LGBT therapists in Park Ridge, IL

I am compassionate, approachable, and committed to providing a safe, nonjudgmental space. I value open communication, transparency, and collaboration, and I believe treatment works best when we make decisions together. My care is evidence-based and trauma-informed, focused on understanding the whole person and supporting meaningful, sustainable mental health improvement.

My name is Macy (she/they) and I believe that therapy is for everyone, at any time, regardless of stressors in our environment. I received my MSW from St. Louis University '17 and my Doctor of Education from Western Illinois University '25. I look forward to working with anyone who is seeking to better themselves, understand their way of thinking, and how to navigate the stress in their lives.

I believe that meaningful therapy begins with feeling safe, heard, and accepted. My goal is to create a nonjudgmental, affirming, and culturally responsive space where clients can openly explore their experiences, challenges, and goals. I strive to meet each person with curiosity, compassion, and respect, recognizing that every individual’s story is unique.

I have experience working with clients navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, relationships concerns, trauma and stress. also have a particular interest in supporting individuals impacted by adoption, as well as those navigating the emotional and lifestyle changes that can accompany bariatric surgery and other significant life transitions. I am committed to providing inclusive care that honors each client’s values, identities, and lived experiences.

I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of New England. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, bariatric journey, trauma, stress, or personal growth, I look forward to partnering with you to build insight, resilience, and meaningful change.

For me, I aim to help others transform their lives through compassionate, personalized care (with plenty of humor along the way). I specialize in working with people of color, student-athletes, and those who are neurodivergent. If you’re neurodivergent and reading this, you’ve finally found someone who specializes in and deeply understands your unique perspective. Whether seeking clarity on behaviors, understanding how you interpret the world, or navigating challenges, I am here to help.

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 have 16 years of clinical experience, working with Children, adolescents, and adults. I provide individual, family, pre/post natal and couples counseling. I take a warm and inviting approach to ensure you feel comfortable as a client. I specialize in anxiety, depression, school concerns, family/ home concerns, friendship issues, ADHD, grief, narcissistic abuse, and autism. I also have 20 years of experience as a school social worker.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe that prioritizing mental health is an integral part of quality of life. Congratulations on taking the first step towards self improvement! I have been practicing for 20 years with a focus on individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and difficulty with life transitions. I am also passionate about working with couples who are experiencing disconnection, conflict, and communication issues.