Obsessive-compulsive disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Arlington Heights, IL

DIRECT AND TO THE POINT as well as on target for help client to reach their counseling goals

I have a fundamental belief in the transformative power of therapy. I come to this belief not just as a practicing therapist but as someone who was profoundly shaped by therapy as a young man. Having started my own journey with doubt and hesitation, I deeply respect the courage it takes to begin this work. Talking about therapy can feel tricky as jargon and platitudes often dominate the conversation. What I can say is this: I believe in your capacity—within a therapeutic relationship that intuitively feels right to you—to become a better version of yourself defined on your own terms.

I am committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and affirming environment where people from all backgrounds, cultures, identities, and life experiences feel respected and supported. My goal is to provide a safe place where you can be yourself, explore challenges openly, and discover your strengths. Together, we'll focus on meaningful growth, practical strategies, and helping you thrive on your own terms.

I did not stumble into this work — I chose it, and I choose it every day. I am Bianca Gist, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Indiana.

I am also a former collegiate athlete, and that background shapes how I show up — I know what it feels like to carry a lot and still need someone genuinely in your corner. My experience is rooted in the spaces where people need the most and are often given the least — Chicago Public Schools, foster care, home-based services, and community mental health. Through my private practice, Her Sole Purpose LLC, I work with children, adolescents, student-athletes, and families using CBT, ACT, and trauma-informed care. I use what works for the person in front of me, not a one-size-fits-all approach. I work well with people navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and the weight of environments that were not built for them. Therapy with me is honest, grounded, and focused on what actually helps you move forward — not just cope.

If any of this resonates, I would love to connect.

I'm a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over 10+ of experience in the mental health field, and 3 years as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I founded Isimi Health & Wellness to provide thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care rooted in compassion, cultural humility, and a deep respect for the mind-body connection. My clinical background spans across PHP/IOP settings, Outpatient psychiatry, TMS, and telepsychiatry. I’ve worked with diverse populations experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions. Whether you're seeking support for mood instability, clarity around your medication options, or a space to reset and realign, I’m honored to walk alongside you on your wellness journey.