As an Illinois Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with over three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth. My practice centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, grief, and the unique challenges of aging and caregiving.
I bring deep compassion to working with older adults, individuals facing chronic health conditions, and those experiencing significant life changes. My approach focuses on building self-love, improving communication, addressing isolation, and helping clients rediscover their sense of purpose and meaning.
My therapeutic work spans a wide range of sensitive areas, including panic disorder, attachment issues, caregiver stress, and end-of-life counseling. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop resilient coping strategies.
Through a compassionate and person-centered approach, I aim to support individuals in transforming feelings of emptiness, guilt, and shame into opportunities for personal growth and healing. My goal is to walk alongside you as you navigate life's most challenging moments with strength and dignity.
Additional areas of focus: Relationship issues, Self esteem, Aging and geriatric issues, Attachment issues, Cancer, Caregiver issues and stress, Chronic pain, illness, and disability, Communication problems, Emptiness, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Hospice and end-of-life counseling, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Self-love
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy
IL LCSW 149004372
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Marikay Gazda. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Recently started my therapy journey and I am happy with Marikay. I find myself opening up to her easily and feel that she is genuinely interested in helping. I'm looking forward on navigating what's been on my mind and how to help myself.
Written on Oct 08, 2025 after therapy with Marikay for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, parenting issues, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue
One of best of the best. She listens thoughtfully and is so easy to talk to.
Written on Sep 13, 2025 after therapy with Marikay for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, bipolar disorder, compassion fatigue, and adhd
She is so personable and just a beautiful soul
Written on Oct 10, 2024 after therapy with Marikay for 6 months on issues concerning depression, addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, grief, anger management, career difficulties, and coping with life changes
Marikay is always positive, reinforcing, and helpful. I never feel judged. I had a therapist once who said something to me in a session and I felt judged. Marikay is l experienced in her field and does a great job.
Written on Apr 03, 2024 after therapy with Marikay for 1 year and 1 month on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, grief, and coping with life changes
She is amazing I don’t know how to describe it but it’s like I can talk to her about anything and know she’s not judging me but understanding me and my mind and then she gives me tools and things to help me!
I couldn’t have asked for anyone better!
Written on Mar 12, 2024 after therapy with Marikay for 5 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, self esteem, and career difficulties
Marikay Gazda is truly a kind soul that is an active listener with true clinical knowledge of when to nudge you into expanding feelings or challenging thoughts. This person alone is why I would recommend or return to the Betterhelp.
Written on Jan 03, 2024 after therapy with Marikay for 2 years and 4 months on issues concerning relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue