Naseem Saleh, LPC

Psychotherapist

Naseem Saleh, LPC, (she/they)

I am a queer liberation focused Palestinian psychotherapist passionate about supporting first- and second-generation Arabs, BIPOC, queer individuals, and those navigating multicultural relationships and systems. Living in the U.S. as an Arab brings unique challenges, particularly balancing family and Western cultural differences. I also provide relationship therapy, recognizing the deep connection between life satisfaction and relationships. I am a culturally sensitive, sex positive, polyamory and kink affirming practitioner. In addition to individual and relationship therapy, I host a supportive group therapy space, the Palestinian healing circle, where I foster spaces for processing, celebration, and community.

My mission is to destigmatize mental health, highlight the transformative power of therapy, and create affirming spaces for growth and a private place for self-exploration.  Examining and understanding ourselves -both past and present—is essential before we can begin to grow into the person and live the life that is in line with our true self.

Together, we'll unravel ingrained beliefs and explore pathways to healing as you learn to navigate and support yourself through it all. One of my favorite poets, Yung Pueblo, once said “I cannot make you happy, but I can commit to support you in the creation of your own happiness.” Together, we will do exactly that. 

My goal is to help you tap into your inner resources and power, enabling you to cultivate more fulfilling relationships with others, your life, and, most importantly, with yourself. In my practice, I primarily utilize a consciousness raising approach through narrative and person-centered therapy, which means I prioritize your story and experiences in the present moment. I do not psychopathologize because I believe that the human experience happens at the intersection of the person and environment and/or systems in which they live in.

Growing up as a first-generation queer Palestinian woman, mental health was rarely discussed in my household. In our culture, the emphasis was primarily on physical well-being. However, through reflection and learning, I've come to appreciate the profound connection between mental and physical health. This realization motivated me to pursue a career in mental health counseling, with the goal of destigmatizing these discussions within marginalized communities. Witnessing the lack of access to mental health resources in Palestine further solidified my commitment to this path.

I am committed to providing you culturally sensitive understanding, privacy, and permission to explore yourself, your dreams, and your mental health needs without fear or judgment. I strive to create a collaborative and conversational environment where your needs and experiences guide our sessions. Together, we'll unravel ingrained beliefs and explore pathways to healing as you learn to navigate and support yourself through it all.

Naseem is a mental health clinician with a diverse educational background. She earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology with minor concentrations in Disability and Human Development (DHD) and Sociology from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Following this, she pursued her Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) at Adler University in Chicago, IL. Additionally, Naseem holds a certificate in Sex Therapy from Adler University, further enhancing her expertise in this area.