Tusani Gates

Great to meet you! I'm Tusani, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and University of Chicago graduate. I love supporting people from all walks of life, and I'm especially experienced and passionate about working with men and people of color. My mission is to create a safe, supportive space for individuals from Black and underserved communities who are navigating trauma, depression, and anxiety.

I've worked in individual and group counseling, community work, and medical social work. Each role grew out of my passion for social justice and putting equity at the center. I believe we all have unique strengths and inherent gifts that can help us turn pain into purpose. Taking the step to seek support is courageous, and I'm honored to be part of your journey toward becoming the greatest version of yourself.

I believe in the power of connection and healing within a trusting therapeutic relationship. My approach is rooted in understanding your unique story, culture, and experiences. Together, we'll explore your strengths, your challenges, and the goals you have for your mental well-being. You'll be respected, heard, and empowered to take the steps that feel right for you.

My practice is built on a relational framework and is heavily client-centered. I look at each person holistically, so my approach is eclectic. I'm certified in trauma-informed care and trauma-focused CBT, and I'm also trained in motivational interviewing, ACT, harm reduction, CBT, Attachment Theory, and psychoanalysis. In plain terms, that means we'll use the tools that fit you, whether that's changing unhelpful thought patterns, building skills to cope with hard emotions, or understanding how your past relationships shape how you show up today. I also keep learning how to blend individual therapy with community work to create real change and push back on the inequities we see today.

In our first session, we'll take the time to get to know each other, and you'll have the space to share your story and what brings you to therapy. This is your journey, and I'm here to walk beside you as we create a path forward. Our work together will focus on creating a secure and non-judgmental space where you can be open and vulnerable. From there, we'll build a plan to help you achieve the peace and growth you're seeking.