Akila Sachdev

Hello! I'm Akila Sachdev and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and an Integrated Somatic Practitioner based out of Chicago, IL, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have over 23 years of experience in the social work field. My experience includes working with a diverse population of varying ages, sex, race, and cultures. I have had the opportunity to work in a multitude of settings, including schools, community-based agencies, and outpatient agencies. I typically work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and occupational stress.

My approach to working with clients varies depending on their unique needs. My approach is always client-centered, allowing those that I work with to have active involvement in their personal growth. I typically use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Holistic therapy, and Somatic therapy to help my clients make progress and find strategies to make them feel empowered. I also use mindfulness practices to help clients reduce stress by bringing their focus to the present moment. I believe in helping clients connect to their whole selves so they can be their best selves! I provide extra support and strategies through challenging situations or if you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life.

I typically work with older adolescents and adults who may be dealing with challenges of their identity, their relationships, their self esteem or their current occupations. My therapeutic approach is a good fit for older adolescents or adults who are dealing with anxiety and depression. I work to help my clients build skills and learn strategies to empower themselves to be able to navigate life with a more positive and healthy outlook.

I create a safe, welcoming space to be able to tell your story and feel comfortable discussing anything that you want to be open up about. I listen to everyone without judgment. I believe that each and every one of us sees the world through a slightly different lens and I'm excited to hear all of my clients' different stories and help them obtain the goals that they came to their initial session with.

I collaboratively work with my clients to develop strategies that resonate with your individual needs. My client's input is central to our work together, guiding the therapeutic process and shaping the outcome of your involvement in therapy which leads to meaningful and sustainable change. The client's voice will always be at the forefront of our sessions navigating our journey together.

My first session with you

During our first session together, you should expect us to both be getting to know each other. I will be listening to your story of why you chose to start your therapeutic journey today. We will be discussing how you have been feeling and I will be asking certain questions to try to discover why you might be feeling this way. Every individual is different and I want to hear their stories before developing a plan that will work best for them.