Pronouns: Ze/Hir
License: PsyD
Education: University of Evansville, Evansville, IN Bachelor of Science in Psychology; Illinois School of Professional Psychology, Chicago, IL, PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Certified Eating Disorder Specialist
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over fifteen years of experience in the field. I specialize in issues surrounding eating disorders as well as sexuality and intimacy. I work with diverse individuals with all gender expressions, with differently-abled bodies, and interests in Kink/BDSM/Poly lifestyles. I aim to help my clients achieve powerful change, with an approach that is highly personalized, and that integrates innovative and evidence-based techniques to achieve their goals.
From a young age I have been sensitive and attentive to others. I lived half of my life in a former communist country, where I was heavily influenced by propaganda which provided a skewed perception of my world. As a result of this, I am highly aware of the influence of any culture on the individual’s free will, happiness, and existence.
One of my goals is to enhance awareness of the profound effects of the culture surrounding us. The values we embrace are often linked to our perceptions of an “ideal life” shaped by the media. I help to empower patients to break free from the constraints of mainstream culture and its rigid standards regarding happiness, body image, eating, and sexual practices. By fostering this awareness, I aim to inspire a journey toward self-liberation and authenticity, encouraging others to embrace their true selves beyond societal expectations.
In intimate relationships, it’s not uncommon for communication to wane, leading individuals to feel isolated, angry, or even bored. However, recognizing these feelings is the first step toward positive change.
The couples I work with often wish to transform their partners into “ideal matches”, sometimes overlooking the impact of our upbringings on our interactions with each other.
I specialize in helping couples enhance their relationships by improving communication, reducing the frequency or intensity of conflicts, enjoying more fulfilling sex, exploring ways to invigorate a monogamous relationship, designing a satisfying yet safe open relationship, and addressing various stressors that may affect their partnership. Embracing this journey can lead to a stronger, more harmonious connections.
It is my passion to help people find and expand joy in their lives. My mission is to provide each person with the most attuned and validating care, no matter who you are or what support you seek. While starting therapy may seem intimidating, it is an effective way to enhance your life and mental health, and to uncover what may be holding you back from living your best life.
