About Us
At Starks Therapy Group our goal is to create a safe space where individuals or families can experience the growth, healing, or change they desire. Our hope is that you can become more fully alive and more fully yourself through work that is guided by your needs and desires.
We work from a holistic model of wellness to address issues including mood, culture, sexuality, spirituality, relationships, anxiety, depression, transitions, grief/loss, and trauma/abuse.
GRACE HARRINGTON, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Approach
Warmth, compassion, education and curiosity are values that drive me as a therapist and a person. I focus on developing a safe relationship so we can openly and honestly explore the issues that brought you or your loved one to therapy. This foundation of trust aids our work together towards resolution. I use humor and empathy often, as I believe both laughter and difficult emotions are important parts of the human experience for healing.
My areas of interest include life transitions, body image, anxiety, depression, relational struggles, difficult family dynamics, exploring religious and spiritual identity and difficulties created by racism. I work with those age 12 and up. I use the therapeutic approaches of DBT, ACT, and CBT to give you direct tools to manage. I use Internal Family Systems theory, Trauma-Informed Care, and Systems Theory to help you understand yourself more fully to move towards growth and fuller living.
Training
I received my Masters in Social Work in 2019 with a Clinical specialization and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have extensive experience leading groups for young adults requiring a higher level of care.
JEANETTE LEE, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Approach
There is often a gap between where we are and where we want to be. I support individuals and couples as they travel that distance. I help uncover the history, contexts and patterns that keep clients in distress, and together formulate strategies towards living a full, meaningful life. Often, clients already know the "answers" but could use support in living those answers out. The end goal is growth; the client should be able to look back at our work together and see a difference.
I am certified in EMDR and have found it extremely helpful in moving clients out of a place of stuckness. I also integrate practices from integrated Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I connect with clients across the lifespan, from young children to older adults.
Training
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and received my Master of Social Work from the University of Chicago. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and History from Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire. I received my law degree from NYU School of Law.
I completed a post-graduate fellowship in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, am certified in EMDR, and received additional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and School Social Work.
MARIANA MARTINEZ, LCPC
Psychotherapist
Approach
I am passionate about supporting those beginning their journey of healing. I am a bilingual-bicultural psychotherapist, who promotes interpersonal growth, while focusing on strengths and resilience.
I take an existential, client-centered approach when working with individuals. This allows me to support clients in understanding their human nature and experience, which at times can be overwhelming, resulting in depression and anxiety. Bringing a safe, open and connected space to the counseling room is a key factor in therapy. I work well with those who have a strong desire to understand themselves and their experiences.
Training
I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
SARAH PEREZ, LCPC
Psychotherapist
Approach
Life can be full of overwhelming challenges. Through therapy I can help you overcome these struggles and work towards meeting your own personal goals, improving your quality of life. I work with individuals and families (ages 12 and up) who are looking for symptom relief, personal growth, or to improve their relationships.
I have experience treating a wide range of presenting issues including managing and reducing anxiety, stress, and depression, improving self-esteem, processing grief, loss, or trauma, addressing relationship challenges, managing adjustment difficulties, and making healthy lifestyle changes.
My approach to therapy is integrative and collaborative to meet the individual needs of each client. I draw from several treatment models including Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Mindfulness concepts, Family Systems, and a strength-based, client-centered approach to promote emotional healing, healthy skill building, and sustainable change.
Training
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and received my Masters in Counseling from Illinois State University.
ALLEGRA (ALLIE) SOCKI, LPC, ATR-P
Psychotherapist (Art Therapy)
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Approach
When words fail us, expressive therapies can help to tap into other forms of healing and connecting to others. Intentionally taking part in art therapy allows a person to open the doors of communication and give opportunities for self-discovery.
I draw from the person-centered model of therapy, incorporating mindfulness techniques, trauma-informed care and expressive/art therapy techniques. I work with children and adolescents who may struggle with issues of identity and social/emotional problems as well as those with learning disabilities and developmental disorders. I have a background in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+ and who experience daily struggles living with ADHD, anxiety and/or depression.
Because artmaking in therapy can bring forth a broad range of emotions, it is important to have a safe space to process what is uncovered. In the therapy room, you will find a comfortable space, tools for empowerment, and a judgment-free atmosphere to creatively express yourself.
Training
I completed a dual-degree program at Adler University in Chicago, where I received my Masters in Counseling and Art Therapy in 2020. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Human Development from DePaul University in 2018.
In addition to my graduate studies I have focused learning in other experiential and play based approaches to working with young people.
AUTUMN STARKS, LCSW
Founder and Psychotherapist
Approach
As you're looking for a therapist you might be wondering how do I know if this person can really help me? Will they get me? Fit is so important when seeking to begin therapy, so let me share who I am a good fit for as a therapist.
Clients who benefit most from my approach are smart, capable and insightful. They tend to be deep thinkers/feelers, who, despite all their strengths, still struggle with their mood, stress or just "making sense of it all." Together we use an approach to therapy that is calm and meditative one moment and playfully refreshing the next. My clients are down to do the deep work of self-exploration and aren't afraid to laugh and find joy in the process.
I love joining with clients (either online or in person) and bearing witness to their growth and development. You won't hear me dispensing answers or advice, but I will continue to invite you into a process of self-discovery and curiosity. That way you will be able make decisions that align with the core of who you are.
I work especially well with those who are experiencing a change or questioning of their faith or religious beliefs. I am committed to creating a neutral space for you to uncover your own wisdom in the realm of spirituality.
In addition to traditional therapy, I provide Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy through a partnership with an area infusion clinic. Ketamine is an evidenced-based treatment approach for those with Major Depressive Disorders, as well as anxiety and PTSD. If you have any questions about Ketamine treatment and if it could be a good fit for you, please reach out.
I am OUT OF NETWORK for BCBS PPO and all other insurance. The rest of our team accepts BCBS PPO so if that is something you'd like to utilize, reach out and we can find someone in network for you to work with.
Training
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and received my Masters of Social Work from Boston University. I received my Bachelor of the Arts in Psychology from Hope College in Holland, Michigan.
In addition to my academic studies, I have pursued training in Internal Family System (IFS Level 2 Graduate), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and other creative/expressive therapies. I have a special clinical interest in Complex PTSD and other disorders resulting from religious trauma and spiritual abuse. I am certified in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute.
WENDY ROMAN
Psychotherapy Intern
Approach
We often find ourselves feeling overwhelmed because life is happening way too fast and hitting us way too hard. Finding someone to talk to, and that you trust, can be difficult. I have experience working with children, youth, and adults who have experienced trauma. My areas of interest include anxiety, trauma, and grief.
My approach to therapy is meeting the individual client where they are by providing them with a safe and confidential space to express themselves. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care. I believe clients have the power to change and grow when getting the assistance they need to improve their emotional well-being.
Training
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counseling student at National Louis University. I received my bachelor’s degree in Human Services from National Louis University.
[For more on Wendy: "Working with an Intern"]
MANDY ROSS, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Approach
I provide support for adults and adolescents who struggle with symptoms related to ADHD, such as Executive Functioning, and Self-Regulation. I am also available to work with adults who may be living with a person with ADHD (e.g. child or partner) and are looking for skills and strategies for the home environment as well as emotional support for their own journey.
I am passionate about overall wellness and believe that the connection between emotional, mental, and physical health is a tight braid in which each strand blends into the next and the strength of one affects the strength of the whole. I encourage mindfulness, movement, and self-care and challenge clients to recognize and combat negative thinking patterns.
Training
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master degree from Jane Addams College of Social Work at UIC. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology and Sociology from Northwestern University as well as 18 hours of Secondary Health Education from Northeastern University.
In addition to my academic work, I am a licensed School Social Worker and have experience supervising Master level interns for Social Work. Areas in which I have sought additional training to improve my practice include: ADHD, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Gender Identity, Anti-Racism, and Suicidal Ideation and Self-Harm. I am also a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT).
JEN ALDRICH
Administrative Assistant
Being the front door for people who are looking for resources in the pivotal moments of their lives is something that I care about. Knowing that I support a team of clinicians who are capable, compassionate, equipped and ready to meet you where you are in those moments… I care about that too. A right connection at the right time can be so powerful, and I want to help you find that.
You can think of me as a sort of bridge — responding to your inquiries and working to match you with a clinician who might be right for you, as well as navigating the billing and insurance process. I also work on our website, social media, and other places that work like a front door in today’s world.
I’m looking forward to meeting you, my (virtual) door is always open.
