Marikay Gazda, LCSW
- 35 years experience
- Aging and caregiver support
- Grief and anxiety care
About Marikay Gazda
She brings sustained compassion to work with older adults, people managing chronic illness or disability, and those facing end-of-life concerns. Her therapeutic emphasis includes strengthening self-love, improving communication, reducing isolation, and helping individuals restore a sense of purpose and meaning after loss or life change.
Her practice addresses a broad range of sensitive concerns such as panic disorder, attachment difficulties, caregiver stress, and hospice and end-of-life counseling. Grounded in person-centered and solution-focused work, she helps people explore their emotions, process past experiences, and build practical coping strategies. Marikay aims to support transformation of emptiness, guilt, and shame into opportunities for growth, offering steady, respectful guidance as people move through some of life’s most challenging moments.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
Therapeutic Approach
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Marikay Gazda have?
Marikay Gazda has 35 years of experience.
Is Marikay Gazda a licensed therapist?
Yes. She holds the credential LCSW, which stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Her license details are IL LCSW 149004372.
In which languages does Marikay Gazda provide therapy?
She provides therapy in English.
Where is Marikay Gazda located?
She is located in Illinois.
How can I work with Marikay Gazda as my therapist?
You can work with Marikay Gazda through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Marikay Gazda work with international clients?
Marikay Gazda does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Marikay Gazda cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Evidence-informed approaches for online care
Marikay integrates client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) into her online work. Client-centered therapy focuses on empathy and understanding, helping individuals feel heard and supported while they explore emotions and identify personal goals. CBT offers practical tools to identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, which can be useful for managing anxiety, depression, and panic symptoms.
She also uses Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) techniques to help people better understand and express their emotions within relationships, which can improve attachment concerns and communication with caregivers or loved ones. These approaches are chosen to fit the individual’s needs rather than applying one method to everyone.
Finding the right therapeutic approach is a collaborative process. Marikay works with each person to determine which methods best match their goals, preferences, and circumstances, adjusting the plan as progress unfolds.
Online sessions by video, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging offer flexible ways to receive care from a licensed professional. These options can make scheduling easier, reduce travel time, and allow people to engage in therapy from familiar environments while working toward their emotional and practical goals.