Lucas Swenink, LCSW, CADC

Founder

Chief clinical Officer

Pronouns: He/Him

Lucas specializes in working with individuals and couples who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer. Within the LGBTQ+ community, he has particular expertise supporting clients navigating the impact of trauma, depression, anxiety, HIV/AIDS-related health and wellness concerns, substance use and dependency, aging-related transitions, and identity-based stressors. His work is grounded in a deep respect for the complexity of each client’s lived experience.

Lucas practices from an integrative, psychodynamic framework, emphasizing self-understanding, emotional awareness, and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. He works collaboratively with clients to explore long-standing patterns, attachment experiences, and relational dynamics that influence present-day thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Lucas believes that increased insight and emotional safety allow clients to make meaningful and lasting change.

In his work with couples, Lucas draws heavily from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). He helps partners identify and shift negative interactional cycles, strengthen emotional bonds, and foster secure attachment. Through EFT, couples are supported in expressing vulnerable emotions, improving communication, and creating deeper connection and trust within their relationships.

Lucas previously worked as a psychotherapist and clinical training manager at Howard Brown Health Center and Center on Halsted. During his tenure at Center on Halsted, he provided individual, couples, and group therapy and directed the clinical training program. He has advanced clinical training in trauma-informed care, EMDR, EFT, and working with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.

Lucas is committed to providing a thoughtful, affirming, and emotionally attuned therapeutic space where clients feel understood, supported, and empowered to grow.

Please feel free to contact Lucas by email or phone at lucas@catalystclinicalgroup.com or 312-834-5487.

Caleb Collins, LCPC

founder

chief executive officer

Pronouns: He/Him

I approach my work with an understanding that each client's experience is unique and I appreciate the courage it takes to engage in therapy. I work to help my client's feel heard and understood while exploring the sources of their difficulty. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is collaborative and I believe that you are the best expert on yourself and what you want for treatment. Sessions typically focus on building insight into how past experiences affect us today as well as developing communication and coping skills.

I work with LGBTQIA+ individuals and relationships struggling to create change in their lives. I believe engaging in therapy is an intimate and earnest course toward better understanding oneself and others. It is important to find a clinician whom you feel safe exploring what brings you to session.

Additionally, I work with children and adolescents who struggle with social/emotional problems as well as issues surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity. I am committed to ending school bullying and work with all levels of primary and secondary educators on the subject of school bullying and current intervention strategies.

Please feel free to contact Caleb by email or phone at caleb@catalystclinicalgroup.com or 312-399-9601.

Education

THE CHICAGO SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY
M.A., Psychology 2012

DRURY COLLEGE
B.A., Business 2007

Activities & Affiliations

• NBCC Board Certified
• Human Rights Campaign, Member
• Civil Rights Conservation, Member

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
• Emotional Focused Couples Therapy (EFT)
• Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) Institute Graduate

Delaney Savoie, LCPC, CADC

CLINICAL TRAINING DIRECTOR

Staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: She/Her

I'm a queer sex therapist who specializes in providing affirming care to LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. I have a background in addiction treatment and extensive training in trauma-informed care. My therapeutic approach emphasizes each client’s agency, values, and intersecting identities. My hope is to create a nonjudgmental and secure space for clients to find their footing and transfer their strengthened sense of compassion, clarity, and courage to their world outside of therapy. Sessions with me are collaborative and integrative, pulling interventions from a variety of modalities which include but are not limited to: ACT, CBT, EMDR, IFS, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, and attachment theories. I also have a special interest learning more about the intersection between mental health and the understudied area of hormone issues across the lifespan of women and AFAB people. 

As a supervisor, I am passionate about continuing my own education in order to best support student interns and provisionally-licensed clinicians. I strive to maintain a balance between providing concrete clinical suggestions, processing countertransference, and embracing each supervisee's unique therapeutic style.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
Sexual Health Certificate Program, Sex Therapy Track, 2025-2026

THE CHICAGO SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY
M.A., Psychology 2016

DEPAUL UNIVERSITY
B.A., Psychology 2012

Activities & Affiliations

• NBCC Board Certified
• Chicago Queer Therapist Network, Member

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
• Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)
• EMDRIA Certified Therapist • EMDR Consulting; EMDR Training Course, 2019

Lauren Mosley, LCSW

Staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: She/Her

Lauren is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned a Masters of Social Work from University of Illinois Chicago Jane Addams College of Social Work and has a BA in sociology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Lauren’s clinical skill set includes: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practice, relational-cultural therapy, solution focused therapy, and trauma focused therapy. She views presenting problems in a multifaceted manner, allowing her to develop a positive therapeutic relationship and understanding with her clients. Lauren tailors therapy to the individual, drawing from various models and theories to best meet the clients’ identified needs and treatment goals. Lauren is authentic, caring, and creative. Ultimately, she strives to empower and challenge clients to progress and evolve in the way they desire. 

Prior to joining the Catalyst Clinical Group, Lauren worked in community mental health settings on Chicago’s south and west side where she provided outpatient therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families. She also has experience working in residential and school-based settings providing crisis intervention and both short and long term treatment.

Lauren has worked successfully with clients of diverse ability, culture, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identities. She has experience addressing a variety of mental health concerns including ADHD, anxiety, adjustment disorder, depression, family discord, identity issues, and sociocultural stress, among other concerns. Lauren highly values working with a diverse clientele and welcomes the opportunity to support others in meeting their personal goals.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-CHICAGO
Masters of Social Work, 2016

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
B.A., Sociology 2011

Activities & Affiliations

•National Association of Social Work (NASW) Member
•AmeriCorps Member

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Jeffrey Pyritz, LCSW

Staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: He/Him

I believe that stories are at the heart of the human experience. We carry narratives—both empowering and wounding—shaped by our upbringing, relationships, and society. When left unexamined, these old stories can quietly run the show, leaving us feeling trapped without realizing it. My goal is to collaborate with you to safely untangle these narratives, retire the ones that no longer serve you, and co-author a preferred path for your future.

As an eclectic therapist, I blend elements of Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Solution-Focused techniques into a client-driven framework. This means we won't just talk about your problems; we will look compassionately at the different "parts" of you—like the inner critic or the protector—that are trying to keep you safe. By externalizing the heavy stories you carry and unburdening these internal parts, we can tap into your innate strengths to build practical, real-world solutions.

I provide a nonjudgmental, sex-positive, and LGBTQ+-affirming space. I have extensive experience supporting individuals navigating trauma, identity exploration, depression, anxiety, and major life transitions. Together, we will work at your pace to foster deep, lasting alignment.

Education

Loyola University-Chicago
Masters of Social Work, 2016

Roosevelt University
B.A., Psychology 2012

Activities & Affiliations

• NASW, Member

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
• Solutions Focused Treatment for Survivors of Trauma
• Gender and Sexuality Sensitivity Training
• Crisis Intervention Training
• Child Abuse Intervention Training

Lee Thompson, LCSW

Staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: She/Her

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I enjoy working with clients in collaborative ways to support them on their paths of healing and growth. I aim to cultivate a culturally-informed, sex- and kink-positive space for clients to process their feelings and experiences. I affirm all expressions of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as non-traditional relationship structures. My areas of focus include working with couples through relationship challenges, those who have experienced traumatic injuries, the sudden loss of a loved one, and interpersonal trauma and violence.

I am certified in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and work to bring awareness and change to negative cycles of distress. I approach therapy with flexibility, because I believe therapy looks different for everyone.

I will meet you where you are with your goals and strengths. My hope is that our therapeutic relationship will be a space of partnership, warmth, and healing. I look forward to meeting you!

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO A.M., Masters of Social Work, 2021

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
B.A., Psychology, 2016

Activities & Affiliations

• NASW, Member

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) • Certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist

Monique Spells, LSW, PEL

Staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: She/Her

Monique earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at Chicago State University in 2007, a Master’s in Educational Leadership at American College of Education in 2009 and Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Children and Family at Loyola University Chicago in 2019. Prior to joining Catalyst Clinical Group Monique spent years working with children and adolescents on reaching their educational goals, developing healthy peer relationships and assisting families with restoring and rebuilding relationships in their homes.

Monique uses multiple modalities approaches such as: CBT, mindfulness practices, solution focus therapy and other approaches depending on the clients need. Monique believes in focusing on the whole-person to assist clients through the process of meeting their individual goals and developing skills and strategies to help them cope with difficult situations. Monique has experienced working with adolescents and at-risk youth in a school setting, displaced families, individuals who experienced homelessness and difficulties, anxiety, depression, sociocultural stressors and other concerns.

Monique values meeting the client where they are and creating a non-judgmental space where clients can focus on them becoming the best version of themselves. Monique strives to create an authentic relationship with her clients that empowers, motivates and challenges them to understand that they are worth the process. Monique is passioned, excited and welcomes the opportunity to support you on your journey of growth, resilience, and healing.

Education

LOYOLA UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO M.S.W., Masters of Social Work, 2019

AMERICAN COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
M.Ed., Masters of Education Leadership, 2009

CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY
B.S., Elementary Education, 2007

Activities & Affiliations

• NASW, Member • CTU, Member

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW) • Professional Educator License (PEL) • Suicide Prevention & Awareness • Supporting Transgender, Non-binary, Gender Non-confirming Students

Celeste Bonanno, LCSW

Staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: She/Her

As an intercultural and bilingual therapist, I provide culturally responsive, client-centered services to diverse populations in Spanish and English. I have extensive training and experience supporting children, youth, adults, couples, and families. I strive to create a safe space that is responsive, affirming, and inclusive. I use an integrative approach in therapy, considering personal strengths, values, culture, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectional identity. My approach is person-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed, anti-racist and social justice frameworks. My areas of focus include complex trauma (recent, past, intergenerational, historical), family of origin and attachment issues, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, relational or family concerns, acculturation and migration challenges, PTSD, as well as identifying and unpacking conflict and biases.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS - CHICAGO M.S.W., Masters of Social Work, 2016

REGIS UNIVERSITY
B.A. Sociology, 2009

Activities & Affiliations

• NASW, Member

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) • Fluent in Spanish

Jon Heiberger, LCPC

STAFF PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: He/Him

My therapeutic approach is rooted in a variety of approaches, but I primarily utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems, and Motivational Interviewing to help best meet the needs of my clients. I integrate a diverse set of interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adlerian, and Solution-Focused theoretical approaches, while ensuring the client is the leader of their story in the therapeutic space through Client-Centered Therapy. 

You have experienced and understand your experiences deeply, and I am here to guide your mental outlook into a positive direction through reflection, goals, and reframing. I can adjust my therapeutic approach to meet you where you are to best suit your needs, and set you up for success through unconditional positive regard and empathy. Using a strengths-based approach, I help instill hope and inspiration for clients, even when faced with difficult circumstances. 

My career has taken several turns and provided me with numerous stories of success from patrons, members, and colleagues across the various industries in which I’ve had the pleasure to work. My diverse vocational background has presented me with the realization that I really want to help people and celebrate their milestones, but also hold space for growth in uncomfortable situations. I also have been exposed to many industries and provide career counseling services (i.e. resume and/or cover letter review, and personality and interest inventories) to those looking to acquire or change career paths. I invite you into a positive therapeutic space without judgment and I look forward to navigating the therapeutic journey with you, together. You are safe in this space to express yourself, heal, and grow. 

Education

DEPAUL UNIVERSITY M.Ed., Masters of Clinical Mental Health, 2023

UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
B.B.A., Marketing, 2013

Activities & Affiliations

• American Counseling Association, Member

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)

John Ludwig, LCSW

Staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: He/They

Therapy is a practice of returning home to you. It’s an opening to explore your inner world, relate to the immediacy of experience, and shift toward more peace, alignment, and aliveness.

I have experience working with a variety of mental health challenges, many related to the lasting impacts of trauma. We all have overwhelming life experiences, and I believe in everyone’s inherent ability to heal, integrate, make sense of, and transcend adversity. I offer collaboration to support whatever that process means for you.

My therapeutic style is awareness-oriented, experiential, and relational. The core models I use are Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Somatic Psychotherapy. In addition to specialized trainings in these, I'm also trained in EMDR with attachment and somatic focus. I’ve had incredible teachers to help me develop the tools to support effective process, and as a lifelong learner my approach continues to evolve.

My practice is queer, anti-racist, and grounded in critical intersectionality. I’m committed to a way of life that nurtures movement, equanimity, self-discovery, interconnectedness, and collective liberation.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-CHICAGO M.S.W. Masters of Social Work, 2024

DEPAUL UNIVERSITY
B.A., Postmodern Philosophy, Queer Theory, Public Policy

Activities & Affiliations

• NASW, Member

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) • IFS Intensive for Trauma Treatment  • Somatic Therapy Trauma Certification • S.A.F.E. EMDR (PTI / EMDRIA)

Moonee Moses, LCSW

staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: She/Her

My name is Moonee Moses, and I am a Licensed Social Worker based in Chicago. With a background in community-based mental health and a focus on the sociopolitical systems that bring people to therapy, I approach my work with a thoughtful perspective. I specialize in working with trans and queer individuals, trauma-processing, navigating relationship concerns, and supporting those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of themselves.

Therapy is a powerful tool for self-exploration and healing. I believe that people are remarkably effective at shaping meaningful lives if given the space to confront their concerns without judgment. My therapeutic approach is based on empathetic understanding, profound curiosity, and minimizing professional authority. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to come in contact with all parts of yourself, access the courage needed to live authentically, and recognize how past experiences influence your present life.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO A.M., Masters of Social Work, 2024

UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
B.S.W., Bachelor of Social Work

Activities & Affiliations

• NASW, Member
• Clinical Internship Program participant

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
• Gottman Level 1 Training Certified
• Certified Clinical Training Professional
• Mental Health First Aid Certified
• Phi Alpha Honors Society for Social Worker

Emily Gumm, LCSW

staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: She/Her

Learning how to approach the ups and downs of life is a personal journey and everyone deserves a safe space to explore the tools that will best work for them. As a therapist I believe that practicing awareness through conversation and mindfulness is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. If you are going through changes in life and want to explore how you can bring your own values to find solutions, I am available to collaborate with you. I am committed to creating a non-judgmental atmosphere where we can look at life’s challenges and find new approaches for managing the thoughts and feelings which arise.

As a Level 1 Trained IFS therapist, I primarily use IFS and incorporate mindfulness and somatic practices to best support your needs. I believe strongly in using an anti-oppressive lens and work to understand how environmental and cultural factors your life and choices.

I have extensive training in trauma and dealing with its aftereffects. I also have experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD and addiction. In our work together, I am interested in collaborating with you. I believe you are the expert in your own life and want to work at a pace that respects your process.

Education

LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO M.S.W., Masters of Social Work, 2023

ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
B.S., Sociology, Minor in Health, 2012

Activities & Affiliations

• NASW, Member
• IASWG Newsletter Committee Member, 2022-2023

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
• ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP)
• Introduction to IFS – The Healing Power of IFS
• Introduction to Narrative Theory Training
• SBIRT: Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment

Jacob Hosier, LSW

staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: He/Him

As a therapist, I work to create a space that is inviting, collaborative, and purposeful. I am firmly rooted in the belief that despite the inevitable challenges we face, we can still live a life of meaning and fulfillment. Drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and person-centered approaches, I assist my clients in clarifying their values and living a life according to them. I work with clients navigating gender and sexuality, religion and spirituality, life transitions, and relational struggles. I also introduce Exposure and Response Prevention techniques in my practice with clients experiencing complex anxiety, OCD, and phobias. Regardless of why you are choosing to embark on your therapy journey, I will be here as an encouraging voice to accompany you.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO A.M., Masters of Social Work, 2025

WHEATON COLLEGE
B.A., English Writing, 2021

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

Claire Sonne, LSW

staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: They/Them

My name is Claire and I am a Licensed Social Worker and a Psychotherapist. I strongly believe that each human being makes perfect sense when their entire context is seen and understood. I believe that systemic oppressions are deeply intertwined with our individual well-being and mental health. I am incredibly passionate about walking alongside each person I work with on their mental health journeys while taking a collaborative approach on the path towards reaching each individual’s goals.

My therapeutic approach is strongly rooted in contextual behavioral practices along with being strengths-based, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, poly-affirming, sex-positive, and kink-positive. I utilize mindfulness practices along with contextual behavioral practices, acceptance and commitment therapy, and other evidence-based modalities in my practice, while tailoring my approach to center the unique needs of each person. 

I earned my Master’s of Social Work at the University of Chicago and my Bachelor of Arts in Gender and Women’s Studies at the University of California, Berkeley. I specialize in working with adults and relationships who identify as part of the Queer community. As a queer person myself, I bring a unique perspective and understanding to the work. Additionally, as a former Division 1 athlete and coach, I also specialize in working with current and former athletes, coaches, and anyone connected to the sports world. Additionally, I enjoy working with young adults navigating entering adulthood, persons struggling with anxiety, couples, and relationship-based work. 

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO A.M., Masters of Social Work, 2025

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-BERKELEY
B.A., Gender and Women Studies, 2021

Activities & Affiliations

• 2021 Gender & Women’s Studies “Excellence in Action” Award Winner
• President and Co-Founder of the Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance of Berkeley

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW) • Contextual Behavioral Practice Program Graduation
• Clinical Internship Program Participant • Contextual Behavioral Practices Fellowship at Emotional Management Program Faciliated by Paul Holmes, PsyD.

Courtenie Taccolini, LPC

staff psychotherapist

Pronouns: She/Her

My name is Courtenie and I'm a therapist with a Master's in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School. I believe there is profound power in the stories we tell ourselves, and particularly, the ones that have been told for us. My approach to therapy is grounded in Queer and Feminist Theory, Narrative Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I bring a warm, compassionate, and playful energy into the room, to create spaces that are nonjudgement and deeply human. 

As a lesbian clinician, I am passionate about serving the LGBTQIA+ community and supporting adults as they navigate life's complexities. My clinical focus includes attachment and relational concerns, identity and relationship orientation exploration, and the ongoing work of building more authentic connections. I am specifically passionate about sexual health and intimacy within relationships and individually. 

Outside of sessions, you can find me playing fetch with my two cats, reading on the beach, or attending musicals and plays around the city of Chicago. I look forward to supporting you through vulnerability and growth along life's many chapters.

Education

THE CHICAGO SCHOOL M.A., Counseling Psychology, 2025

WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
B.S., Special Education & Psychology, 2018

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Lizzie “Zie” Klink, LSW

Staff PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: They/She

I am a mixed-race, white, queer psychotherapist who loves nature, travel, and culture. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, decolonial, and psychodynamic.  I believe environment, intergenerational trauma, and inequity play roles in people’s suffering, and I aim to bring those truths to light, challenge the status quo, and empower individuals to view themselves outside of the narrow lens society has constructed for us.  I challenge traditional power dynamics by centering the individual as the expert in their own lives, creating a space for collaboration, exploration, and healing.

I believe in the healing power of relationships, and view the therapeutic alliance as a place to practice self-awareness, communication, conflict, vulnerability, and to reinforce what it looks like to be in healthy relationship with the self, others, and the natural world.

My background in performance art and sustainability guides my interest towards creative, somatic, and nature-based healing modalities.  I specialize in working with multicultural individuals and those who do not always connect with the traditional Euro-centric and Western approaches to therapy.  I value creativity, feedback, and experimentation.  I'm always open to discussing intersectional identities, what it feels like to be in the room with a white person, and what areas I need to continue growing in. Let's explore together what feels good to you.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-CHICAGO M.S.W., Masters of Social Work, 2026

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
B.A., Interdisciplinary Studies - Psychology/Sustainability

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

Alonda Smith, LSW

Staff PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: She/They

Our world can be an overwhelming and uncomfortable place to be. It is natural to need additional support as you learn to navigate it. I truly believe that therapy can be an incredible resource for those who desire that extra support! Although I have experience working with nearly all age groups, my focus is mental health work with adolescents. I have a passion for supporting others through life’s most challenging transitions, providing a space to feel heard and validated when the world may not always offer that. Additionally, due to shared experiences, the clients that tend to bond best with me are those with marginalized identities. I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals, such as myself, and aim to create a warm and nonjudgmental atmosphere.

With a background in women’s and gender studies, I utilize an anti-oppressive and multicultural approach to my therapy, inviting "real world" conflicts to serve as additional context within sessions, as desired. My approach is humanistic, and I enjoy utilizing somatic, IFS, psychodynamic, and strengths-based techniques during my sessions. Additionally, I maintain a curiosity for other perspectives and dedicate myself to continuous education to find new methods. I understand that each of my clients has their own unique experiences and may benefit from different approaches. With your help, I believe we can find a treatment plan that can best support you in your journey. In my sessions, clients will benefit from an environment that is welcoming, honest, and friendly.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-CHICAGO M.S.W., Masters of Social Work, 2026

GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY
B.A. Psychology & Sociology Minor, 2022

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
• QPR Certified-Gatekeeper Training for Suicide Prevention
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
• Women's and Gender Studies Graduate Certificate - DePaul University

Mac Svolos, LSW

Staff PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: He/Him

Psychotherapy offers you a space to speak freely about your problems, experiences, beliefs, and desires. I aim to listen deeply to you and to help you do the challenging work of creating change in your life. My approach to this work is grounded in psychodynamic therapy. I incorporate existential therapy and feminist and queer theory in my approach. 

Exploring your past and present experiences in therapy can help you to gain insight into patterns in your life and to improve your relationships with others. I aim to help you to lead a more fulfilling life, whatever that looks like for you. I have worked with people experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I am especially interested in working with people who have concerns about gender, sexuality, HIV/AIDS and other STIs, and religion and spirituality. 

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO A.M., Masters of Social Work, 2026

CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY
B.A., Sociology and Theology, 2017

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

Evangeline Smith

Staff PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: She/Her

Therapy is a tool for healing and growth. I am curious about your story, your relationships, your aches, and your strengths. I take a relational and psychodynamic approach while also incorporating ACT and DBT. Our work together may include reflection, skill-building, and space to practice tolerating discomfort to foster growth.

I believe healthy relationships—whether with ourselves, our loved ones, or our wider communities—are central to living a more fulfilling life. My hope is to create a relationship built on safety, trust and hope where people feel accepted and challenged to grow in new ways. As a queer clinician, I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQ+ clients.

I have spent the last decade working with adults with intellectual disabilities and am passionate about disability justice. Additionally, I have worked as a birth doula and see powerful parallels between birth work and therapy: witnessing growth and new life, naming gifts and being a source of encouragement and challenge.

Education

THE CHICAGO SCHOOL M.A., Counseling Psychology, 2026

THE COLLEGE OF WOOSTER
B.A., Anthropology & Religious Studies, 2016

Aaron Kermani

Clinical Training PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: He/Him

My name is Aaron and I’m currently pursuing my Masters in Social Work. As an emerging therapist, I’ll provide an inviting and nonjudgmental space where individuals can feel motivated and unrestrained in their personal exploration. While I draw from a psychodynamic framework and motivational interviewing techniques, I remain integrative in my approach, shifting my focus as the therapy process unfolds and your needs evolve. Within sessions, I hold your knowledge, identities, and experiences as essential to our work in deepening self-discovery and navigating any challenges that life may offer.

I’m especially interested in working alongside those with concerns surrounding gender, sexuality, HIV/AIDS, religion/spirituality, identity, race, and personal relationships. I believe strongly in meeting individuals where they’re at, leaning into their strengths, and allow the therapy room to be one for unconditional transparency. I look forward to offering you a space to reflect critically on the past and generate new avenues towards your goals in the present.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO A.M., Masters of Social Work, Expected Graduation June 2027

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY
B.A. Psychology & B.A. Social Welfare, 2025

Esme Dervis

Clinical Training PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: She/Her

My name is Esmé and I am currently a graduate student working towards my Masters in Social Work at the University of Chicago. I have a B.A in Psychology, behavioral science and education. As a dual citizen who has lived from Montreal to Miami I have experienced big life changes and what it's like to transition across cultures and climates. 

As a former primary school teacher and queer person, I am particularly interested in working with LGBTQ+ people and youth. My therapeutic approach is rooted in trauma-informed and anti-racist practices that support personal growth. I believe you are the expert in your own life and my role as a therapist is to support you while managing life's many challenges. 

If I am not in session, I am making art, practicing yoga or roller skating.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO A.M., Masters of Social Work, Expected Graduation June 2027

MCGILL UNIVERSITY
B.A. Psychology, 2023

Zoë Bracken

Clinical Training PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: She/Her

My name is Zoë and I am currently working on my Master’s in Social Work at the University of Chicago. I am a firm believer that talk therapy can be transformative for those seeking change, insight, or growth. I aim to be an attentive listener who will bring a sense of warmth and humor to our sessions. I understand the human condition to be complex and hope to create a safe and nonjudgemental space for us to explore all facets of it. I highly value building a strong therapeutic alliance. I gravitate toward psychodynamic and relational therapy.  

My work is rooted in an anti-racist, sex-positive, trauma-informed, and LGBTQ+ affirming approach. My clinical focus includes identity and relational concerns, trauma, attachment, and every day emotional or behavioral concerns. 

As a musician, I value creativity in all forms and hope to incorporate that in our work together. Outside of work, I enjoy biking, attending concerts, and watching movies. 

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO A.M., Masters of Social Work, Expected Graduation June 2027

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
B.S. Human Development and Family Science, 2025

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• Gender and Women’s Studies Certificate

Jaden Cheng

Clinical Training PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: He/They

My name is Jaden and I’m currently pursuing my Master’s in Social Work at the University of Chicago. As a queer clinician with a background in childhood and adolescent mental health, I am especially interested in working with youth and LGBTQIA+ clients. My experience working in queer healthcare and HIV/AIDS care have also strengthened my passion for serving clients of all age groups, sexualities, gender identities, and mental health needs. In our work together, I strive to foster an uplifting and affirming environment that empowers clients to achieve their goals of growth, healing, and positive change.

My therapeutic approach draws from a psychodynamic framework with an interest in incorporating aspects of DBT, and creativity in my work. I prioritize a trauma-informed, anti-racist, and sex-positive perspective, and greatly value understanding the complex intersections of sexuality, gender, race, religion/spirituality, trauma, and beyond.

In my free time, I enjoy drawing, painting, crocheting, and finding new music and movies to enjoy!

Education

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO A.M., Masters of Social Work, Expected Graduation June 2027

UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
B.S., Bachelor of Science in Psychology, 2024  B.S., Human Development and Family Science, 2024 Minors in Ethnic Studies and Asian Pacific American Studies

Licensure and Certified Trainings

• HIV Prevention Counselor - Utah DHS

Hannah Farajpanahi

Clinical Training PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Pronouns: She/They

I believe therapy works best when you feel genuinely seen, heard, and safe enough to be yourself. I have experience supporting individuals through severe trauma and navigating the complexities of mental illness, while also providing an affirming space for those exploring aspects of their identity.

As a queer and Iranian-American therapist with a decade of work in crisis response, my own identities and experiences have deeply shaped my practice, grounding me in values of inclusivity, anti-racism, and cultural humility. I strive to create a space that feels safe, compassionate, curious, and judgement-free. My areas of focus include navigating trauma, relationships, family dynamics, identity, and building a more compassionate relationship with yourself.

I am currently completing my Master's in Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago. Outside of school and work, I am a musician with a healthy love for the outdoors and my cat, Big Boy.

Education

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-CHICAGO M.S.W., Masters of Social Work, Expected Graduation June 2027

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-WHITEWATER
B.A., Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, 2016  Minors in Middle Eastern Studies & Theatre =