About Soleil Psychotherapy
“Soleil” means “sun” in French, and like the sun, we strive to provide rays of hope and light to individuals who might be struggling in dark times.
We are a group of genuine, curious, and passionate trauma and sex therapists whose values are rooted in creating a therapeutic setting that is sex-positive and inclusive. Above all, we believe in fostering an authentic environment where clients feel comfortable expressing the most vulnerable parts of their lives while being met with support, validation, and empathy.
Values
Authenticity
We show our humanity in our work with you, not just our clinical expertise. We come to sessions with our own vulnerabilities and truly value these genuine exchanges and the healing connections.
Trauma-informed
We recognize that trauma is part of most people’s lives, so we create a normalizing and safe environment to address it. We believe that most of our symptoms are a normal reaction to an abnormal reality, so we help rewrite narratives and challenge cultural and social limiting beliefs to increase fulfilling lives.
Sex positivity
Sexuality is an integral part of who we are as humans, and as experts in this area, we provide sex education and encourage healthy sexual pleasure and exploration. All of our therapists are LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink-positive, and poly-friendly.
Cultural sensitivity
Soleil actively cultivates, supports, and emphasizes a culturally sensitive environment where people of all diverse identities and walks of life are welcome and their unique identities celebrated as strengths. We approach therapy from an anti-racist framework.
Mind-body centered
Somatic approaches are at the center of our work. Traditional therapies only focus on the mind, yet we emphasize the mind-body connection with strategies that will help you release your trauma and stressors and help you have a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
Ewelina Beardmore, LCPC, CST, SEP
(she/her)
Practice Owner & Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Out of Control Sexual Behaviors
Postpartum, Pregnancy, & Prenatal Concerns
EMDR
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Ewelina Beardmore is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Sex Therapist (CST), EMDR-trained therapist and Somatic Experiencing Professional (SEP) who uses a relational , somatic and strength-based model to help individuals and couples gain awareness of the roles and the dynamics present in their relationships. She has expertise in helping individuals heal from traumas such as sexual assault, childhood abuse as well as physical and emotional abuse, and is passionate about helping individuals overcome the challenges of significant life transitions such as infertility, postpartum struggles and parenthood.
Ewelina values the role and importance of sexuality in clients' overall health, and helps clients overcome challenges such as lack of intimacy, sexual and gender identity, desire discrepancy, postpartum recovery impacting sexual health, difficulties with orgasm, compulsive sexual behaviors, erectile dysfunctions and painful intercourse. She is sex-positive, kink-friendly and affirming of polyamorous relationships. Ewelina is a Certified Sex Therapist through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT).
In addition, Ewelina has completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which allows her to assist couples improve their communication styles and explore goals throughout each stage of their relationship. She is also trained in a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients manage anxiety and depression.
Ewelina's international background allows her to connect with individuals struggling with cross-cultural issues and assist in developing coping skills to manage life's obstacles. Additionally, she has offered guidance to clients on issues involving work-life balance and behavioral and emotional health in an employee assistance setting. Ewelina earned a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, graduating with honors. She is fluent in French and offers services in this language.
Rachel Berg, LCPC, CST, CADC
(she/her)
Practice Director & Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma & Attachment
Performance Anxiety
Out of Control Sexual Behavior
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Rachel Berg is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist (CST), and a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC). She has always been inspired by the depth of individual stories and the countless ways people navigate their lives. Rachel firmly believes in the potential for growth, healing, and transformation, and she approaches therapy with warmth, hope, and non-judgmental support. She honors each person’s unique background and strives to foster authentic therapeutic relationships built on trust and encouragement.
Rachel takes a strength-based approach to therapy, helping clients recognize the impact of their patterns, emotions, and reactions on their relationships with themselves and others. She integrates mindfulness and somatic-based modalities to help clients increase awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and physical responses, fostering a deeper understanding of their behaviors and creating space for meaningful change. By incorporating these approaches, Rachel helps clients regulate their nervous system, reconnect with their bodies, and develop healthier ways to navigate stress, trauma, and relationships.
Rachel utilizes evidence-based treatment modalities and has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. She supports clients navigating challenges such as trauma, substance use, compulsive sexual behaviors, grief, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, desire discrepancy, lack of intimacy, difficulties with orgasm, erectile dysfunction, and life transitions. Rachel is sex-positive, kink-aware, and affirming of polyamorous relationships.
Rachel earned her Master’s in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in addictions from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She was honored with a Distinguished Graduate Award, recognizing her excellence in leadership, multicultural competence, social advocacy, and community engagement.
Stephen Heintz, MA, LCPC
(he/him)
Director of Employee Enrichment & Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
LGBTQ-Affirming
Attachment
Relationship Issues
Family of Origin
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Stephen believes strongly that, while life can present difficulties and challenges, people have fundamental inner-strengths that can help them cope. As a therapist, Stephen warmly accepts his clients as they are, and works alongside them to explore who they would like to become. He believes in the power of human connection, and strives to use that connection to help clients access their strengths--to ultimately bring about meaningful change, healing, growth, and understanding.
Stephen’s clinical emphasis is in working with relationships and couples, as well as individuals. He has worked with clients experiencing challenges related to depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, life transitions, communication, and much more. Having graduated from the training program at Center on Halsted, Stephen has experience and specialized training in working with the LGBTQIA+ community. He is also sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships. He has training in multiple therapeutic modalities, including client-centered therapy, Gottman, EFT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Stephen Heintz earned a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a concentration in marriage and family therapy. He was the recipient of a Distinguished Graduate Award that served to acknowledge his excellence in leadership; commitment to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy; and service and community engagement.
Stephen is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.
Karina Melendez, MA, LPC, CYT
(she/her)
Client Care Coordinator & Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Sexual Abuse
Relationships & Attachment
Racial/Ethnic Identity Development
Gender & Sexuality
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Karina is a warm and personable therapist who utilizes a relational, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to help clients cultivate curiosity and deepen interpersonal relationships. She believes the therapeutic process is a dynamic and deeply personal experience, where she aims to collaborate with clients to create sanctuary spaces for healing rooted in empowerment. Karina values culture, creativity, curiosity, and community.
Karina’s experience in community mental health has provided her with a diverse set of skills. She’s worked with adult and child survivors of sexual violence and complex post-traumatic stress. Additionally, she has experience working with topics such as depression, anxiety, performance anxiety, out of control sexual behaviors, self-esteem, attachment, dissociation, lack of intimacy, and more. Karina uses an integrative approach to tailor clients’ care, leaning on modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), narrative therapy, and relational-cultural therapy (RCT). She is a sex positive, Kink/BDSM-friendly, and consensual non-monogamy-affirming therapist who has an interest in working with clients to explore their sexual liberation.
Karina earned her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in LatinX Mental Health from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology where she was the recipient of a Distinguished Graduate Award.
Karina identifies as a 2nd-generation Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Peruvian queer women and believes there is beauty and wisdom in cultural and racial diversity. In her free time, she is carefully curating a playlist, expanding her culinary interests, and expressing herself through movement.
Karina is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Ashley Homa.
Rita S.
(she/her)
Client Care Director
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Rita understands that initiating the first step in your therapy journey can be difficult, and the inevitable next step of understanding your insurance benefits can be equally difficult. From pre-appointment consultations to benefits verifications, Rita is here to assist with all of your intake and billing questions.
Ashley Homa, MA, CYT, LCPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist & Supervisor
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Mind-Body Connection
Transition to Parenting
Postpartum, Pregnancy, & Prenatal
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Ashley deeply values the therapeutic relationship, believing it to be a cornerstone of healing. She fosters a space of authenticity, where clients feel seen and heard without judgment. Her approach is rooted in empathy, meeting clients where they are, and cultivating a genuine connection. Ashley prioritizes the human bond, knowing that transformation often begins with trust and a safe space to explore one's inner world.
In addition to her expertise in psychotherapy, Ashley is a certified yoga instructor and passionate about the mind-body connection. She integrates holistic practices, recognizing that tuning into the body can unlock insights about the mind. This mind-body orientation plays a crucial role in her work as a sex therapist, where she addresses concerns such as desire discrepancy, intimacy challenges, orgasm difficulties, painful intercourse, and erectile dysfunction.
Ashley brings a wealth of experience working with individuals, couples, and groups, helping clients navigate trauma, substance use, grief, loss, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and significant life transitions. She creates a welcoming environment for clients of all backgrounds and identities, including those from the LGBTQIA+ community, and is firmly sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships.
Her therapeutic approach combines evidence-based modalities with a bio-psycho-socio-cultural framework, incorporating techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Ashley also integrates somatic modalities, understanding the importance of connecting the body and mind in processing emotions and healing trauma. She collaborates with clients to co-create individualized treatment plans, empowering them to take an active role in their healing journey.
Ashley is also passionate about guiding clients through life’s major transitions, including infertility, postpartum struggles, and the challenges of parenthood. She holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and is dedicated to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy, and community engagement.
Bella Kimrey, MA, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Body Image
Transition to adulthood
Gender & Sexual Exploration
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Bella believes in creating a balanced relationship with her clients to recognize the client’s role as the expert of their own experience. In her clinical work, she emphasizes the impact of early childhood development on adult relationships and the role of the unconscious in guiding behavior. Bella also integrates concepts from feminist theory to acknowledge the role of systemic factors in shaping our reality. Bella’s clinical emphasis is in working with individuals, relationships, and groups. Bella has training in various evidence-based modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but she uses a holistic approach to view clients through a bio-psycho-socio-cultural lens. She is passionate about helping people overcome body image issues, and working with young adults to build confidence, manage anxieties and transition into life’s experiences.
Bella gained significant experience at the Center on Halsted supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. She worked primarily with the Anti-Violence Project, providing trauma-informed care to survivors of violence in the LGBTQIA+ community. Bella embraces all expressions of gender, and is a sex-positive, kink-friendly, and poly-affirming counselor. She has worked with individuals navigating gender transition, the coming out process, trauma, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, HIV+ status, domestic violence, ADHD, mood disorders, suicidality, life transitions, and relationship problems. Bella earned her Master’s in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice) from Roosevelt University, graduating with honors and she is committed to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy, service and community engagement.
Bella is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Ewelina Beardmore.
Renata Zielinska, MA, LPC
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
OCD
Attachment
Relationship Issues
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
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As a psychotherapist, Renata believes the therapeutic relationship is crucial for growth and healing, so it is significant that she builds trust and connection with each unique person. Renata invites clients to bring their whole, authentic selves into counseling and takes a non-judgmental, integrated practice to help clients foster self-awareness, deeper understanding and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and interpersonal difficulties. She recognizes that we are all unique; therefore, she tailors treatment based on the individual and their current needs. Additionally, Renata believes that past experiences play a substantial role in our worldview and how we approach relationships, responsibilities, and the relationship with ourselves, so she collaboratively guides clients in making connections from the past to their present circumstances.
Renata’s international background allows her to connect with individuals with cross-cultural issues and assist in developing coping skills to manage life obstacles. Renata recognizes that it is an honor to engage in such interesting, fulfilling work with clients trying to make life better for themselves and their loved ones. Renata is sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships.
Renata is trained in various empirically supported and holistic treatment modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance, Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF- CBT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness and Psychodynamic. She is certified in CBT for Anxiety & OCD and completed an extensive clinical training program through the Center for Anxiety Training. Additionally, Renata is trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy and has applied this technique to treat a range of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders. She has experience providing high-quality, outpatient behavioral health therapy and psychotherapy to adolescents and adults in empirically supported treatment for anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress, grief, trauma-related disorders, depression, and dual diagnosis.
Renata earned a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Renata offers support and guidance for healing and growth in any domains of your life that you would like to examine. She is committed to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy, service, and community engagement.
Renata is a Licensed Professional Counselor and is supervised by Rachel Berg.
Christina Carbone, MA, ALMFT, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Relationships & Attachment
Mind-Body Connection
Communication & Emotional Identification
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Christina is fascinated by relationships and believes they are fundamental building blocks of life. She believes our most intimate relationships reflect the overall quality of our lives, and understands human connection is incredibly powerful in healing.
Christina fosters a non-judgmental, authentic, environment that honors the connection each individual has to the self, and the world in which they exist. She utilizes curiosity, humor, and compassion to promote guidance in calling attention to areas of growth to create the life you want to live.
Christina’s clinical orientation is holistic, strength-based, and integrative. She recognizes unique lived experiences and encompasses client’s fundamental inner strengths to encourage growth and cultivate change. Her techniques are rooted in exploring mind-body connection and emphasize the power of healing through an interconnected lens.
Christina has clinical experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She has assisted clients navigating concerns related to trauma, anxiety and depression, self-esteem, relationships, and sex therapy. Christina is sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships and LGBTQIA+.
Christina has training in various evidence-based treatment modalities including, Acceptance Commitment Theory (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Attachment . She warmly accepts clients where they are at, and creates effective treatment and lifestyle plans based on individual needs and goals.
Christina earned her Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Wayne State University specializing in Marriage and Family therapy, graduating with honors. She is committed to continuing education, diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy, and community service and engagement.
Christina is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Rachel Berg.
Gabriella Bonucci, MA, LPC
(Any Pronouns)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Gender & Sexual Identity
Neurodiversity
Relationship Issues
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The stories of our lives are made up of connections and strengths as well as challenges. Gabriella believes in walking alongside you in your journey through healing by emphasizing the strengths you have while collaborating to create goals that address the challenges that you are facing.
Gabriella understands her responsibility for creating a safe, non-judgmental space with an empathetic and collaborative approach. She believes in empowerment, authenticity, and honesty to foster insight into patterns and progress towards the goals you seek to achieve.
If you are seeking movement towards a life more in alignment with your values and life goals but feel stuck - whether that be by OCD cycles, desire discrepancy in your relationship, executive dysfunction, phobias, trauma, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus, attachment wounds - Gabriella will work to help you examine these patterns and gain increased understanding and insight into them in order to form new, desired patterns. Gabriella specializes in working with neurodivergence (OCD, ADHD, Autism), trauma (C-PTSD, religious trauma, childhood trauma, sexual trauma, family trauma, medical trauma), attachment wounds, and sex therapy (desire discrepancy, difficulty with intimacy, difficulty with orgasm, erectile dysfunction, out of control sexual behaviors, and more).
Gabriella has clinical experience working with adults of diverse backgrounds and communities, as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community across the sexual and gender spectrums. Gabriella works from a holistic and integrative approach because they believe that therapy is a vulnerable and personal journey that should be tailored to those they are working with.
Gabriella’s primary modalities include Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and Existential Therapy. They are also experienced in utilizing Somatic Experiencing, Gottman’s, Gestalt Therapy, and Feminist Therapy. Gabriella is also highly trained in, and specializes in OCD treatment modalities including Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), OCD Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Inference Based Cognitive Therapy (ICBT).
She is sex positive, kink friendly, LGBTQ+ and polyamorous affirming; Gabriella’s approach is based in cultural competence and humility. Gabriella earned her Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Gabriella is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Ashley Homa.
Colie Smigliani, MA, LCPC
(She/They)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Attachment
Out of Control Sexual Behaviors
Couples Work
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Colie practices both in her clinical work and in her personal life the belief that individuals are whole beings rather than fragmented pieces. Because of this, Colie aims to understand and treat the whole individual, incorporating one’s mental health, physical health/somatic practices, sexuality, sleep habits, spirituality and more into her time with clients. She believes that you are the expert of what it is like to be YOU, and asks clients to dive into discovering their whole selves with her in session.
Colie works from a holistic and existential approach that asks her clients to be in the driver's seat of their own lives as she rides shotgun, along for the journey and many detours life often takes us on. Her primary modalities include Sex therapy, Somatic Practicing, Narrative Therapy, Feminist Theory, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Colie comes to Soleil with a background in working with young adults/emerging adults, families, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. She has worked with individuals of diverse backgrounds and communities who are experiencing difficulties relating to trauma, sexuality, family of origin, (C)PTSD, depression, anxiety, attachment concerns, LGBTQ and gender exploration, and anger management. She is LGBTQIA+-affirming, sex-positive, and kink and poly-friendly.
Colie earned her Masters in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Her favorite quote reads:
For a star to be born there is one thing that must happen: a gaseous nebula must collapse.
So collapse. Crumble.
This is not your destruction,
This is your birth.Colie is a Licensed Clincal Professional Counselor.
Ryan Curran, MA, LCPC, ATR
(They/Them)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Neurodiversity
Art Therapy
Gender & Sexuality
Complex Disabilities
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Ryan is an art therapist who believes in the power of creativity to foster connection, expression, and healing, particularly when words fall short. Grounded in the transformative potential of relationships, Ryan offers artistic exploration as a means for individuals and couples to create healing connections and gain personal insights. With a commitment to meeting clients where they are, Ryan cultivates a non-judgmental and supportive space for exploring topics related to sexuality, gender, and relationships.
Ryan is passionate about providing therapeutic support to clients who are navigating a variety of experiences including open relationships, polyamory, kink exploration, sex work, exploring gender and sexuality, creating disability-inclusive relationships, wanting to improve communication skills, managing anxiety and depression, or looking to build skills to improve sexual pleasure. Their approach is strength-based, person-centered, and deeply informed by the disability justice movement, transformative justice, and pleasure activism. They believe that connecting with pleasure and learning skills to create satisfying relationships can be a radically healing experience on both a personal and collective level.
Ryan earned a Master’s Degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. They began their career working in community mental health settings providing art therapy services in retirement communities, hospitals, and Chicago Public Schools. They have several years of experience working with clients experiencing complex disabilities including neurodivergence, physical disability, or invisible illnesses. Continuously learning and refining their practice, Ryan is dedicated to offering clients the highest level of care.Ryan is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.
Yani Roman, MSW, lSW
(She/They)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Grief
Attachment
Family of Origin Issues
Gender & Sexuality
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Yani is a Latinx Queer therapist who utilizes trauma informed care to create a safe and welcoming environment to all individuals. She feels incredibly passionate about creating an environment for individuals to come as they are, whether it’s your first time in a therapeutic space, or whether you’re familiar with the space but looking to unpack newer or older things in your life. Yani has worked with individuals from all walks of life but feels incredibly passionate about trauma work, especially when it comes to the discussion of generational trauma. Additionally, Yani also loves working with individuals who struggle through grief, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, eating disorders, mood disorders, LGBTQ+ related issues, domestic violence, childhood trauma, and sexual trauma. Yani has a special interest in client’s who are seeking services for Sex Therapy.
Their background in community mental health has provided them with an array of skills in working with clients with such complex issues. Yani wants to be the clinician that shines the light on the path that you are deserving to take. Yani's approach to the therapeutic space is collaborative and direct. She likes knowing that her clients have autonomy to decide what feels safe and comfortable to address during treatment. She also loves providing clients with “homework” as she believe that the work to be done in therapy should not only consist of 1hr per week. She challenges client’s to process thoughts, feelings, and emotions outside of the therapeutic space. Some modalities that they utilize during their work with clients consist of: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Gottman method, Psychodynamic therapy, family systems therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.Yani earned her Master of Social Work with a concentration in Advanced Clinical Studies fromWalden University. She identifies as a Queer woman who is of Puerto Rican descent. In her spare time, she enjoys going to Broadway shows and being a dog mom to her two dogs, Mochi and Rye!
Yani is a Licensed Social Worker and supervised by Catherine Santo.
Rachel Schaefer, MA, LCPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Fat Liberation
Relationships & Ethical Non-Monogamy
Gender & Sexuality
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Rachel cares deeply about having her clients feel seen, understood, and safe enough to explore their whole self and life journey. Her practice is rooted in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space where clients can openly explore any and all aspects of their identity. Rachel believes that a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship can lead to growth, healing, and meaningful change.
Rachel particularly enjoys working with young adults and individuals wanting to explore their identities and lifestyle. Whether it’s understanding one’s gender and sexual identity, processing religious trauma, or seeking a fulfilling career path, she provides a supportive and affirming space for clients to explore and grow. Rachel loves helping clients identify and prioritize their values in order to align their life with what brings them joy.
Rachel’s clinical emphasis is in working with LGBTQIA+ and gender nonconforming individuals, as well as couples and non-traditional relationship styles. Rachel also provides neurodivergent-affirming care. As an advocate for fat liberation, Rachel believes in encouraging clients to love their bodies and take up space unapologetically. She is dedicated to supporting individuals in their quest for self-acceptance and body positivity. She is also sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships.
As a queer and fat therapist, Rachel uses modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to empower her clients to embrace all parts of their identity. She comes from a background in community mental health and earned her Master’s of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University. During her spare time, she enjoys crocheting, listening to podcasts, and going on Hot Girl Walks.
Rachel is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.
Aisling Byrne, MA, LCPC, RYT
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Body Image
Relationships
Mind-Body Connection
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Aisling approaches therapy with warmth, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for the transformative power of human connection. She believes meaningful change begins with understanding ourselves more fully and creating space for new ways of relating to ourselves and others. Through a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship, she helps clients navigate life's challenges with greater self-awareness, compassion, and intention.
Aisling works with adults and couples navigating anxiety, relationship and communication difficulties, intimacy and sexuality concerns, body image challenges, life transitions, and feelings of disconnection from themselves or others. Her work often centers around helping clients identify patterns that no longer serve them, deepen emotional awareness, and move toward lives and relationships that feel more aligned, fulfilling, and congruent with their values.
Her therapeutic style is relational, compassionate, and grounded in both honesty and curiosity. Clients often appreciate her ability to create a space that feels supportive while also encouraging meaningful reflection, accountability, and growth. She values helping clients better understand themselves not only intellectually, but emotionally, relationally, and within the broader contexts that shape their experiences.
Aisling has experience working with individuals and couples across a range of identities and relationship structures. She provides an LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, and ENM-affirming space where clients can explore identity, relationships, and emotional experiences without judgment. Coming from an international background, she approaches her work through an intersectional lens that considers cultural context, systemic influences, and the complexity of lived experience.
Her therapeutic approach is primarily grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), while integrating elements of CBT, DBT, Gottman Method, and person-centered therapy based on each client's unique needs and goals. Her work is trauma-informed and strengths-based, with a focus on increasing emotional flexibility, strengthening communication and connection, and helping clients build lives that feel more meaningful and authentic.
As a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200), Aisling may incorporate mindfulness and mind-body awareness practices when appropriate to support clients in developing a deeper connection with themselves and their emotions.
Aisling earned her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University, where her studies included Human Sexuality and Mind-Body approaches to mental health.Aisling is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.
Eva Baer, MA, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Family of Origin
Mind-Body Connection
Menstruation-Related issues
Marital/Pre-Marital & Relationship Concerns
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Eva is a warm, authentic, and compassionate therapist who believes in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. Eva is passionate about helping clients gain deeper awareness and insight to create a more intentional and meaningful life.
Eva works from an integrative approach that is tailored to the client, with an emphasis on mind body connection. She hopes to create a supportive and challenging space for clients utilizing interventions from psychodynamic, IFS, Gottman and EFT, and somatic experiencing.
Eva has experience working with adults and couples of diverse backgrounds, specializing in relationship issues, anxiety, attachment, communication, sex therapy/intimacy, desire discrepancy in relationships, trauma, ADHD, anger, and menstruation related issues.
She is sex positive, kink friendly, and LGBTQ+ and polyamorous affirming. Eva’s approach is rooted in cultural competence and humility. Eva holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family therapy from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Eva is a Licensed Professional Counselor and is supervised by Rachel Berg.
Julia Daniel, MA, LPC, ATR-P
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Relationships
Attachment
Existential Concerns
Creative Arts Therapies
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Julia is a compassionate, trauma-informed therapist with a passion for exploring desire and sexual expression through a nontraditional, art-therapeutic lens. She has extensive experience working with individuals to navigate a wide range of concerns, including trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexual dysfunction, kinks, and fetishes. Julia is particularly skilled in supporting those with childhood and sexual trauma and is dedicated to creating a welcoming and affirming space for clients of all backgrounds and identities, including those from LGBTQIA+ and sex worker communities.
Julia is deeply invested in helping clients explore their shame and authentic desires, providing unconditional support and offering probing questions that encourage clients to think outside the box. Driven by curiosity and exploration, she supports clients who wish to deepen their understanding of their sexual pleasure and develop skills to enhance intimacy and relationships.
Julia has extensive experience in college counseling and working with survivors of sexual trauma in specialized clinics. She specializes in helping couples navigate desire discrepancies, particularly when those differences are rooted in past trauma. With both couples and individuals, she utilizes a variety of evidence-based modalities, such as trauma-informed interventions, EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), somatic practices, attachment theory, and OCSB (Out of Control Sexual Behavior). She also integrates psychodynamic approaches - particularly the exploration of the possibilities and limits of desire through psychoanalysis - to help clients uncover and understand their unconscious patterns and desires and their impact on daily life.
Julia is dedicated to working collaboratively with each client, finding the best approach that suits their unique needs and goals. She provides a safe, inclusive, and expansive space for clients to explore and heal.Julia is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Rachel Berg.
Casey VanHecke, MA, LPC
(they/them)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Gender Identity & Transitioning
Neurodiversity
Relationships & Attachment
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Casey believes that the counseling relationship is paramount for healing and requires authenticity, vulnerability, collaboration, and mutuality. In their clinical work, they prioritize LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent identities and believe that accessibility, inclusivity, and cultural humility are crucial for providing ethical and effective care.
Casey uses a relational therapeutic style that is person-centered, strengths-based, goal-oriented, and adapted to the needs of the individual. They believe every client has a unique story to share and that they are the expert on their own experience. They work collaboratively with clients to help set goals, gain insights, identify strengths, and reach a deeper level of self-understanding.
Casey works with an array of presenting concerns including identity development, transitioning, sexuality, sexual wellness, relationships, attachment, BDSM/kink, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and grief/loss.
They enjoy assisting clients looking to cultivate new relationships and connect to community resources, and are qualified to assist clients seeking letters of support for gender affirming care.
Their goal as a counselor is to cultivate a non-oppressive, nonjudgmental, inclusive space that fosters self-exploration and vulnerability. Casey is dedicated to working alongside their clients to meet their unique therapeutic goals and guide them towards healing on an individual and community level.
Casey earned a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School and completed graduate training at Center on Halsted, where they gained significant experience working alongside the LGBTQIA+ community. Casey is sex positive, sex worker allied, kink friendly, and enjoys working with queer and polyamorous individuals. They are committed to multicultural competence, social advocacy and justice, community engagement, and decolonizing the therapeutic space.
Casey is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Stephen Heintz.
Sarah Hatten, MA, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Relationships
Attachment
Parenting, Pregnancy, & Postpartum
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Sarah believes in the transformative power of being truly seen and accepted. Her therapeutic approach emphasizes authenticity, curiosity, and compassion, fostering healing and growth by inviting clients to show up as their whole selves—complex and diverse. She utilizes a trauma-informed approach, and provides a supportive, sex-positive, and identity-affirming space for individuals exploring gender, sexuality, and identity.
Working from a holistic lens, Sarah believes that mental health cannot be separated from physical, relational, and spiritual health, and incorporates all aspects of the self into her work. Sarah supports clients in exploring the many layers of their identities and experiences. Her work is affirming of LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent folks, and those navigating nontraditional relationships, including consensual nonmonogamy and kink dynamics. She creates a collaborative and nonjudgmental space where clients can unpack shame, reconnect with their values, and move toward greater alignment and authenticity.
Understanding that relationships and family structures come in all shapes and sizes, Sarah helps clients find relational frameworks that make sense for their true selves. She believes that healthy relationships are built on intentionality, open communication, and mutual respect, rather than strictly following traditional norms. Sarah encourages her clients to question inherited stories and societal expectations so that they can craft their own ideas of care, commitment, and support.
As a parent, Sarah understands the ups and downs of caregiving, navigating identity changes, and striking a balance between caring for others and looking after oneself. She welcomes friendly discussions about parenting, family dynamics, and generational patterns. Recognizing the significant changes that come with being a parent, she enjoys working with couples to help them maintain their partnership while creating a supportive environment that honors both individual identities and shared responsibilities.
Sarah uses tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), blending a systems approach to help clients build emotional insights, coping strategies, healthier relationships, and a stronger mind-body connection. Her attachment-based, trauma-informed practice supports clients on their journey of healing from past relationship struggles and fostering a sense of safety inside and out. Whether it's dealing with old trauma, exploring identity, or tackling everyday stress, Sarah brings warmth, curiosity, and genuine respect for each unique journey.
With a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Sarah is committed to cultural competency, intellectual exploration, and continuous personal and professional growth.
Sarah is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Rachel Berg.
Grace McDonell, MA, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Anxiety & Panic
Values & Identity
Relationships & Communication
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Grace is a warm and compassionate therapist who deeply believes in the power of a collaborative and positive therapeutic relationship. She is committed to meeting clients where they are, and providing an authentic, nonjudgmental, and supportive space for growth. Grace has experience working with individuals to navigate a wide range of concerns, including trauma, grief, anxiety, panic, depression, identity concerns, and relationship issues. With exploration of existential themes and the occasional use of humor, she uses an integrative approach to help provide insight, support, and guidance.
Rooted in existential-humanistic theory, Grace incorporates tools from multiple modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), parts work, and narrative therapy. She is committed to remaining client-led and person-centered while helping you to achieve your therapeutic goals.
Grace holds a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School. She is committed to providing inclusive and affirming care, prioritizing and celebrating diversity, and creating positive change in individual’s and the world at large. She holds a special interest in exploring existential themes through the arts and enjoys working with creative individuals. Grace is a part of the queer community, takes a sex-positive approach, and is kink and poly-affirming.
Grace is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Ashley Homa.
Catherine Santo, MSW, LCSW
(She/They)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Neurodiversity
Mind-Body Connection
Relationships & Attachment
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Catherine fosters a safe, non-judgemental space with curiosity, collaboration and compassion leading our work together. Catherine is passionate about the process of unlearning beliefs and habits that were created unconsciously and no longer serve us while learning sustainable steps towards an authentic, connected self. Catherine helps individuals and couples repair the disconnection between mind and body and thrive in a full, embodied existence.
Catherine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified integrative mental health practitioner. They provide LGBTQIA+ and poly affirming, trauma-responsive mental health care and specialize in supporting clients who experience/d chronic pain, complex disabilities, childhood abuse, infertility, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress and relational issues. They use a variety of modalities including person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, emotionally-focused therapy, mindfulness and somatic experiencing.
Catherine earned their Master’s in Social Work from University of Wisconsin Madison. Throughout their career, Catherine has worked in a variety of different community and medical settings assisting clients in building different skills and noticing their strengths using an integrative, holistic approach. As a fellow imperfect human being, Catherine is honored to do this work with you.
Gabrielle Soe, MS, AMFT
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Relationships & Consensual Non-Monogamy
Gender & Sexuality
Body Image
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Gabrielle is dedicated to fostering authentic, affirming relationships. Passionate about relational work and a systemic perspective, she sees clients within the context of their relationships and broader communities, while still honoring individual experiences. She specializes in supporting individuals and couples as they cultivate healing bonds, meaningful self-reflection and compassion. Centering safety, accessibility, and empowerment, Gabrielle supports clients clarifying the values and beliefs that shape their identities and sense of belonging in relationships.
She has experience supporting clients navigate relationship challenges, family concerns, sexuality, intimacy, life transitions, body image, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, and childhood trauma. She remains grounded in the present moment with her clients, and guides clients through their emotional processing and self-expression. With warmth, validation, and sensitivity, she offers perspectives that challenge, invite new insights, and deepens connection. Guided by genuine curiosity, Gabrielle listens to her clients’ experiences without judgment or the need to “fix.” She values collaboration and invites her clients to co-create a therapeutic space that intentionally reflects their needs and goals.Gabrielle’s therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative, and social justice-oriented. As an active member of The American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) and The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), Gabrielle stays connected with the latest research to enhance her practice. Drawing from Socioculturally Attuned Family Therapy, she acknowledges intersectionality and power dynamics in the therapy space while attuning to clients’ lived experiences within their broader social contexts. Gabrielle is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) that offers structured guidance for couples to work through conflict. Additionally, she incorporates sex therapy, trauma-informed and somatic practices, and the mind-body connection approach.
Gabrielle identifies as LGBTQ, and is sex-positive, kink-aware, poly/ENM-affirming, and dedicated to honoring her clients’ cultural values and diverse identities. Gabrielle holds a Master’s in Psychology from Purdue Global and a Master’s in Couples and Family Therapy from Purdue University Northwest.
Gabrielle is an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist and is supervised by Stephen Heintz.
Patrick Mooney, MA, LPC
(He/Him)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Anxiety
Relationship Issues
Emotional Regulation
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Patrick puts the therapeutic relationship at the forefront. He strives to create a warm and welcoming space where a positive connection can be made. That alliance serves as a vehicle for change through insight and new experiences within the therapeutic relationship. Patrick’s style is centered around this non-judgemental partnership that honors curiosity about your whole self, and all of your intersections. This includes acknowledging that often our work is done within a system of oppressive social structures. Therefore, he strives to work from a multicultural and anti-racist perspective.
His Psychodynamic approach welcomes the subconscious and is based on the belief that our past relationships, attachments, traumas, and important events inform the present. Patrick will challenge you to look inward to resolve conflicts and will empower you to make decisions based on your discoveries. He believes everyone has a creative part of them that can be nurtured.
He has experience helping adults of all ages struggling with anxiety, trauma, identity, self-image, relationships, sexuality, and more. He also has experience with, and a strong understanding of, first generation children of immigrants. He is trained in Sex Therapy and works with clients addressing concerns such as intimacy and sexual dysfunctions.
Patrick earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University in Chicago. He also has a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art Photography. He is culturally competent in LGBTQIA issues, trauma-informed, sex positive, ENM-affirming, and kink positive.
Patrick is a Licensed Professional Counselor and is supervised by Stephen Heintz, LCPC.
Che Anderson Justice, MSW
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Values & Decision-Making
Relationships & Communication
Gender & Sexuality
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Che is a relational therapist who values collaboration and compassion in the therapeutic space. Che believes that therapy should be a place for clients to feel safe exploring experiences and thoughts that may feel taboo or difficult to bring up in other areas of life. She is committed to fostering an open, non-judgmental environment in which clients can work to identify their values and build meaningful lives around them.
Che has experience working with clients as they navigate trauma, depression, and anxiety. She is passionate about supporting clients as they identify and work through the impact of trauma on relationships and sexuality. She is trained to work with individuals and couples addressing concerns such as desire discrepancy, intimacy challenges, orgasm difficulties, painful intercourse, and erectile dysfunction. Che also enjoys working with parents who want to address the impact that trauma has on their relationships with their children.Che is especially passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community. She identifies as a member of this community herself and believes that LGBTQIA+ individuals deserve to have a space to unpack socially ingrained beliefs around gender and sexuality that may be harmful or not applicable to their lives. Che also enjoys working with neurodivergent individuals and providing neurodivergent-affirming care for folks navigating Autism or ADHD diagnosis. She believes that therapy should be a space for neurodivergent individuals to identify values, routines, and lifestyles that work for them.
Che’s practice is sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationship structures. She focuses on modalities such as strengths-based therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and narrative therapy, with the goal of providing empowering, client-directed care. In session Che is an empathetic therapist who creates a space where clients feel genuinely heard and supported. She brings warmth and humor into her work while allowing clients to move through the therapeutic process at a pace that feels comfortable and right for them. Che has a background in community mental health and holds a Master’s in Social Work from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago. She is also currently pursuing her Certificate in Sex Therapy from Adler University. In her spare time, she enjoys knitting, swimming, and watching scary movies.
Che has a Master’s in Social Work and is supervised by Catherine Santo.
Anna Welch, M.Ed.
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Codependency & Relationships
Family of Origin
Body Image
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Anna believes therapy is a collaborative relationship where clients can approach themselves with curiosity, compassion, and authenticity. She strives to create a warm, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe exploring the parts of themselves that may feel difficult to share elsewhere. Guided by person-centered and feminist perspectives, Anna believes each client is the expert on their own life and that greater self-understanding creates space for healing, choice, and meaningful change.
Anna works with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship concerns, body image, self-worth, family-of-origin dynamics, and codependent patterns. She is especially passionate about helping clients understand how their relationships, sexuality, identities, and life experiences shape the ways they see themselves and connect with others. Anna believes conversations about sex and intimacy deserve openness, curiosity, and freedom from shame, and she values creating a space where clients can explore these deeply personal topics with honesty and without judgment.
Before becoming a therapist, Anna worked in sexual health advocacy and reproductive healthcare, where she provided sexual health education, discussed reproductive options with patients, and connected individuals with emotional support resources. These experiences continue to shape her therapeutic approach, reinforcing the importance of providing compassionate, respectful care during some of life's most vulnerable moments.
Anna's approach is relational, strengths-based, and trauma-informed, while remaining responsive to each client's unique experiences, identities, and goals. She is LGBTQIA+-affirming, sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of consensual non-monogamous relationships. She is committed to fostering a therapeutic relationship where clients feel genuinely seen, respected, and empowered to build lives that feel authentic, connected, and aligned with their values.
Anna earned her Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling from Hunter College, where she developed a strong interest in the intersections of trauma, sexuality, relationships, and identity. Her clinical training and previous work in sexual health and reproductive healthcare continue to shape her thoughtful, collaborative, and affirming approach to care.
In her free time, Anna can be found refining her favorite home cooking recipes, getting invested in a coming-of-age TV series, or spending time near the water whenever she can.
Anna is supervised by Stephen Heintz.
Jess Thompson, MA
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Art Therapy
Attachment & Relationships
Mind-Body Connection
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Jess’s approach to therapy is radically affirming in the belief that healing does not have to look like constant self-optimization. What brings people to therapy is not personal failure, but often the understandable result of the experiences, relationships, and messages that have shaped them. Jess sees her role as traveling alongside you with humanizing compassion and genuine interest in who you are, co-creating a space where the unedited and unpolished parts of you feel fully welcome. Jess’s therapeutic style is grounded in a kind-hearted and curious presence that makes room for depth and respect as well as warmth and playfulness. Informed by feminist thought, Jess recognizes that you are the expert on your own life and hold the power to determine what healing and growth look like for you. Jess’s work is to help clients unlearn harmful conditioning and reclaim self-trust, choice, and clarity so they can meet life’s challenges with greater confidence.
Jess’s clinical emphasis is in working with individuals, relationships, and groups to deepen self-understanding and cultivate compassion, both for themselves and for those they love. Jess works with clients navigating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, emotional overwhelm, body image, self-worth, creative blocks, communication challenges, and life transitions.
Jess works with individuals and couples navigating sexual concerns, intimacy challenges, sexual pain and questions around sexual identity and expression. She views sexuality as a meaningful part of human experience and helps clients explore this area of their lives with curiosity, respect, and freedom from shame. Jess embraces all expressions of gender, sexuality and is a sex-positive, kink-friendly, and poly-affirming counselor.
Jess uses an integrative approach to tailor therapy to each client’s unique needs, drawing from modalities including Relational-Cultural Therapy (RCT), strengths-based approaches, Narrative Therapy, Creative Arts Therapies, mindfulness and body-based interventions, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Jess earned a Master’s in both Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy from Adler University in Chicago. She is also currently pursuing her Certificate in Sex Therapy. Jess is committed to multicultural competence, anti-racism, social advocacy, and community engagement.
Jess is supervised by Ashley Homa.