OUR TEAM
Leo Summers, PsyD
OUR TEAM
Leo Summers, PsyD
I am a postdoctoral fellow with a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I’ve worked in various settings throughout Chicago, including community mental health, therapeutic day schools, and substance use treatment.
I work with clients of all ages, from children to older adults, and am specifically.committed to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and recognize the distinct experiences and challenges faced by diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in compassion, respect, and inclusivity. I believe that a therapeutic relationship should be a safe space where every client feels seen and validated. By creating a warm and empathetic environment, I aim to help you explore your authentic self, tackle life’s challenges, and work towards a more fulfilling life.
I see therapy as a collaborative journey. It’s about understanding your unique experiences and harnessing your inherent potential for growth and healing. My goal is to connect with you on a personal level and honor your individual narrative. I work with both individuals and couples who are interested in making meaningful changes in their lives. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or other concerns, I utilize a Humanistic approach in working with clients and have additional training in the Gottman Method of Couples therapy. I will assist you to manage your thoughts and emotions, foster personal growth, and build healthier relationships. If you’re looking for a therapist who values your individuality and is dedicated to your personal journey, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can work towards a more authentic and satisfying life.
My professional journey includes work in community mental health, substance use treatment, and therapeutic day schools. I have experience working with clients across the lifespan, from children to older adults. This broad experience allows me to offer tailored support that respects and addresses the distinct needs and developmental stages of each client.
As a therapist, I am committed to providing a compassionate and affirming therapeutic experience. My approach to therapy is grounded in respect and inclusivity, ensuring that every client feels seen, validated, and supported. By fostering a warm and empathetic environment, I aim to help individuals and couples explore their authentic selves, navigate life’s challenges, and achieve a deeper sense of fulfillment. My approach is rooted in Humanistic Psychological values, and I integrate specific techniques to help you actualize your full potential. I am also trained in the Gottman Method of couples therapy, which honors both partners’ thoughts and emotions while helping to build bridges in the gaps of understanding. Deeper understanding aids in creating a more secure bond and a healthier relationship between the partners. I work with monogamous identifying couples as well as polyamorous identifying couples including various forms of open relationships.
I have a deep passion for working with children and adolescents, particularly those navigating the myriad of changes that come with this critical developmental stage. My experience allows me to effectively connect with youth who are emerging into adulthood and grappling with complex emotions and behavioral challenges. I particularly enjoy supporting adolescents as they cope with the strains and shifts in their social relationships, as well as the pressures that can arise from parental expectations and dynamics. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, I help young individuals explore their feelings, build resilience, and develop the tools they need to navigate these transitions with confidence.
I am dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative and empowering process that centers on the individual experience. I recognize the importance of understanding each person’s unique experience and innate potential. I believe that every individual has the capacity for healing, growth and self-actualization.
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Trauma
- Gender Identity-related concerns
- Relationship-related concerns
- Substance Use
- Behavioral Concerns
In my work, I prioritize creating a genuine connection with my clients, valuing their personal narratives and honoring their diverse experiences. My goal is to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques to help clients develop practical tools for managing their thoughts and emotions, fostering personal growth, and building healthier relationships.
These techniques may include
- Mindfulness to enhance present-moment awareness and emotional regulation.
- Motivational Interviewing to explore your motivations and encourage positive change.
- Play Therapy for children, using creative expression to process feelings.
- Narrative Therapy to help you reframe your personal story and empower yourself.
- Person-Centered Therapy to provide acceptance and support as you explore your true self.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy to recognize the impact of trauma on your life and create a safe space for healing.
- Gottman Couples Therapy to enhance communication and strengthen relationships through proven strategies for managing conflict and fostering intimacy.
