Sayeeda Kausar, MSW (she/her/hers)

Sayeeda Kausar is a licensed social worker (LSW) experienced in working with people or all ages.  Sayeeda is also a certified alcohol and drug counselor (CADC).  Sayeeda believes in a collaborative approach to treatment where there is a sense of mutual respect, empathy, self-exploration, and empowerment. Sayeeda works with patients to build an authentic, honest, and transparent connection.  Sayeeda also values a culturally sensitive and relational approach that fosters a safe, non-judgmental, trusting, warm and supportive space where patients can be vulnerable, feel heard, feel seen, and feel accepted being their true authentic self.

Sayeeda utilizes various evidenced-based approaches to care, such as cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, culturally sensitive, psychodynamic, play, family systems, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and dialectical behavior therapy strategies.

Sayeeda’s clinical interests include a variety of presenting issues, such as: substance use, trauma, including generational trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, bipolar disorders, identity development, relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem challenges, career issues, behavioral challenges, family conflict, school and academic issues, as well as social skills struggles.

Background

Sayeeda has previous clinical experience working in private practice, hospitals, community mental health, intensive outpatient and residential programs, as well as the Cook County Department of Corrections. Sayeeda earned her Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago’s School of Social Work. Sayeeda earned her Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies degree from Northeastern Illinois University.

Sayeeda has furthered her education completing continuing education in the following areas: substance use in women and adolescents.

Sayeeda is fluent in English, Urdu, and Hindi.  Sayeeda identifies as a South Asian Muslim woman and person of color.  Sayeeda is a strong ally of body positivity, racial justice, LGBTQIA+ as well as single mothers.