Meet the Owner:

John Sykes, LCSW (he, they)

   As a dedicated integrated therapist, abolitionist, and educators, I am passionate about helping individuals achieve mental and emotional well-being. With nearly 40 years of experience, I specialize in liberation-based healing practices, somatic and embodiment (body-based) work, and trauma specific interventions and methods.

   I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Youth Services Administration from Northeastern Illinois University and a Master of Arts in Clinical Social Work from Loyola University School of Social work.  I am Clinical Social Worker, licensed in Illinois . I regularly engage in spaces that actively works to unlearn harmful colonial practices, and to better center the impact of racist, oppressive, generational, and systemic factors in people’s daily lived experience.

   My therapeutic approach is rooted in wellness and healing, emphasizing respect and self-determination. I tailor interventions to meet each client's unique needs, fostering a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship.

   My talents and strengths excel in addressing issues related to complex traumatic stress, historical and intergenerational trauma;  and I help individuals and organizations unlearn colonial practices and start a healing and wellness journey.   

   I prioritize a client-centered approach, recognizing the importance of cultural humility, sensitivity, and inclusivity. My goal is to create a brave and non-judgmental space where people can explore their thoughts and emotions.

   I see things through trauma informed and decolonial lens’, and I approach my clinical work using many modalities with neuroscience as my platform.  I recognize and understand the complicated and complex ways that trauma influences all parts of someone’s life, mind, body, and soul, and make treatment decisions based on that framework. I realize that most people have lived through some type of trauma because trauma is so common, prevalent, and widespread.

   I believe that effective and inclusive collaboration. I embrace multiplicity by understanding the importance of collective care- Collective care refers to seeing peoples’ well-being – particularly their emotional health – as a shared responsibility of the others rather than the lone task of an individual.

   Grounded in healing practices, my interventions are driven by traditional and indigenous ways of knowing.  I continually evaluate and adjust wellness strategies to align with the evolving landscape of the people I serve.

   I am an active member of the Practice Ground through the Embodiment Institute to deepen embodiment practice and reflection.

    Upholding the highest ethical standards, I am dedicated to confidentiality, informed consent, and maintaining the well-being and autonomy of my clients throughout the therapeutic process.

Committed to personal and professional growth, I engage in regular consultation and seek opportunities for self-reflection to enhance my skills and effectiveness as a healing practitioner.