Garrett Pluhar-Schaeffer, LCSW - Counseling & Therapy Services - The Juniper Center
Garrett Pluhar-Schaeffer
Park Ridge
Teletherapy / Telehealth
Chicago - Lakeview
Aetna
BCBS PPO / Blue Choice
Cigna/Evernorth PPO
Medicare
Optum/UHC/UBH

Garrett Pluhar-Schaeffer, LCSW

Clinical Director, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Erikson Institute
Pronouns: they/them

Garrett, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), holds a master’s degree in social work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute. They obtained a post-graduate certificate in child and adolescent psychoanalytic psychotherapy from the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute, where they are currently a candidate in the Psychoanalytic Education Program.

Drawing from psychoanalytic theory, Garrett’s therapeutic approach promotes enhanced self-awareness, insight, and improved interpersonal connections among their patients. They believe that personal growth and development occur within the therapeutic context. Garrett frequently sees patients multiple times a week to deepen the therapeutic work.

Garrett’s expertise lies in working with children who identify as transgender or non-binary, as well as those grappling with anxiety, familial changes, and self-regulation challenges. To facilitate children’s expression of their lived experiences, they utilize play therapy. Garrett collaborates closely with parents to ensure the continued therapeutic growth of their children.

In their work with adults, Garrett has extensive experience treating individuals affected by LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship conflicts, and mood disorders.

“Therapy is a microcosm of life, where we can explore issues that cause distress, work to lessen that pain, and work with our strengths to build a better understanding of ourselves.”

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