Available Online
Sanya Jaffer
Intake Coordinator and Community Outreach Facilitator
LPC, ATR
A Note From Sanya
“The journey to therapy can be a challenging one, and for most of us the road can be bumpy, confusing, and frustrating. We may feel anxious and nervous, especially if we are trying therapy for the first time. This is understandable, because there often are a lot of unknowns: What will I talk about and where do I even start? Will I like my therapist? How long will therapy take? These are some of the many questions you may have as you begin your journey.
You are not alone, because this is where I come in. I strongly believe therapy works best when you find a therapist that feels like the right fit, and I am here to guide you in finding exactly that. I utilize a humanistic approach which strives to provide a safe and comfortable place for you to ask any questions, address any concerns, and reflect on your unique experiences, needs, and goals for therapy.
Together we will find the right therapist for you, so you can begin your mental health” journey with ease and comfort knowing you are in good hands.
Experience
Sanya is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, who graduated with distinction when she earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Studio Art from Loyola University of Chicago, and went on to achieve her master’s degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Sanya was trained from a social justice pedagogy and instills these values in her culturally sensitive practice, meeting each person where they are at by empowering their intersectional identities. She believes that mental health is directly impacted by systems of injustice and oppression, particularly as they continue to have ongoing impact. Sanya has worked in community mental health, private practice, and clinical settings, with adolescents and adults from many different cultural backgrounds and LGBTQIA+ identities.
Growing up a child of immigrants, I often observed how there was a lack of mental health support for people (especially BIPOC) due to access and stigma. This ignited and fueled my passion to want to study psychology and learn how to support others in the community through adversity. Throughout the course of my own mental health journey, I was privileged enough to be connected to some wonderful therapists that have changed the course of my life for the better. Now, I am most fulfilled when I can support others to find the right fit for them too!
What Brings Me a Sense of Ease
Taking time for connection with my family, friends, community, nature, and with my creative practices. I often find a long walk with my pup, getting fresh air, or sitting by the lake can bring me ease and relaxation. I believe life is best lived when I can be fully present in these moments.
Interesting Fact About Me
Aside from being a mental health professional, I am an extremely creative person. In my free time you will find me listening to music or playing the piano, coloring in my adult coloring book, painting, drawing, creating collages, doing photography, going to museums or shows in the city, and dancing with friends!
Favorite Quote
“Other people have often contributed to our pain, so we often need other people to help us heal from it.”
I think this quote is so powerful because it reminds me that our traumatic experiences can cause a disconnection, and healing often requires connection that feels safe, authentic, and empowering, which is exactly what finding the right therapist can provide.
Let’s talk about how we can work with and for you to achieve your wellness needs.
Not sure where to get started? Reach out to us and we’ll discuss your needs and figure out a plan that works your you.