Therapy by Jacky

Get to Know Jacky

Behind every therapist is a person with their own story. Mine has been shaped by resilience, perseverance, and a deep belief that healing is possible—even when life takes an unexpected turn.

I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and I’m a proud first-generation Mexican American. My parents immigrated to the United States in pursuit of the American Dream, working factory jobs to create opportunities they never had for themselves. Watching their determination, sacrifice, and unwavering work ethic taught me that even the most difficult journeys are worth taking. Those lessons continue to guide both my life and my work as a therapist.

In 2003, my life changed forever when I lost my vision. Overnight, everything I thought my future would look like disappeared. I had to learn how to navigate the world differently, rediscover my independence, and rebuild my confidence. While that experience was one of the greatest challenges of my life, it also taught me something incredibly valuable: healing isn’t about returning to the person you once were. Sometimes, it’s about discovering the strength to become someone you never imagined you could be.

That experience gave me a profound appreciation for resilience, grief, identity, and the courage it takes to start over. It reminds me every day that although we don’t get to choose everything that happens to us, we do have the ability to grow, adapt, and find meaning along the way.

Determined not to let my circumstances define my future, I attended Northeastern Illinois University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in 2013. I then earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois Chicago, graduating in 2014. Those years weren’t simply about earning degrees—they were about proving to myself that life could still be full of purpose, opportunity, and possibility.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with people facing some of life’s most difficult challenges. My professional experience includes juvenile detention, sexual assault advocacy, domestic violence services, addiction treatment, disability rights, and outpatient mental health. These experiences have deepened my understanding of trauma, resilience, relationships, and the incredible capacity people have to heal.

In 2019, I moved to Indiana, where I have continued serving individuals and couples as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker through secure telehealth services. Today, I work with adults and couples navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions, and the many challenges that come with being human.

My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and genuine. I believe meaningful change happens when people feel safe enough to be vulnerable and supported enough to take healthy risks. Therapy should be a place where you feel heard, respected, and accepted—but it should also help you discover new perspectives, challenge unhelpful patterns, and build the life you want to live.

I don’t believe therapy is about fixing people. I believe it’s about helping people recognize the strength they already possess while developing the tools they need to move forward with confidence.

Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time with my husband, exploring creative hobbies, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. I believe learning never truly ends, and I bring that same curiosity and commitment to every client I have the privilege of working with.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. Choosing a therapist is an important decision, and I hope this has given you a glimpse of who I am—not just as a clinician, but as a person. If you feel we may be a good fit, I’d be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

Support when you need it. Challenge when it counts.