Ari Franco, LCSW

What I love most about being a therapist is witnessing the small, meaningful steps people take that lead to life-changing growth. It’s a privilege to be part of the process as someone begins to untangle what’s been weighing on them and starts to move toward healing. My goal is to create a space where you feel truly seen, heard, and safe—free from judgment and pressure. I believe healing happens at your pace, and I’m here to support you as you navigate that journey. In this space, I hope you’ll feel empowered to discover and embrace the best version of yourself.

I earned my graduate degree from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago. My approach to therapy is personalized and collaborative, blending evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to support meaningful, lasting change. For younger clients who may not yet have the words to express their feelings, I incorporate play therapy. When working with couples, I draw on the Gottman Method to support communication, connection, and healing.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the honor of working with a diverse range of clients, including young children, teens, adults, parents, African Americans, Latinos, and first-generation Americans. As a first-generation American myself, I understand the complex experience of balancing family, cultural identity, and societal expectations. I strive to create a welcoming and affirming space where clients from all backgrounds feel respected, understood, and supported. It would be an honor to be a steady presence as you sort through life’s complexities and begin to create something new for yourself.

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