Jessica A. Sweet Therapy
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About Jessica A. Sweet Therapy

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Transformative Therapy Services for Individuals, Couples, Families, and Groups.

At Jessica A. Sweet Therapy, we combine empathetic listening with proven clinical techniques to deliver healing.

CHICAGO

SCHAUMBURG

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS

Our Team

Our Team

Our therapists provide a person-centered approach to your healing, combining empathetic listening with proven clinical techniques.

MEET THE FULL TEAM
Aylin Deniz, LSW

Schaumburg

Therapist

Languages: English & Spanish

Jovitha Katla, MS

Arlington Heights

Therapist

Specialties: Anxiety, Autism, Couples & families

Lady with glasses posing confidently at the camera

Virtual

Therapist

Specialties: Couples, Families, Parenting

Young lady smiling at the camera

Schaumburg

Therapist

Specialties: Children & teens, Anxiety, Life transitions

Heaven Lathan, MA

Arlington Heights, Chicago

Therapist

Specialties: Children & teens, Families, Anxiety

Lady smiling with content in her eyes at the camera

Arlington Heights

Therapist

Specialties: Couples, Anxiety, ADHD

Annalisa Chu, LPC

Virtual

Therapist

Groups: Endometriosis Group →

Indian lady looking at the camera confidently

Arlington Heights

Therapist

Languages: English, Hindi & Urdu

Laura Clark, MA

Schaumburg

Therapist

Specialties: Children & teens, Families, Trauma

Brianna Johnson, LSW

Arlington Heights

Therapist

Groups: Art Therapy Group →, Trauma-Informed Yoga Group →

Sanem Siddique, MA

Schaumburg, Chicago

Therapist

Specialties: Trauma, Anxiety, ADHD

Sandy Urkovich, Ph.D., LPC

Schaumburg

Therapist

Groups: Parents of Kids with ADHD Group →

Theresa Marotta, LCPC, CADC

Schaumburg

Therapist

Specialties: Couples, Families, Addiction recovery

Jennifer Smith, LCPC

Schaumburg

Therapist

Specialties: Children, teens & adults

Michael Chapman, LCPC

Virtual

Therapist

Specialties: LGBTQ+, Multicultural, Children & teens

Kate Messier, LMFT

Schaumburg

Therapist

Specialties: Couples, Families, Trauma

Denise Wallace, LCSW

Schaumburg

Therapist

Specialties: Children & teens, Families, Anxiety

Melinda Gonzalez, MFT-Intern

Schaumburg

Intern

Specialties: Children & teens, Couples, LGBTQ+

Drew Clark, MFT-Intern

Schaumburg

Intern

Specialties: Couples, Families

INDIVIDUAL
THERAPY

COUPLES
THERAPY

FAMILY
THERAPY

GROUP
THERAPY

CHILD
THERAPY

Services

Therapy for Clients in Every Stage of Life.

If you find yourself struggling, either with yourself or in an important relationship, our trained therapists help you find a way past your negative emotions and toward a brighter tomorrow.

Services

  • ADHD SUPPORT
  • GRIEF THERAPY
  • ANXIETY MANAGEMENT
  • LGBTQ+ AFFIRMATIVE THERAPY
  • PARENTING SUPPORT
  • PREMARITAL COUNSELING

FAQs

FAQs

It's time you allowed the healing to begin in your own life, as well as the life of your family.

Here are some frequently asked questions that may help you along the way

To book an appointment, please call (847) 701-4191 or fill out our contact form. We typically respond within 48 hours. 

We offer both in-person and telehealth services.

We are in network with BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare/Optum PPO plans. We are out of network for Medicaid and Medicare plans. 

We don’t use a sliding scale, but we do offer reduced rates with staff therapists, and our supervised graduate interns offer a reduced fee for clients paying out of pocket. Learn about our Intern Program.

During that initial session, you will meet with your assigned therapist and begin to discuss what concerns you are facing and your goals for therapy.

Yes, you can easily switch between telehealth and in-person sessions depending on what your needs are for the week. 

Fit matters at Jessica A. Sweet Therapy. While we encourage you to talk with your therapist and be direct about your needs, if you feel like it just isn’t clicking, we can help you switch to another therapist you feel comfortable opening up to. 

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Drew Clark, MFT-Intern

Drew Clark is an MFT intern in the final phase of his Master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy, as well as a Sex Therapy Certification at Adler University. He uses a systemic lens to empower clients to gain an expanded understanding of societal and interpersonal influences at play in their unique situations, inclusive of their unique identities. In nurturing validation of strengths, mindfulness in communication, and support for clarifying individual worldview, Drew works together with his clients to create a positive change for the future.

Prior to therapy practice, Drew received a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology with a minor in Computer Science from Miami University in Ohio. His previous work exemplifies the connection of sciences to providing care within the fields of food science, dermatology, and personal training. In his free time, Drew enjoys Muay Thai, swimming, volleyball, playing guitar, and video games. He identifies as Tao Buddhist and has been vegan since 2019.

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Aylin Deniz, LSW

Aylin is a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Social Worker providing a supportive and collaborative space for children and adolescents. She specializes in working with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and emotional regulation.

Aylin’s approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, focusing on meeting clients where they are and helping them build coping skills, insight, and resilience. She is committed to providing culturally responsive care and creating a safe space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their healing process.

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Heaven Lathan, MA

Hi, I’m Heaven, and I work with children, teens, adults, and families. Life can feel like a lot sometimes, especially when you cannot fully explain or express the big emotions you are experiencing. You do not have to figure it out alone.

My background includes experience in college counseling, community mental health, and inpatient care for children. I have worked one-on-one with clients navigating anxiety, stress, and major life transitions, and I have also provided family therapy and parenting classes. These experiences have shaped my ability to stay calm, present, and supportive, even during difficult seasons.

My therapeutic approach is humanistic and client-centered, which means I truly believe you are the expert of your own life. 

In our sessions, I show up as supportive and genuine, while also gently challenging you when growth calls for it. When working with kids and teens, one of my favorite sayings is, “Come as you are.” You don’t have to have the perfect words. I will meet you right where you are. I work closely with parents, so you are not left guessing what steps to take at home. 

My goal is to help you feel more regulated, confident, and connected, both in therapy and in real life.

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Melinda Gonzalez

Melinda is completing her graduate studies at National University. Her training includes comprehensive study on theories and approaches in Marriage and Family Therapy.

Melinda specializes in child and adolescent therapy and also welcomes adults, couples, and families.
 
While Melinda favors narrative and experiential approaches, she has been trained in a variety of therapeutic methodologies and tailors each session to her clients’ specific needs.
 
Melinda creates a caring and compassionate environment for all her clients. She offers culturally sensitive and LGBTQ+, polyamorous, and kink affirming therapy. She strives to be a safe and open space for any individual.
 
“Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I sincerely look forward to traveling that path with you and your loved ones.”
 
Melinda’s background as an emergency veterinary technician has also deepened her ability to connect with people in crisis and support them through grief.
 
In her spare time, Melinda spends time with her daughter and enjoys musicals, board games, comics, and dance.

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Jovitha Katla, MS

Specialties: Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Couples and Family Therapy, Life Transitions 

Jovitha has a Master of Science in Counseling, specializing in Rehabilitation and Disability Services from Northern Illinois University. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in both individual and group settings, supporting individuals navigating anxiety, mood disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and life transitions.

Her clinical practice includes specialties in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based approaches, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), particularly in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum.

Her approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and person-centered. She believes every individual has the capacity for growth and healing, and she creates a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe to explore their experiences. Jovitha is passionate about helping clients build self-awareness, develop practical tools, and align with their values to create a more meaningful and balanced life. She considers it a privilege to walk alongside each person on their journey toward healing and personal growth.

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Tina Scott, AMFT

Tina Scott is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University and a Master’s in Psychology from the University of the Rockies. With more than ten years of experience in the mental health field, she has served as a therapist, crisis responder, trainer, and clinical supervisor, providing compassionate, evidence-based care to adults, couples, and families.

Tina specializes in couples counseling, marriage counseling, relationship therapy, and individual therapy for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life transitions, communication challenges, and mood disorders. She works with couples at every stage of their relationship, helping them improve communication, rebuild trust after conflict, strengthen emotional intimacy, navigate parenting and family stress, and develop healthier relationship patterns. Whether clients are seeking premarital counseling, support through major life changes, or help reconnecting with their partner, Tina provides a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment for growth and healing.

Tina also has extensive experience supporting parents of children and teens with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, behavioral challenges, emotional regulation difficulties, and other mental health concerns. She partners with caregivers to strengthen parent-child relationships, improve family communication, develop effective coping and behavior management strategies, and reduce the stress that often accompanies parenting children with complex emotional and developmental needs.

Her therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and client-centered, drawing from evidence-based approaches including the Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Together with her clients, Tina helps build practical coping skills, improve communication, increase emotional awareness, strengthen relationships, and foster resilience and lasting change.

Understanding that busy schedules can make therapy difficult to prioritize, Tina offers secure virtual therapy throughout Illinois, including weekend appointments, making counseling more accessible for working professionals, couples, parents, and families seeking flexible care.

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Diane Flade, LSW

Diane has a Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University. She has experience working with the unhoused population, assisting individuals with various mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, addiction, suicidal ideation, schizophrenia, and sexual abuse. She also has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples, supporting individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, ADHD, and depression. 

Diane’s clinical practice includes specialties in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), strength-based therapy, person-centered approaches, and mindfulness-based approaches to support her clients. 

Diane strives to create a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental space where clients can be themselves. She aims to build strong relationships and tailor her support to individual needs. 

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Anne Qureshi, LSW

 I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Northeastern Illinois University. As a social worker in a school setting I have gained practical experience providing counseling to children with a wide variety of challenges such as autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders through different therapeutic modalities such as person-centered therapy, behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and play based therapy. My goal as a mental health therapist is to establish a therapeutic relationship with my clients and support family units by watching them blossom. Upholding this mission is the most rewarding part of the job, and I enjoy learning each client’s unique story, personality, and strengths. When I am not keeping busy as a mental health therapist, I enjoy spending time with loved ones, enjoying nature, and reading a good mystery-thriller book.   

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Jessica Krawiec, LPC

My goal is to work with you as a team in your journey toward healing and growth. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to support you in uncovering your strengths and finding your own solutions. Together, we will create a safe and collaborative space where you can express yourself freely and explore new possibilities.

I earned my Master of Science in Clinical Counseling from Rosalind Franklin University in North Chicago, gaining valuable experience in therapeutic settings with children and adolescents. With a person-centered, strengths-based approach, I focus on honoring your unique experiences and individual needs. While much of my practice has centered on supporting young people through their challenges, I am passionate about offering the same compassionate, tailored guidance to individuals of all ages.

In my work, I draw from evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Play Therapy to create a holistic approach to your well-being. I respect that each person’s path to healing is personal, and I aim to empower you by recognizing your innate ability to navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re facing anxiety, stress, life transitions, or emotional difficulties, I am here to support you in building the skills and mindset needed to thrive.

In my personal time, I enjoy crafting and junk journaling, traveling, reading fantasy novels, and spending quality time with my family dog!

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Annalisa Chu, LPC

“Hi! My name is Annalisa. A dear colleague and friend of mine once said, “I don’t like to go last. I like to listen first.” That is the therapist that I strive to embody: To listen first. To listen to learn, support, and guide.

I seek to listen to your needs, to build a relationship with you, and create a sense of community because I believe in the strength of relationship and community in promoting health and healing. I see myself as a healer who walks alongside you in a collaborative partnership where we explore different adaptive ways of engaging with ourselves, with others, and the world around us.

I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with experience supporting children, adolescents, and young adults through anxiety and trauma-related disorders. I center my therapeutic work through an emotion-focused, strengths-based, and culturally sensitive lens.

My goal is to create a non-judgmental and comfortable space where you feel like you can be authentically yourself, share about your personal experiences, and continue to discover more about yourself so that you feel confident navigating your relationships and the world around you.”

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Theresa Marotta, LCPC, CADC

With nearly 20 years of experience in various clinical settings, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice. My journey began at Northeastern Illinois University, where I obtained my M.A. in Counseling in 1999 and became a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) the same year. Since 2002, I’ve held a license as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC).

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse populations and settings, ranging from DUI evaluation and EAP counseling to research assistance with people living with chronic mental illness. I’ve worked extensively with individuals, couples, groups, and families, specializing in addiction and recovery. My experience includes facilitating therapeutic and psychoeducational groups, as well as serving in the Drug Court Program within the criminal justice system for 9 years.

I am adept at assisting individuals struggling with various substance addictions, including alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and prescription medications. I am well-versed in 12-Step support groups and other recovery and spiritual programs, fostering partnerships with inpatient treatment programs, halfway houses, and outpatient facilities to provide comprehensive care.

In therapy, I employ an empathetic, solution-focused approach tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Beyond addictions counseling, I’m passionate about assisting individuals transitioning out of religious cults or other destructive groups, and I am an active member of the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA).

Outside of my professional endeavors, I cherish spending time with my teenage and tween children, and I’ve recently embarked on learning to play the viola.

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Jennifer Smith, LCPC

I graduated from National Louis University with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, specializing in an integrated approach to facilitate healing and personal growth. With a focus on creating collaborative relationships, I strive to offer a safe, open, and non-judgmental space for clients to navigate life’s challenges.

My experience spans working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Utilizing cognitive techniques and a solution-focused approach, I empower clients to initiate positive changes in their lives.

Outside of work, I find meaning in spending quality time with loved ones, traveling, and indulging in creative crafts.

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Sandy Urkovich, Ph.D., LPC

With 22 years of experience, I’ve dedicated myself to assisting individuals in achieving emotional stability and fostering good mental health. My journey began with a Master’s degree from Northeastern University in Chicago, followed by a doctorate from Adler University in Chicago.

Throughout my professional tenure spanning 14 years, I’ve worked in various settings including hospitals, agencies, and outpatient facilities. My practice extends to diverse populations, encompassing children, individuals, couples, families, and the LGBTQ+ community.

I have a particular focus on supporting victims of domestic violence and children in foster care placements.

One of my passions involves incorporating animals into therapy sessions. As a Certified Animal-Assisted Therapist, I utilize my four rescue dogs to provide additional support and comfort to clients during sessions.

Navigating life changes and transitions can be challenging. I’m here to guide you through acceptance, growth, and embracing change with a healthy mind and renewed confidence in yourself.

Let’s embark on this journey towards a brighter future together.

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Michael Chapman, LCPC

Having earned a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University, I’ve discovered my calling in guiding clients toward their therapeutic goals. My passion lies in facilitating meaningful changes in their lives, fostering growth, and instilling hope.

Specializing in:

  • LGBTQ+
  • BIPOC
  • Elderly Populations

I embrace a multicultural approach to therapy. I believe that every client deserves to express their authentic selves during sessions, fostering a safe and inclusive environment.

My experience spans working with children, adolescents, adults, and groups, catering to diverse needs and backgrounds. Therapy serves as a valuable tool for anyone seeking support in achieving their goals.

During my education, I underwent training in various modalities including existentialism, person-centered, strength-based, cognitive behavior therapy, and psychodynamic interventions. This diverse skill set empowers you to steer your therapeutic journey while benefiting from effective therapeutic techniques.

Let’s embark on this journey together towards growth and fulfillment.

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Kate Messier, LMFT

My journey in counseling commenced at Northern Illinois University, where I honed my skills working with diverse clients including couples, families, children, and individuals. My therapeutic focus revolves around understanding systems such as families, relationships, and communities, and how they influence my clients’ lives. Drawing from my background in clinical settings, an EAP program, and extensive experience as a nanny, I bring a comprehensive approach to therapy.

In Schaumburg, IL, I offer counseling services with a direct yet empathetic and supportive approach. As a culturally sensitive and LGBTQ+-friendly clinician, I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all individuals. I firmly believe in therapy as a collaborative journey, where together, we work towards overcoming past traumas and family dynamics to pave the way for a liberated and tranquil future.

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Laura Clark, MA

When individuals face trauma or significant life challenges, their world may feel like it’s falling apart. My passion lies in offering healing to those who have endured such experiences. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating complex emotional and behavioral challenges, including severe anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), personality disorders, mood disorders, significant life transitions, and family conflict.

Many people come to therapy after feeling like they’ve tried everything or haven’t found a therapist who truly understands what they’re going through. I don’t shy away from difficult conversations or cases that require patience, creativity, and persistence. Whether you’re struggling with longstanding patterns, intense emotions, relationship difficulties, or feeling stuck despite previous therapy, I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where we can work through these challenges together.

My approach is direct yet compassionate. I believe meaningful change happens when clients feel both understood and appropriately challenged. I view therapy as a collaborative journey, empowering clients to increase self-awareness, gain fresh perspectives, alleviate symptoms, strengthen personal coping skills, and develop the confidence to create meaningful change.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families experiencing complex behavioral and emotional challenges, including Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED). I utilize evidence-based approaches to help clients improve emotional regulation, reduce disruptive behaviors, strengthen healthy coping skills, and build more positive relationships at home, school, and in the community. I believe in partnering closely with families to create individualized treatment plans that foster accountability, resilience, and lasting change.

With a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University, I bring a strong educational foundation to my practice.

I recognize that every person is unique, and no two people or situations are the same. I draw from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities, including:

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Psychodynamic Therapy

  • Person-Centered Therapy

This flexible approach allows me to tailor treatment to each client’s individual needs, preferences, and circumstances.

If you’ve been told you’re “too much,” feel like your situation is too complicated, or haven’t found therapy helpful in the past, you’re not alone. My goal is to help you gain insight, develop effective coping strategies, strengthen relationships, and create lasting, meaningful change—regardless of where you’re starting.

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Denise Wallace, LCSW

Driven by a profound passion for aiding others, I’ve discovered the power of listening as one of the most genuine forms of assistance. As a therapist, I’m committed to providing a safe space where everyone’s voice is heard, affirmed, and valued. Therapy, I believe, offers invaluable support and insights, especially when navigating life’s various stressors and experiences.

With a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Chicago State University, I bring years of experience in therapy for children, adolescents, and families. My approach blends strengths-based techniques with solution-focused and cognitive behavioral methods, tailored to meet each individual’s needs.

My ultimate aim is to empower every client to embrace their truth and confront anxieties or discomfort, fostering personal growth and resilience.

Let’s embark on this journey together towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.

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Brianna Johnson, LSW

With over 11 years of diverse mental health experience, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice. My journey began with a degree in social work from the University of Denver, where I specialized in trauma treatment. Throughout my career, I’ve delved into various areas, including addressing eating disorders, aiding in post-incarceration adjustment, assisting the homeless, and providing care for refugees.

My passion lies in working with individuals across all age groups who have experienced trauma, particularly focusing on chronic suicidality, personality disorders, reactive attachment disorder, and neurodivergence. I believe in empowering clients to make informed decisions and guide them through treatments rooted in systems theory, multicultural perspectives, and dialectical behavior therapy, ensuring a tailored approach to meet their unique needs.

My professional journey has taken me through different settings, from high-acuity treatment for children in residential facilities to hospitalization and in-home services. Additionally, I’ve provided therapeutic intervention and clinical supervision for the national suicide hotline, extending support to individuals striving for improved well-being and quality of life.

Outside of my work, I thrive on new experiences, whether it’s exploring haunted city tours or indulging in eclectic shows. As a passionate flutist and karaoke enthusiast, I enjoy collecting tabletop games and coffee mugs, and I seize every opportunity to travel. My household is enriched by the companionship of two dogs and two cats, all named after pirates, reflecting my vibrant and adventurous spirit.

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Sanem Siddique, MA

Life can feel overwhelming, much like the adage ‘when it rains, it pours’. If you’re navigating multiple traumatic experiences, know that support is available. With a dedication to aiding others, I offer guidance through tough times and assist in healing from trauma.

Therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. I prioritize a person-centered approach tailored to each client’s unique needs and therapeutic goals. My aim is to foster a non-judgmental space where individuals can open up at their own pace and be their authentic selves. While personal growth may be challenging, I’m here to provide support throughout the journey.

My qualifications include a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University, backed by a decade of experience in childcare services and roles in two hospital settings. In these diverse environments, I’ve conducted both group and individual therapy sessions, specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). These approaches are tailored to address a wide range of concerns, including:

  • Anxiety
  • Sexual abuse
  • Eating disorders
  • Substance abuse
  • ADHD
  • Depression
  • PTSD
  • Mood disorders
  • Schizophrenia

I’m deeply passionate about mental health and committed to helping individuals overcome their challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

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Jessica A. Sweet, LMFT, LCPC

Jessica’s training as a therapist began at Northwestern University, where she worked with couples, families, children, and individuals. Jessica uses a client-directed, empathetic approach to understand each client’s unique challenges and work collaboratively toward meaningful solutions. She strives to create a supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and comfortable exploring their experiences.

In her client-centered therapy, Jessica integrates cognitive behavioral techniques (CBT), dialectical behavior techniques (DBT), play therapy, art therapy, and the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model. She tailors her approach to each client’s individual needs, drawing on these therapeutic methods to support emotional expression, develop coping skills, and encourage personal growth.

Jessica is also an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Clinical Fellow. Her therapeutic approach emphasizes collaboration, empathy, and understanding the experiences that shape each person’s thoughts, emotions, and relationships. She works to help clients explore their challenges, build on their strengths, and develop practical strategies for navigating life’s difficulties.

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