Zerek Mayes
Hi there, I'm Zerek. Do you feel that your life is spiraling? Do you often feel anxiety in everyday social situations? Do you feel pulled in a million directions and have lost your sense of self and meaning? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself?
Guidance through transformation is facilitated through activities, worksheets, and specific exercises that empower you to make the shift your life needs.
I help everyday people who seek to improve their relationship with themselves, improve their charisma, build their confidence, manage anxiety, and avoid burnout. Together, we identify what's working and what is not, in order to restore your sense of wellness and balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I am here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary - even, intimidating - but you're making the right choice. You deserve the safe space you have been needing to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups, and create new habits toward the vision of wellness and wholeness that you deeply hold. I am excited to walk alongside you. Let's work!
First session
Your first session is an opportunity for us to begin getting to know one another and to understand what brings you to counseling. We will spend time discussing your concerns, goals, current challenges, strengths, and the experiences that have shaped your life. Rather than rushing to solve problems, I believe in taking the time to understand the whole person—your story, your relationships, your values, and what matters most to you. You can expect a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where you are free to speak openly and honestly. Together, we will explore what is contributing to your current difficulties, identify areas for growth, and begin developing a plan that aligns with your goals. My approach is collaborative. I do not view therapy as something done to you, but something we engage in together. Whether you are seeking healing, clarity, personal growth, stronger relationships, or support through a difficult season, our work will focus not only on addressing challenges but also on helping you become the person you desire to be. Most importantly, you do not need to have everything figured out before you arrive. Your first session is simply the beginning of the journey.
Strengths
I am licensed in Illinois with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my practice, I use CBT to help clients explore how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. We work together to identify unhelpful patterns-like negative self-talk or avoidance-and replace them with more balanced thoughts and healthy coping strategies. CBT is practical and collaborative, often involving homework and real-life tools to support change between sessions.
Couples Counseling
In my practice, I use couples counseling to help partners recognize and shift unhelpful patterns in their relationship. I guide them in developing clearer communication, rebuilding trust, and deepening emotional connection. Through structured conversations and skill-building exercises, we work together to foster mutual understanding, support, and long-term relationship health.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
In my practice, I use EFT to help couples and individuals explore the deeper emotional needs and patterns that shape their relationships. EFT focuses on identifying negative cycles of disconnection and creating new patterns of emotional responsiveness, trust, and security. By helping clients access and express vulnerable emotions in a safe and structured way, I support them in building stronger bonds and more fulfilling relationships.
Location
Virtual sessions