Jena Catania, Psy.D.
Pre-Licensed Staff Therapist
she/her


About Jena
I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership and find the relational aspect of therapy to be an integral piece in making strides towards meeting your needs and goals. Confronting the difficulties and pain in life is often challenging and uncomfortable—as such I strive to create a welcoming space for my clients to process authentically. I know each client is unique and work to meet the client where they are, with empathy, humor, support, direct challenge, and encouragement throughout our journey together. While I tend to utilize aspects of various theoretical frameworks, the Feminist Relational model is where I am most rooted, and often branch out to incorporate Attachment theories and explore family of origin on a deeper level.
To wind down after a long day of being in therapist mode, I am likely hanging out on my couch with my cats binge watching reality shows (all things drag, trashy dating shows, and devious plotting a la The Traitors are welcome here), or rewatching comfort shows and movies while cozy gaming on my Switch. I find value in spending time playing video or board games with friends and family, exploring the city, trying out a new craft, or letting loose seeing live music. Advocating for queer and trans rights and health care, increased access and availability to community resources, and abortion access for all are causes near and dear to me.
Clinical Background
I completed my Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from The Illinois School of Professional Psychology (ISPP) at National Louis University in 2021. Throughout my career and training I have worked in community mental health, psychiatric hospitals, and school settings, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the various systems impacting our daily lives and care. My clinical passions center around working with
queer and trans folks, and specialize in exploring these rich, unique, and expansive parts of our identities. Helping clients navigate the process of accepting, owning, and loving oneself through compassion, care, and support is central to how I approach working together.
Clinical Specialties
- LGBTQIA+ Identities
- Fellow therapists
- Emerging Adulthood and Life Transitions
- Adolescents (16+) and Adults
- College and Grad students
- Psychological Testing
- Relationship Struggles
- Feminist Relational Therapy
- Attachment Therapy
- Humanistic Therapy
- Trauma-Informed Therapy
- Accelerated Resolution Therapy