Essie Shachar-Hill, LCSW, Programs Manager
Pronouns: They/them/theirsRequest an Appointment- Location: Skokie, Telehealth
- Specialties: Identity Development, Individual Therapy, Mindfulness, Spirituality / Religious Counseling, Trauma
- Languages: English
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults and adolescents, including trans, non-binary, and gender-questioning folks, as well as people from marginalized religious communities.
I find that clients often come to therapy to try to understand something: something about themselves, their relationships, or their past experiences. Using a sex-positive, anti-oppressive framework, I accompany them in their therapeutic journey toward their own goals.
This exploration can only happen when you feel safe enough, and I prioritize cultivating a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. You will find that I am interested in holding and understanding both intrapersonal dynamics and the broader systems and contexts in which you live.
I understand that no one exists in a vacuum, and that experiences like trauma and oppression due to race, class, religion, ability, sexuality, gender, relationship configuration and other factors can have a profound impact on individuals and communities.
If you have ever felt “un-understandable” by others, I can provide a space for you to be witnessed, held, and supported as you connect with your most authentic self. I look forward to working with you!
Professional Experience
Education and Training
- University of Michigan School of Social Work
- University of Michigan College of Literature, Science, and the Arts
Professional Memberships
Essie Shachar-Hill, LCSW, is the Programs Manager at LifeWorks coordinating and leading the Green House Training Fellowship and KPACT (the Kink & Polyamory Aware Chicago Therapists professional networking and education group). Essie holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan. They also hold a Certificate in Jewish Communal Leadership. Essie’s past work has focused on advocating for LGBTQ+ equality in Jewish life through education and training. In addition, Essie has worked as a youth worker, running multiple support groups for LGBTQ+ youth as well as teaching inclusive and pleasure-positive sex education in public schools. They also facilitate a grief support group for people in their 20s and 30s and regularly train professionals working with trans youth.