Michele Day, LCSW, CSAT-S
Addiction Therapist, Coach, Consultant
Pronouns: she, her, hers
When Michele embarked on her journey as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), she encountered individuals grappling with various challenges, from trauma and grief to addiction and mental illness. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for helping those struggling with sex addiction, compulsive sexual behaviors and betrayal trauma. She saw the profound impact it had on individuals, relationships, and families, and felt compelled to offer specialized support in this area.
Over the course of 25 years, Michele has had the privilege of walking alongside countless individuals on their path to recovery. Each client has brought their own unique story and struggles, enriching her understanding and deepening her empathy. Through years of experience, she has taught Individual and Family Therapy at Loyola University of Chicago’s Master of Social Work program. She honed her skills as a therapist and trained with the International Institute of Trauma Professionals (IITAP) to obtain certification as a Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and completed advanced training to become a CSAT Supervisor. As a CSAT she learned to navigate the complexities of sex addiction, problematic sexual behavior and betrayal trauma with compassion, insight, and expertise.
One of the greatest challenges in working with sex addiction, compulsive sexual behavior and betrayal trauma is the pervasive stigma that surrounds it. Society often perpetuates misconceptions and judgment, making it difficult for individuals to seek help without fear of shame or condemnation. As a CSAT, she is committed to breaking down these barriers and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth.
In her practice, she employs a holistic approach to treatment, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of addiction. She draws upon a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, somatic experiencing, mindfulness techniques and Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs and goals of her clients. Through a combination of individual counseling, group therapy, and support networks, Michele empowers individuals to reclaim their lives and cultivate healthier relationships.
In addition to her work with clients, Michele is passionate about advocacy and education surrounding sex addiction, compulsive sexual behavior and betrayal trauma. She strives to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and promote understanding within both professional and public spheres. Whether through speaking engagements, workshops, or community outreach initiatives, Michele is dedicated to advancing dialogue and fostering positive change.
Michele is the co-owner and Executive Director of the Chicago Center for Sex & Wellbeing. She holds undergraduate degrees in marketing and psychology, a Master’s of Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and a post master’s in Advanced Psychodynamic Theory from the University of Chicago.
Michele is licensed to see clients in the states of Illinois and Arizona. She does not accept insurance at this time.
Professional Affiliations
International Institute for Trauma & Addiction Professionals (IITAP)
Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health (SASH)
National Association of Lesbian and Gay Addiction Professionals (NALGAP)
NAADAC, National Association of Addiction Professionals
Illinois Association of Addiction Professionals
Sigmund Freud
Therapy Dog
Meet Sigmund Freud, the Chicago Center for Sex & Wellbeing’s resident therapy dog. Sigmund Freud is a thirteen-year-old Miniature Golden Doodle. Originally from Iowa Sigmund relocated to Chicago in 2010 to pursue his education and achieve his goal of becoming a therapy dog.
Harnessing the human-animal bond, Sigmund works side-by-side, and paw-to-paw with clients to decrease stress, anxiety, depression and feelings of loneliness.
Continuous and immediate positive feedback provided by Sigmund can help set clients at ease. His presence can also help decrease blood pressure, heart rate and reduce the level of the stress hormone cortisol. Hormones associated with general health and feelings of wellbeing, including dopamine, oxytocin, prolactin and serotonin are also increased.
The emotional and physical strains encountered in addiction and recovery can be daunting. Sigmund and his role in treatment is just another way that the Chicago Center for Sex & Wellbeing sets itself apart from other treatment facilities with holistic and experiential therapies.