Flourish with our trained and compassionate therapists.
Our Therapists
Learn about each therapist by reading their biography. If you resonate with a particular therapist, we encourage you to schedule a complimentary 15-minute initial consultation by clicking on the Request Appointment button or contacting the therapist directly.
Sebastino Aviles (he/him)
MSW, MPH, LCSW - Licensed Clinical Social Worker
In my practice, I aim to create a space where clients can better understand themselves and their evolving identities. I believe that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I honor each client's unique journey and presence. Through a relationally oriented lens, I help clients examine their relationships with people, places, and challenges to gain clarity and insight into their lives. Together, we foster authenticity, self-reflection, and meaningful change. As a social worker, my approach to healing is holistic and nuanced, focusing on understanding each person within the context of their relationships, cultures, systems, and lived experiences. I emphasize the often unseen or unspoken aspects of life as crucial entry points for transformation and change.
My primary therapeutic approaches include Narrative, Relational, and Interpersonal Therapy, all of which I tailor to individual needs. I also integrate techniques from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Eclectic Therapy, always within a culturally sensitive and collaborative framework.
My areas of specialization include LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, trauma, anxiety and stress, depression and isolation, identity exploration, and relationship concerns. I also support clients navigating chronic medical conditions, body image and self-esteem issues, racial and cultural identity, and topics related to sexuality and sexual health.
I hold dual master’s degrees in social work (MSW) and public health (MPH) from the University of Illinois at Chicago and have been practicing since 2015. Additionally, I have a Certificate in Sex Therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies, advanced training in Narrative Therapy from the Vancouver School of Narrative Therapy, and I am EMDR trained through the EMDR International Association.
My sessions are typically conversational, built on curiosity, openness, and mutual engagement. I encourage clients to ask questions, share reflections, and explore possibilities, as I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative and liberating.
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: sebastino@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-210-0755
JeNaye Beavers (she/her)
MS, ALMFT - Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
I strive to empower my clients through radical compassion, curiosity, collaboration and gentle redirection to help them feel confident in navigating life’s challenges in an authentic and aligned way. I am warm, curious, creative and love to infuse humor in my approach, so I might throw in some analogies, visuals or pop-culture references on occasion if it’s relevant and helpful. After working with me, my hope is for you to gain a better understanding of who you are, who you want to be, what you need, what you desire, what gets in the way, as well as where you’re going and who you want to come with you.
I see individuals, couples, and families and work with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, race-related stress, parent-child difficulties, self-esteem, stress management, identity development, communication difficulties, relationship conflict, life-transitions, and more.
I believe one of the major contributing factors to the mental health challenges especially among marginalized communities is due to living within colonial, capitalistic systems of oppression. These systems thrive off the exploitation, silencing and erasure of individuals who are BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color), poor, women, queer, trans, diversely abled, and in larger bodies—to name a few. These systems have wreaked havoc on our relationships to ourselves, our communities, our crafts, and our planet. I aim to create a soft landing place and an opportunity for those who experience the brunt of systemic oppression—who’ve felt rejected, judged, misunderstood, invisible, and outcasted because of their identities—to lay down their armor, tend to the wounds they’ve sustained, and further uncover who they are when they aren’t in survival mode.
I received my BA in Psychology from Cornell University and MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Family Institute at Northwestern University. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Integrative Systemic Therapy (IST) which means I draw from various models, systems and theories to create a plan of care that is tailored to the specific needs of my clients. From EFT, ACT, CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy, to Psychodrama, Bibliotherapy, and Art Therapy techniques, I believe that complex problems require creative solutions to achieve lasting change, and I am no stranger to thinking outside the box.
Whatcha waiting for? Let’s hop—or should I say leap—to it! [Supervised by Lisa Peterson, LMFT]
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: jenaye@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-210-0576
Molly Benning (she/her)
MA, LPC, ALMFT - Licensed Professional Counselor & Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
I genuinely believe that we heal our deepest wounds by building consistent and trusting relationships with others. I am here to be a supportive voice for you and your family as you lean into that path.
Under supervision, I am a dually licensed associate supporting individuals and family systems navigating fracture/fall-out, anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, hoarding behaviors, addiction, mood and personality disorders, as well as conditions on the schizophrenia spectrum. I work especially well with neurodivergent clients (e.g., ADHD, autism spectrum), using a visual, hands-on style that emphasizes clarity and concrete strategies.
I offer a space rooted in inclusivity and open-mindedness, providing safety and affirmation for all identities and cultural backgrounds. I approach each client with warmth, intention, and custom-tailored support. I’m especially attuned to the unique needs of queer individuals and relationships, including polyamorous and ethically non-monogamous (ENM) partnerships. Within family systems, I also provide survivor support for adult siblings and adult children with their parents.
I am a culturally responsive and trauma-informed graduate of Northeastern Illinois University. My theoretical foundation is based on the Satir Growth Model, viewed through an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) lens. However, I draw from a wide range of models to ensure each client experiences a meaningful connection toward their treatment. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), offering practical tools for emotional regulation, self-awareness, and meaningful change.
Wherever you are in your recovery process, I will meet you with compassion and support your journey forward. I hold deep respect for the trust it takes to share your story. I hope to hear from you soon. [Supervised by Lisa Peterson, LMFT]
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: molly@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-210-0298
Samantha Ege (she/her)
MS, ADHD-CCSP, LCPC - Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Being a therapist is an interesting job, you get to meet so many different people and get to follow their stories, see them in some of their lowest points and through their triumphs. I understand the privilege that comes with being trusted with the most fragile parts of our lives. I’ve been in your shoes and understand the feelings that accompany starting this journey.
My approach is holistic and conversational in nature, where I combine strength-based, trauma-informed, and multiculturally competent frameworks to provide a unique and encouraging therapeutic experience. This includes a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused and Mindfulness-Based CBT (TF/MB-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Narrative techniques.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults (e.g., ADHD, autism, etc.), survivors of trauma, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those seeking guidance and support in relationships. I believe in the power of knowledge and I will give you the psychology behind the things, as well as how society and culture impact us, all while discussing what it means to be human.
I once came across a quote that read “in a world full of critics, be an encourager” and that has forever stuck with me, as it may seem like with every passing day we have another loss, I make sure to count every win no matter how small it may seem. I value encouragement, empowerment, authenticity, and integrity in and out of the therapeutic setting. I can balance the roles of cheerleader and coach, meaning I’ll always have your best interest in mind and I won’t be afraid to tell you how it is. If you’re looking to start therapy for the first time or if you’re continuing your journey, I encourage you to take the leap!
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: sam@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-248-3259
Clare Kimmis (she/her)
MA, LPC - Licensed Professional Counselor
I firmly believe that the most important part of therapy is the therapeutic relationship – the rapport built between client and clinician. Finding the “right fit” is essential, as effective change can be difficult if you are not comfortable with your therapist. I thoroughly enjoy building that relationship, which to me begins with providing a welcoming, safe, and comfortable space. I will listen, validate, and challenge, while holding space for emotions, curiosity, and discovery.
My therapeutic modality tends to be humanistic, contemporary, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral. I often take a direct-authentic approach to therapy (and empathetic, don’t worry!). I love using humor to make our work together feel more comfortable and relational. I utilize observations gained from our dialogue together to help construct insights and recognize what behaviors, thoughts, beliefs, or habits might be limiting and/or inhibiting symptom management and opportunities for growth.
I attended the Chicago School of Professional Psychology where I received my master’s degree in forensic psychology with a generalized counseling track, and Creighton University where I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology and English studies, with an emphasis in Spanish.
My main areas of focus are related to complex trauma, conduct disorders, criminal behaviors, anxiety, mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). I tend to take a cognitive processing approach to trauma work, which helps clients build insight and overcome “stuck points” in their trauma narratives. I use a combination of acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral strategies, somatic work (body-mind centered therapy), and exposure therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults on individual and/or relational concerns. [Supervised by Julie Nilsen, LCPC]
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: clare@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-219-4835
Noah Kinder (he/they)
MS, ALMFT - Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
I understand the importance of a safe space, feeling seen, accepted, and celebrated for who you are. At the heart of my therapy is collaboration – you are the expert of your life, and I am here to partner with you in creating transformative change. I believe in the power of connection, self-discovery, and humor in healing. Therapy does not have to be all serious all the time!
As a systems therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families, exploring the intersection of identities. Recognizing how systems, oppressive or otherwise, have shaped your life, I understand that sometimes this work begins with how you see and accept yourself. I will support you in embracing who you are, integrating your unique lived experiences, and cultivating empowerment. My goal is to foster a space in which to safely explore the complexities, big or small.
My wheelhouse includes trauma, navigating relationship conflicts, exploring identity issues, managing life transitions, and addressing anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or body image concerns. Together, we will further develop secure attachments and strengthen your relationships.
My approach is integrative, drawing on systemic, relational, and narrative therapy, as well as emotion-focused therapy, experiential therapy, and Gottman couples therapy. I earned my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Purdue University, and I am excited to continue this work alongside you. Let’s figure out what gets in the way, what you need, and where you are headed – together. [Supervised by Lisa Peterson, LMFT]
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: noah@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-248-2334
James McNamee (he/him)
MEd, LCPC - Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space where clients feel heard and understood. This may seem like a simple idea, but in reality, most people rarely experience this on a regular basis, if ever. While people often seek counseling when they are not feeling emotionally well or due to stressful issues in their lives, what they are often looking for is acceptance. In life, many of us make decisions that we may not be proud of, or think a certain part of our identity is less beneficial to the person we want to be. Perhaps we struggle alone in our battles, as others have simply dismissed our behaviors or choices. People in our lives may have formed judgments about our past actions or missteps, or been critical, which can make positive change even more difficult. I want everyone to whom I provide help to experience true acceptance. I strongly believe that once people experience true acceptance, they are often then ready to explore issues around negative thought patterns, unhealthy relationships, and poor coping mechanisms.
I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years in school settings, community mental health, group homes, and outpatient settings. I have also been lucky enough to be involved with a local LGBTQIA organization for the past six years as a volunteer therapist. This has truly been one of the most fulfilling roles I have had in the field.
I utilize an integrated model of therapy that can include psychodynamic principles, Person-centered techniques, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With many theories and techniques at my disposal, I am able to specifically cater to my clients’ needs. I will often ask my clients what is working for them and what is not. With this information, we may tweak some things that we have already been doing or begin exploring other techniques that may yield better outcomes. I believe that this collaboration between the client and therapist is the key to successful treatment and positive change.
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: james@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-248-2992
Alma Navarro (she/her)
MEd, Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Intern
Our therapeutic relationship is at the foundation of the work we do together. Oppressive systems in society can often make individuals feel intimidated when it comes to asking for help - yet here you are, looking at my bio, on the cusp of asking! In our shared space, you will feel warmth; not intensity or judgment. I do whatever I can to remove barriers, in order to create a safe, warm space; a space in which we can talk through decisions, challenges, life! My job is not to tell you what to do in your life, rather, to empower you as you navigate. As we get to know one another, we might chat about books, movies, challenges, or whatever else - I am here for it all, and will be at your side to listen and to talk!
My approach is integrative, drawing from various models such as person-centered, feminist, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I believe an integrative approach allows me to find what works best for you, the client. Not one single approach works for everyone. I believe it is important to be skilled in different approaches, in order to help you, the client. My main areas of focus are depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, identity-development, relationship conflicts, and more. I work with young adults, adolescents, LGBTQIA+ community, first-generation individuals, and more.
I received my BA in Psychology with a double minor in neuroscience and women and gender studies from Indiana University Northwest, and my Master’s of Education from DePaul University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. [Supervised by Samantha Ege, LCPC]
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: alma@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-219-4626
Julie Nilsen (she/her)
MA, NCC, LCPC - Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
I have had the opportunity as a therapist to work in different settings including community mental health, outpatient, and schools. This has allowed me to engage with many different people with different backgrounds and experiences and to listen to each of their unique life challenges. This has also driven me to work from a place of cultural humility and with a multicultural and systemic lens.
Whether I am working with adolescents or adults, I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental environment in which clients feel understood and comfortable exploring issues, while cultivating self-awareness to create positive change in their lives. Based on the needs of the individual, I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Person Centered to help the client achieve their goals.
I have extensive experience working with those dealing with ADHD, anxiety, school refusal, depression, trauma, life transitions, and identity. I find joy in watching individuals discover a path to positive change and while I take my role as a therapist seriously, I believe in the therapeutic nature of play and humor and utilize these in my work with both adolescents and adults.
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: julie@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 847-220-4571
LaQuan Outten (she/her)
MA, LPC - Licensed Professional Counselor
I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to become the best version of themselves. As a therapist, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship and fostering collaboration to ensure clients feel understood and heard. It is important to me to cultivate a safe space where you can explore your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, ultimately enabling you to create your best self. I strive to provide compassionate and effective therapy, approaching each client with unconditional positive regard and empathy to meet them where they are.
I earned my Master's in Counseling from Roosevelt University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I view my clients holistically and utilize an integrated approach to therapy. I examine multiple factors that may be impacting you, including past experiences, current situations, and future endeavors. This comprehensive understanding allows me to tailor support to your needs and provide you with tools to promote ongoing growth.
While my experience is primarily with children, adolescents (including teen parents), and families, I am open to assisting all individuals. I have experience working with a range of issues, including anxiety, self-esteem, relationship challenges, and managing life transitions. Together, we will establish goals that will equip you with the skills and resources to navigate life's challenges and build resilience for personal growth. [Supervised by Julie Nilsen, LCPC]
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: laquan@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-210-0319
Lisa Peterson (she/her)
MA, MBA, LMFT - Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
I love being a therapist! I feel so fortunate to have found my “thing” in life, and getting to hone my skills every day brings me great joy. I relish the opportunity, which is continuously presented, to learn about cultures and life situations that are different than my own - truly, this is what makes the work so interesting.
As a systems therapist, I explore how family, societal, and other structures influence people, especially during seasons of conflict and transition. I often reference homeostasis* and encourage people to think about where their rules of behavior originate; then challenge an individual’s own agency, in order to effect change. Based on the needs of those I am seeing, I use a variety of approaches including Attachment, Narrative, and Solution-Focused therapies, along with the occasional dose of humor.
I welcome individuals, couples, or family systems. In conflict, I seek to hear each voice within the system, understanding that feeling heard can be transformational. Broadly, my work includes those who are finding their way through anxiety, depression, grief, life-transitions, trauma, and identity. *homeostasis = the ability or tendency to keep conditions the same, despite change
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: lisa@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-612-9424
Emily Wegh (she/her)
MA, NCC, LCPC - Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
I feel fortunate to have spent the majority of my five-year clinical career working in community mental health, primarily with adults, at all stages of recovery. Community work, in addition to individual therapeutic settings, has given me vast experience in working with trauma, substance use, serious mental illness, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I employ an integrative approach, largely informed by systems theory and attachment theory, while utilizing practical skills drawn from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My approach is trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming, while making every effort to integrate how an individual's specific identity group can be impacted by societal structures.
Curiosity is what drew me into the field of therapy and remains at the core of my practice. I enjoy working with clients as they explore self/identity and strive to make meaningful change, whether by building on existing skills or exploring new ones. My style is warm, non-judgmental and collaborative, and I am keen on finding the most effective tools for my clients as they seek empowerment and healing in their life. Nothing brings me more joy and fulfilment than better understanding a situation, especially if it is radically different from my own lived experience. I am here to learn with you, support, guide and challenge you, laugh and cry with you.
Contact me directly to schedule.
Email: emily@leaptherapychicago.com
Phone/Text: 312-248-2869