At a glance
Best fit for: Older teens and young adults, people experiencing anxiety or depression, and those navigating major life transitions, grief and loss, identity shifts, significant life events, and cultural adaptation. I’m especially passionate about supporting people who are finding their footing during periods of change, uncertainty, or transition.
Approaches: Integrative, with a foundation in psychodynamic and existential perspectives. I also draw from person-centered, somatic, mindfulness-based, and other experiential approaches depending on what fits the client and the moment.
Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Sisheng (he/him)! I’m a licensed counselor who works with teens and adults of all ages. I’d describe myself as curious, warm, and supportive, and that’s the kind of space I hope you’ll find in my therapy room.
I can’t wait to hear your story, whether it’s the good, the not-so-good, or anything in between. Bring it all. That’s the kind of space I hope you’ll find, and I’m here with you.
I specialize in working with:
- Older teens and young adults navigating the transition into adulthood
- People experiencing anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or feeling stuck
- People moving through major life changes or significant life events
- People experiencing grief and loss, including the many forms of loss that aren’t always recognized by others
- Mandarin-speaking clients who may find it difficult to fully express themselves in English, or simply feel more comfortable talking about certain experiences and emotions in Mandarin
- People exploring identity, relationships, family dynamics, and boundaries
- Immigrants, international students, and others navigating cultural adaptation, belonging, or life between different cultures
- People who want to understand recurring patterns in their lives and relationships
- Anyone looking for a space to slow down and approach themselves with more curiosity and compassion
How I help
I like to imagine us as fellow travelers on a journey, where I walk closely alongside you, listening and offering support along the way. You’re the expert on your own life, and I’m here to help you navigate through the dark clouds and mountains you might encounter.
In our sessions, I draw from psychodynamic, person-centered, and existential perspectives. I also bring in techniques from other approaches because everyone is different. More than anything, I want to get to know you as a person, rather than trying to fit you into a category.
What a session with me is like
I want to take time to get to know you and understand what brought you here. We can move at a pace that feels comfortable rather than rushing toward a solution. Sometimes we may spend time exploring something from your past.
My style is warm, curious, and collaborative. I’ll listen, ask questions, reflect things I notice, and sometimes gently challenge you when I think there may be something worth looking at together. There may also be moments when neither of us immediately has an answer—and I think those moments can be meaningful too.
Therapy can also include laughter. Sometimes, our conversations may be deep and emotional, but they don’t have to feel heavy every minute.
And since I provide therapy in both Mandarin and English, I’ve learned that humor doesn’t always translate perfectly between languages. If one of my jokes doesn’t land, I hope you’ll give me another chance.
What I believe
I believe curiosity can be more helpful than judgment.
Instead of only asking, “What is wrong with me?” therapy can give us room to ask different questions: “Where did this come from?” “Why might this make sense for me?” “What has shaped the way I see myself?” and eventually, “What do I want now?”
I don’t believe therapy is about me having all the answers. I believe it’s about creating a relationship where we can slow down, become curious about your story, and discover something new together.
A little more about me
I grew up in China and later came to the United States as an international student. Living across languages and cultures has shaped the way I think about identity, belonging, relationships, change, and the different expectations we carry with us.
Outside of work, I enjoy playing video games (Stardew Valley, Apex Legends, you name it!). I also love going to the gym, reading, traveling, trying different foods, and, of course, milk tea! If you’re a fellow milk tea lover, I’d love to chat about that too! :)
A few common questions
Are you accepting new clients?
Yes.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes. I offer virtual sessions across Illinois as well as in-person sessions at the Sauganash office.
What do you help with most?
I have over a year of experience working with a diverse population of college students navigating a wide range of life experiences and challenges. I often work with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationships, identity, cultural adaptation, and major life transitions. I’m particularly passionate about working with older teens and young adults, as well as supporting people as they find their footing during periods of change, uncertainty, and growth.
What insurance do you take?
BCBS PPO, Optum, Aetna, BCBS HMO 477
- AetnaBCBS PPONorthshoreOptum/United
