Hi, I’m Amanda!
I decided to become a therapist because I love helping people overcome challenges and become who they are meant to be. I believe change is possible for everyone, and have seen just how resilient people truly are. One of the most wonderful parts about being a therapist is sitting with a person who feels so broken, holding that pain with them, and creating a space for healing. I know that trust, empathy, understanding, and love are key components of the therapeutic relationship, and I work hard to cultivate these in session.
Education + Licensing
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with credentials to practice in Illinois, Utah, and Washington. I received my Bachelor’s in Human Development and Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. Throughout my education, I have focused the majority of my research on interracial relationships and families, faith transitions, and the impact of fathers on the family unit.
I chose my graduate program because of its emphasis on comprehensive clinical training in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment; a deep understanding of interpersonal and systemic dynamics; a strong commitment to working with diverse, marginalized, and under-served populations; and core competencies in marriage and family therapy knowledge, ethics, research, and cultural responsiveness.
Experience
I began my graduate internship in 2019 as a therapist at an outpatient treatment center, supporting clients through a wide range of complex traumas. Together, we work from the ground up to understand diagnoses, develop coping skills, and accomplish meaningful goals. Since graduating in 2021, I have worked in private practice, primarily assisting clients struggling with anxiety, addiction, depression, relationship challenges, LGBTQ+ issues, spirituality, and many other concerns.
With my diverse background, I take a personalized approach to therapy, tailoring each session to fit the unique needs of my clients rather than relying on a one size fits all method. I draw from a range of evidence based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), to provide the most effective and individualized support.
Clients often tell me they appreciate working with me for my compassion, expertise, insights, strong memory, and ability to be both supportive and honest, even blunt when necessary.
I am particularly passionate about helping clients navigate faith transitions. Finding the right therapist can be challenging, as no clinician should push someone toward or away from their faith. I prioritize creating a safe space where my clients feel comfortable and empowered in their decisions as we navigate the complexities of faith transitions together. Clients have valued my guidance in managing complex conversations with family while defining their own beliefs.
Something that surprised me in my career is how much I value working with couples recovering from infidelity. I credit this to my ability to truly see people, identify the root of an issue, and help rebuild relationships that once felt irreparable. It is incredibly rewarding to witness couples restore their connection into something stronger than they ever thought possible. Clients have expressed gratitude for my support during such a difficult period, as I help them rediscover hope and happiness in their marriage.
Research + Writing
My academic research has covered topics such as interracial and interfaith relationships, the effects of faith transitions on individuals and families (and how to foster positive outcomes), and the impact of fathers on their children.
During my undergraduate studies, I conducted research on the role fathers play in shaping their children's self esteem and body image. My findings demonstrated that paternal warmth positively influences body image for both sons and daughters. I presented this research at the 2018 Mary Lou Fulton Mentored Student Research Conference, where I received an award for my work.
I have also contributed to research teams led by professors Dr. Roy Bean and Dr. Shayne Anderson, examining the representation of ethnic minorities in academic literature and the dynamic roles of therapists and clients in successful therapy.
Beyond the therapy office,
I was born and raised in California, spent about eight years in Utah for school, and now live in Chicago with my husband and dog. We take every opportunity to explore the city, checking out museums, enjoying long summer days at the lake, and discovering new favorite spots.
True to my Italian heritage, I live by the saying, “La vita è una combinazione di pasta e amore.” Many of my favorite activities revolve around food. I love spending mornings at the farmers market picking out fresh produce and baked goods, I’m always on the lookout for new restaurants and flavors, and I find so much happiness in cooking in my kitchen with my husband.
I became a therapist because I once needed therapy myself, to work through trauma and become the best version of myself. Now, I am grateful to help others overcome challenges and step into who they are meant to be. I truly believe that change is possible for everyone and have witnessed firsthand the resilience of the human spirit. One of the most rewarding parts of being a therapist is sitting with someone in their pain, holding space for them, and fostering healing. I know that trust, empathy, understanding, and connection are the foundations of therapy, and I work hard to cultivate these in every session.