THOUGHTFUL CARE. HUMAN CONNECTION.
Bilingual therapy for a life that feels more your own.
Thoughtful, culturally responsive counseling for adolescents, adults, couples, and families across Illinois. We accept insurance.
THE AWARE PRACTICE
“Wonder is the beginning of wisdom.”
-Socrates
English + Spanish
Telehealth across Illinois
Insurance accepted
Chicago office
Wonder is the beginning of wisdom.
At Meliora, we work with clients who want to understand themselves more deeply. We believe self-understanding is an important first step toward meaningful change.
We combine practical strategies with a broader understanding of your relationships, culture, development, values, and life history. The goal is to understand what keeps a pattern going—and what can meaningfully change it.
SERVICES
Care for individuals, couples, and families.
01
Individual Therapy
Personalized support for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, identity, and life transitions.
02
Couples & Families
Structured conversations that clarify patterns, strengthen connection, and support lasting change.
03
Children, Adolescents & Adults
Developmentally responsive care for children and adolescents, with caregivers involved thoughtfully when appropriate. Services for younger children depend on clinician availability and clinical fit.
Meet the Team
-
![]()
Maria Fernanda Cardenas
Masters clinician M.A.
Children, adolescents & adults Family therapy
LGBTQ+ culturally responsive care
Psychoanalytic approaches
First-generation Hispanic immigrant
-
![]()
Tania Chapper
Masters clinician M.A.
Children, adolescents & adults
EMDR
Brainspotting
Yoga-informed care
First-generation Hispanic immigrant
-
![]()
John Abad
Masters clinician M.A., NCC, CCMHC
Child, adolescent and adult therapist
2nd generation Hispanic citizen
Unique style = psychoeducation, eclecticism
