We are ready for curiosity, compassion and change.
What are you ready for?
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We’re Ready Therapy Collective: a trio of therapists who blend our distinct specialties into one compassionate practice. We keep things warm, practical, and a little joyful — because healing benefits from clarity, skill, and a touch of human humor.
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At Ready Therapy Collective we blend creativity, evidence, and real human connection. Our work includes art therapy, trauma‑focused therapies, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and executive functioning support — each offered with a relational, authentic, and supportive approach.
What that looks like
Relational: Therapy is a collaborative relationship. We prioritize building trust, attunement, and safety so change happens from a secure, human connection rather than from techniques alone.
Authentic: We bring honest, down‑to‑earth presence — not clinical distance. You’ll get therapists who are straightforward, warm, and genuinely curious about your experience.
Supportive: We meet you where you are. Whether you’re stabilizing after trauma, learning new coping skills, exploring creativity, or organizing daily life, we provide structure, encouragement, and practical tools.
If you’re looking for therapy that’s grounded in evidence and delivered with warmth, creativity, and real human connection, we’re ready to walk with you.
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We help people at every stage of life with a wide variety of challenges — from grief and loss, to trauma recovery, to strengthening executive functioning, to navigating life transitions. Each clinician brings a unique specialty. Read our bios below to find the best match for your needs.
Who We Are
We’re Ready Therapy Collective: a trio of therapists with distinct specialties, sharing one compassionate practice. We keep things warm, practical, and a little joyful, bringing thoughtful skills and gentle humor to support your growth.
Our Collective
“Ready for curiosity”
Maddie Gerig Shelly LCPC, ATR-BC
Through a supportive, authentic, and unconditional therapeutic relationship, I will join you in a process of curiosity and compassion as we explore your experiences, thoughts, and feelings. I blend person-centered therapy, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, and art therapy to help you reconnect with your emotions, your body, and your authentic self. I respect your complexity and your pace.
“Ready to cultivate”
Joan McDonald LCSW
I create a comfortable, supportive space for clients to express themselves. I collaborate with clients and families to understand needs, build on strengths, and set goals for healing and growth.
“Ready for compassion”
Sophia Cipriano LCSW
I am a compassionate and relational therapist who believes that healing happens through connection, understanding, and a collaborative effort. With a strong foundation in evidence-based practices, I combine the latest research with a warm, individualized approach to support clients in navigating life’s challenges. Whether you're managing anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or just seeking personal growth, I work to foster a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel seen, heard, affirmed and empowered to create meaningful change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, send us a note through our contact form.
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We offer outpatient, individual therapy, typically on a weekly or biweekly basis. We offer in-person sessions at our Lake Street office, or virtual sessions to anyone residing in the state of Illinois.
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Reach out through our contact form or schedule a call through our Headway platform—we’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.
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We take Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Cigna, Oscar, Oxford, United Healthcare, and all Optum affiliates.
We’re are also able to accept a few other third-party insurance carriers whose mental health benefits are administered through the larger insurance networks mentioned above.
If you're unsure of whether your plan is in-network with us, add your insurance information on our billing platform, Headway, and use the benefit verification tool to check your coverage.