a holistic understanding of clients’ backgrounds and the impact of community and relationships on their well-being, which enriches our work together and supports meaningful change. Creating a safe and welcoming space, I encourage open dialogue and collaboration, empowering clients to become the experts on themselves.

Clinical Intern
I am a counseling intern at Mindful Behavior and a master's student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at North Park University. Originally from Norway, I bring a multicultural perspective to my work, recognizing the diverse experiences that shape each person’s journey.
I am passionate about supporting individuals navigating challenges, in a safe and compassionate space. My approach is to find a tailored solution to what’s needed for each client’s unique needs and goals.
I have worked with young adults, adolescents, and children on the Autism spectrum, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, and ADD. As a social worker and in kindergarten outside of my work, I enjoy spending time with my dog, who reminds me daily of the importance of connection, presence, and unconditional support—values I bring into my practice. I am committed to fostering resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful change. Let’s connect ..I’d love to support you on your journey toward well-being.
Education & Credentials:
Bachelors in Exercise Science; Kinesiology concentration Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling – North Park University (In Progress) RBT Certification (in progress) Social work

Maria has close to 20 years of experience in the social work field. Her early career involved providing psychoeducation to survivors of intimate partner violence around their rights and supporting them through court proceedings. Maria also worked with families by providing parenting guidance and linkage to appropriate resources in the community.

Maria obtained her Masters Degree in Social Work in 2016 from UIC’s Jane Addams College of Social Work. During her time there her area of focus was Mental Health and she also received an additional certification in providing evidence-based practices to children and adolescents. Throughout her years in practice, she has worked with people of color across the lifespan, primarily working with those struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship concerns.

At her practice Paz Interior Holistic Healing, Maria works from a holistic approach, not only focusing on the mind using talk therapy but also the body and the spirit. Through this approach Maria can provide clients with a more complete assessment and treatment. Incorporating different techniques such as yoga, meditation, breath work and reiki, to name a few. Maria loves connecting with nature, being outdoors, going on walks and reading.

Clinical Intern

Analiz is a counseling intern committed to providing a compassionate and supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. Practicing from a person-centered approach, she believes that every individual has the capacity for growth and healing when given the right environment. By fostering a therapeutic relationship built on empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard, Analiz helps clients explore their thoughts and emotions in a safe, nonjudgmental setting. She strives to meet each person where they are, honoring their unique experiences and streng

Clinical Intern

I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), tailoring my approach to fit your unique experiences and needs. Using a strengths-based approach, I help you identify and harness your personal strengths as we navigate your challenges. While I have experience with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for individuals facing OCD and anxiety disorders, I welcome clients dealing with a wide range of issues, including stress, relationship challenges, life transitions, and more.
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone, regardless of their background or reasons for seeking therapy, deserves compassionate and respectful support. In our sessions, we’ll explore your personal story, helping you uncover insights that can transform your narrative into one that empowers and uplifts you.

My ultimate goal is to help you build self-trust and cultivate a deeper sense of confidence in yourself. I strive to create a space filled with warmth and understanding, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way. Choosing the right therapist is a significant decision, and I am here to provide the compassion and expertise you need to thrive. Together, we can discover your path to healing and self-discovery, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey.