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Zach Leezer, LCSW, Chicago Therapist specializing in treating low self-esteem

Zach Leezer, LCSW
(he / him / his)

You’re ready for therapy designed to fit who you are,

and you want the process to feel human, too.

You’ve decided that getting to the place of happiness you desire so deeply is something you can’t do alone anymore. 

You’ve grappled with low self-esteem, anxiety or body image issues, resulting in self-criticism and perfectionism. And you wonder if you’re genuinely a good person or not.

Maybe you feel broken and want to “fix” yourself, but here’s the truth:

You don’t need to be fixed—because you’re not broken. 

Instead, you need a therapist to help you learn the skills to change your beliefs about who you are. Then, you’ll be equipped to face whatever life throws at you. 

That’s where I come in. 

I’m Zach Leezer, and if you select me as your therapist, I’ll listen to your circumstances and include you in the decision-making process about what you need to build the future you want. 

After all, therapy shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all. That’s why my treatment approach is affirming, collaborative—and sometimes humorous! 

And it’s my firm belief that no matter the circumstance, your feelings are valid. Validation isn't about right or wrong—it's about being allowed to think and feel the way you do. I ensure this is clear to my clients as they process their feelings in our sessions. 
 

 Squiggly line, symbolizing freedom from perfectionism

With all this said, I don't want everything to feel so heavy. You shouldn't dread therapy! It should be something you look forward to, even if it sometimes pushes you outside your comfort zone. I try to use humor to strike a balance between challenging and enjoyable and make the process feel human rather than medical.

Squiggly line, symbolizing freedom from perfectionism
Photo of a notebook and coffee cup on a coffee table in front of a leather couch, like in a therapy office

People like you matter to me—
I care about you, and you’re why I do what I do.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, I’m a part of the LGBTQ+ community and have worked with members of the community throughout my career. 

I use a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)-informed practice in my work, all through a social justice-oriented and body-positive lens. 

I’ve found that many people’s harsh self-criticism stems from experiences they’ve had or barriers they've come across because of social disempowerment (which almost everyone experiences in some way). And that’s why my approach to therapy takes these important issues into account. 

I received my Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Bradley University and my Master of Social Work in Mental Health from The University of Illinois at Chicago.

 

I also hold a certification in clinical anxiety treatment (CCATP) from the Institute of Certified Anxiety Treatment Professionals.

I'm excited to hear from you.

And I’d love to help you unlearn the unfair thoughts and behaviors that have kept you down. Schedule an appointment so we can start working on building the life you’re worthy of living.

Squiggly line, symbolizing freedom from perfectionism

Reaching out to a therapist can feel scary, uncertain and vulnerable. 

I’m here to help you work through your questions and reservations before scheduling your first appointment so you can feel comfortable with the process.

 

So if you'd like to schedule a free 15-minute consultation before committing to working together, send me a brief message with your availability.

Thanks for submitting your message! I'll be in touch with you soon.

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