Saba Aqel, LCPC

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, low mood, trauma effects, or relationship stress, I help you build insight and practical tools so life feels more steady, connected, and manageable. I offer therapy in English and Arabic, and provide virtual sessions across Illinois, with morning availability.

I work with adults and couples, including immigrants and first/second-generation individuals, as well as high-achieving professionals, business owners, and students who may look “fine” on the outside while privately struggling with overthinking, perfectionism, people-pleasing, self-criticism, burnout, or feeling emotionally shut down.

My approach is grounded in psychodynamic therapy, helping us understand how early relationships and systemic experiences shape present-day patterns. Sessions are both insight-oriented and practical: we strengthen emotion regulation, boundaries, self-advocacy, and self-compassion so change shows up in your daily life and relationships.

I’m trained in EMDR and integrate trauma-focused work when clinically appropriate and when you feel resourced and ready. We will discuss fit and scheduling during a free 15-minute consultation.