About Mindful Healing Counseling

Culturally affirming online therapy in Chicago and Illinois for anxiety, trauma, and relationships

Diverse women laughing sitting on the steps symbolizing community after online therapy in Chicago, Illinois.

Healing Starts Here—A Safe, Inclusive Space Just for You

At Mindful Healing Counseling, your story matters—and you deserve a space to heal.

We know asking for help isn’t easy. Maybe life feels overwhelming, past wounds still show up in ways you wish they wouldn’t, or you’re still trying to find your place in the world. Whatever you’re carrying, you don’t have to do it alone.

Our mission is simple: to create a space where you are truly seen, where your story is honored, and where healing happens at your own pace.

Here, you’ll be met with compassion, care, and support that honors your pace. Healing doesn’t have to look perfect—it just has to feel like a step toward relief.

You’re already enough — and you deserve support that sees the whole you.

LET’S GET STARTED

An Inclusive, Affirming Approach to Therapy

You deserve therapy that celebrates every part of who you are.

At Mindful Healing Counseling, you’ll find:

  • Black therapists who understand cultural identity and resilience

  • LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists who create space for all identities and expressions

  • Anxiety and trauma specialists who can help you untangle what feels heavy

  • Culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care that sees your whole story, not just your symptoms

Our practice was founded by a Black woman with a vision of breaking mental health stigma and building a culture of care that truly sees you.

Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why sessions are flexible, online, and tailored to your needs—so support meets you exactly where you are.

I started Mindful Healing Counseling because I wanted to create the kind of space I didn’t always see in mental health care—a space where you feel truly seen, understood, and supported in every part of who you are.

As a Black woman and a psychologist, I know how much it matters to have care that is professional, yes—but also culturally affirming, compassionate, and real. My heart is to make therapy feel safe, approachable, and empowering—whether you’re carrying anxiety, healing from past trauma, or holding the weight of family and life’s pressures.

If you’ve been wondering whether therapy could help, I want you to know this: you don’t have to keep carrying it all alone. When you’re ready, we’re here to walk beside you.

Warmly,
Dr. Aretha Steele, PsyD
Founder of Mindful Healing Counseling

A Note from Our Founder

Women looking at her computer drinking coffee during online therapy in Chicago. 60462.

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. You may worry: Will they get me? Will I feel judged? Will it even help?

Here’s what you can expect:

  • A safe space where you’re heard—not rushed or dismissed

  • A therapist who walks beside you with compassion, not criticism

  • Real tools to help you feel calmer, stronger, and more connected

Our team brings lived experience, cultural understanding, and professional training. We know what it’s like to carry too much—and we’re here to help you set it down.

Whether you’re working through anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or big life transitions, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

The Right Therapist Makes All the Difference

Insurance & Accessibility

Getting help shouldn’t add more stress. That’s why we make therapy as simple and accessible as possible.

We accept:

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO

  • Blue Choice PPO

  • Aetna PPO

  • HSA/FSA plans

  • Out-of-network reimbursement

  • Sliding scale spots (limited availability)

With secure online therapy, you can connect from home, your office, or anywhere in Illinois—without commuting, waiting rooms, or extra logistics.

Image of laptop and plants on a table representing online therapy in Chicago and Illinois.

Flexible Online Therapy Across Illinois—From Chicago to Wherever You Are

No matter where you live in Illinois, you can find support here. We regularly work with clients in:

Chicago | Oak Lawn | Orland Park | Naperville | Urbana-Champaign | Schaumburg | Joliet | Tinley Park | Evanston … and beyond.

And through PsyPact, Dr. Steele provides virtual therapy across multiple states.

Take the First Step—You Deserve Support

Reaching out is brave. Taking care of yourself is powerful.

You don’t have to keep carrying everything by yourself. With the right support, you can feel calmer, stronger, and more connected to who you are.

Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward the relief you’ve been needing.