Relationship and Marriage Counseling

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, State of Illinois #180010064

Clinical Director and Founder of Semillas Counseling PLLC.

I’m passionate about helping couples work through some of life’s most challenging moments. Whether it’s navigating major transitions, overcoming conflict, or rebuilding connection, my goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can find healing and growth. I believe that through greater self-awareness and acceptance, couples can achieve deeper intimacy and resilience in their relationships.

With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, and more than 10 years in private practice, my expertise lies in guiding couples through these pivotal moments. I take a caring, directive, and solution-oriented approach to help minimize disconnection and expedite the healing process, so you can get back to feeling close and committed.

I draw from extensive training, including the Couples Institute, Evanston Family Therapy Center, Gottman Institute and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I’m also trained in EMDR, a technique that helps process difficult emotions and advance the therapeutic process. I’m dedicated to supporting couples at every stage of their journey.

Education:  B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Community Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University.

Services available in English and Spanish.

Additionally, Michael provides supervision and hosts/facilitates clinical training for provisionally licensed therapists and counseling interns in the Chicagoland area to support their objectives toward developing their work with couples. Michael is a Nationally Certified Counselor and a member of the American Counseling Association.  

Read my blog here.

Offering appointments virtually or at our North Center - Wolcott,  River North - Superior, and River North - 645 N. Michigan offices.

Specialties include:   

• Anxiety and Stress Management
• Communication Challenges
• Conflict Resolution 
• Couples in Distress
• Crisis Intervention
• Depressive and Mood Disorders
• Discernment Counseling 
• EMDR / PTSD/ Complex Trauma
• Gender & Sexual Identity Issues
• Group Counseling 
• Infidelity 
• Intimacy Issues & Sex Therapy
• LGBTQ Issues 
• Multiculturalism 
• Premarital Counseling 
• Relationship and Marriage Counseling
• Same-Sex Specialized Counseling
• Sexual Identity 

Accepted Insurance:

• Aetna Behavioral Health (including Student Assistance Program) 
• BlueCross BlueShield - BlueChoice PPO
• BlueCross BlueShield - Preferred PPO
• BlueCross BlueShield - Blue Options/BlueChoice Options
• BlueCross BlueShield - Participating Provider Organization
• CIGNA Behavioral Health 
• United Behavioral Health

Michael has also been recipient of Merlin W. Schultz Professional Development Grants awarded by the Schultz Foundation for Advancing Counseling. The Schultz Foundation facilitates positive change by ensuring that counselors and organizations are equipped to handle the emotional and social needs facing families and individuals across Illinois. 

• 2019 Recipient - Yearlong Training in Narrative Therapy offered by Evanston Family Therapy Center
• 2017 Recipient – EMDR Training by the EMDR Institute, Inc.