About the Staff of Couples Counseling Associates

in Chicago

Many of the couples who work with us, improve their relationship.

Our direct, problem solving style is tailored to the needs of each couple. Because every relationship is unique, we do not use a one-size-fits-all approach. Most couples have an idea by the end of the first session or two whether or not our work can be helpful for their relationship.

Our strengths include:

-Our focus on helping people move forward and get back on track

About Dr. Sara Schwarzbaum, Ed.D, LMFT, LCPC

Founder of Couples Counseling Associates

Age: 58

I was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where I studied clinical psychology and marriage and family therapy prior to emigrating to the U.S. in 1982.

I continued my training as a marriage and family therapist in the US with the leaders in the field and have continued this work for the past 25 years.

I decided to specialize in helping people in relationship distress because I believe that couples have few road maps to help them navigate their lives successfully in today's complex world.

I also think that healthy relationships make a positive impact on society and increase the general health and stability of its members.

After I finished my doctoral degree at Northern Illinois University in 1995, I became a Professor in the Family Counseling program at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago, where I train the next generation of couple and family counselors.

I have authored numerous articles and two books. My writings have appeared in the Psychotherapy Networker, Counseling Today, and the Journal of Multicultural Counseling , among other publications.

I am a speaker at couples counseling workshops for social service agencies and professional organizations. I also run supervision groups for therapists who are working with couples.

I founded Couples Counseling Associates in 2008 in response to the growing need for relationship counseling services in the Chicago area.

Please note: Dr. Schwarzbaum is only booking new clients for two hour intensives.

About Alison Ramsey, MA, LPC, AMFT

Age: 45

Relationships are what make me tick, and my desire to understand and be understood are what brought me to the field of counseling. If we are fortunate enough to have a nurturing parent, the next time we experience that depth of connection is in our couple relationships – for some of us, it may well be the first shot we get at discovering it. Whatever the case, my primary goal as a therapist is to make you feel welcome, accepted, and understood. Then we can get to the business of repairing and enriching your most important relationship.

I take a client-centered approach, helping you take the steps toward change that work best for you, and weave in the collective wisdom of the most highly regarded relationship research. I think change begins with an idea, and with courage, creativity, and compassionate guidance, can eventually lead your relationship to better things than you even thought possible.

After living in California and New York, I made Chicago my home more than 20 years ago. Here I have enjoyed a colorful career in the performing arts, and later received a Master’s in Community Counseling at Northeastern Illinois University. My experience includes working with couples and individuals struggling with communication difficulties, major life transitions, depression, anxiety, and childhood trauma, as well as LGBT-specific issues.

About Theresa Decker, MA, AMFT

Age: 53

Couple and marital work is important to me because I view the couple as the foundational relationship in the family, and by extension, the community. Our identities are shaped within the family by the quality of our closest relationships. Even in adulthood, our most intimate relationships carry the potential for our greatest joys and our deepest sorrows. I work both with couples who would like to improve already functional relationships and with couples desiring to repair and rebuild painful relationships. I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, which means I take a direct and collaborative approach to marriage and relationship counseling. Therapy involves strengthening the attachment bonds that help couples navigate life stresses and helping couples find their way out of cycles that negatively affect their relationships.

My experience includes working with couples (as well as individuals and families) who have been affected by life difficulties such as relocation, remarriage, parenting difficulties, adoption, chronic physical and mental illness, and grief. I have a M.A. in Couple and Family Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University.

About Victoria Herbert, MA, LPC

Age: 56

I came to this field for one simple reason: people helped me when I needed it, and when I was on my feet again, I felt a desire to pay it forward.

After decades of serving as a Mentor at Covenant Presbyterian Church of Chicago, and six years as a Personal Organizer, I received a Master’s in Community Counseling at Northeastern Illinois University.

My training culminated in a year at Test Positive Aware Network, where I counseled and educated clients struggling with addictions and living with HIV.

Having recently joined Couples Counseling Associates as the Intake Coordinator, I also serve as an individual therapist to adults and teens experiencing life transitions, mood disorders, grief and loss, spiritual problems, and addictions.

My approach is solution-focused and holistic: I help youexplore how all of the aspects of your life – social, professional, familial, spiritual, and biological – hold the keys to making lasting change.

About Laura Berry, M.A.

Age: 43

I have a passion for helping others. This led me to study psychology and social work, and culminated in a degree in marriage and family therapy at Northeastern Illinois University.

I believe there is an inherent need to feel connected to others. The bond with our partner is the primary source of feeling connected. Conflict often disrupts bonding and decreases our sense of connection. I work with couples and families to resolve conflicts, increase intimacy, and facilitate healing in the relationship.

I utilize an eclectic approach, exploring techniques that best fit your personality and goals. I am aware past experiences influence current behaviors; however, I focus on present conditions to help identify solutions that are acceptable to both partners. I seek to promote growth, both individually and as a couple. I will work with you to identify techniques and develop skills to help you navigate the challenges of life.

312 416 6191

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