Meet the Team
Colleen Kempner, Founder LCSW, CADC, CED, C-CCPT
Finding a therapist who you connect with can be a daunting task. I know how truly important a strong therapeutic relationship is, which is why I am dedicated and passionate about forming a meaningful bond with each client I work with. Empathic, effective, and client centered mental health care are foundations to my therapeutic practice, and I aspire to create a space that is both welcoming and safe for all clients.
In my 13 years of practice, I have had the fortune to provide care to wide population of individuals, including LGBTQIA+, those struggling with substance abuse/addiction, survivors of trauma, and individuals struggling with disordered eating or concerns related to perinatal care and fertility/infertility. I have obtained additional certificates and training in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); Certified Child-Centered Play Therapist (C-CCPT), and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CED), and Perinatal Mental Health (PMHC).
A supportive, caring, and listening ear can be helpful at any stage in life. Reaching out is a brave step to changing, and regardless of what the presenting concern is; the most important factor is to find a therapist whom you can trust and authentically engage with.
Jess Gwilliam, Clinical Director, LCSW
Jess Gwilliam is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in client-centered, trauma-informed, relational approaches to therapy. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan, and holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Fort Lewis College. Prior to joining The Art of Being, she worked in a variety of mental health and healthcare settings treating LGBTQIA+ clients and supporting clients living with chronic illness.
Jess utilizes an eclectic, integrative approach to therapy, centering the needs and goals of each client. She has specific training and experience working with individuals who identify as part of LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of chronic and complex trauma, and individuals living with chronic illness and/or chronic pain. She also has experience with kink, polyamory and other alternative relationship structures, and provides training on these subjects for other clinicians. Jess has special training in mindfulness and meditation, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, solution focused therapy, and affirmative counseling with LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples.
“I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a primary site of healing, and strive to create an accepting, collaborative space with clients to explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together, we can work to gain insight, identify what gives your life meaning and purpose, develop coping skills, enhance your relationships, and create lasting change.”
MaryEllen armour, LCSW
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where clients who have been traumatized and marginalized are allowed to share their stories and feelings. My therapy office is a judgment free zone where you will receive validation, support, and practical ways to manage difficult thoughts and experiences. I have had success counseling survivors of complex trauma, girls and women of all ages, and those that have felt marginalized and invalidated by their experience in the world. I am real and love to use humor in session when appropriate!
I use several trauma informed approaches such as body based, psychoeducation, and attachment theory. The therapeutic relationship is key in healing, insight, and progress.
I am passionate about providing feminist, anti-racist counseling to survivors of sexual assault/abuse, domestic violence, and complex trauma from childhood abuse and neglect. I have always been LGBTQ allied and also have experience providing family and individual counseling to adolescents. Therapy is a journey, and we will make that journey together.
Gabrielle Locke, LPC
Gabrielle Locke is a licensed therapist who earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. She is trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including DBT, CBT, and somatic experience modalities, and works with individuals across different life stages, including emerging adults. Gabrielle takes a holistic, client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to each person’s unique needs. She has experience leading group therapy on topics such as stress management, work-life balance, and addiction, while also incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices to foster self-awareness and resilience.
In addition to her therapeutic work, Gabrielle is also an artist and musician, deeply believing in the healing power of creativity. She integrates art therapy into her practice, particularly helping clients reconnect with their creative expression during times of transition, like navigating young adulthood. This might include activities like songwriting or other forms of creative exploration. When Gabrielle is not supporting clients, she enjoys spending time with her fur baby and exploring Chicago’s vibrant restaurant scene with her partner.
Blair Michele Meehan, MA, ATR-P
With my education in counseling and Art Therapy, I blend creativity with conversation to help individuals explore their emotions and foster personal growth. I understand the profound impact that art can have on mental and emotional well-being, and I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate your personal journey. My approach focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can express themselves freely, without judgment.
In addition to my background in Art Therapy, I have obtained a certification in sex therapy with the intention of becoming the safest and most inclusive space for the most sensitive of conversations. My goal is to remove the taboo and create an encouraging environment for discussions around intimacy, health, and self-discovery as a sexual being. I am committed to serving a wide range of clients, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+ or who are navigating non-traditional relationship structures and lifestyles.
Through our conversations and the use of Art Therapy, I guide clients in tapping into their inner world, helping them process complex emotions, trauma, and life challenges. I work with individuals of all abilities, identities, cultures, and walks of life, tailoring my methods to meet their unique needs with a person-centered approach.
Satyavati Patel, LPC
There are times in our lives when a future with happiness seems difficult, impossible even. I believe there is always a way to pave the path towards a meaningful life. Whether this journey is riddled with turbulence or a sudden stop. The path forward is there. I am here to help you find that path.
As a therapist, I operate from a trauma-informed, humanistic perspective. I believe change is possible for the better and that each individual can find happiness, though the path each person takes is different. Whether a person is limited by socioeconomic or family constraints, the life that we live can be full of joy and we can live fulfilling lives.
My population focus is those suffering from depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and parental/guardian loss with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with individuals with a range of experiences. This includes those suffering from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and confidence, stress, and eating disorders.
Reaching out to find assistance and guidance is a difficult first step. I commend your efforts and drive. Let me extend a hand towards helping you reach your goals, happiness, and clarity.
Ecko Carrasquillo, Clinical Intern
I am a proud Chicago native with over ten years of experience serving the community in various settings. I have worked in nonprofits, domestic violence shelters, Chicago Public Schools, and as a nanny for families across the city. These diverse experiences have allowed me to serve a wide range of populations, including low-income individuals, diverse learners, and those with cognitive delays, autism spectrum disorders, emotional challenges, and chronic illnesses—both children and adults.
As a clinical intern, I am eager to integrate my education and hands-on experience to support and empower the individuals I work with. I approach counseling through a motivational interviewing lens, guiding clients to explore their feelings, uncover triggers, process traumas, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences. I strive to create a safe space where clients can be their most authentic selves while working toward the life they desire.
I am passionate about building strong, long-lasting therapeutic relationships, as I believe they are the foundation of effective and quality care. I am equally dedicated to continuing to learn and grow as a counselor by working with experienced counselors and professionals in the field. My main goal is to provide empathic, compassionate, individualized support that fosters healing, self-awareness, and lasting change
Victoria Manuel, Director of Intake
I have spent the better part of three decades in Corporate America helping businesses build and sustain strong brands in the marketplace. I have deep experience with both strategic and tactical operational planning and execution, but the most satisfying work was all around the client's satisfaction. Although I have enjoyed my time serving multiple size organizations, I decided it was time to dial it back and do something that can make a more profound impact in the world today.
I am delighted to be a part of The Art of Being team in my role as an administrative support for both therapists and clients in their work towards optimal mental health care. In my free time, I love jigsaw puzzles, reading, pickleball, and being outside in the sunshine.