Clinical Team
Dr. Samantha Soll, Psy.D.
Director, Supervising Psychologist and Clinician
Dr. Samantha Soll is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. She began her education by earning her B.S. at the University of Iowa, where she was part of a research team focusing on the development of spatial perception and spatial memory in children. Dr. Soll holds a Master's degree and a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Adler University. Her research at Adler University focused on how to improve the training of therapists to better work with LGBTQ+ populations. In her therapeutic practice, Dr. Soll specializes in working with those who have experienced depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship stress, trauma, domestic violence, postpartum depression, fertility issues/pregnancy loss, as well as with the LGBTQ+ community. Dr. Soll has experience working in a variety of settings, such as schools, community centers, private practices and trauma treatment centers. These experiences have given her unique perspectives to guide her work with both clients and in supervision. Dr. Soll practices from an Adlerian approach to therapy, with a strong influence of interpersonal theory, feminist theory , and cognitive behavioral therapy. She greatly values working with her clients, developing a healthy therapeutic relationship and actively supporting peoples growth. Dr. Soll is highly interpersonal, engaging in therapy with compassion, humor and humanity. In her free time she enjoys maintaining her indoor and outdoor gardens, cooking projects, being with her family and a life full of laughter.
Emma Depierro, MA, LCP
Clinician- Accepting new clients in the summer of 2025
Emma will be on leave until the summer of 2024 as she finishes the final year of her doctorate. At that time she will return to as a Postdoctoral Resident and will be available to work with prior or new clients. Please feel free to schedule with one of the other clinicians during this time or to reach out to Dr. Soll with any questions.
Life can be messy; I say let’s play in the mud! I view the practice of therapy as being distinctively human in nature. I approach therapeutic practice with the intention to build a genuine connection and aid you in embracing the realities of living with a sense of optimism, strength, and humor. I am honored to engage in building a therapeutic relationship with you that holds the space for processing the highs and lows of life and pursuing your goals with encouragement, empathy, and curiosity.
I have experience working with individuals addressing depression, relationship challenges, anxiety, and trauma across various cultural parameters and identifiers. I also have experience working with clients with a range of LGBTQ+, ethnic and racial identities. My therapeutic practice approach is a collaborative and positive style, emphasizing the influences of cognition and systemic forces, to promote increased understanding of the self and mental wellness.
My approach to therapy utilizes various strategies, primarily psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), feminist psychology, multicultural psychology, as well as humor and a strong emphasis on the client-therapist relationship in an effort to promote increased wellbeing and a sense of genuine connectivity in the therapeutic relationship.
My areas of focus include the treatment of anxiety, compulsive disorders, depression, stress, low self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ concerns, communication issues, relationship issues, and identity exploration and development. I’m well experienced with aiding clients in pursuing and obtaining their personal goals and sharing some laughs along the way.
I am a counselor with over 5 years of human relations experience and 2000+ hours of direct clinical experience. I hold an undergraduate honors psychology degree with presidential honors distinction from the University of New Hampshire, and a Master of Arts degree with honors standing in clinical psychology and counseling practice from Roosevelt University. I intend to complete my Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D) degree in 2025. In addition, I have previous research experience and five years of supervised practical experience under a doctoral-level supervisor across a variety of therapeutic settings, including private practice, community-based programs, and university counseling centers.
Dr. John Nofar, Psy.D.
Postdoctoral Resident and Clinician
Having a space to be supported, challenged, heard, and respected is the key to change. In therapy I aim to work with you as a team to best meet your goals and create growth, both internally and externally. I greatly enjoy getting to know those I serve and being part of their ongoing movement though life. It is truly a gift being able to support so many people in their life development.
Dr. John Nofar received his BA in psychology prior to attaining his MA and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in Chicago. Dr. Nofar has experience working in a myriad of settings, such as private practice, community mental health and hospital systems. He has extensive training in working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma related disorders, and personality disorders. John also provides therapy to those going through life events such as life transitions, relationship stress, work stress, domestic violence, and many more. Dr. Nofar provides both individual and couples’ therapy. Additionally, Dr. Nofar’s research interests include intersectionality, LGBTQ+ issues as they relate to mental health and minority stress. This provides Dr. Nofar with the ability to support many diverse individuals through ongoing identity development and exploring their own experience of diversity..
Dr. Nofar’s approach to therapy is a combination of a strengths-based approach, interpersonal therapy and evidence-based treatments, rooted in cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy. Dr. Nofar views therapy as a collaborative process, providing clients with the tools for change and the self-assuredness and insight to do so. Whether things in life feel unmanageable or you just need some extra support, therapy can be a place to explore these patterns and dynamics in a validating, supportive environment.
Dr. Adam Bodner, Psy.D.
Postdoctoral Resident and Clinician
Regardless of our problems, we all deserve the chance to feel supported and empowered. My approach to therapy starts by cultivating a safe environment and a positive relationship with my clients. Further, I like to approach treatment collaboratively. I have many ways to help you achieve your goals in therapy, but only you can be the expert on your own life. Together, we can find ways for you to live a happier, healthier life.
I am in the final weeks of attaining my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School and am greatly looking forward to starting at Soll Behavioral Health in September of 2024. I’ve worked in mental health for the last seven years, helping clients accomplish their treatment goals in private practice and community mental health settings. During my graduate studies, my research focused on the adoption of extremist and anti-feminist ideologies. I have experience working with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and presenting problems, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, as well as personality disorders. I work with individuals across the lifespan, including adults, children, and families.
My therapeutic approach can be described as warm and empathetic. I emphasize the impact of helping clients build insight into behavior patterns while empowering them to find new and effective ways to solve problems. I integrate evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I enjoy working with all populations and appreciate the unique experiences of all my clients. I value inclusivity, queer-affirming approaches to therapy, and I have ample experience working with clients in the LGBTQ+ community. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, watching sports, and spending time in Chicago’s beautiful parks! I look forward to the opportunity to work together.