About Anxiety Professionals of Illinois
Our company was founded on the principle of empowering our clients. As a company founded by a social worker, we rely on the principle of an individual's right to self-determination. This means we want you to take the reins of your life so you can direct your life, not let life direct you.
Meet Our Team
Ira received his Bachelor degree in Social Work from Northeastern Illinois University and his Master in Clinical Social Work from Rutgers University. He then returned to his hometown to earn a certification as a School Social Worker through Loyola University, Chicago. Ira is endorsed by the National Association of Social Workers as a School Social Work Specialist. Ira has worked across academic settings that include private, charter, and public schools where he evaluated, wrote and implemented Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans for students. He utilizes this experience and training to support and advocate for students in schools. With a passion for treating anxiety, Ira has extensive training in the treatment of OCD, Avoidant-Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors, Tics, and Anxiety Disorders with specialization as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. Ira uses this training to help his clients in their day-to-day lives. He also uses this to help coach parents in supporting their children.
Ira Finkel, LCSW
Rashel Marrero, LSW
Rashel earned her Master of Social Work from Aurora University and has over ten years of experience as a school social worker. Throughout her career, Rashel has supported children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. Her clinical experience includes working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, family and relationship concerns, life transitions, and behavioral challenges, as well as supporting clients diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Rashel believes therapy should be a safe, supportive, and collaborative space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. Rashel's individualized approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavior modification, mindfulness-based techniques, and trauma-informed care to help clients build practical coping skills, improve emotional well-being, and achieve lasting change. Grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, her goal is to provide compassionate guidance and practical tools to support clients in achieving a healthier, more fulfilling life.