Business Details
Client-Centered Therapy Services in Chicago
Chicago Counseling Associates (CCA) is dedicated to advancing client-centered therapy rooted in the pioneering work of Carl Rogers. Our practice emphasizes empowering individuals, couples, and families through empathetic, non-judgmental support that fosters self-discovery and meaningful change. We prioritize strengthening communication skills, deepening self-awareness, and addressing psychological challenges within the context of personal and societal systems. Our team, trained in rigorous clinical traditions, offers affordable counseling while maintaining a commitment to ongoing education and community development. CCA bridges therapeutic practice with academic rigor, providing internships and fellowships that cultivate the next generation of person-centered therapists.We serve diverse populations, including LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and neurodivergent individuals, with specialized attention to trauma, identity exploration, and life transitions. Our collaborative approach ensures clients receive care grounded in self-determination, cultural responsiveness, and holistic well-being. We operate both in-person and remotely, prioritizing accessibility while maintaining strict confidentiality protocols. CCAs legacy, tracing back to the University of Chicago Counseling Center, underscores our dedication to ethical, client-driven care that honors individual autonomy and systemic complexity.
Services
Individual Counseling
Couples Therapy
Family Counseling
Graduate Internships
Continuing Education
Highlights and features
- We offer therapy rooted in the original client-centered tradition established by Carl Rogers
- Our team includes therapists with specialized training in LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and neurodivergent care
- We provide affordable counseling services with sliding scale options
- Our graduate internship program ensures ongoing professional development and clinical excellence
- We combine clinical practice with academic rigor through continuing education programs
What people say
Empathetic therapists
Specialized LGBTQIA+ care
Affordable options
Experienced professionals
Safe environment
Services
Individual Counseling
Our individual counseling sessions provide a safe space for self-exploration and growth. Therapists work collaboratively with clients to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. The client-led approach ensures personalized care that respects each person's unique journey toward self-understanding and positive change.
Couples Therapy
Couples therapy focuses on improving communication and deepening understanding between partners. Our therapists help navigate relationship challenges using a non-directive approach that honors both individuals' perspectives. Sessions emphasize building stronger connections through empathetic dialogue and mutual growth.
Family Counseling
Family counseling addresses complex dynamics through a systemic lens. Therapists facilitate open communication while respecting each member's autonomy. The process helps families navigate transitions, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships through collaborative exploration and understanding.
Graduate Internships
Our graduate internship program offers hands-on clinical experience in client-centered practice. Interns receive comprehensive supervision while working with diverse populations. The program emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competence, and professional development through direct client service and structured learning.
Continuing Education
Continuing education programs provide advanced training for mental health professionals. Courses cover specialized topics in person-centered therapy, trauma-informed care, and cultural competency. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application to enhance clinical skills and professional growth.
People
Carolyn Schneider
Founder
Carolyn has over 30 years of experience in client-centered counseling. She trained at the Chicago Counseling and Psychotherapy Center and worked with notable mentors. Her practice focuses on intimate partner therapy, trauma, and gender identity issues.
Alaina Bercilla
Supervisory Fellow
Alaina specializes in life transitions and creative identity issues. She integrates mindfulness practices with client-centered therapy. Her background includes music performance and teaching experience.
Dragon Ding
Fellow
Dragon focuses on cultural identity and young adult transitions. He works with AAPI communities and gaming/esports professionals. His approach emphasizes creating safe spaces for self-exploration and personal growth.
Grace Gautier
Fellow
Grace specializes in LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC client care. She focuses on complex trauma and neurodivergence. Her practice emphasizes relational therapy and creating liberating therapeutic spaces.
Matthew Parsons
Fellow
Matthew works with queer and trans identity exploration and trauma recovery. His background includes human rights advocacy. He emphasizes collaborative relationships and self-determination in therapy.
Questions
What therapeutic approach does CCA use?
We practice client-centered therapy rooted in Carl Rogers' humanistic approach, emphasizing empathy, unconditional positive regard, and collaborative exploration.
Do you offer services for LGBTQIA+ individuals?
Yes, many of our therapists specialize in LGBTQIA+ care with specific training in queer and trans-affirming practices.
How can I start therapy?
Contact us via email or phone to discuss your needs. We'll connect you with a therapist and schedule an initial consultation.
Are services affordable?
We offer sliding scale fees and work to make therapy accessible through our graduate intern program and fellowships.
Do you provide telehealth options?
Yes, we offer both in-person and remote therapy sessions to accommodate client preferences and accessibility needs.
What populations do you specialize in?
We specialize in working with LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, neurodivergent individuals, and those exploring cultural/gender identity issues.
