Sumaiyah Cummings, Intern

Focuses:

  • Perinatal Anxiety & Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Trauma

  • Transitioning to Motherhood

  • Life Transitions/ Stressors

States: Provisionally Licensed Illinois

ABOUT ME

I am a dedicated graduate student at the esteemed University of Chicago's Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Administration. My educational journey is driven by a profound passion for enhancing mental health, particularly in the context of perinatal mental health, within the private practice setting.

My academic foundation was established at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where I earned my undergraduate degree in Criminology, Law, and Justice. This formative experience ignited my commitment to principles of social justice, non-oppressive care, and equitable access to mental health services.

In my therapeutic practice, I embrace a client-centered, strength-based approach. My belief is firmly rooted in the idea that each client is the ultimate expert in their own life and possesses the innate power to effect lasting change. I prioritize creating a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where clients can freely voice their needs, free from the fear of stigma. I recognize that opening up to a new person about your life and struggles can be intimidating, and I honor the vulnerability of therapeutic work and will approach our therapy with empathy and understanding, while fostering a positive therapeutic relationship built on trust.

Drawing from a foundation of trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a Family Systems perspective, I incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) skills and mindfulness techniques into my practice. My previous experience includes extensive training in perinatal mental health, including PSI’s Components of Care Training and an internship as a case manager at a residential treatment center in Chicago, where I provided therapeutic mental health services to youth within the child welfare system. This experience instilled in me a profound sense of resilience, empathy, and a passion for working in the mental health field. Throughout my work, I prioritized nurturing individual client relationships and advocating for their unique needs.

 

WOMEN’S COUNSELING AND HEALING BEYOND THE THERAPY ROOM

As a women's mental health expert, I am here to support you in your journey towards emotional wellness, self-discovery, and empowerment. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking relief from emotional challenges, or simply striving for greater self-care and self-fulfillment, I am here to provide the guidance and expertise you need. Your mental health is a priority, and I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best possible state of well-being.

My long-standing aspiration to work with women stems from the recognition that the needs of women often remain unnoticed or unheard. Beyond the therapy room, I am an advocate for women's mental health awareness and equitable access to mental health care. I believe in breaking down stigma, fostering understanding, and creating a supportive community where women can openly discuss and prioritize their mental health.I wholeheartedly believe that every person is unique, shaped by their lived experiences, which in turn influence their behaviors.

My commitment to women's mental health extends beyond the therapeutic setting. I am an advocate for destigmatizing perinatal mental health issues and ensuring that women have access to the support they need. Through academics, community outreach, and collaboration with healthcare providers, I actively work to promote awareness and understanding of women's mental health issues.Whether you are facing the challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period, or simply seeking support for women's mental health concerns, I am here to provide you with the care and guidance you deserve. Together, we will embark on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and empowerment, helping you to achieve emotional well-being and find strength in every step of your unique path.

At Nurture Therapy, I am committed to supporting you on your path to self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.Together, we'll work towards a brighter, healthier, and more fulfilling future. Your journey starts here, and I am honored to be a part of it.

Still feeling unsure? This complimentary screening tool is the quickest and easiest way to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.