Therapists in Illinois

I work with clients who are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression or trauma. I also work with clients who may need assistance in processing everyday life stressors and want a supportive therapist whom they can confide in who will also challenge them and assist with problem-solving. I also work with those facing reproductive challenges. As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, I understand the complex emotional and psychological impact that infertility and miscarriage can have. I can: • Support you in maintaining hope, peace and positivity while navigating uncertainty and help you build resiliency as you work through obstacles. • Help you to recognize and access your deeper intuition, so you are better equipped to honor your body, spirit and mind with the highest intention throughout your journey. • Work with you on increasing clarity and purpose around your fertility journey. • Utilize a holistic approach to address integrative lifestyle strategies that may be beneficial to your fertility path. • Assist you in addressing relationship difficulties that can arise out of the stress of fertility challenges, help you develop strategies to increase intimacy with your partner and foster healthy communication. For women and men who have experienced reproductive loss: • The devastating and seemingly invisible pain of losing a pregnancy is unique in that it involves not only the loss of your baby, but also involves the loss of the future - and there is no accepted way to mark that loss. Sometimes it seems that friends and family members expect the person to move on quickly. Partners often grieve differently - and for men, the trauma of miscarriage is often overlooked. Also, some women may suffer guilt or shame associated with the loss that doesn't tend to occur with other types of grieving. • There is no universal template for grief. Together, we will address your unique needs as you work through your grieving process.

Yadira is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a graduate and Adjunct Professor of Dominican University, a certified Health Coach and Yoga instructor, and Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Trainer. Yadira offers a judgment-free zone where you can freely express yourself, and a safe place where you can unpack what weighs you down. Are you riddled with sadness, fear, worry, and/or anxiety? Or maybe you are battling current or past traumatic memories, negative thoughts, or low self-esteem. Are you facing challenges at work or school? I am here to walk with you, support you, and empower you on your journey toward a happy, whole, and purposeful life. Yadira utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (DBT, CBT), and Mindfulness approaches, is Trauma- Informed and offers holistic approaches such as incorporating spirituality in counseling, as an option. She specializes in working with adolescents, trauma survivors, college students, and very much enjoys working with adolescents and adults on all of life's struggles. Yadira operates from the belief that although life can be challenging, it is within these challenges that people are presented with the greatest opportunity for personal growth, and development

Hi, I’m Brian If you feel stuck, and unable to change things, I can help you to start moving again. We can join together and create a strategy for working through the event or dilemma that is stressing you out. Together we will work to restore or surpass your previous level of productivity and satisfaction. I want to hear your story. I will listen. I will not judge. For the last 19 years, I have helped individuals, families and couples resolve problematic situations. Their experiences often instilled insight, confidence, serenity and hope. My holistic mission is to: • listen empathetically, without judgement • Ease suffering and improve functionality • Teach you to persist when fear and doubt are present • Be equal partners working together to create and implement strategies to resolve, accept and overcome the obstacles that impede your progress I want to • Help you find insight, meaning and purpose • Provide support as you proceed in the direction of your choosing • Teach you how to live more effectively • Create the opportunity for you to smile when it is most needed and least expected I take the time to educate you about the conditions that you experience and the treatment you receive. I believe that self-empowerment begins with self-understanding. I will help you understand why you do what you do and feel what you feel. I have extensive experience treating addicted people in residential in patient treatment, outpatient and aftercare facilities. I advise and treat families struggling to with parents, children and siblings that are addicted

Welcome! My counseling practice is in Wheaton, Illinois and I am also licensed in Florida. I have a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and a doctorate in Counselor Education & Supervision. In addition to private practice, I serve as professor in the counseling graduate program at National Louis University in the Chicago area where I teach all foundational theory and research-based courses.

Hello! I'm so happy that you decided to stop by. My name is Dainese Jones, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (IL), Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (SC), Professional Educator -School Counselor (IL), and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have over 15 years of post-graduate experience including supporting and guiding at-risk youth/adolescents, youths in transition, persons with disabilities (including accommodations), vocational rehabilitation, veteran services, and working with active-duty military families.

Do you have a case of "Monkey Mind” over thinking or can’t stop thinking? Do you believe you are not enough? Do you struggle with self forgiveness? Are you feeling stuck and not sure how to move forward? Do you struggle with the funky blahs? I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Self Mastery Coach, and I am dedicated to helping women facilitate powerful change through joyful self-realization that aligns with their values and desires. I treat the human spirit and in our work together you will remember the power of self love. In my practice, I honor, and acknowledge the inherent value of each person’s aspirations, cultural experience, journey, and unique story. I hold space for those who find themselves stuck in a storyline that no longer serve you. Together we will address the thinking that has shaped these behaviors, beliefs and patterns. My goal is to help you remember that goodness is your birthright, and to know that you are the power you seek. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including mindfulness, cognitive behavior therapy, and solutions focused therapy. My style is collaborative, practical and strength based. Put your wellness first! Counselingonyourcouch.com or Coachingonyourcouch.com Call 1 (786) 755-1863 or email reception+Sadiyah1282@growtherapy.com

Hello! I am Brandi. Are you struggling with stress? Trauma? Depression? Anxiety? Relationship issues? Figuring out your balancing act with all things in your day to day? All of the above? I can help. Let’s work together to find you some relief. Let me help you work towards inner peace and happiness. Let me help you learn to communicate so that you feel heard in those relationships. Let me be a supportive ear to help you guide yourself through all that you are struggling to overcome. Even if you aren’t struggling and just want to learn new ways to be positive in your life. Let’s look for a positive mind together!

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC/LMHCA) based in the states of Illinois and Indiana. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grace College and Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana. I have experience and practice for approximately 7 years. I enjoy helping others discover they can learn to live on the other side of their hurt and pain. I respect clients' autonomy and have a compassionate ear as I work to help you become successful in your future endeavors and management of your own life.

Hi, I'm Dr. Taliah, Life sometimes leaves us unable to direct our attention. We're often being pulled towards many directions. If you have work, school, family or a recent life event you would like to process, I am here for you. If a recent life event has brought you distraction, grief or trauma and has you off of your game, let's get you back on track. I would be happy to support you in returning to your best self. Faith-based holistic approach, upon request.

Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California and a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I have my doctorate in Counseling and Education and I've been in practice for about 20 years. I work mostly with adults with anxiety, depression, grief, and loss and trauma, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.

Greetings, I'm Maritza Solis, a bilingual and bicultural clinical therapist who is passionate about holistic methods to heal people's mind, body, and spirit. Through my culture I learned about the power of community, spirituality, and natural remedies to promote well-being. My philosophy of therapy is based on the belief that everyone has the ability to heal themselves, and my role is to facilitate that process by providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space. I draw from evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavior therapy, as well as natural remedies, prayer, meditation, and yoga to create a truly holistic approach. Ultimately, my goal as a therapist is to empower individuals to live their best lives by helping them reconnect with their inner selves and tap into their own inherent healing abilities. I believe that true healing happens when we address the whole person - mind, body, and spirit. Open to working with children and adolescents ages 8 and older.

Hello, I'm Steve, a licensed therapist with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges and achieve mental wellness. With over 20 years of experience in corporate America and nearly a decade of military counseling, I bring a diverse and rich background to my practice, allowing me to connect deeply with clients facing a wide range of issues. I specialize in treating PTSD, combat-related trauma, military family support, work-related stress, and anxiety. One of my unique areas of expertise is in cult-related abuse, making me one of the few specialists in this field in the nation. My work in this area has garnered national recognition, including a feature on the Dr. Phil show. I also focus on men's therapeutic concerns, executive and leadership counseling, clergy support, and depression treatment. My approach to therapy is rooted in creating a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where clients feel genuinely heard and understood. I blend Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Gottman Method for couples to tailor my approach to each client's unique needs. By integrating these techniques, I aim to foster personal growth, resilience, and lasting change. In my practice, I prioritize building strong therapeutic relationships and empowering clients to take the lead in their therapeutic journey. Whether you are dealing with trauma, stress, relationship issues, or personal growth challenges, I am here to support and guide you. Let's work together to chart your course to a brighter, healthier future.

Hello I am glad you are on your path to healing and creating your best life ! I am here to partner with you to navigate life’s ups and downs . I believe in building authentic relationships and creating a safe nonjudgmental space. I have a doctorate in leadership eduction and hold an LCSW . I am a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. I am trained in EMDR . I specialize in grief, trauma , and suicide loss. I have worked extensively with people struggling with relationship issues , learning disabilities , pet loss , divorce , obesity, life transition’s, and difficulties maintaining work life balance . I am here to help you put joy back into your life ! My door is open to everyone . I really enjoy working with women of all ages. Young adults finding their way in life. Adults and seniors . I am a strong supporter of the LGBTQI community and welcome everyone in the LGBTQIA community .

I work to provide a safe, non-judgmental, culturally safe space where you can share, we can identify what isn't working, and implement the best practice interventions that work toward your goals. Curiosity about why we do what we do is helpful when we need to create different habits. Therefore we work on cultivating a sense of curiosity so we can learn how to identify what isn't working in our life anymore. When we are open to new possibilities, we reduce self-imposed limitations to improve our own life experiences. When we strengthen what we are already good at, we reduce the impact of our life challenges. When we integrate newly learned skills with existing skills, we tend to feel more hopeful about our future and increase our self-confidence. These changes can lead to adopting new ways of coping, learning how to view our challenges from new perspectives and using all of this to live your best life.

I am an Army Veteran and LCPC with a certification as a national certified counselor through the NBCC and have accumulated over 6 years of direct individual/group practice as a licensed counselor. Overall, my experience spans over 10 years working as a crisis, substance use, and mental health counselor in the field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and substance use. I also have assisted many clients who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is very welcoming and inviting. I believe in honoring the values of respect, sensitivity, compassion, empathy and embracing a holistic point of view to promote mental wellness. It takes courage to make the steps towards a more fulfilling and happier life and embrace change. If you are ready to take that leap into a healthier mind, body, and spirit, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you in your new journey!

I work with men wrestling with anger and resentment, and couples navigating conflict in their relationships. My approach is straightforward and practical: helping men and their partners manage stress, repair trust, resolve conflict, improve happiness, communicate in healthier and more effective ways, and tackle real-life problems that matter most. No jargon. No fluff. Just results, straight talk, and practical strategies—delivered with humor, candor, and the hard-earned insight of a guy who calls himself a Frequent Flyer to Hell and Back.

Hi there, I am Rachel Logan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, esteemed author, speaker, and founder of Get to the Root Counseling, P. C. I provide counseling services for individuals in Illinois and Missouri. I help individuals break unwanted cycles and recover from past traumas using a combination of evidence-based techniques and Christian principles. My motto is "Therapy + God = Healing." I offer a unique model for uncovering the root of these cycles, enabling individuals to live peacefully.

Hello! I am a Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience helping multicultural clients explore strategies to manage mental health, relationship issues, and other struggles. You don’t have to face these feelings alone. We can explore your thoughts and emotions in a safe space, helping you take the first step towards a better future.

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who helps my clients improve their wellbeing by utilizing coping skills and personal supports to feel more confident and competent in their lives. I am trained in multiple individual and systemic modalities, as well as Christian counseling and LGBTQ affirming therapies if desired, to better customize the therapy experience to my clients needs.

Hi, nice to meet you; my name is Helen Roberts. I’ve been a therapist since 2000, graduating from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. I have a unique combination of 20-plus years of experience working with Christian Counseling, Trauma Treatment, Attachment Therapy, Sexual Addiction, Betrayal trauma, Couples, Adults, and children. I began seeing clients two years earlier while working as a secondary therapist with families having children at risk of being removed, as well as attachment issues. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT with children, Attachment therapy, and as a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist and many other modalities. I am board certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors. I started the Trauma and Recovery Center in Green Bay, WI. I was one the founding members of Peace Makers Ministries and Under His Wings Ministries, working with attachment issues, trauma recovery, and Christian counseling. In 2015, I began training as a Certified Sexual, Addiction Therapist (CSAT), supervised by Dr. Kenneth Adams. I was trained in Betrayal Trauma by Dr. Kevin Skinner. Since that time, I have continued to work with attachment, adoption issues, trauma issues, sexual addiction, pornography addiction, anxiety, depression, and betrayal trauma. These types of therapy mean that I can work with you if you have difficulty connecting with your mom or dad, saw or experienced abandonment or rejection, or were involved with a traumatic (to you) event. I work with children, couples, individuals, and families. You deserve recovery and healing with a well-trained therapist who specializes in the modalities for your healing. I know you may not know how to fix your situation or relationship right now, but I know how to help. Request an appointment today; let’s start the conversation.

I’m Dr. Angela Jackson, a culturally competent, faith-informed therapist who helps clients unpack emotional burdens, reconnect with their truth, and begin the work that leads to lasting change. I serve adults often professionals navigating grief, anxiety, burnout, relationship wounds, and life transitions — especially those who are tired of pretending everything is fine. My approach is collaborative and grounded in CBT, narrative therapy, and cultural awareness, creating space for both honesty and healing. Whether you're carrying the weight of expectations, masking pain, or searching for clarity, I help you feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow.

Welcome. I’m glad you’re here. I specialize in helping individuals heal from Complex PTSD and family-of-origin issues that continue to shape how they see themselves and relate to others. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns they can’t quite explain—often carrying the weight of old wounds that never had the chance to fully heal. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and individualized. I honor your unique experiences and tailor our work together to meet your specific needs and goals. Using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and other trauma-informed methods, we’ll work to reduce the emotional intensity of past experiences so you can move toward greater clarity, self-connection, and peace. Healing from complex trauma takes courage, but it is possible—and you don’t have to do it alone. Together, we’ll create a space where your story is understood, your resilience is honored, and meaningful change can take root.

I love helping people manifest their best lives and provide guidance in getting there. The desire to understand self and be understood by others is innate and I have the deepest respect for those taking steps to improve emotional and mental health. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience working with adults dealing with marital and premarital issues, life transitions, grief, parenting and infertility. I partner to help you gain insight into your development, experiences and explore renewed commitment to your goals.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Indiana. I received my Masters from Aurora University and I have been practicing for 5 years. I am a warm, empathetic therapist who helps adults become the best versions of themselves through Solution Focused Brief Therapy. Combining my lived and professional experience, I specialize in working with LGBTQ adults to address needs specific to our community, especially those of transgender experience. Further, I myself am an individual who has detransitioned and I extend services to those who have as well. I understand what it's like to go through transition and go back, and I want to ensure my clients get thorough care, transitioning or detransitioning. Of course, I work with people who are inside and outside the LGBTQ community, I'm an advocate for you. I also work with personality disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and so much more. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I have a wide range of resources available to all my clients for extra support. My biggest priority in therapy is honesty, as well as giving you a space you feel comfortable in so you can open up at your pace. I want to build a strong, lasting alliance between us so we can help you become the best version of yourself. I know that together, we are going to do great things. A little about me, I have a sphynx cat named Cupid and a black cat named Tofu. Behind me sits my spider, Marrow, who burrows and builds tunnels more than she spins webs. I also enjoy playing DND, I've been drawing since I was in kindergarten, and I play lots of video games, particularly fantasy RPGs.

My name is Shelly Mark Lewin, and I am deeply honored to be joining the team of therapists at Grow Therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families in a variety of settings including private practice, outpatient mental health clinics, hospitals, healthcare systems, hospice care, and private organizations. My work is informed by my own personal life experience with mental health challenges and my goal is always to provide you with support and guidance during difficult times and on your healing journey. My professional career includes clinical positions in renown healthcare organizations including Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Joint Commission in Chicago, Kaiser Permanente in California and Mount Sinai Health System In New York City. I have extensive experience working with multi-cultural and diverse populations providing individual and group therapy, case management and crisis intervention.

Dawn Ernsberger is a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to supporting adolescents and adults in various specialized areas, such as trauma, life transitions, relationships, parenting, forgiveness, stress management, and addressing anxiety and depression. With a master's degree from Indiana University, she brings over two decades of experience counseling hundreds of clients. Ms. Ernsberger possesses a rich background in assisting individuals recovering from emotional abuse and trauma, guiding them towards emotional well-being and completeness. Additionally, she is fluent in both English and Pennsylvania Dutch.

Hi! I am an LCSW in Florida, licensed in Florida, Texas, Alabama. and Illinois. I obtained my Masters from the University of South Florida in 2000. I live in the Orlando area and have been doing telehealth since 2020. I practice a variety of approaches because not one size fits all. I believe in resiliency and have a strengths based perspective. When I am not helping others, I am spending time with my family enjoying the local theme parks, beaches for which Florida is famous, or watching my son play baseball.

I’m Dr. Ashley Morris, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional licensed in Florida and Arizona. With 18 years of experience, I help adolescents, young adults, and families heal from trauma, anxiety, and depression. My approach blends evidence-based therapies—such as EMDR, CBT, and DBT—with mind-body practices like mindfulness and movement. I believe mental health is connected to the whole person, so I consider physical, emotional, and relational well-being in every plan. In addition to my private practice, I founded The Whole Elephant, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to expanding holistic mental health care and wellness services in underserved communities. Whether you’re navigating school stress, major life changes, or long-standing wounds, I provide a compassionate space to uncover strengths, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change.

I have a dedicated 24 years of social services experience, with 15 years of psychotherapy experience. I started my career as a mentor for youth, in local non-for-profit programs. I then advanced to other comprehensive roles, with interchangeable titles, that ultimately focused on youth development and mentorship. I received my BA in Psychology at Purdue University & MA at the University of Chicago, School of Social Administration. Immediately, upon the end of graduate school, I began my experience with outpatient mental health therapy. Since, I have fulfilled a spectrum of diversified clinical roles, that include home-based, outpatient, inpatient, and telehealth therapy for vast developmental range- from early childhood to late adulthood. This includes specialty treatment with various therapy modalities, such as CBT, ACT, DBT, PST.

Have you ever felt like you were busy doing all the things you thought would bring you a happy life, yet felt alone and disconnected from yourself and others? These feelings are often when people turn to alcohol, drugs, food, shopping or relationships to try to create those feelings of happiness, contentment and joy. It can work for a short time however the key to moving forward is to understand the reasons we seek out these distractions. When we strengthen the relationship with ourselves, the outer world becomes much more balanced and fulfilling. Through slowing down and reconnecting with our mind, body and spirit we can feel more confident to face life events with a more stable and hopeful core sense of self. I specialize in treating relationship issues, addiction/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, job related issues, couples treatment and divorce recovery

As a dedicated therapist and owner of Freed Minds, I am committed to supporting individuals on their journey to holistic well-being. By focusing on understanding and nurturing the whole person, I integrate various therapeutic approaches to address the mind, body, and spirit. My practice is deeply rooted in the belief that each individual is unique and capable of profound growth and transformation. This conviction drives my commitment to helping you live your most authentic and fulfilling life. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation, empowering you to lead a life filled with purpose and joy.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia, and I’m passionate about supporting adults on their journey toward healing and well-being. With a master’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and seven years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, and other life stressors. I take an integrative approach to therapy, tailoring our work together to your unique needs. In addition to offering emotional support, teaching anxiety-reduction techniques, and developing coping strategies, I also incorporate somatic interventions that connect the body and mind.

My name is Dr. Olushola Bakare, and I'm a board-certified Psychotherapist. I attended St Joseph College. I'm happy to help you today with any of your concerns. I enjoy empowering people and digging out their strengths. I don't ask fish to fly, neither do I ask birds to swim. I respect everyone's strengths and help my client recognize them. I love to highlight my client's strengths. I offer a safe, warm, therapeutic, judgment-free space for Adults (18+) and Older Adults (65+). I am sorry, but I do not accept clients who pay in cash. Also, every late cancellation or no-show accrues a late charge fee. It is my ethical duty to officially terminate our therapeutic relationship when it is reasonably clear that the client is no longer beneficent, services are no longer required, counseling no longer serves the client's needs and interests, or Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT limits do not allow the provision of further counseling services. It is the policy of Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, that our professional relationship will be terminated after a one-month consistent lapse of meeting with a client. Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, will attempt to notify you of this change in status as soon as possible after one month. My ethical duty is identifying, being available, and caring for current clients. It could feel awkward for our relationship to end, yet it is not meant to be discourteous in any way. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc). NO COUPLE THERAPY OR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, PLEASE!

I believe in the healing power of a strong therapeutic alliance. My practice is based on the conviction that with the right support, everyone can effect change in their lives. My style is caring and not judgmental; I utilize Cognitive behavioral therapy, existential therapy, and Brief Cognitive hypnosis to guide you in the process of learning new skills to manage your thoughts, emotions and behavior. I am clinically licensed in the states of Illinois, Texas, Utah and Minnesota. I have been providing therapy through video sessions for more than three years. I am bilingual in Spanish and English. I am a painter and a poet; I consider that Art is another wonderful tool to achieve healing.

Sherry Miller, M.S., LPC (OK, TX,WI), LCPC, (IL), LMHC (FL, MA), CSADC (IL), CSAC (WI), LADC (OK), M-CAP (FL), ICS (WI), BC-TMH. Hi there. My name is Sherry Miller. I have a Master of Science in Human Service Community Counseling from National Louis University at Chicago, IL. I pride myself in strict confidentiality; with a unique insight into my consumers. Because I have been in a program of Recovery from Alcohol, Drugs, and Codependency for the past 28 plus years I knows firsthand what it takes to find the truth of oneself and want assist you with your own unique and personal journey of self-awareness. I am dually licensed to treat mental health and substance abuse concerns. I am also licensed as an Independent Clinical Supervisor in the field of Addictions. My clinical interests include family dysfunction, addiction treatment, co-dependency, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and family, individual, or group counseling. I have over 28 years’ experience in the treatment of anger, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, behavioral issues, parent education, fearfulness, addiction issues, and co-occurring disorders. I am board certified to do telehealth (counseling over the internet) for clients that cannot make it to the office for their counseling appointment or prefer the comfort of having their counseling session in the privacy of their own home. I am experienced working with all ages, genders, and the LGBTQ community. In addition, I have experience working on a college campus with college age persons. In my free time you will find me spending time with my cats, and dogs, riding my horses, riding my bike or working out at the gym.

I am a husband of 14 years, a father of a 11 y/o neurodivergent son and a 7 y/o precocious daughter, a veteran of the US Navy with 12 years served, including 1 deployment, and a geek. I am what the Japanese culture describes as an otaku, in that I work to support my passions. In my free time I enjoy video games (mostly on Nintendo Switch), movies (all kinds, although my favorite is the 2005 animated Transformers movie), books (current favorite author is Brandon Sanderson), and spending time with my family.