About

Stella Barrutia

“I believe there is incredible power in feeling truly seen, heard, and understood, especially during the moments when we may struggle to understand ourselves.”

Why I became a therapist

I became a therapist because I have always been deeply curious about people—their stories, relationships, experiences, and the ways our past shapes who we become. I believe there is incredible power in feeling truly seen, heard, and understood, especially during the moments when we may struggle to understand ourselves. Over the years, my work has reinforced my belief that therapy is not about “fixing” people. It is about creating a safe, compassionate space where people can explore their experiences, recognize patterns, heal from painful parts of their past, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. What continues to inspire me is the privilege of witnessing growth. I value being able to walk alongside people as they navigate difficult transitions, strengthen their relationships, reconnect with themselves, and make meaningful changes in their lives. After 20 years into this work, I remain passionate about helping people better understand themselves—because I believe that greater self-awareness can open the door to healing, connection, and lasting change.

Who I work with

I work with adults and couples who want to better understand themselves, strengthen their relationships, and create meaningful change in their lives. Many of my clients are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, or patterns that continue to repeat despite their efforts to change them. With couples, I work on communication, intimacy, trust, conflict, disconnection, infidelity, and rebuilding emotional connection. I also support couples who simply want to deepen their relationship and create a stronger, healthier partnership. As a bilingual and bicultural therapist, I understand that our identities, families, cultures, and lived experiences can deeply shape how we see ourselves and relate to others. I provide therapy in both English and Spanish and value creating a space where clients can bring their whole selves into the therapeutic process. My practice is inclusive and affirming, welcoming people from diverse cultural backgrounds, identities, relationships, and life experiences. Together, we explore both present challenges and the deeper experiences and patterns that may be influencing them.

“Working with me is collaborative, warm, and conversational. I believe therapy should feel like a space where you can show up as your authentic self without fear of judgment."

Working With Me

Working with me is collaborative, warm, and conversational. I believe therapy should feel like a space where you can show up as your authentic self without fear of judgment. I bring curiosity, compassion, and humor into the room while also being willing to gently challenge you when it can support your growth. My approach is primarily psychodynamic, which means we may explore how your past experiences, relationships, and patterns influence what is happening in your life today. At the same time, I am practical and flexible, incorporating tools and strategies from other approaches when they can help you navigate challenges in the present. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. We will work together to understand what you need, identify patterns that may no longer serve you, and create meaningful and sustainable change. Whether we are doing individual or couples work, my goal is to create a relationship where you feel genuinely heard, understood, supported, and comfortable enough to do the deeper work—while still feeling like you are talking to a real person.

My Qualifications and trainings

  • I received my Masters of Social Work from Boston College;
  • I completed my bachelors in Social Work from Saint Mary’s College;
  • I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR
  • I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Couples Therapy;
  • I am EMDR trained; 
  • I have completed Level 1 and 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy, which is based on over 40 years of research on couples and relationships.

Ready to overcome the barriers holding you back?