Ariana Stephens, MHP, Clinical Intern

18+, Young Adults, Adults, Parents, Families,

Anxiety, Behavior Issues, LGBTQIA+, Perfectionism, School Anxiety, IEPs, Screen time/ Social Media addiction, Women’s Issues

Hi there, my name is Ari, and I am a clinical mental health counselor in training working towards obtaining my LPC licensure. I grew up in Chicago but recently moved to Bellwood, a nearby suburb. I graduated from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor with a bachelor’s in Psychology. I am working on my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University with a child and adolescent specialization.

I believe finding the right therapist is imperative for the therapeutic relationship, and I hope that as I share more about myself, I can help you decide if I’m the right fit for you and your personal goals.

I’m a proud Black woman passionate about advocating for mental health access, especially in underserved communities. Growing up in a low socioeconomic environment shaped my understanding of how crucial it is for everyone, regardless of their background, to have access to quality care. Mental health has always been important to me, especially given my journey through challenges that have tested my resiliency and strength.

In fifth grade, I was diagnosed with Blount’s disease, a condition that severely impacted my ability to walk long distances and caused immense pain from the simplest movements. I underwent surgery that left me wheelchair-bound, and in the process, I had to relearn how to walk. This was a challenging time, but it taught me the true meaning of strength, perseverance, and the power of healing. While I still face some challenges related to pain, I’m incredibly grateful for the experience as it has improved my walking capabilities, and I use it as a reminder that I can get through hardships even when it seems impossible. This journey has fueled my desire to help others navigate their obstacles. It has been a key motivator in my work, reminding me that everyone deserves the support they need to face life’s most challenging moments.

I have firsthand experience with the lack of prioritization of mental health in my community and family growing up, especially for children. Therapy was often seen as something that should be avoided and was not for people who looked like me. I’m deeply passionate about changing the lack of awareness and support, and people need to understand that therapy is not just for those “struggling” in traditional ways; it’s for everyone. This has developed a drive to change the narrative and provide access to mental health resources in minority communities, leading me to pursue a career in counseling.

Working with me, you will experience warmth, empathy, and understanding by prioritizing creating a safe space to be your true self, free from judgment. I strongly believe in honesty, open communication, and collaboration, so you can expect support and encouragement to explore your thoughts and feelings. Whether we’re working together through challenges like mental health struggles, trauma or even just finding the right balance in life, I’m here to support you every step of the way. I will create a space to help you heal, grow into a better version of yourself, and helping you discover your inner strength.

Children and Families

I have been passionate about the advocacy of children’s mental health, especially within underserved communities. I understand that childhood and adolescence have complex emotional and developmental challenges. I’ve worked in a variety of roles supporting children and adolescents and have seen how mental health struggles can manifest in different ways. Whether it’s navigating anxiety, behavioral challenges, or identity struggles, therapy is a vital tool in helping young people build resilience and emotional intelligence.

For the last three years, I have worked at a therapeutic day school for children who have Autism and socioemotional disabilities. These children often face behavioral challenges in the school environment. It was a privilege and rewarding experience to find ways to engage with their education and decrease the intensity of their struggles.

I learned how important it is for families, especially from underserved or underrepresented communities, to have support in understanding and advocating for their children’s needs.

I am passionate about helping parents and caregivers create affirming, supportive environments that promote their children’s emotional well-being. I believe that therapy can be a transformative resource in assisting this journey.

LGBTQIA+ Affirming Counseling

I am committed to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, as navigating sexual orientation and gender identity can be a challenging experience. I have people close to me who are community members and have seen firsthand how societal pressures, family dynamics, and the challenges of self-discovery can lead to feelings of isolation and stress. Creating a safe, affirming space where individuals can explore their identities without fearing judgment is essential. I strive to provide an environment where people feel empowered to express themselves fully and authentically. The journey of self-discovery can be difficult, but it is a rewarding path for a person. I am here to take the journey alongside members of the LGBTQIA+ community as they navigate their challenges and help them develop the confidence and resilience they need to embrace their true selves.

Racial Identity and Minority Representation

As a Black woman from a low socioeconomic background, I know how important it is to have representation in spaces like therapy. I have always believed that seeing people who share your background, identity, or lived experiences is crucial in building trust and fostering a sense of belonging. I am passionate about supporting individuals from racial minority backgrounds, helping them explore and strengthen their understanding of racial identity, and navigating the complexities of living in a world that can devalue their self-worth. I am committed to providing a space where people can feel seen, heard, and understood through addressing issues related to systemic racism, identity, or the emotional toll of being a minority in today’s world. I want to help individuals feel empowered to embrace their culture and history and to foster a sense of pride in who they are.

For Fun…

When I am not in the office, I binge-watch a TV show with many seasons. If I’m not binge-watching a show, you can find me researching places to travel and adding to my list as I attempt to travel more. If I am not planning a travel trip or binge-watching a show, I am playing Sims. Sims is my favorite game; I have played it since childhood. It can make me forget about reality and create something new.

To schedule an appointment, Call or TEXT (847) 919-9096 or [email protected]