Amanda Galarza (she/her)

As a therapist who was trained in Integrative Systemic Therapy (IST) at Northwestern’s Family Institute, I value the benefits of often working with and always considering a client’s entire system - family, relationships, friendships, work, school, community spaces, etc. As a part of my clinical training, I was a part of the Community Program that supported more underserved community members by providing on-site therapeutic services in schools and at home to provide more accessible care to individuals, families, and couples. In my work, I draw from various therapeutic models that are tailored to your needs and focus on leaning into your personal strengths. Some models I draw from include but are not limited to Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am certified in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) from my time as a crisis call handler where I worked with higher risk clients.

Being vulnerable can be difficult. Tuning into the most challenging experiences in your life with a new person can be scary. I believe that approaching therapy is truly one of the bravest things someone can do. By cultivating a space of kindness, humanity, and empathy, I invite my clients to be curious about themselves. As humans we all grow through connection - whether in relation to others or with parts of ourselves. I feel as though therapy can be not only restorative and healing, but fun and lighthearted at times. I embody a very humanistic, direct approach and value getting to know all aspects of my client's identities. I enjoy how everyone’s therapeutic journey is so unique because of one’s own life experiences and intersectional identity memberships. Unpacking and discussing the aspects that make your story so unique is truly important to me and I feel grateful to be able to provide support and connection to my clients as they grow and reflect.