Meet Alex Vignettes, MA, LPC
Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and free from judgment. My approach is compassionate and focused on meeting clients where they are at. I’ll encourage you to explore your emotions, make sense of what you’re experiencing, slow down when needed, and take meaningful steps toward healing and growth. I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, self-esteem challenges, relationship difficulties, and life transitions, as well as a wide range of emotional and relational concerns.
Everyone’s needs are unique and different. I offer evidence-based treatment such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness tailored to your needs to help identify and reframe unhelpful thought patterns, build coping skills, and strengthen emotional regulation.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck in negative thought patterns, or struggling in relationships or daily life, we will work together to understand patterns and build practical tools for change. My goal is to support greater stability, resilience, and emotional balance so you can feel more grounded and in control of your life.
Education from:
Northeastern Illinois University, Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana-Champaign, IL Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Credentials:
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensed by the State of Illinois, 178.018690
Click the link to verify my license.
Supervisor:
Juan Contreras, AM, LCSW
Meet Juan Contreras, AM, LCSW
My name is Juan (he/him/él). I am a therapist, supervisor, and the owner of Mindful Therapy Services.
Who I see: Individuals, including teens and adults, as well as partners and couples seeking relationship therapy and couples counseling. My focus includes supporting people experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, trauma, and among other concerns.
I also specialize in providing affirming and supportive care to folks with immigrant backgrounds, LGBTQ+ folks, BIPOC, and folks who are on the neurodivergent spectrum.
In relationship therapy, I support partners in strengthening communication, navigating challenges including intimacy, exploring open or non-traditional structures, addressing infidelity, and aim to build deeper, more connected relationships.
How I work: I promise to show up as a real, compassionate human. I will also aim to center your needs in every step of our work together. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and guided by a relational framework, meaning I value the relationship between the client(s) and therapist as a change mechanism. I integrate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and the Gottman Method to support your growth in a collaborative and tailored way.
We may be a good fit if you’re looking for an intentional and supportive space to explore your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. You’re looking for more than just a place to vent—you want a space where you can process your experiences, gain meaningful insight, and develop practical tools.
My approach is collaborative and directive, offering gentle challenges along the way. If you appreciate humor, chill vibes, authentic connection, and someone who listens to your inner wisdom, I might be your therapist.
A bit about me: I'm Mexican American and fluent in Spanish. Outside of therapy sessions, I enjoy playing Xbox, rewatching some of my favorite shows, and exploring coffee shops around the city.
I believe, being a therapist is a profound honor and a true privilege.
Languages I Speak:
English & Spanish
Education from:
The University of Chicago, Master of Arts in Social Work, Policy, and Practice
Certificates in:
Trauma-Informed Care and Gender and Sexuality Studies from the University of Chicago
Credentials:
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Licensed by the State of Illinois, 149.029015
Florida Registration Number: TPSW5711
Click the links to verify my license or registration.
Publications:
Behavioral crisis and first response: Qualitative interviews with Chicago stakeholders
Conor H Murray, Juan Contreras, Caroline H Kelly, Deborah K Padgett, Harold A Pollack (2023)
Angela S Garcia, Yunuen Rodriguez-Rodgriguez, Juan Contreras (2022)
Other Contribution(s):
Safety Planning vs Standard Care for Suicide Prevention After Pretrial Jail Detention
Weinstock, L. M., et al. (2025)