Therapist of color-sensorimotor therapy exercises

Our Story

MK Counseling and Wellness was established in 2021 by myself Melissa Kwafo, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I wanted to create a practice in which body centered therapy within a trauma Informed, anti oppressive framework was prioritized .

Our team of inclusive therapists in Chicago provide services related to LGBTQIA issues, anxiety interventions, sensorimotor therapy exercises clients can use outside of session, PTSD treatment, and kink/polly friendly therapy. Therapy in Spanish, Urdu, and Hindi is also offered to clients.

MK Counseling and Wellness therapists hold identities belonging to marginalized populations, similar to the clients we serve. It is my hope that clients see parts of themself reflected within the therapists that they work with, clients feel deeply supported, and fully embodied.

Ways To Connect

Therapy

MK Counseling and Wellness provides both in office therapy in Chicago and virtual therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life.

Our Social Media 

MK Counseling and Wellness utilizes our social media platforms to share helpful mental health content and center marginalized experiences.

Consulting/Supervision

MK Counseling and Wellness has two fully licensed therapists who enjoy providing quality supervision to pre and newly licensed Social Workers and Professional Counselors.

Services

Black female Sex positive/Kink friendly/Polly friendly therapist Chicago

Family/Couples Therapy

Navigating family or couples dynamics can be tough. People, circumstances, and demands are constantly changing. Sometimes you just feel stuck! Our inclusive therapists are experienced in working with families and couples to provide them with the tools they need to navigate life transitions such as a new addition to the family, loss, illness or something else entirely.

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Therapist of color-sensorimotor therapy exercises

Individual Therapy

Seeing a therapist is not an admission of personal failure or weakness. Seeking individuals to add to your network of support is a strength to be honored. Our Chicago psychotherapists are here to support. Our therapists have training utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Sex Positive/Kink Friendly frameworks.

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LGBT friendly therapist in Chicago

Sex Positive/Kink Allied/Polly Friendly Therapy

Exploring connection, intimacy, and sex can feel uncomfortable. You worry about being judged or spending time educating a provider on the basics of your relationship(s), sexuality or kink identity. Our therapists wont yuck your yum or ask you to educate us. We support clients who are curious or who currently engage in sexual activities or identifies outside what is considered mainstream.

I create a safe, judgement-free environment aimed to help clients decrease shame, increase connection, and advocate for the right to pleasure.

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therapists of color in Chicago. In person therapy in Chicago

Clinical Supervision

Support from a therapist isn’t just for clients. As therapists we also need to feel heard, validated, and have a safe space to sort through things that feel unclear. Our supervisors work from a evidence based and somatic perspective. The best clinical work is done within community.

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Groups

Therapy groups are important for several reasons, offering unique benefits that complement individual therapy. Here are some key reasons why group therapy can be valuable:

1. Shared Experiences and Support

2. Perspective and Feedback

3. Safe Space for Emotional Expression

4. Accountability and Motivation

5. Learning through Observation

Group therapy combines the power of community with professional guidance, offering a unique space for healing, learning, and personal growth

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“ We must be willing to get rid of the life we planned so as to live the life that is waiting for us.”

--Joseph Campbell

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In person therapy in Chicago

Questions to consider when starting therapy

  • The first session may make you feel anxious. It’s normal. During the first session you and your therapist will get to know each other, understand what is getting in the way of you creating the life that you want to live, and identify how you can get from where you currently are to where you want to be.

  • If an event or relationship is causing you distress that is interfering with your daily life, it’s usually a good indicator to consider therapy.

    Also, If you are already considering counseling it may be helpful to seek someone out.

    Lastly, if someone suggests counseling may be helpful for you, you may want to seek the support of a therapist.

    Check out this article 6 Signs You Should See A Therapist for more tips.

  • As you are leading up to your therapy session, here are a few tips that will help you feel like you are getting the most out of your session.

    1. Set goals for your sessions.

    2. Have realistic expectations of what can be accomplished.

    3. Do not be afraid to ask questions or give feedback.

    For more tips, check out 6 Tips To Get The Most Out Of Therapy .

  • The number of sessions depends on your goals, your presenting concern, and your level of engagement during and after sessions.

    I recommend committing to weekly appointments for two months to establish a trusting relationship with your therapist, allow your therapist to understand your concern clearly, and establish realistic goals.

    It’s a good idea to review your goals and treatment on an ongoing basis to ensure progress towards your therapeutic goals.

    Visit my blog When Will I Be Done With Therapy for more helpful tips.

  • A Somatic therapist acknowledges the deep and meaningful connection between the mind and body.

    In my practice, I facilitate a more holistic therapeutic experience as I interweave talk therapy with mind-body exercises such as meditation, movement, and breathing.

    Take a look at my blog Somatic Therapy: What It's All About to learn more and determine if Somatic therapy is right for you.

Fees, Insurance, & Costs

  • MK Counseling and Wellness is in network with a few insurance companies and would be happy to use your insurance to bill sessions.

    In Network (INN):

    Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, Blue Cross Community Health, United Behavioral Health, Cigna, Aetna PPO, Bind Benefits, & Magellan.

  • Our therapists may not be in network with your insurance company for various reasons. If your insurance company is not listed above, please don’t be discouraged. MK Counseling and Wellness may be able to use your out of network benefits.

    Typically, clients pay the full fee for each session. At the end of each session your therapist will provide you a superbill that can be submitted to your insurance for reimbursement. Insurance usually reimburse clients directly up to 50%.

  • There are many reasons why you may choose not to use insurance. If that is the case for you, below are MK Counseling and Wellness fees for each service.

    90791 Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation, 60 min | $200

    90837 Psychotherapy, 60 min | $175

    90834 Psychotherapy, 45 min | $150

  • Affordable mental health care is a priority of our practice. Sliding scale fees are available to you.