Ms. Kristina Nazarova, MA

Life is fluid: it appears dark, light, beautiful, and absurd. While things around us change, it is easy to feel both trapped in situations and whirling out of control. Regardless of who you are, this is a universal human experience. Though it may bring up feelings of shame or discomfort, therapy can illuminate how manageable life is and how you, as an individual, can authentically move through it. I believe each one of us possesses a unique soul, life story, and drive towards self-actualization. Therapy can be a space to honor that.

As a therapist, I think of myself as a companion, walking with you through the darkness, light, and the in-between. I help you find your path, and promote confidence in the way you walk– exploring the values that guide you, choices you make, and ways you engage with the world. The therapy environment I create is warm, peaceful, and playful. Theoretically, I draw from Interpersonal Psychodynamic and Existential orientations: We will highlight patterns you find yourself living in, explore their meaning, and realize how they manifest in the therapeutic space, for you to experiment with and accept. Additionally, I value having tools that simplify and explain how things work, and I am happy to provide you with books, articles, and other psychoeducation materials.

Through my doctorate program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, I’ve had the privilege of working with people across the lifespan, from various socioeconomic, cultural, and racial backgrounds. I’ve worked in private practice and community mental health settings, providing therapy in both Russian and English to individuals, couples, and families. I am well-versed in working with PTSD and other presentations of trauma, immigration stresses, grief, anxiety, substance use, and the stresses that result from discrimination.

As the child of queer Russian immigrants, I understand acculturation, survival, and the balancing of identity-based value systems on a personal level. I stand firmly with Ukraine and prioritize providing the best possible care to every person who walks through my door, no matter how different our beliefs might be. I believe we suffer most from a lack of understanding and love. However, my role as a therapist isn’t to convince you of anything– it is to care for you, honor you, and explore new ways of being with you. If you are interested in continuing your journey with me, I encourage you to reach out.

Ms. Nazarova will begin accepting new clients in August 

Additionally, Ms. Nazarova will have (limited) sliding scale openings beginning at 25.00 a session for individuals seeking multicultrually informed care and who have marginalized identities, are impacted by the current political climate and are in need of increased access to care.