Thea, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and lifelong artist, known for her calming presence, relocated to the Chicago land area for college. Leaving her small rural town, she has found joy serving the LGBTQIA+ community as well as addressing the mental health concerns of people of all ages. She enjoys incorporating creative expression into sessions through music making, painting, drawing, or writing. Thea also has experience with play therapy and working with children living with ADHD, Autism, or trauma. LGBTQIA+ Community As a member of the Queer community, Thea experienced what it was like growing up in an unsupportive environment. Now, she acts as liaison for individuals seeking gender affirming care and is dedicated to connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to safe and welcoming spaces. Thea works with those exploring their gender or sexuality, helps clients face trauma or discrimination, and guides parents towards acceptance and support of their kids. Autism, ADHD, and More Thea has a robust passion for the neurodiverse community and has learned through personal experience the tools and techniques needed to help someone in a world that is chaotic and distracting. Through hands-on activities, exploring cognitive barriers, and working on goals one step at a time, Thea has helped children and young adults learn to manage their needs and celebrate their unique strengths. Couples and Family Therapy Thea believes communication is the foundation of all healthy relationships, whether as couples, families, or day to day interactions with friends and peers. By building on the client's strengths, she introduces important topics like expectations, friendships, boundary setting and parenting. No relationship is too big or small, and Thea finds pleasure in working with LGBTQIA+ relationships including polycules and the kink community. For Fun… Thea’s weekends are filled with the stuff out of an Anne of Green Gables reboot. She can often be found cuddling with her rabbit or her cat while hand sewing a quilt. Her other passions include oil painting, water coloring, and ceramics! Though busy, she never struggles to find a moment to unwind with a cup of coffee, take a break for a good hike, or spend the night with her family and friends.