Casey VanderStel

Creating meaningful change often begins with inner work, a philosophy that guides Casey VanderStel's therapeutic approach. As a Licensed Professional Counselor at Transcend Counseling Chicago, Casey provides a safe space for clients to explore, heal, and grow.

Casey's practice is grounded in psychodynamic therapy and informed by the science of attachment theory and nervous system regulation. They skillfully integrate EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) techniques, offering clients powerful tools for processing traumatic experiences. Casey's trauma-informed, attachment-based, and relational methods create a supportive environment where clients can address emotions, needs, and beliefs within the context of their broader life systems.

As a queer and trans person themself, Casey brings both professional training and lived experience to their work with LGBTQ+ individuals. They are also neurodiverse and have a particular affinity for working with ADHD and Autistic clients. Casey's practice is poly and kink-affirming, sex-positive, and adheres to Health At Every Size principles. They are committed to incorporating anti-oppressive frameworks into the therapy process, ensuring a welcoming space for clients of all backgrounds.

Casey specializes in helping clients process family of origin trauma, sexual or gender-based trauma, and religious trauma. They excel in supporting those rebuilding their lives after experiences with high-demand religious environments. Casey's ideal client is someone who engages consistently and bravely in their therapeutic work, maintaining inner curiosity even when facing challenges.

At Transcend Counseling Chicago, Casey offers individual therapy, couples/relational therapy, and gender-affirming surgery letters for clients aged 18 and above. Their integrative approach, combining Internal Family Systems with other evidence-based methods, provides clients with a comprehensive toolkit for personal growth and healing. With Casey, clients find not just a therapist, but a dedicated ally in their journey towards self-acceptance and meaningful change.