Our Team

Hi, I’m Anita Chlipala!

Owner, Founder, and Clinical Supervisor

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

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People often ask me how I could listen to problems all day. My response: I have a comfortable chair…just kidding. There’s nothing more rewarding than to hear my clients’ stories and to help them achieve their goals.

I founded Relationship Reality 312 to focus exclusively on romantic relationships – from getting one to maintaining one successfully. I use cutting-edge research in my work to bring you the latest information and tools to help you achieve a happy and healthy relationship. Whatever problems or issues you want addressed, I don’t just listen – I’ll teach you the skills you need so that you no longer need to see me anymore (or a twice-yearly check-in will suffice!).

If you’re looking for a no-BS approach, contact me today.

Instagram: @AnitaOnLove

Hi, I’m Xitlali Yañez!

Licensed Social Worker

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I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of relationships, marriages, and single life. With a growing focus on sex therapy, I am committed to addressing the complex dynamics of relational and sexual health.

My background in serving diverse communities has equipped me with a deep understanding of the importance of empathy and intersectionality in therapeutic practice. I strive to create a non-judgmental, inclusive space where all clients feel heard and valued. Recognizing the diverse experiences and identities that each person brings, I approach therapy with sensitivity to the unique challenges faced by individuals from various backgrounds. I believe that a pinch of humor can go a long way in building rapport and easing discussions about sensitive topics.

I am excited to further my specialty in sex therapy, working collaboratively with clients to enhance intimacy, communication, and overall relationship satisfaction. Together, we can strengthen bonds and foster healthier, more fulfilling connections.

Hi, I’m Lana El Masri!

Associate Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC

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Every relationship is dynamic and unique. I have always been drawn into the intricacies of how people function within their relationships and the dynamics of their close social circles. I am always eager to learn about how people operate and what constitutes a healthy relationship with friends, families, and couples. A combination of wanting to learn more while helping others was a driving factor in the pursuit of my career as a therapist. It is through these studies I have built a foundation to help you navigate, strengthen and grow these relationships both as an individual and as a couple.

Throughout my life, I have been continuously immersed in varying cultures and been enlightened by different perspectives people may have, Which has shaped me on being always non-judgmental towards any individual and supportive with an open mind. My multicultural background has been one of my continuous and significant strengths as a person. It has made me to be open-minded, flexible, compassionate, and always yearning to learn more about similarities and differences between cultures and ethnic groups. I am passionate about my own Middle Eastern culture and am bilingual in English and Arabic. It has given me the opportunity to meet many different people on various life paths, and connect with those who may feel alienated in a new place. Seeking help is the first step in creating a positive change and growing as an individual. I would love to help you in this process in a safe and welcoming environment.

I have always been a good listener to my family , friends and experience listening through my coursework at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and it would be a pleasure to listen to you and help you with any concerns you may experience in different aspects of life.

Hi, I’m Andréa Brice!

Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

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I became a therapist to teach people the life skills I wish I learned sooner such as: emotional management, listening to understand, effective communication tools, etc. I have a natural curiosity for understanding the relationship between a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Different seasons in life may cause you to feel stuck and unsure of the next best step. I believe growth occurs when we tear down the walls that block us from progressing. Understanding your environmental influences may provide valuable insight towards how you show up as a significant other, friend, coworker, family member, etc.

Two of the best gifts in life are 1) being ourselves and 2) accepting that others will have an opinion of us regardless of what we do. So, why not make the choices that work best for YOU to live a fulfilling life? As my client, you can expect to receive compassion, honesty, and a safe space to be heard.

Let’s get started!

Hi, I’m Leigh Ann!

PhD, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

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It’s a privilege to work with clients on the things that matter to them the most. Our dreams, our goals and our closest relationships, these are at the core of who we are and our path toward creating a life that is happy, satisfying and complete. All of us can benefit from the support and encouragement of a therapist who listens and helps to understand so that we can build the lives and relationships we hope for. As a therapist, my goal is to support you in a caring way. I do this by creating a non-judgmental and accepting space where individuals and couples can work through what is stopping them and move forward confidently.

Whether the focus is on dating and finding a new relationship, building the connection, communication and intimacy in your current relationship or support in navigating life changes, I look forward to working with you.

Hi, I’m Jeannie Sytsma!

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

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Relationships have always sparked my interest, and it was no surprise to my family and friends when I decided to pursue a career in marriage and family therapy. One of the reasons I chose to become a therapist is because I have always admired the resilience of people, which includes looking at the darkness in our lives in order to grow and move forward. As humans, we are wired for connection with one another and sometimes it can be challenging to let down our defenses and open ourselves up to vulnerability. I believe that being in therapy will allow you (and your partner) to understand your vulnerabilities, identify troublesome patterns, and make concrete changes in the present that will carry into the future.

I do this work because I care deeply about helping others and I believe that everyone deserves a skilled, fierce ally with lots of resources to support them when life gets tough (as it inevitably does). As a therapist, I strive to strike a balance between showing empathy and challenging you to move you towards transformation. I know therapy can be intimidating, which is why I practice from a non-judgmental and caring stance in order for you to feel safe and secure in our time together.

It is my belief that you have the strength inside of you to make the necessary changes in order to achieve the results you want; I am here to help you gain insight about what is blocking you from getting there on your own, and provide you with skills to sustain your growth outside of therapy. My goal for you is to have connection with others and I believe that happens when both people feel heard, seen, and valued. Lastly, I will leave you with the words of Brené Brown: “Love is not something we give or get; it is something that we nurture and grow, a connection that can only be cultivated between people when it exists within each one of them – we can only love others as much as we love ourselves.”

Hi, I’m Pamela Merino

LSW

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We all deserve healthy and meaningful connections, but some of us may need just a few more tools to navigate the complex world of affective relationships. I work through a compassionate, culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based therapy lens. I have experience working with individuals and couples of all ages and backgrounds with an emphasis on serving the Latin@ and Spanish-speaking community.

I have an empathetic and direct approach to therapy. I believe that, with a little non-judgmental support, everyone is capable of growth and change. My approach to therapy is to focus on co-creating a trusting, safe and empowered experience that integrates culture, race, ethnic identity, socioeconomic status, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, and immigration experiences.

Creating a safe, comfortable, and grounded space is an essential goal of mine, as it will allow you to identify your needs and areas of improvement, with the intention of achieving your relationship goals. I believe that a healthy dose of humor can go a long way in the therapy room.

Hi, I’m Reina Ashley*

Clinical Intern

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Supervised by Anita Chlipala, LMFT

I love working with clients to help them with their everyday life. My time working as both a behavioral health counselor and a school-based counselor has given me practice and skills in this field. Relationships and connections that have been built throughout our lives are the foundation of our identity. I will help you strengthen these bonds—or help you form new ones—so you can be your most authentic self and lead a satisfying life.

I believe in fostering a safe and non-judgmental space so that conversations can be as comfortable as possible. I believe in exploring our identities and relationships so that we can gain further understanding. Because of my background in sports and exercise psychology, I’m also a goal-oriented therapist. I truly enjoy working collaboratively with clients to find what works for them and what gives them the best results. As your therapist, I will be your biggest supporter and will always advocate for your needs. I look forward to working with you.

Hi I’m Katie Lichter*

Clinical Intern
Supervised by Anita Chlipala, LMFT

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I’ve always been captivated by love and the resilience people show through life’s toughest moments. Being transracially adopted is a significant part of my identity, deepening my understanding and appreciation for diverse experiences and perspectives. As your therapist, I offer a non-judgmental, calming, and empathetic presence to support your personal development and journey. Central to my approach is the commitment to valuing every voice and experience. With a focus on guiding you toward joy and fulfillment in your relationships, I want to light the path ahead. Within my practice, I develop a nurturing environment that helps with exploration and growth, fostering a space where you can flourish.

I believe that everyone deserves to feel supported and connected. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you and your partner break down defensive walls, embrace vulnerability, communicate effectively, identify unhelpful habits, and create lasting, positive change. Together, we can navigate the challenges and cherish the accomplishments throughout your journey.

I look forward to listening to you and assisting with any concerns you may experience in different aspects of life. Together, we can unlock the skills and insights you need to thrive and achieve happiness on your own terms!

Hi, I’m Gina Marzilli*

Clinical Intern
Supervised by Anita Chlipala, LMFT

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I work with clients because I believe that relationships are at the core of a fulfilling and rewarding life. I have always been fascinated by relationship dynamics and the ways people connect and interact with one another. My passion lies in exploring the human condition and discovering how individuals can harness the power of relationships to enhance their well-being.

My background in psychology and experience as a therapist intern at the Couple and Family Therapy Center at Purdue Northwest has equipped me with the skills to help couples build and sustain meaningful connections. I specialize in supporting couples navigating significant relationship challenges and changes, families seeking deeper bonds, and individuals striving to break free from anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem that hinders their relationships. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where we use curiosity and reflection to uncover your inherent strengths and resources, guiding you toward growth and alignment.

Through exploring your history and the stories shaped by your family, culture, and society, we’ll identify the values and strengths that matter most to you. Together, we’ll work to rewrite your story, enabling you to reclaim your voice and create the meaningful changes you’ve envisioned for yourself and your relationships.

I look forward to working with you!