Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Buffalo Grove, IL

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 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 believe therapy is most effective when you feel genuinely seen, understood, and accepted. My goal is to create a warm, supportive space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace while building insight, resilience, and meaningful change.

I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Michigan State University and am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC). I provide telehealth therapy for adults throughout Michigan, Massachusetts, and Illinois.

Cub Larkin is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL & MA), and is a Licensed Professional Counselor (IL, ME, OR). Cub specializes in working with clients who identify as LGBTQIA+. Cub also enjoys working with clients who have interest in kink, BDSM, dominant/submissive relationships, and those who are trying to navigate in polyamorous or ethical / consensual non-monogamous relationships.