Meet your therapist

Hi, I’m Sam Rustum.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago. I work with people who are used to holding things together for others but feel anxious, burned out, or caught in a cycle of self-criticism.

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A place to slow down.
And speak honestly.

Our sessions are a place to understand what keeps you stuck. Together, we connect patterns in your life with practical changes you can try between sessions.

That might mean setting boundaries, navigating relationships, responding differently to your inner critic, or making room for life outside work.

You can tell me when something does not fit. We will keep talking about what is useful and adjust our work together.

How I work

More than one way to understand yourself.

Psychodynamic therapy

Explore how earlier experiences and recurring relationship patterns connect with your life now.

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CBT

Notice the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors—and try practical changes.

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ACT

Make room for difficult emotions while choosing actions that reflect what matters to you.

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IFS-informed work

Meet different parts of your experience with curiosity, including the parts that criticize, worry, or push you to keep going.

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Your life, beyond the pressure.

I work with anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, burnout, and relationship challenges. You do not need a particular job title or a crisis to ask for support.

Sessions are available in Chicago and online, subject to location and eligibility. The private-pay fee is $300 for one hour.

A place to start