Hayley Caddell, ALMFT (she/her)
Couples Therapy for Communication, Conflict, and Rebuilding Connection
You’re longing for the spark again, that feeling that you and your partner are in it together. But lately, love feels like work, and connection feels just out of reach. You might feel stuck in the same arguments, avoiding hard conversations, or more like roommates than romantic partners. Whether you’re dating, newly married, growing a family, or navigating the empty nest phase, you want your relationship to feel strong, fun, and full of understanding again.
What Is It Like to Work With a Couples Therapist Like Me?
In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, supportive, and even playful space. I bring creativity into therapy, from fun exercises to small experiments, to help couples communicate and connect in new ways. I work with BIPOC couples and individuals as well as families, teens, and anyone navigating independence. People often tell me they appreciate my energy, warmth, humor, and the way I help them feel seen, heard, and understood. Tears, laughter, and curiosity are all welcome here. Clients often tell me they appreciate my warmth, energy, humor, and creative approach, all of which I bring into sessions to help clients rewrite their relationship story.
Couples Therapy Approach Using Gottman Method and Creative Techniques
I blend evidence-based practices like the Gottman Method with heart-centered, creative interventions to help clients move from surviving to thriving. My work emphasizes practical tools, emotional insight, and deep connection. I create a culturally attuned space where BIPOC clients feel respected and understood. I help clients explore new ways of communicating, connecting, and understanding themselves and each other, while keeping sessions engaging and approachable. My passion for love and relationships deeply informs the energy I bring to every session.
Therapist Style and Personal Approach
I bring warmth, energy, humor, and creativity into my work, helping clients feel comfortable while doing meaningful, sometimes challenging work. I also enjoy making candles, curating playlists, creating content, and refueling with good food, music, and great company, which all influence the way I show up in sessions and connect with clients.
You might be a good fit to work with me if you are:
Couples feeling disconnected, stuck in repeating arguments, or navigating transitions.
Families adjusting to shifting roles or life changes.
Individuals seeking independence or support navigating new responsibilities.
BIPOC couples and individuals seeking culturally attuned support.
People ready to explore emotions, communicate openly, and grow in their relationships.
Clients who value a therapist who is warm, energetic, and brings playful creativity to sessions.
Hayley Caddell is a staff therapist at Empower Family Therapy. She has completed her Master of Arts in Couple & Family Therapy and has clinical experience working with couples, families, and individuals navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, and emotional stress. Based in Oak Park, IL, I offer both in-person and virtual therapy, working with individuals, couples, and families across a range of ages and life stages.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
What is it like to work with you?
Sessions with me are warm, supportive, and sometimes playful. I use creative exercises and evidence-based tools to help couples, families, and individuals communicate, connect, and navigate challenges. BIPOC clients and couples can expect culturally attuned care. You’ll be heard, understood, and encouraged to explore emotions safely.
Who do you help best?
I work best with couples feeling disconnected, families adjusting to life changes, individuals navigating independence, and BIPOC clients seeking culturally aware support. People who are ready to engage, reflect, and try new approaches thrive in my sessions.
What should I expect in the first session?
In our first session, we’ll get to know each other and explore what’s bringing you to therapy. I’ll listen closely, ask questions about your goals, and discuss a collaborative plan to help you reconnect, communicate, and feel more in control of your relationships.
How do you approach therapy?
I blend evidence-based practices like the Gottman Method with creative, heart-centered interventions. Sessions are interactive, practical, and often playful, helping clients gain insight, strengthen connections, and practice new skills. Cultural awareness and respect for BIPOC clients are central to my work.
What do clients often appreciate about working with you?
Clients often appreciate my warmth, energy, humor, and creative approach. They feel heard, understood, and supported, with therapy feeling engaging rather than heavy.
Do you work virtually?
Yes! I offer both in-person sessions in Oak Park, IL, and virtual sessions for clients in approved locations.