About Wendi Lev, LCSW, ACSW, CADC

I believe change is possible, no matter how daunting the present may seem. Let me help you become a better version of yourself and reach your greatest potential. 

I provide help with a range of conditions including anxiety disordersrelational issues and datingmale-specific concernssubstance abusecouples marriage counseling, and much more. I also provide coaching for high achievers.

In therapy, I combine the most effective forms of traditional and evidence-based therapy for each situation, cutting through the jargon to share the essence of how each method can help you. Together, we will tailor the therapy plan for your needs. The techniques that I draw from include CBT (and variations on that including Schema Therapy and DBT) as well as Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and Gottman Couples Therapy.

I love doing this work so that I can bring the best tools to the table and you can start making real changes after the very first session. I give you all that I can as I partner with you on the journey towards healing, wholeness, and more fulfilling life.

Compassion, caring, flexibility, and confidentiality

I know that your schedule can be demanding, and when you do reach out for help, you really need to be heard. I will devote the energy and time to hear your needs and provide effective, compassionate care.

I will work with you to help you break through your blocks and achieve your dreams. You can have the career you want, the family you desire, the relationships you long for, and the dreams that you covet if you do the work. Therapy is part of that work, and I want to be your partner in making that happen.

Flexible hours are available to accommodate your schedule. Evening hours are available.

What you can expect from me

My approach as a therapist is collaborative. We will begin with an evaluation and assessment to identify your strengths, areas for potential growth, immediate problems, desires, personality, communication style, and long-term goals. Armed with this information, we can work together to first give you relief from immediate pain and stress and then work towards life-long change.

Coming to therapy means that you have taken a huge step toward creating the life that you want. I take that seriously and am committed to assisting you in your own growth and transformation.

I particularly love working with successful individuals who have busy professional lives but who want to get even more out of their days on this earth. We all face blocks, challenges, and struggles, no matter how successful we appear on the outside.

Support significant steps to progress in a relaxed environment

More than symptom relief, we create sustainable, lasting change. Therapy integrates research-based methods customized to your needs, goals, cultural background, history, and expectations.

I consistently make adjustments along the way to help you meet your therapy goals. I am committed to going the extra mile and ensuring I have your back. 

Experience and training

I have substantial experience and training, including eight years working at the Stone Institute of Psychiatry at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. At the Michael Reese Hospital & Medical Center, I was a Clinical Psychotherapist in the in-patient adolescent psychiatric unit. I also worked in the Dual Diagnosis Program for Adolescents and Families at the Stone Institute, Northwest Memorial Hospital.

I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with my Masters in Clinical Social Work, enriching my foundation in therapeutic practices. I regularly pursue additional education in the field and have a number of certifications for specializing in key issues including substance abuse and addictiondivorce mediation, and sex therapy. I use this experience to help a diverse range of people cope with challenges in life.

I have completed advanced therapy training through the Gottman Institute (levels 1,2, and 3) and am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This education and experience provide me with a solid foundation of research-based techniques that can help people with a diverse range of complications and challenges. I draw from all of this experience to work with you on a treatment plan that takes into account exactly what will be right for you.
 
In addition to my continuing education, I am an active member of the National Association of Social Workers, the Illinois Counseling Association, The Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, and the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers. My active presence in these groups allows me to gain access to information and interventions to best assist you on your journey.
 

For dedication and excellence in patient care, Patient Preferred Physicians and Practitioners proudly named me a 2021 “Patient Preferred Psychotherapist and Life Coach” representing the state of Illinois.

My practice has been serving Chicagoans since 2008.