Tooba Zafar is a licensed professional counselor candidate and associate licensed marriage and family therapist candidate who enjoys working with teens, adults, couples, and families. She has experience working with high-conflict couples and addresses issues such as anxiety, self-esteem, family and relationship dynamics, boundaries, and identifying and communicating needs. She is curious about human behavior and patterns, helping clients recognize cycles and underlying needs and explore new approaches. She believes therapy isn't just about fixing oneself; sometimes life is tough, and we overlook our strengths.

She wants clients to understand themselves, trust their instincts, set boundaries, meet their needs, and create a life aligned with their values rather than just external expectations. She considers social justice vital, viewing mental health in the context of societal issues such as racism, sexism, capitalism, discrimination, culture, and family. She aims to empower marginalized people to recognize their power, find community, and advocate for themselves. Her approach is warm, playful, direct, and challenging, encouraging clients to bring their whole selves.

She often creates an atmosphere with laughter, loving challenges, and meaningful conversations. Her therapy integrates EFT, Narrative Therapy, IFS, and CBT, focusing on emotions, relationships, patterns, needs, and systemic influences. As a Pakistani Muslim immigrant, she brings personal insight into navigating culture, faith, and identity. She holds an M.A. in Couple and Family Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University and a B.A. in Applied Psychology from the University of Illinois Chicago.

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, exercising, outdoor activities, reading mysteries, and spending time with her large family. She loves pizza, and her favorite colors are orange and yellow.