About Dr. Brandon H.

“I am a scientist practitioner, meaning I do a mix of clinical work and research. My research focuses primarily on the impact of poverty and neighborhood disadvantage on mental health and relationships. The science and data of my research informs my clinical work with clients, and my work with clients informs the research that I perform. My research helps me stay up to date on innovative ways to help guide my clients toward the changes they desire. The work I do has a strong focus on the relationship between emotions and behaviors; specifically, how the emotions we derive from events inform our behaviors.

As a couples therapist I create a calm and non-judgmental environment for clients to connect (or reconnect) in ways they have been unable to on their own. I offer clients evidence-based tools and skills that are proven to help create long-lasting change in their relationships. I decided to become a therapist to reduce the stigma around mental health in the Black community. I am passionate about exploring what vulnerability means and looks like in these communities. Most people are often surprised that they have vulnerable, emotional, and confident sides of themselves. I have found that when people are able to tap into these skill sets, change is almost inevitable. My favorite thing about being a therapist is helping couples see the impact that vulnerability can have on improving their relationship. I believe that every relationship hits bumps and struggles, but, with help, everyone is capable of change.

I am most passionate about working with Black and Brown couples & families who have experienced racial and relational trauma, those who are navigating communication issues, couples who are working through infidelity, and those seeking premarital counseling.  I offer a nonjudgmental, open minded, collaborative approach to therapy. I am someone who understands what it means to be a person of color and have experienced many of the same struggles my clients face. It is important that my clients know that I won’t tell them what to do since I consider them to be the expert on their lives. Instead, I assist them in promoting awareness, insights, and recognition of emotions and behaviors that eventually lead them to change. When I’m not in session or doing research I enjoy traveling, reading, and watching sporting events. I am an avid Chicago sports fan!”

“I offer clients evidence-based tools and skills that are proven to help create long-lasting change in their relationships."

- Dr. Brandon Hollie, PhD,LMFT (he/him/his)

Dr. Brandon Hollie is a licensed staff therapist at Empower Family Therapy. He completed his Doctorate of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy at Syracuse University. Dr. Brandon is receiving supervision under Tina Shrader, LMFT, founder of Empower Family Therapy. He is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the State of Illinois.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Brandon, contact us and mention his name.

Brandon’s Specialties Include:

  • Couples Therapy: communication issues, conflict, infidelity, and premarital counseling

  • Working with Black couples & families

  • Community violence

  • Intergenerational trauma

  • Men’s issues & Identity Development

  • Young adult & Adult clients with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Trauma, or Bipolar diagnoses