Philip Zarowny

Philip Zarowny recognizes that reaching out for help is a courageous and wise step, and he approaches each person’s decision to seek support with respect and encouragement. He emphasizes that the desire to change is a vital starting point - progress often takes time and effort, but thoughtful work with a therapist can reveal paths forward.

He treats people rather than labels, taking a client-centered approach that highlights strengths and focuses on concrete goals. Philip provides a safe space to explore current struggles and collaborates with clients to find strategies that fit their lives. This may involve creative problem-solving and testing different approaches until the right combination emerges.

As a parent of an LGBTQ+ child, Philip understands the complexities of identity development in a culture that is shifting slowly. He aims to make counseling a welcoming and understanding experience, regardless of a client’s background or identity.

Philip earned a Master of Social Work in 2009 and brings eleven years of clinical experience across a range of settings. He has worked in both outpatient and residential treatment programs and most recently served as a substance abuse counselor. His practice draws on many evidence-based methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based approaches.

Before entering social work, Philip spent a long career in television news as a street photographer and editor, a background that deepened his empathy for people facing diverse challenges and reinforced his belief in the power of personal stories. He holds clinical social work licenses in Florida and Washington, and he is based in Illinois.

From his professional and personal experience, Philip believes that although the work can be difficult at times, clients often gain meaningful benefit from the process. He invites prospective clients to consider what brought them to therapy and to explore that together.