I’m Karena Robinson, and I’m passionate about helping individuals become the best version of themselves. I believe that when we take the time to focus on healing, growth, and self-awareness, we’re able to show up more authentically and confidently in our everyday lives.

With over 10 years of experience, I specialize in trauma-informed care and use therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy. I also incorporate culturally responsive practices to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, respected, and supported.

I understand that life can feel overwhelming at times, and my goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free environment where clients can openly process their experiences and develop healthy coping strategies. I truly believe everyone deserves happiness, healing, and peace, and I’m committed to walking alongside my clients throughout their journey.

Whether you are navigating trauma, anxiety, stress, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, or simply seeking personal growth, I look forward to helping you move toward becoming your healthiest and most empowered self.

I’m Antonio Medina, a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Professional Counselor serving teens and adults throughout the northwest suburbs of Chicago. As a Latino counselor, I understand how culture, family, and life experiences shape our mental health, relationships, and sense of identity. I strive to create a welcoming, culturally responsive environment where adults ages 18 and older feel heard, respected, and supported in the language they are most comfortable speaking.

I specialize in working with Spanish-speaking clients and men navigating challenges such as anxiety, family conflict, grief, ADHD, immigration-related concerns, cultural identity, and major life transitions. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, adjusting to change, or seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I’m here to help you build the skills, confidence, and resilience to move forward.

My therapeutic approach is collaborative, practical, and goal-oriented. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change. I believe every person has unique strengths, and together we’ll build on those strengths while working toward goals that align with your values, culture, and lived experiences.

I’m Mario Gonzalez, owner and therapist at Next Step Therapy Group. I understand that clients come to therapy after struggling with something challenging and deeply personal. Many clients describe feeling stuck for months or even years because of how hard it can be to take the next step and reach out for help. My passion as a clinical social worker is to help clients use the strengths and resources they have to rediscover their goals and feel like themselves again. And with so many options for therapy, I consider it a privilege that you would come to me and let me walk alongside you on your journey.

I have over 10 years of experience as a social worker. My therapeutic lenses include psychodynamic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. However, I also utilize narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, solutions focused brief therapy and I believe strongly in tailoring your experience to your unique needs.

I am a strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed therapist who believes you are the expert of your own life. I specialize in working with diverse clients struggling with anxiety, depression, anger management, life transitions, relationship issues, neurodivergence and substance abuse. I look forward to partnering with you.