Brian Howard, LPC, NCC, M.Ed

Being validated in who you are is deeply rooted in feeling safe and secure. Potentially questioning beliefs and values you’ve long held onto isn’t easy, and can be even harder when voicing them to others. I am here to support reestablishing a healthy connection with yourself and others to address feelings of anxiety, depression, or grief and loss related to change. Experiencing disconnection is normal and doesn’t have to be done in isolation. I am a person-centered clinician and our time together will focus on developing healthy boundaries and goals collaboratively to improve those connections. 

As someone that is queer-identified, I have a passion for working with clients holding marginalized identities and supporting your journey, acknowledging the impacts society, family, and culture have in shaping the world around you. Pulling from Narrative, Existential, and Mindfulness/ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) practices, I support clients in the meaning-making processes related to living fulfilling lives and navigating healthy relationships with others. While setting boundaries may feel difficult and uncomfortable, my goal is to provide a non-judgmental and exploratory space to aid you with that process.

Prior to shifting to mental health, I worked in the field of education providing support and guidance to high school and college students as they embarked on new voyages of self-discovery. Acknowledging the increased prevalence of anxiety and depression in the students I worked with, I returned to school to pursue a degree in Mental Health Counseling at DePaul University. The university’s focus on social justice issues continues to drive my passion for the field. I am a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, poly/ENM and kink-affirming, and sex-positive. If what I’ve shared resonates with you, please reach out and I would be happy to schedule a consultation call to kickstart your journey.