Mary Stazinski
LPC
She | Her | Hers
Men’s Issues | Couples | Depression & Anxiety | Self-Esteem | LGBTQIA+ | Relational Difficulties | Trauma | Life Transitions
Virtual & In-Person
My Background
Mary Stazinski is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with individual adults and couples. She holds a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from DePaul University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Butler University. Mary brings valuable experience from her previous work in the nonprofit mental health sector, where she supported adults navigating unemployment, relational discord, societal reentry, and complex PTSD. Mary chose to enter the counseling profession because of its power to create a positive impact at the individual level. She was drawn to the direct, human connection that therapy offers and feels deeply honored to witness her clients’ growth, support them through challenges, and walk alongside them in their healing journeys.
Mary specializes in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety and perfectionism, low self-esteem, relational concerns, trauma, and life transitions. She has a particular interest in working with men and strives to create a space where they can explore their emotions, experiences, and identities in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. Mary’s approach to therapy is both trauma-informed and culturally sensitive. She primarily draws from psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Her work also incorporates elements of feminist therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices. Her work balances insight-oriented exploration—understanding how past experiences influence present patterns—with practical skill-building for immediate, real-world growth. She incorporates skills such as boundary setting, assertive communication, and relaxation techniques.
Mary values the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for meaningful change. The process of therapy can feel challenging at times, and having a therapist who you can trust and with whom you feel safe can make all the difference. Her approach is warm, empathetic, and collaborative, and she uses humor to create a safe space where clients can feel comfortable being themselves. Mary aims to empower clients to define their goals and take an active role in their healing. She understands the profound impact of systemic and social forces on mental well-being and welcomes conversations that explore, unpack, and process those experiences.
In her work with couples, Mary uses an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach. She aims to help the couple better understand the cycles they’re caught in and guide each person to connect with their own emotions as well as their partner’s experiences. Her goals are to foster deeper emotional connection, improved communication, and more secure, fulfilling relationships.
Outside of her clinical work, Mary enjoys crafting, exploring the city, and reading all kinds of books. She shares her space with two cats, who may occasionally make a guest appearance during virtual sessions.