Gilmarie Garay-Adames is a Licensed Social Worker, individual and family therapist. She earned her Master’s degree from Northeastern Illinois University. Gigi’s experience in adolescent and young to middle adulthood settings, including high schools and victim recovery services, guides her focus toward those seeking general mental health services for anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, perinatal, and relationships.
Gigi believes that every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect despite whatever they are going through and what situation they find themselves in. It is an honor for her, as a therapist, to walk alongside you and assist in navigating life’s many complex circumstances.
Incorporating Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, she takes on a compassionate, patient, strengths-based and solution-focused approach. Gigi practices with flexibility and is guided by her client’s expressed goals and needs. For those who seek it, Gigi is happy to provide faith-based counseling as well.
Gigi is fluent in both Spanish and English, raised in the Humboldt Park community of Chicago. She has over 12 years of experience serving youth in the city of Chicago as an educator, has worked at an interim housing program for homeless families as a youth services coordinator, and for several years and still today, works closely with her husband in a ministry which serves the homeless community, bringing clothing, food and love to the streets. She is proud to serve her community and believes her well rounded experience, and calm, peaceful demeanor has prepared her to be the best fit for you.
“All of my experiences have amplified and affirmed my love for helping others with a genuine care for people’s overall wellbeing.” -Gigi Garay-Adames