NK Psychological Services
Meaningful change requires more than quick fixes
Psychodynamic therapy and assessment for children, adults, couples, and families
“In the end, we are all more simply human than otherwise.”
-Harry Stack Sullivan
At NK Psychological Services, clinical work is both deeply personal and collaborative. Our team shares a psychodynamic approach that allows us to work together to understand the whole person in context. With this foundation, we explore long-standing patterns in relationships and emotional life. Every clinician here is part of a thoughtful, integrated team committed to helping you make sense of your inner world and move toward the life you’re seeking.
Learn more about the members of our team here.
Our Story (or why we practice this way)
The NKPsych approach to therapeutic change is grounded in the belief that growth requires both courage and community.
Our shared experience in clinical training reinforced the idea that we all have limitations to what we can see-- about ourselves, our clients, and our work. As we collaborated clinically, it became evident that authentic engagement with different perspectives helped us understand our clients more clearly and support their healing more effectively.
This insight shaped our belief that therapy requires both individual courage and collective wisdom. We built our practice around the idea that therapists need connection, consultation, and accountability to do their best work— and that clients benefit when their therapist is part of a thoughtful, collaborative community.
What we've created is a consultation-centered practice where difference is valued and vulnerability is recognized as essential to change. Today, Emily serves as Executive Director and Suwilanji as Clinical Director, and we continue to collaborate in shaping the clinical vision and culture of NKPsych.
It's our honor to share this approach with you.
-Emily & Suwilanji
Our Philosophy
Our approach to therapy and assessment is evidence-based, relationship-oriented, and grounded in psychodynamic theory (Jonathan Shedler’s 2010 article “The Efficacy of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy” in American Psychologist provides an excellent overview of what that means here). We work across the lifespan with individuals, couples, and family systems.
We are a consultation-centered practice where every clinician participates in regular case review and peer support. All consultation is conducted with respect for your privacy and therapeutic relationship. This culture of clinical collaboration means your therapist has dedicated time each week to think deeply about your care with experienced colleagues, bringing increased accountability, intentionality, and multiple clinical perspectives to support your growth. In addition, this collaborative approach means that families can receive coordinated care across multiple providers. This capacity for wraparound care distinguishes our practice and allows for truly comprehensive treatment.
Our senior clinicians also mentor Clinical Fellows on their way to licensure, ensuring that excellent clinical care extends across all experience levels. Everyone at NKPsych contributes to our culture of continuous learning and clinical excellence.
Psychological Assessment
We provide comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological testing for children and adults. Our assessments address questions about ADHD, autism, learning differences, and emotional functioning, providing clarity for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Services
Beginning the Therapeutic Process
Starting therapy begins with a brief phone consultation to ensure that outpatient services at NK Psychological Services align with your needs. If appropriate, we schedule an intake appointment with one of our senior clinicians—either our Executive Director or Clinical Director, both licensed clinical psychologists.
This intake conversation allows us to understand your concerns, history, and goals in depth. We then match you with a clinician whose expertise and approach fit your specific situation, ensuring therapeutic work begins on solid ground.
Treatment Specialties and Clinical Expertise
Our clinicians bring specialized training in ADHD, autism, trauma, mood disorders, and relationship dynamics. We work with individuals across the lifespan, couples navigating relationship challenges, and families addressing behavioral concerns and developmental needs. We also provide consultation services and educational support.
Accessible Care Across Chicago
We offer in-person sessions at our Chicago location and secure virtual appointments. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna PPO insurance plans. Please contact our office directly for specific information about fees and scheduling.
Location:
Chicago, IL
Your Next Step
If you're seeking psychological services that honor complexity, prioritize depth, and commit to your long-term growth, we invite you to reach out.

