Hi there! My name is Kleah and I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Chicago, Illinois with 4 years of clinical experience. I have a Master's degree from the University of Chicago with a concentration in clinical social work. I am a queer, first generation Filipina-American with a passion for helping folks lead the lives they would like to lead.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our sessions, I will strive to foster a warm, non-judgemental space with you. I believe in the healing ability of strong relationships throughout life's many challenges and, together, we can work to create a space that is safe for you to show up as you are. Life's challenges can be very hard to hold alone, and I want to make sure that you don't have to. Our first session is typically used to learn more about who you are, what brings you to therapy, and to see if we'd be a good fit for one another - your current concerns, your goals for our work together, your personal history, and what you are looking for in a therapist. That being said, we can always choose to start wherever feels right for you. Our sessions will always be a space for you to talk freely about anything you want.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

My greatest strength as a provider is rapport building - I am a strong believer in the healing power of a positive relationship and frequently use the therapeutic relationship to help clients feel comfortable. Comfortability is immensely important in the therapy space - this space must feel safe for clients to be vulnerable because vulnerability is how we start to bring about meaningful change. I think my use of humor, active listening skills, and patient-centered approach to my work contribute most to my ability to build strong rapport over time.

About Kleah Fernandez