Emma Aculado, LSW

What if it all works out?

Many of us spend our whole lives worrying about our endless to-do lists, new years resolutions, and 5 year plans. What if we could learn to be comfortable with uncertainty instead? What if we could learn to tolerate emotional distress without seeking an escape?

In my work as a therapist, I focus on cultivating a safe space in our sessions where we can explore the roots of our fears and concerns and build a stronger sense of self that does not rely on a number on the scale, a calorie count, or amount of achievements. I am passionate about working with members of immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities to support the development of identity and foster their sense of belonging.

I am a licensed social worker with experience providing therapy at the IOP, PHP, and residential levels of care with adolescents and their families to navigate eating disorders as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I received my Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology from DePaul University and my Master’s of Social Work from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

As a therapist, I utilize a combination of therapy approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT). Beyond relying on any specific modality, I prioritize individualizing treatment to the client and taking a collaborative approach that prioritizes the therapeutic relationship.

I feel lucky to be able to witness moments of courage and vulnerability and I would be honored to play a small role in your journey.

In between sessions, you can likely find me reading, practicing yoga, or junk journaling.

I will be providing individual and family therapy under the clinical supervision of Leigh Rzepecki, LCSW.