Our People
Phillip Lee
M.Ed., MSW, LCSW, Founder (he/him)
Clinical Interests
Anxiety
Behavioral Concerns
Cultural Identity
Depression
Family Therapy
Gender Issues
Generational Trauma
Grief
Homicidal Ideation
Men’s Health
Self-Identity
Sexuality
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
Work-related Issues
Key Clientele
Educators
Families
LGBTQIA+
Medical Professionals
Men of Color
Therapists
Students
Hello, my name is Phil and I am the owner of Empathetic Artisans Therapy Group. Through my experiences growing up here in Chicago, I learned what it was like to go through hardships. Whether personally or supporting others, what I have found through those hardships is that people benefit from having a space that belongs to them—a non-judgmental space where they can be themselves fully and express their thoughts. Ultimately, this is why I started EA Therapy Group, to create a space for those who need it.
Over the past 9+ years, I have served as a Social Worker in many crisis-based settings. Currently, along with being the Owner of EA Therapy Group, I work in Healthcare Leadership where I get to ensure that the community gets their social needs met. Working in a hospital brings its’ own challenges as a professional, experiences that I understand.
My clinical interests are deeply rooted in trauma-informed practices. While using a strengths-based model, much of my approach is developed from Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapies. I have training and experience supporting clients seeking support in the areas listed under clinical interests and those who are just wanting to check-in. I am eager to offer assistance to anyone who feels my clinical interests match their needs. Additionally, I am dedicated to offering services to those who are a part of the communities listed under key clientele.
Using my clinical knowledge, my passion for empathy, and my willingness to laugh sometimes, I invite you to reach out, allow me to learn a little about you, and let’s see if I can be supportive to you (and/or your loved one). I look forward to the opportunity to work together.
Nathan Flessner
MSW, LCSW (he/him)
Clinical Interests
ADHD
Anxiety
Behavioral Concerns
Couples Therapy
Depression
Executive Dysfunction
Gender Issues
Homicidal Ideation
Men’s Health
Quarter/Mid-Life Crises
Relationship Issues
Self-Identity
Social Connection
Stress-related Issues
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
Work-related Issues
Key Clientele
Couples
Educators
LGBTQIA+
Mental Health Providers
Parents
Students
Young Adults
Going into therapy can be an intimidating process. Having been a client and provider, I understand how finding a therapist that you connect with and that you trust to guide you in your mental health journey is no small task. I do my best to make this process as easy and straightforward as possible. Flexible scheduling, individualized care, prompt responsiveness, and a collaborative approach based on your changing needs are all things you can expect when working with me.
With over 6 years within the mental health field, I have extensive experience with youth and young adults, having worked in youth residential programs and as a school social worker in both a high school and elementary school setting. More recently I moved into the private therapy sphere, working with people of all ages and genders on a myriad of issues. Amongst considerable experience processing life anxieties and depression, my specialties include relationship issues, ADHD/executive dysfunction, and navigating life transitions (both young adult and midlife).
I work forward from a core of trauma-informed, strengths-based practices utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Emotions Focused, and Internal Family Systems strategies to support those I work with as fully as possible. Within my couples work, I primarily utilize the Gottmann Method to establish clear, compassionate communication and understanding.
Beyond the theory though, you will find sessions with me based on connection and comfort first, with solutions or strategies always coming second. If an easy going chat where your needs are always centered is something you seek, then I look forward to working with you!
Jade Lopez
MSW, LCSW (she/her)
Clinical Interests
ADHD
Anxiety
Behavioral Concerns
Couples Therapy
Depression
Executive Dysfunction
Gender Issues
Cultural Identity
Generational Trauma
Grief
Quarter/Mid-Life Crises
Relationship Issues
Self-Identity
Social Connection
Stress-related Issues
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
Work-related Issues
Key Clientele
Couples
Educators
LGBTQIA+
Mental Health Providers
Parents
Families
Young Adults
Medical ProfessionalsTherapists
Students
Throughout my 16 years as a professional social worker, I’ve discovered a vast diversity of needs and strengths found in the communities I serve. I’ve learned that empathy, support, and a safe space truly allows people to heal, grow and thrive. My daily interactions with clients and communities keep me grounded, grateful and motivated to continue creating non-judgmental and safe spaces for clients.
My clinical interests and skills have a solid foundation in trauma-informed practices. While strongly using a strengths-based model along with narrative and solution focused interventions, my approach is developed and guided from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, and Conflict Theory. I am honored to assist anyone seeking support and feels my clinical skills match their therapeutic goals.
I have extensive experience working with youth and young adults in both residential and school settings. I have a wealth of experience working extensively within the criminal justice system, and currently am working directly with veterans experiencing homelessness.
I truly believe every person’s life story has value and importance, and everyone deserves to feel peace in their mind and body. I look forward to connecting, if you feel my skills would provide support for you and/or your loved ones.
Marcos Gonzales
LSW (he/him)
Clinical Interests
Anxiety
Depression
Burnout
Grief
Racial & Cultural Identity
Career Counseling
Life Coaching
Life Transitions
Gender Issues
Sexuality
Family Conflict
Relationship Issues
Marital and Premarital Issues
Immigration Issues
Men’s Health
Peer Relationships
School Issues
Self Esteem
Spiritual/Religious Questioning
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Key Clientele
Men of Color
Educators
Students
Families
Couples
LGBTQIA+
Returning Citizens
Mixed-Status Households
Hello, my name is Marcos, and I’m a bilingual therapist with Empathetic Artisans Therapy Group. I approach this work from a trauma-informed, culturally affirming, and person-centered lens, shaped by years of walking alongside people navigating complex systems and life transitions. Originally from Los Angeles and now rooted in Chicago, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be to have a space where you are heard, valued, and able to show up as your full self.
I bring extensive experience from school settings and community-based work, including supporting individuals impacted by the criminal legal system. My background has allowed me to support clients through moments of transition, grief, uncertainty, and resilience—always with care, cultural humility, and deep respect for their lived experiences.
I specialize in supporting young adults, BIPOC individuals, members of the queer community, justice-impacted individuals and their loved ones, and mixed-status families. My practice draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy—grounded in cultural humility, strengths-based, and liberation-focused approaches.
You are the expert of your lived experience, and I believe therapy can help deepen an understanding into the expertise you gain through those experiences. I’m here to support your process with empathy, curiosity, and respect—and I’d be honored to be part of your journey.
Emmy Smith
LSW (he/she/they)
Clinical Interests
Anxiety
Accessibility/Disability
Chronic Health Conditions
Depression
Executive Dysfunction
Harm Reduction
Intimacy Exploration and Challenges
Kink affirming and aligned
LGBTQIA +
Life Transitions
Relationships (friendship, platonic, intimate, physical, monogamous, polyamorous)
Sex and Intimacy
Self-Identity
Suicide Ideation
Substances
Trauma, including PTSD and CPTSD
Key Clientele
Young Adults/Adults (18+)
Partners
LGBTQIA+
Neurodivergent folks
Hello! My name is Emmy and thanks for taking a second to see if I am the right fit for you.
In life and in my work I center play, community, joy, and imagination. I believe in collective healing and liberation through these values and rely on them in session. I’ve learned in my personal life and while being present to others that we can all benefit from a moment that is just for us to think about who we are and how we relate to the world. Figuring out yourself starts by having a safe place to fall, to express, to play, and to imagine. In session, you can expect me to affirm you, get curious with you and, at times, challenge you.
I work with adults and I have a specific interest and training in the spectrum of relationships (platonic, romantic, monogamous, polyamory etc), sex and intimacy exploration and challenges, identity and self exploration, queer relationships, LGBTQIA+ identities, disability, patient advocacy, as well as short and long term crisis intervention.
When not working, I love to look at the stars, bake cookies, garden, and explore. So that’s me and what to expect working with me, if that aligns with your needs please reach out via text, call, or email. If you have questions or things you want to know before setting up an appointment, happy to text or jump on a 15 minute call to connect.
Audrey Falzone
LSW (she/her)
Clinical Interests
Anxiety
Adolescence
Career Issues
Depression
Generational Trauma
Grief & Loss
Interpersonal Issues
Identity Exploration
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Sexuality
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
Work-related Issues
Women’s Issues
Key Clientele
Adults
College Students
LGBTQIA+
Teens
Young Adults
As a therapist, I aim to provide compassionate and collaborative care with a strong commitment to support individuals in their journey toward healing and growth. With extensive experience working with both youth and adults, I take a holistic, client-centered viewpoint, tailoring therapeutic techniques to meet each person’s unique needs.
My clinical approach emphasizes the importance of empathy, trust, and mutual respect in order to create a therapeutic relationship that fosters growth. I utilize evidence-based interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to help clients address challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and other mental health concerns.
Throughout my time as a therapist, I have had extensive experience across various settings, including group therapy, individual therapy, and crisis intervention which allows me to bring an abundance of skills and perspectives to my clinical work. I am particularly focused on ensuring that every individual receives care that is not only effective but also empowers them to engage in action that guides them towards fulfillment in their lives.
Above all, I believe in the power of collaboration and empathy in therapy. My goal is to create a safe, trauma-informed, and supportive space where clients feel understood and equipped to face the challenges in their lives, leading to meaningful, lasting therapeutic work.
Annie Church
LCSW (she/her)
Clinical Interests
Anger
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Self-Identity
Relationship Issues
Self-Esteem
Spirituality
Stress
Substance Use
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
Key Clientele
Adults
Couples
Families
LGBTQIA+
It is often said that one of the only constants in life is change. As a therapist, I consider it a great honor to walk alongside my clients as they navigate the many changing seasons of life. I aim to collaborate with my clients as holistic, dynamic individuals and I bring a relational, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive lens to my practice. During sessions, you can expect elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, and body-based awareness to emerge as we use both the past and the present to move toward deeper understanding, growth, and change. The environment I strive to create during sessions is one that is present, curious, warm, and non-judgemental. I am also a firm believer that humor and lightheartedness are welcome in the therapy space! Whether you are looking for a place to process or to equip yourself with concrete tools to use outside of session, my goal is to meet you exactly where you are.
I currently work with adults and families in both individual and group settings. My experience in community mental health has equipped me with skills in both long term therapeutic work as well as acute crisis intervention with people of all ages and holding many diverse identities.
Regardless of whether or not we work together- I am glad you’re taking the time to care for your wellbeing and explore the role therapy can play in your life. If you are interested in scheduling a brief consultation to talk about working together, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Lexie Barber
MSW Intern (she/her)
Clinical Interests
Anxiety
Behavioral Concerns
Depression
Grief
Interpersonal and Relationship Issues
Life Transitions
Stress-related Issues
Trauma
Women’s Issues
Key Clientele
Parents
Students
Young Adults
I am a Master of Social Work student with a background as a Certified Child Life Specialist, where I have supported children and families through medical crises, trauma, and life transitions. My role has given me experience in creating safe, supportive spaces where people can process, cope, and grow.
I work with clients across the lifespan—including children, adolescents, and adults—and have a particular interest in family dynamics, parent support, and navigating life transitions. My clinical focus includes anxiety, grief and loss, and behavioral concerns, and I strive to help both individuals and families build resilience and strengthen their relationships.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed. I often draw on play, creativity, and strengths-based strategies when working with clients and bring a compassionate, practical lens to my work. Above all, I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives, and I feel honored to walk alongside them in their journey.
Caroline Carr
LSW (she/her)
Clinical Interests
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Interpersonal and Relationship Issues
Life Transitions
Sex and Intimacy
Stress-related Issues
Trauma
Women’s Issues
Key Clientele
Adults
Students
Young Adults
My goal in therapeutic work is to create a space where you feel accepted, safe, and supported. I strive to provide a nurturing, empathetic and compassionate environment where you can feel open to exploring all aspects of yourself.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to guide my practice and help you achieve personal growth, new perspectives and skills, and hopefully, a greater sense of self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-acceptance.
If my perspective aligns with your needs please reach out via text, call, or email. If you have questions or things you want to know before setting up an appointment, happy to jump on a 15 minute call to connect.