LCSW, 22 years of experience
Hi — I’m Seth. Many of my clients come to me because they find themselves stuck in patterns of unhealthy relationship dynamics — whether in long-term or new romantic partnerships, within their families, or in the ways they relate to others in general. I specialize in relationships, addiction, depression, anxiety, and trauma, and have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of personal struggles. My approach is grounded in authenticity, acceptance, and curiosity. I offer unconditional positive regard and strive to create a space where you can explore your experiences openly and safely — without judgment or pretense. I bring a gentle, respectful, and thoughtful presence to therapy, encouraging emotional awareness, self-compassion, humor, and a sense of celebration as essential ingredients for growth and healing. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan. Outside of therapy, I enjoy playing the cello, guitar, and piano, spending time outdoors, and perfecting my deviled egg recipe.
The first session is really about connection and understanding. It’s a chance for you to share what’s been bringing you to therapy and what life has felt like lately — what’s working, what’s not, and what you’re hoping for. We’ll spend time talking through your background and current challenges, but also about your goals and what you’d like therapy to look like. I’ll ask questions to get a fuller sense of who you are, and you’re welcome to ask me questions, too — about my style, approach, or what you can expect from the process. My goal is for you to leave the first session feeling heard, understood, and like we’re building something collaborative — a space that feels comfortable, supportive, and genuinely helpful for you.
My strengths as a therapist are especially reflected in my work with relationships, addictions, and my use of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In both relationships and addiction, rigid all-or-nothing thinking often fuels distress and disconnection. DBT helps bring this pattern into focus and offers practical, effective tools for creating balance, self-awareness, and healthier communication — whether between two people or within one’s own internal dialogue.
I work best with people that are ready to take an honest look at themselves and their relationships — those that want to understand why they feel stuck, anxious, or disconnected, and are motivated to do the work of creating real change. Many of my clients are navigating transitions in identity, relationships, or purpose — maybe recovering from addiction, redefining self-worth, or learning how to communicate and connect in healthier ways. They value authenticity and are open to both reflection and humor in the process. If you’re someone that wants a space where you can be yourself — messy parts and all — and are looking for a therapist that's collaborative, grounded, and real, we’ll probably be a good fit. Together, we’ll work toward balance, clarity, and a more fulfilling relationship with yourself and the people around you.
I use DBT to help clients build balance and flexibility in their thinking, emotions, and relationships. I draw from core DBT principles and skills—mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness—to help clients recognize rigid or extreme patterns and develop practical tools for change. My approach is flexible and conversational, tailored to each person’s goals and real-life experiences.
I use ACT to help clients strengthen self-awareness and move toward a more values-driven life. Together, we work on noticing and making space for difficult thoughts and emotions rather than getting stuck in struggle with them. I emphasize mindfulness, self-compassion, and committed action—supporting clients in living more fully and authentically, even in the presence of pain or uncertainty.
I use CBT to help clients identify and change unhelpful patterns in thinking and behavior that contribute to emotional distress. We work together to build insight into how thoughts, emotions, and actions interact, and to develop practical strategies for responding differently. My approach is collaborative and focused on helping clients apply these tools in real, everyday situations.
I use an attachment-based approach to help clients understand how early relationship experiences shape current patterns of connection, trust, and emotional safety. Together, we explore how these patterns show up in present relationships and self-perception, working toward healthier, more secure ways of relating. The focus is on building awareness, compassion, and the capacity for deeper, more authentic connection.
In couples work, I help partners improve communication, strengthen emotional connection, and resolve recurring conflicts in ways that foster understanding rather than defensiveness. My approach draws from DBT, attachment theory, and mindfulness to help each partner recognize patterns, express needs effectively, and respond with empathy. The goal is to create space for both individuals to feel seen, respected, and supported in the relationship.
2 ratings with written reviews
May 15, 2025
I’ve worked with Seth the past two years and I wish I could add more adjectives to describe him. He’s authentic, kind, compassionate, and not afraid to call you out on your stuff. I’ve had many therapists, and Seth is one of the best.
April 24, 2025
Suh an easy person to talk to build a rapport with and growth. Learning from each other building trust and setting boundaries. Best therapist ever.