Seth Gruenwald
I'm Seth Gruenwald, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Yes and Therapy, PLLC. I work with adults, couples, and families that feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them — in relationships, in anxious thinking, or in ways of coping that have run their course.
Outside of therapy, I enjoy playing the cello, guitar, and piano, spending time outdoors, and perfecting my deviled egg recipe.
My style is direct and collaborative, with a practical focus: I'll name what I'm noticing, and I expect us to build something useful together rather than just talk in circles. My clinical background spans child trauma work, family therapy, and years treating addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders, so I bring real range along with genuine curiosity about your particular story.
First session
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.
Strengths
I bring genuine range to sessions: trauma and crisis work with children, years treating addiction and co-occurring disorders, and family therapy across home, school, and community settings. I also spent six years training and supervising MSW and LSW candidates, so I'm comfortable being direct without losing warmth. I'll sit quietly and hold space when that's what a moment calls for, but I won't just nod along if I see a pattern worth naming — I'd rather gently push on something real than let a session stay comfortable but unproductive.
Ideal clients
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.
Treatment methods
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
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.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
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.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
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.
Attachment-based
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.
Couples Counseling
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.
Location
Virtual sessions
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Licensed in
- IllinoisLicense 149020378