SAMI LARE

Sami Lare, M.S.W., LSW (they/them)

Psychotherapist

Sami’s extensive experience supporting community members on the South and West sides of Chicago has profoundly shaped their equity-focused, abolition-centered approach to therapy. Drawing from their deep well of knowledge and clinical expertise, Sami's trauma-informed, harm reduction-based practice seamlessly integrates feminist, anti-racist, Narrative Therapeutic, and somatic-based frameworks. Sami is deeply committed to cultivating authenticity and open-mindedness in their work, skillfully weaving in touches of humor and intentionality that help foster a warm, welcoming therapeutic environment.

They specialize in supporting the queer, trans, poly, trauma/complex trauma survivors, and/or neurodivergent communities, firmly believing that the development and nurturing of community connections is vital for navigating the full scope of our shared human experience. They also are well versed in supporting folks through navigating their queer and trans family identity, as well as relational attachment difficulties, folks experiencing anxiety and negative self-talk, those that are grieving, and folks struggling to find community.

Sami views therapy as an empowering exploration of our multifaceted life stories, utilizing a somatic and narrative lens to help clients examine the narratives they have consented to versus those that may have been imposed upon them. This deep dive encourages clients to investigate the intricate interplay of environment, access, privilege, oppression, and relationships, unearthing opportunities for growth and transformation. Through this somatic and narrative approach, clients are supported in reconnecting to the inherent wisdom of their bodies, and in releasing themselves from the constraining expectations of being "fixed" or "healed." Sami may incorporate techniques such as somatic practices, boundary setting, reassessing negative thought patterns, and the co-creation of nurturing therapeutic relationships to facilitate this process.

In addition to their rich clinical work, Sami identifies as a white, queer, trans, non-binary therapist and photographer, survivor, plant nurturer, and devoted dog parent - all facets of their identity that inform their compassionate, equity-centered approach to supporting the communities and clients they serve.

Education

M.S.W., Social Work, Jane Addams College of Social Work, University of Illinois at Chicago
B.F.A., Photography, Columbia College

Licensure

Licensed Social Worker