I’m a cisgender woman who identifies as queer. As a professional counselor, I specialize in helping couples and families, including those of the LGBTQIA+ community. As the social and political climate is becoming more volatile, I find myself prioritizing space in my schedule for members of the queer community. I seek out trainings to enhance and improve my knowledge about the specific needs of queer couples and families. I find that working with LGBTQIA+ couples and families is really the same as “straight” ones except that there are additional stressors both internally and externally due to sexual orientation/gender identity, etc. After all, we are all human beings with an inate need to connect with other humans. I work to help my clients make, maintain, and strengthen their closest relationships. I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy (for Individuals, Couples, and Families) by the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT). I am also an ICEEFT approved Supervisor Candidate and I hone my skills regularly with peer consultation and addtional trainings. I am also on the board of SAIGE Illinois.