Amanda Garcia Hess (she/her)
Hi, I'm Amanda —
I blend clinical insights with real-world experience to help clients deepen connections with themselves and others.
I am an emerging Relationship Therapist with a background in business, marketing, and advocacy work. Formally known as a “Marriage & Family Therapist”, this title is not inclusive to the work I desire.
I strive to create purposeful impact in my community and circles. I blend personal and professional experiences to create meaningful connections and community. Most of all, I am excited and humbled to pursue my career as a therapist.
15+ years in business
10+ years in advocacy
400+ Clinical Hours
100+ supervision hours
Career Past
Navigated complex systems in business with impactful communication, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
Gained valuable insights into resilience and human connection through global and local humanitarian efforts.
My commitment to service and community can be seen through work with these nonprofits:
Present Work
Currently pursuing a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy through Northwestern University, anticipating graduation in June 2025.
Selected for The Family Institute’s Community Program, deepening my commitment to accessible mental health care.
Earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Texas State University, establishing a foundation in human behavior and social systems.
Future Plans
I desire a practice rooted in an integrative systemic lens and trauma-informed perspective.
I embrace a strengths-based approach guided by empathic curiosity and cultural humility.
I strive to create a therapeutic space that prioritizes inclusivity, cultural humility, and a pro-liberation perspective on growth and healing.
I prioritize a harm reduction-orientation to ensure clients feel safe, understood, and empowered.
Professional Organizations with Active Membership
American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy (AAMFT)
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Illinois Affiliation of Marriage & Family Therapists (IAMFT)
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American Psychological Association (APA)
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Inclusive Therapists
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International Family Therapy Association
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American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy (AAMFT) • Illinois Affiliation of Marriage & Family Therapists (IAMFT) • American Psychological Association (APA) • Inclusive Therapists • International Family Therapy Association •
I am seeking:
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Associate Licensed Marriage & Family Therapy (ALMFT) roles which include supervision and continuing education support.
Flexible work hours, hybrid environment, and a dynamic team committed to social justice, inclusivity, and liberation perspectives.
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Advocacy work with non-profits addressing systemic barriers to mental health care, policy creation, and community-level interventions.
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Writing opportunities with journals or blogs related to topics such as systemic therapy, trauma, resiliency, attachment, etc.
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Volunteer opportunities and leadership roles within mental health or local community spaces
“One life on this earth is all that we get, whether it is enough or not enough, and the obvious conclusion would seem to be that at the very least we are fools if we do not live it as fully and bravely and beautifully as we can.”