GET TO KNOW your therapist

Jessica Boarini, LSW

she/hers

“I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.” – Maya Angelou

Insurances I Accept:

  • BCBS PPO
  • Northshore
  • Optum

Ages I work with:

  • 12+

Languages I speak:

  • English

Who Am I?

Hello! I am Jessica (she/her/hers). I am a Licensed Social Worker and therapist who enjoys working with teens, adults, couples, and families. Before transitioning to being a full time therapist, I worked in DCFS as a case worker, supervisor, and advocate. I also loved working in schools with youth and families providing approachable and affordable counseling. My space is welcoming and provides gender affirming and gender inclusive care. I am passionate about exploring generational patterns, working through trauma together, and advocating for queer youth and individuals. I provide a space for you to take a deep breath and come as you are.

I am a CIS gendered, gay, queer, white woman.

I love working with:

  • Teens and adults with anxiety and depression
  • Young adults struggling with life’s transitions/changes
  • Adults and Teens exploring their identities
  • Couples, families, and chosen family
  • Parents and families searching to understand their children
  • The LGBTQIA+ community + Queer Individuals
  • Trauma survivors

Some of my favorite approaches include:

I believe in holistic therapy that integrates intention and mindfulness and you will find this in my various approaches. I utilize traditional talk therapy, trauma informed therapy, CBT, psychoeducation, psychodynamic practices, mindfulness, person-centered therapy, and creative expression at times through art. I am working towards understanding and practicing systems therapy as well as it deeply aligns with my beliefs as a human. I view each client I work with as unique and love to tailor my approaches to each client.

HOW I HELP

I work intentionally to ensure that my clients have an affirming space to understand themselves, their emotions, how the world and community influences them, and the shadow parts of themselves. As a therapist with a background in social work, I advocate for others and believe that without liberation for all there is no liberation for any. Overall I hold a strengths based perspective when working with others. I align with a multicultural, anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and socially just therapeutic setting as the practice does as well. I commit to ensuring that you feel understood and seen in every part of yourself. I am here to collaborate with you and help you grow to your fullest potential.

Beliefs section

I deeply believe that we all have the right to grow and learn who we are in safe ways. I also believe that where we come from and who we are, are pertinent in therapy. Healing looks different to all, and is a constant exploration, and therefore everyone’s journey looks unique.

What it’s like in a session with me

During the first few sessions, we will take time to get to know one another. It is important for us to build an authentic connection in order to do our best work together, and therefore sessions move at different paces for everyone. After there feels like a good space to grow in, I will support you with questions, intentional activities, and if appropriate, mindful homework. I welcome you to bring your favorite drink or snack as I will definitely have a caffeinated beverage. I also encourage fidgets and actively utilize them as well as it helps my brain stay on track. I believe that adornment through what you wear affirms identity as it does for me as well, so please come in what makes you feel the best and most like you! I work collaboratively with my clients to set foundational goals and grow from there and let the session take us where we need to be. I welcome feedback and since my approach is person centered I also believe that you are the expert of your life and welcome your opinion of what to explore in sessions.

More about me

I have worked with youth and families in many facets and through various spaces, and still love to continue to learn more. Outside of work, I also enjoy spending time with my chosen family whether that’s just enjoying their presence or exploring new spaces and places. I come from a large family, and my siblings, nieces, and nephews mean the world to me. I moved to Chicago for school when I was 18 and have never looked back. I love the community I have found here and enjoy exploring the city. I love to read, go for walks, play sudoku, take a nap, and am a huge music lover! Bring all your opinions and hot takes, I’m here for it all :)

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Schedule your first appointment. For follow up appointments (existing clients), please contact your therapist at 773-774-4444.