About Our Team
“Soleil” means “sun” in French, and like the sun, we strive to provide rays of hope and light to individuals who might be struggling in dark times.
We are a group of genuine, curious, and passionate trauma and sex therapists and our values are rooted in creating a therapeutic setting that is sex-positive and open to everyone. Above all, we value an authentic environment in which clients can feel comfortable expressing the most vulnerable parts of their lives while being met with support, validation, and empathy.
Values
Authenticity
We show our humanity in our work with you, not just our clinical expertise. We come to sessions with our own vulnerabilities and truly value these genuine exchanges and the healing connections.
Trauma-informed
We recognize that trauma is part of most people’s lives, so we create a normalizing and safe environment to address it. We believe that most of our symptoms are a normal reaction to an abnormal reality, so we help rewrite narratives and challenge cultural and social limiting beliefs to increase fulfilling lives.
Sex positivity
Sexuality is an integral part of who we are as humans, and as experts in this area, we provide sex education and encourage healthy sexual pleasure and exploration. All of our therapists are LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink-positive, and poly-friendly.
Cultural sensitivity
Soleil actively cultivates, supports, and emphasizes a culturally sensitive environment where people of all diverse identities and walks of life are welcome and their unique identities celebrated as strengths. We approach therapy from an anti-racist framework.
Mind-body centered
Somatic approaches are at the center of our work. Traditional therapies only focus on the mind, yet we emphasize the mind-body connection with strategies that will help you release your trauma and stressors and help you have a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
Ewelina Beardmore, LCPC, CST, SEP
(she/her)
Practice Owner & Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Out of Control Sexual Behaviors
Postpartum, Pregnancy, & Prenatal Concerns
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Ewelina Beardmore is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Sex Therapist (CST) and Somatic Experiencing Professional (SEP) who uses a relational , somatic and strength-based model to help individuals and couples gain awareness of the roles and the dynamics present in their relationships. She has expertise in helping individuals heal from traumas such as sexual assault, childhood abuse as well as physical and emotional abuse, and is passionate about helping individuals overcome the challenges of significant life transitions such as infertility, postpartum struggles and parenthood.
Ewelina values the role and importance of sexuality in clients' overall health, and helps clients overcome challenges such as lack of intimacy, sexual and gender identity, desire discrepancy, postpartum recovery impacting sexual health, difficulties with orgasm, compulsive sexual behaviors, erectile dysfunctions and painful intercourse. She is sex-positive, kink-friendly and affirming of polyamorous relationships. Ewelina is a Certified Sex Therapist through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT).
In addition, Ewelina has completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which allows her to assist couples improve their communication styles and explore goals throughout each stage of their relationship. She is also trained in a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients manage anxiety and depression.
Ewelina's international background allows her to connect with individuals struggling with cross-cultural issues and assist in developing coping skills to manage life's obstacles. Additionally, she has offered guidance to clients on issues involving work-life balance and behavioral and emotional health in an employee assistance setting. Ewelina earned a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, graduating with honors. She is fluent in French and offers services in this language.
Rachel Berg, MA, CADC, LCPC
(she/her)
Clinical Director & Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma & Attachment
Performance Anxiety
Out of Control Sexual Behavior
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Rachel Berg has always felt inspired and intrigued by individuals’ stories and the infinite ways that people move through the world. She believes that change and healing are possible and that we always have the opportunity for transformation and healing. She honors the unique backgrounds that influence who we are as individuals and strives to foster authentic non-judgmental therapeutic relationships that are rooted in hope, warmth, and support. Her approach to therapy is strength-based and she aims to guide clients in recognizing how their patterns, reactions, and emotions impact their relationships with themselves and others.
Rachel has training in various evidence-based treatment modalities. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. She has assisted clients in recovering from and navigating challenges such as trauma, substance use, compulsive sexual behaviors, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, desire discrepancy, lack of intimacy, difficulties with orgasm, erectile dysfunction, and navigating life transitions. Rachel is sex-positive, kink-friendly and affirming of polyamorous relationships.
Rachel earned a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a concentration in addictions. She was the recipient of a Distinguished Graduate Award that served to acknowledge her excellence in leadership; commitment to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy; and service and community engagement.
Stephen Heintz, MA, LPC
(he/him)
Director of Employee Enrichment & Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
LGBTQ-Affirming
Attachment
Relationship Issues
Family of Origin
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Stephen believes strongly that, while life can present difficulties and challenges, people have fundamental inner-strengths that can help them cope. As a therapist, Stephen warmly accepts his clients as they are, and works alongside them to explore who they would like to become. He believes in the power of human connection, and strives to use that connection to help clients access their strengths--to ultimately bring about meaningful change, healing, growth, and understanding.
Stephen’s clinical emphasis is in working with relationships and couples, as well as individuals. He has worked with clients experiencing challenges related to depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, life transitions, communication, and much more. Having graduated from the training program at Center on Halsted, Stephen has experience and specialized training in working with the LGBTQIA+ community. He is also sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships. He has training in multiple therapeutic modalities, including client-centered therapy, Gottman, EFT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Stephen Heintz earned a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a concentration in marriage and family therapy. He was the recipient of a Distinguished Graduate Award that served to acknowledge his excellence in leadership; commitment to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy; and service and community engagement.
Stephen is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Klara Suparman.
Sofia Lynn Vila, MA, LPC, CADC
(she/her)
HIPAA Compliant Officer, Community Liaison, & Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Gender & Sexuality
Mind-Body Connection
Grief
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Sofia is a compassionate, authentic and non-judgmental therapist who is passionate about helping her clients deepen their insight, build self-compassion, and heal from trauma and hardships. She walks alongside her clients in their journeys of healing and growth, to find their best selves, within themselves, and feel empowered to live authentically. Sofia believes in the power of connection, and works with her clients to strengthen mind-body connection, as well as connection with others, and the world. She sees her clients as the whole humans they are, through a holistic, sex-positive, person-centered, and strengths-based lens with unconditional empathy.
Sofia has clinical experience working with adults experiencing anxiety and mood disorders, grief, substance use and co-occurring disorders, and various types of trauma, including sexual, family and childhood trauma, in individual and group settings. As a Spanish native, she is passionate about working with clients of diverse backgrounds and cultural identities, and has experience working with LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Spanish-speaking communities. Sofia has training in various evidence-based treatment modalities, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and rational-emotive behavioral therapy (REBT) and tailors her eclectic therapeutic approach to each client’s individual experience and goals.
Sofia earned a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a concentration in addictions. She was the recipient of a Distinguished Graduate Award that served to acknowledge her excellence in leadership; commitment to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy; and service and community engagement.
Sofia is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Ewelina Beardmore.
Rita S.
(she/her)
Client Care Director
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Rita understands that initiating the first step in your therapy journey can be difficult, and the inevitable next step of understanding your insurance benefits can be equally difficult. She places great importance on getting to know clients on an individual level so she can better support each person's unique needs. From pre-appointment consultations to benefits verifications, Rita is here to assist with all of your intake and billing questions.
Karina Melendez
(she/her)
Client Care Coordinator
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Karina is an aspiring LPC with an interest in working with queer BIPOC folk. She looks forward to providing compassionate client care & administrative support during her studies. At Soleil, she strives to strengthen client relationships & enhance the overall experience for clients.
Ashley Homa, MA, CYT, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Mind-Body Connection
Transition to Parenting
Postpartum, Pregnancy, & Prenatal
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Ashley deeply values the therapeutic relationship, believing it to be a cornerstone of healing. She fosters a space of authenticity, where clients feel seen and heard without judgment. Her approach is rooted in empathy, meeting clients where they are, and cultivating a genuine connection. Ashley prioritizes the human bond, knowing that transformation often begins with trust and a safe space to explore one's inner world.
In addition to her expertise in psychotherapy, Ashley is a certified yoga instructor and passionate about the mind-body connection. She integrates holistic practices, recognizing that tuning into the body can unlock insights about the mind. This mind-body orientation plays a crucial role in her work as a sex therapist, where she addresses concerns such as desire discrepancy, intimacy challenges, orgasm difficulties, painful intercourse, and erectile dysfunction.
Ashley brings a wealth of experience working with individuals, couples, and groups, helping clients navigate trauma, substance use, grief, loss, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and significant life transitions. She creates a welcoming environment for clients of all backgrounds and identities, including those from the LGBTQIA+ community, and is firmly sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships.
Her therapeutic approach combines evidence-based modalities with a bio-psycho-socio-cultural framework, incorporating techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Ashley also integrates somatic modalities, understanding the importance of connecting the body and mind in processing emotions and healing trauma. She collaborates with clients to co-create individualized treatment plans, empowering them to take an active role in their healing journey.
Ashley is also passionate about guiding clients through life’s major transitions, including infertility, postpartum struggles, and the challenges of parenthood. She holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and is dedicated to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy, and community engagement.
Ashley is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Ewelina Beardmore.
Bella Kimrey, MA, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Body Image
Transition to adulthood
Gender & Sexual Exploration
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Bella believes in creating a balanced relationship with her clients to recognize the client’s role as the expert of their own experience. In her clinical work, she emphasizes the impact of early childhood development on adult relationships and the role of the unconscious in guiding behavior. Bella also integrates concepts from feminist theory to acknowledge the role of systemic factors in shaping our reality. Bella’s clinical emphasis is in working with individuals, relationships, and groups. Bella has training in various evidence-based modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but she uses a holistic approach to view clients through a bio-psycho-socio-cultural lens. She is passionate about helping people overcome body image issues, and working with young adults to build confidence, manage anxieties and transition into life’s experiences.
Bella gained significant experience at the Center on Halsted supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. She worked primarily with the Anti-Violence Project, providing trauma-informed care to survivors of violence in the LGBTQIA+ community. Bella embraces all expressions of gender, and is a sex-positive, kink-friendly, and poly-affirming counselor. She has worked with individuals navigating gender transition, the coming out process, trauma, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, HIV+ status, domestic violence, ADHD, mood disorders, suicidality, life transitions, and relationship problems. Bella earned her Master’s in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice) from Roosevelt University, graduating with honors and she is committed to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy, service and community engagement.
Bella is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Klara Suparman.
Adrianna Neri, MA, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Prenatal, Pregnancy, & Postpartum
Transition to Parenting
Marital/Premarital & Relationship Concerns
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Adrianna is a compassionate and affirming therapist with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate through sexual trauma, build skills for sexual pleasure, learn ways to manage anxiety related to sex, improve communication on sexual difficulties, and understand the body-mind connection, while appreciating the importance of intimacy and desire. Taking a warm, non-judgmental, and supportive approach in supporting individuals and couples, she assists clients with shifting thoughts and beliefs that contribute to emotional disturbances, for which are impactful to themselves as well as their relationships.
Adrianna’s therapeutic approach consists of an integration of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), rational-emotive behavioral therapy (REBT), motivational interviewing, the Gottman method, and emotion-focused therapy (EFT).
Adrianna has clinical experience in working with adults and adolescents from diverse backgrounds and populations in individual and group settings with presenting concerns in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, post-traumatic stress, acute stress, major life transitions, relationship concerns, and sexual dysfunction. With a passion for providing unconditional validation and support for individuals and couples experiencing concerns related to sexual health, Adrianna has become a member of The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). She provides the most effective knowledge and training necessary to support this population, while being LGBTQIA+ affirming, kink-positive, and poly-friendly.
Adrianna earned her Master’s in counseling psychology with a concentration in marriage and family therapy at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is committed to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy, service, and community engagement.
Adrianna is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Rachel Berg.
Becca Symmes, MA, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Career Development
Neurodiversity
Transition to Adulthood
Family of Origin
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Becca is a warm, authentic, and affirming counselor who believes strongly in the power of self-compassion, vulnerability, and the mind-body connection in the healing process. She works to create a safe, non-judgemental environment for clients’ self exploration and growth and has worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities. Her approach to therapy is holistic and strengths-based, aiming to walk alongside clients as they learn to recognize how their patterns, reactions, and emotions impact their relationships with themselves and others.
Becca has training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT); she has a particular interest in how mindfulness, nature, and art can benefit mental health as well as examining our experience of the world through narrative and feminist-existential approaches. She is adept at supporting individuals through life transitions such as changing careers and managing stress related to work or school. Becca has experience working with individuals, couples, and groups and values working with folks navigating neurodivergence, anxiety, grief, depression, relationship distress, sexual difficulties, post traumatic stress, substance use disorders, and those wanting to explore their identities. She is passionate about helping those who struggle with emotional and physical intimacy and is LGBTQIA+-affirming, sex-positive, kink and poly-friendly.
Becca earned a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with honors and prioritizes multicultural competence, social justice, continuing education, advocacy, and community engagement in her practice.
Becca is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Rachel Berg.
Ana Hedenstrom, MA, LPC, NCC
(They/Them)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
OCD
Gender & Sexuality
Creative Arts Therapies & Somatic Practices
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Ana believes that all healing happens within connection and all personal healing, in turn heals the collective. You are the expert on your life, and Ana can support in transformative self-reflection and embodiment.
Ana specializes in OCD, trauma, PTSD and neurodivergence. When it comes to OCD, Ana uses Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Ana is a lived-experience OCD therapist in recovery with their own symptoms.
When it comes to Trauma and PTSD, Ana utilizes an explorative and creative approach that incorporates somatic body-based practices, EMDR Flash Technique, art therapy, metaphysics and attachment theory.
Ana enjoys working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and relationships, especially gender-expansive people. When it comes to relational therapy, Ana uses a human-centered approach that incorporates sex therapy, Gottman Institute and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) techniques.
Ana is sex-positive, sex worker-positive, kink-friendly and enjoys working with polyamorous relationships.
Ana earned a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy from Antioch University Seattle with a concentration in attachment theory. They have also earned a certificate in Somatic Psychotherapy from Antioch University Santa Barbara. Ana is committed to social justice, anti-racism, abolition and intersectionality.
Ana is provisionally licensed and supervised by Klara Suparman.
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
Renata Zielinska, MA, LPC
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Mind-Body Connection
Emotional Distress
OCD
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As a psychotherapist, Renata believes the therapeutic relationship is crucial for growth and healing, so it is significant that she builds trust and connection with each unique person. Renata invites clients to bring their whole, authentic selves into counseling and takes a non-judgmental, integrated practice to help clients foster self-awareness, deeper understanding and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and interpersonal difficulties. She recognizes that we are all unique; therefore, she tailors treatment based on the individual and their current needs. Additionally, Renata believes that past experiences play a substantial role in our worldview and how we approach relationships, responsibilities, and the relationship with ourselves, so she collaboratively guides clients in making connections from the past to their present circumstances.
Renata’s international background allows her to connect with individuals with cross-cultural issues and assist in developing coping skills to manage life obstacles. Renata recognizes that it is an honor to engage in such interesting, fulfilling work with clients trying to make life better for themselves and their loved ones. Renata is sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships.
Renata is trained in various empirically supported and holistic treatment modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance, Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF- CBT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness and Psychodynamic. She is certified in CBT for Anxiety & OCD and completed an extensive clinical training program through the Center for Anxiety Training. Additionally, Renata is trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy and has applied this technique to treat a range of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders. She has experience providing high-quality, outpatient behavioral health therapy and psychotherapy to adolescents and adults in empirically supported treatment for anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress, grief, trauma-related disorders, depression, personality disorders, and dual diagnosis.
Renata earned a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Renata offers support and guidance for healing and growth in any domains of your life that you would like to examine. She is committed to diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy, service, and community engagement.
Renata is a Licensed Professional Counselor and is supervised by Ewelina Beardmore.
Sonya Avendano Dove, M.Ed., LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Mind-Body Connection
Relationships & Attachment
Communication & Emotional Identification
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Sonya wants all of her clients to feel empowered to live the life that they desire, to live fully. Oftentimes that work begins with us, to allow ourselves to tune in, to listen and to process our own likings, needs and feelings. As a psychotherapist and an E-RYT 200-hour Yoga Instructor, Sonya provides a safe and empathetic space to explore together and to build skills to live authentically.
Sonya applies a holistic approach to therapy because she understands the powerful connection between our mind and our body. Together, individuals and couples will create a treatment plan with her that addresses their personal needs for healing and growth. She uses a variety of modalities including person-centered therapy and a strength-based approach.
Sonya has clinical experience working with with clients who experience/d chronic pain, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, sexual abuse, ADHD, childhood trauma, infertility, grief, pregnancy, and postnatal, PTSD, stress, and low self-esteem to name a few.
She is sex positive, kink friendly and affirming of polyamorous relationships and has worked with clients of diverse backgrounds and communities. Sonya earned a Master’s in Community Counseling from Loyola University Chicago.
Sonya is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Rachel Berg.
Christina Carbone, MA, ALMFT
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Relationships & Attachment
Mind-Body Connection
Communication & Emotional Identification
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Christina is fascinated by relationships and believes they are fundamental building blocks of life. She believes our most intimate relationships reflect the overall quality of our lives, and understands human connection is incredibly powerful in healing.
Christina fosters a non-judgmental, authentic, environment that honors the connection each individual has to the self, and the world in which they exist. She utilizes curiosity, humor, and compassion to promote guidance in calling attention to areas of growth to create the life you want to live.
Christina’s clinical orientation is holistic, strength-based, and integrative. She recognizes unique lived experiences and encompasses client’s fundamental inner strengths to encourage growth and cultivate change. Her techniques are rooted in exploring mind-body connection and emphasize the power of healing through an interconnected lens.
Christina has clinical experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She has assisted clients navigating concerns related to trauma, anxiety and depression, self-esteem, relationships, and sex therapy. Christina is sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships and LGBTQIA+.
Christina has training in various evidence-based treatment modalities including, Acceptance Commitment Theory (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Attachment . She warmly accepts clients where they are at, and creates effective treatment and lifestyle plans based on individual needs and goals.
Christina earned her Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Wayne State University specializing in Marriage and Family therapy, graduating with honors. She is committed to continuing education, diversity, multicultural competence, social advocacy, and community service and engagement.
Christina is provisionally licensed and supervised by Rachel Berg.
Gabriella Bonucci, MA, LPC
(Any Pronouns)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Gender & Sexual Identity
Neurodiversity
Relationship Issues
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The stories of our lives are made up of connections and strengths as well as challenges. Gabriella believes in walking alongside you in your journey through healing by emphasizing the strengths you have while collaborating to create goals that address the challenges that you are facing. Gabriella understands her responsibility for creating a safe and empathic space to create room for the growth her clients are searching for.
Gabriella works from a holistic and integrative approach because they believe that therapy is a vulnerable and personal journey that should be tailored to those she is working with. Gabriella’s primary modalities include Narrative Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Adlerian Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Gabriella has clinical experience working with adults and adolescents of diverse backgrounds and communities who are experiencing difficulties relating to ADHD, childhood trauma, adult trauma, family trauma, religious trauma, (C)PTSD, depression, anxiety, attachment concerns, LGBTQ and gender exploration, family of origin, maintaining recovery, as well as insomnia.
She is sex positive, kink friendly, LGBTQ+ and polyamorous affirming; Gabriella’s approach is based in cultural competence and humility. Gabriella earned their Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, as well as earning her CADC.
Gabriella is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Rachel Berg.
Colie Smigliani, MA, LPC
(She/They)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Attachment
Family of Origin
Relationships & Interpersonal Skills
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Colie practices both in her clinical work and in her personal life the belief that individuals are whole beings rather than fragmented pieces. Because of this, Colie aims to understand and treat the whole individual, incorporating one’s mental health, physical health/somatic practices, sexuality, sleep habits, spirituality and more into her time with clients. She believes that you are the expert of what it is like to be YOU, and asks clients to dive into discovering their whole selves with her in session.
Colie works from a holistic and existential approach that asks her clients to be in the driver's seat of their own lives as she rides shotgun, along for the journey and many detours life often takes us on. Her primary modalities include Sex therapy, Somatic Practicing, Narrative Therapy, Feminist Theory, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Colie comes to Soleil with a background in working with young adults/emerging adults, families, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. She has worked with individuals of diverse backgrounds and communities who are experiencing difficulties relating to trauma, sexuality, family of origin, (C)PTSD, depression, anxiety, attachment concerns, LGBTQ and gender exploration, and anger management. She is LGBTQIA+-affirming, sex-positive, and kink and poly-friendly.
Colie earned her Masters in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Her favorite quote reads:
For a star to be born there is one thing that must happen: a gaseous nebula must collapse.
So collapse. Crumble.
This is not your destruction,
This is your birth.Colie is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Shakyra Winston.
Jake Colling, MSW, LCSW
(He/Him)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Domestic Violence
Sexual Abuse
Sexuality & Exploration
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Life is not a linear process. It is something that evolves and can change as our capacities, needs, and wants evolve throughout our lifetime. That is to say that relationships and connections can be as uplifting and liberating as much as they can be minimizing and painful. This includes the relationship with ourselves. Humans have a beautiful tendency to feel a lot of things which can lead to issues in communication, understanding, anxiety, and depression but it is our capacity to develop relationships with these different parts of ourselves through curiosity, compassion, and empathy that help us heal. Therapy is not easy, and can be very intimidating especially when we carry shame or skepticism around trusting others and opening ourselves up to feeling things we might not want to feel. Within those feelings there is growth and opportunity to find ourselves and our needs. Jake’s approach to therapy is to walk alongside you on your journey, to encourage and grow awareness and to create understanding. Jake places an emphasis on connection, constructive discomfort, clarity, and courage. Jake will ask of you only what is safe to explore. When seeing couples, Jake is neutral and will not take sides. When seeing individuals, he adapts to the needs of the client and works to create a safe place to explore the hard stuff.
Jakes approach to therapy is compassionate, circular, and direct. He pulls from many evidence-based modalities including Psychoanalysis, Solution Focused and Internal Family Systems (IFS), but he does not prescribe to one specific modality. Jake works with each client to find a way of practice that is designed for them.
Jake background has been working with families, children, teenagers, and adults with traumatic brain injuries, problematic sexual behaviors, child sexual abuse, and domestic partner violence.
Jake earned a Masters degree in Social Work from Portland State University. He identifies as Queer and is of Polish-American and Bashalde Romani culture. He is sex positive, and kink friendly.
Jake is a licensed clinical social worker.
Klara Suparman, LCPC, ATR-BC
Psychotherapist
(She/Her)
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Mind-Body connection
Relationships, Attachment, & Family of Origin
Art Therapy
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Klara is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR- BC) who utilizes strength-based and relational approaches to help clients build resilience and personal insight through self-compassion and skill-building. Due to the creative and fluid nature of the therapeutic process, Klara mindfully shifts with each client’s needs, changing and growing with them on their unique journeys. She utilizes creative, holistic, and trauma-informed interventions while working with her clients.
As a clinician trained in multiple evidence-based modalities, Klara works collaboratively with her clients to create a tailored therapeutic experience, meeting their unique and individual needs. Klara has training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Problematic Sexual Behavior Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Klara honors the privilege of being able to walk alongside people on their path toward self-discovery, healing, connection, pleasure, and fulfillment.
Klara earned her Master’s in Counseling and Art Therapy from Adler University and has a background in Studio Art and Women ; Gender Studies. She has clinical expertise in helping individuals who have experienced sexual abuse, problematic sexual behavior, interpersonal violence, and complex trauma. Alongside this, she is committed to multicultural competence, social justice, and community healing. Klara actively works to understand the specific context of each client’s experience from a culturally sensitive lens, allowing her clients to feel understood and supported during their healing process. She is passionate about helping people feel connected to their bodies, finding joy through sexual healing and exploration, building healthy relationships with themselves and others, and leading a life rooted in their values.
Klara’s approach is grounded in warmth, curiosity, compassion, open-mindedness, directness, and authenticity. She is non-judgmental, sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of all types of relationships.
Ariel kimble, ma, ALMFT
(She/They)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Religious Trauma
Betrayal Trauma
Attachment
Family of Origin
Couples & Non-Monogamy Issues
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Ariel (She/They) is a queer mental health professional who uses trauma-informed/gender expansive care to create a safe and inclusive space for all of her clients.
Ariel is passionate about meeting the needs of the people within her community. As a trained Marriage and Family Therapist, Ariel believes in looking at the client from both an individual and systemic perspective which she believes gives a well-rounded understanding of the client. She believes in a collaborative approach, in which the client is the expert and the therapist is there for guided support and encouragement.
Ariel has diverse experience in her clinical practice which includes working in intensive outpatient settings with clients battling eating disorders to non-profits that cared for survivors of human trafficking. Ariel considers herself to be a learner in all things because she values the evolving research and dialogue that circulates among caretakers who have a strong stance on being anti-harm in their daily practices.
As an eclectic individual, Ariel likes to use many different modalities in her therapy work which includes: mindfulness, somatic experiencing therapies, DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), IFS-informed meditations (Internal Family Systems), Gottman Method and general family systems theories. She is sex-positive, poly-/kink affirming, and believes in the liberation of all bodies.
Ariel is a clinician who embodies her work and takes her own personal development seriously. She is an advocate for self-care and creating a nurturing environment to help with emotional regulation. In her pastime, Ariel enjoys yoga, making new recipes, going on nature walks, and spending quality time with the people she loves.
Ryan Curran, LPC, ATR-P
(They/Them)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Neurodiversity
Art Therapy
Gender & Sexuality
Complex Disabilities
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Ryan is an art therapist who believes in the power of creativity to foster connection, expression, and healing, particularly when words fall short. Grounded in the transformative potential of relationships, Ryan offers artistic exploration as a means for individuals and couples to create healing connections and gain personal insights. With a commitment to meeting clients where they are, Ryan cultivates a non-judgmental and supportive space for exploring topics related to sexuality, gender, and relationships.
Ryan is passionate about providing therapeutic support to clients who are navigating a variety of experiences including open relationships, polyamory, kink exploration, sex work, exploring gender and sexuality, creating disability-inclusive relationships, wanting to improve communication skills, managing anxiety and depression, or looking to build skills to improve sexual pleasure. Their approach is strength-based, person-centered, and deeply informed by the disability justice movement, transformative justice, and pleasure activism. They believe that connecting with pleasure and learning skills to create satisfying relationships can be a radically healing experience on both a personal and collective level.
Ryan earned a Master’s Degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. They began their career working in community mental health settings providing art therapy services in retirement communities, hospitals, and Chicago Public Schools. They have several years of experience working with clients experiencing complex disabilities including neurodivergence, physical disability, or invisible illnesses. Continuously learning and refining their practice, Ryan is dedicated to offering clients the highest level of care.Ryan is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Klara Suparman.
Yani Roman, MSW, lSW
(She/They)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Grief
Attachment
Family of Origin Issues
Gender & Sexuality
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Yani is a Latinx Queer therapist who utilizes trauma informed care to create a safe and welcoming environment to all individuals. She feels incredibly passionate about creating an environment for individuals to come as they are, whether it’s your first time in a therapeutic space, or whether you’re familiar with the space but looking to unpack newer or older things in your life. Yani has worked with individuals from all walks of life but feels incredibly passionate about trauma work, especially when it comes to the discussion of generational trauma. Additionally, Yani also loves working with individuals who struggle through grief, depression, anxiety, attachment difficulties, eating disorders, mood disorders, LGBTQ+ related issues, domestic violence, childhood trauma, and sexual trauma. Yani has a special interest in client’s who are seeking services for Sex Therapy.
Their background in community mental health has provided them with an array of skills in working with clients with such complex issues. Yani wants to be the clinician that shines the light on the path that you are deserving to take. Yani's approach to the therapeutic space is collaborative and direct. She likes knowing that her clients have autonomy to decide what feels safe and comfortable to address during treatment. She also loves providing clients with “homework” as she believe that the work to be done in therapy should not only consist of 1hr per week. She challenges client’s to process thoughts, feelings, and emotions outside of the therapeutic space. Some modalities that they utilize during their work with clients consist of: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Gottman method, Psychodynamic therapy, family systems therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.Yani earned her Master of Social Work with a concentration in Advanced Clinical Studies fromWalden University. She identifies as a Queer woman who is of Puerto Rican descent. In her spare time, she enjoys going to Broadway shows and being a dog mom to her two dogs, Mochi and Rye!
Yani is a Licensed Social Worker and supervised by Shakyra Winston.
Aisling Byrne, MA, LPC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Body Image
Relationships
Mind-Body Connection
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Aisling's therapeutic style emanates warmth, rooted in authenticity, compassion, and humanism. She deeply values the transformative power of connection, fostering strong bonds with her clients built on trust, empathy, and shared laughter. Coming from an international background, she respects the complexity of each person's identity and experience, viewing them through an intersectional lens that considers cultural context and systemic influences.
Knowing therapy is a deeply personal journey that is ever evolving, Aisling embraces the fluidity of the process. She meets clients where they are, adapting her approach to accommodate their individual needs and rhythm. She aims to move clients toward self-understanding, acceptance, and growth and emphasizes the therapeutic relationship. She is LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, and provides a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach.
Aisling comes to Soleil with a background in working with teens, young adults, adults, couples and individuals. She has clinical experience with client's seeking to explore a range of experiences from sex/sexuality, intimacy, conflict, body image, and relationships, to life transitions, career, anxiety, grief, and more. She prioritizes collaboration with clients to tailor the therapy experience to their unique needs.
Guided by humanistic principles, her therapeutic approach draws from person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, existentialism, and at times, solution-focused therapy, to support clients in self-reflection, practicing self-compassion, and in the healing process. She encourages clients to connect with their physical, mental, and emotional selves. As a certified yoga teacher, she offers to incorporate mind-body connection and mindfulness techniques where appropriate.
Aisling earned her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University. Her electives in Human Sexuality and Mind, Body, and Meditation provided a strong foundation for working with individuals exploring these matters.
Aisling is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Ewelina Beardmore.
Rachel Schaefer, MA, LPC, NCC
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Fat Liberation
Relationships & Ethical Non-Monogamy
Gender & Sexuality
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Rachel cares deeply about having her clients feel seen, understood, and safe enough to explore their whole self and life journey. Her practice is rooted in creating a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering space where clients can openly explore any and all aspects of their identity. Rachel believes that a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship can lead to growth, healing, and meaningful change.
Rachel particularly enjoys working with young adults and individuals wanting to explore their identities and lifestyle. Whether it’s understanding one’s gender and sexual identity, processing religious trauma, or seeking a fulfilling career path, she provides a supportive and affirming space for clients to explore and grow. Rachel loves helping clients identify and prioritize their values in order to align their life with what brings them joy.
Rachel’s clinical emphasis is in working with LGBTQIA+ and gender nonconforming individuals, as well as couples and non-traditional relationship styles. Rachel also provides neurodivergent-affirming care. As an advocate for fat liberation, Rachel believes in encouraging clients to love their bodies and take up space unapologetically. She is dedicated to supporting individuals in their quest for self-acceptance and body positivity. She is also sex-positive, kink-friendly, and affirming of polyamorous relationships.
As a queer and fat therapist, Rachel uses modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to empower her clients to embrace all parts of their identity. She comes from a background in community mental health and earned her Master’s of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University. During her spare time, she enjoys crocheting, listening to podcasts, and going on Hot Girl Walks.
Rachel is a Licensed Professional Counselor and supervised by Stephen Heintz.
Shan Wolfe, MSW, LSW
(She/They)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Values & Decision-Making
Communication & Emotional Identification
Gender Exploration
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Shan is a lighthearted, authentic, and straightforward clinician who is passionate about helping clients find the right tools to live their life with more value and ease. They believe in the importance of the therapeutic alliance and strive to create a trusting and non-hierarchical relationship with each individual. As a licensed social worker, Shan is committed to identifying and working alongside the client to break down barriers that can contribute to negative mental health symptoms.
Shan is a yoga teacher and believes in the mind-body connection. She utilizes movement, mindfulness, play, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She has clinical experience with those struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, family issues, eating disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Shan is trained in Sex Therapy and works with clients addressing sexual concerns. She is sex-positive, kink-affirming and affirming of all relationship structures/dynamics.
In her free time, she volunteers at Cook County Jail with Prison Yoga Chicago to provide trauma-informed yoga as a rehabilitative tool and form of social activism for those impacted by the criminal legal system. Shan earned a Master’s in Social Work from Jane Addams School of Social Work at University of Illinois Chicago.
Shan is a Licensed Social Worker and supervised by Shakyra Winston.
Eva Baer, MA, LPC-C
(She/Her)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Family of Origin
Menstruation-Related issues
Marital/Pre-Marital & Relationship Concerns
Mind-Body Connection
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Eva is a warm, authentic, and compassionate therapist who believes in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. Eva is passionate about helping clients gain deeper awareness and insight to create a more intentional and meaningful life.
Eva works from an integrative approach that is tailored to the client, with an emphasis on mind body connection. She hopes to create a supportive and challenging space for clients utilizing interventions from psychodynamic, IFS, Gottman and EFT, and somatic experiencing.
Eva has experience working with adults and couples of diverse backgrounds, specializing in relationship issues, anxiety, attachment concerns, sex therapy/intimacy, desire discrepancy in relationships, trauma, concerns related to communication, and menstruation related issues.
She is sex positive, kink friendly, and LGBTQ+ and polyamorous affirming. Eva’s approach is rooted in cultural competence and humility. Eva recently earned her Master’s in Counseling Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family therapy from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Eva is provisionally licensed and supervised by Klara Suparman.
Moth Donahue, MA, LPC-C, C-AAIS
(They/Them)
Psychotherapist
SPECIALTIES
Sex Therapy
Trauma
Gender & Sexuality
Kink/BDSM Lifestyles
Disability Identity Development & Chronic Pain
Neurodiversity
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Moth believes that both within therapy and outside of it, authentic connections and relational dynamics are central to personal growth, well-being, and liberation. Therapy with Moth is feminist, collaborative, and relational. They utilize a nonjudgmental, curious, and straightforward style to create an empathetic space for clients to explore their identities and experiences. Their work focuses on the power of mutual empathy, the importance of connection, and the impact of cultural and relational contexts on mental health.
As a queer trans person, Moth has a passion for working within the LGBTQIA+ community. They have particular interest in working with nontraditional relationship structures, including kink/BDSM dynamics and consensual nonmonogomy. Moth has a well-rooted history within disability justice work. They love to serve neurodiverse communities. They are well-equipped to explore disability identities, physical disabilities, chronic pain and invisible illness. They work collaboratively with clients to navigate and challenge disconnections, fostering a therapeutic relationship that promotes healing and empowerment through shared understanding and mutual respect. Moth has experience working with clients addressing a range of concerns, including but not limited to trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment, body image, life transitions, identity development, and grief.
Moth earned their Master’s in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. They are committed to the principles of social justice, curiosity, and continued learning.
Moth is provisionally licensed and supervised by Stephen Heintz.