ABOUT US

Our Mission

At Caring Conversations Center, we empower individuals to overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma, helping them step into the life they truly deserve.

We provide high-quality mental health services using evidence-based, brain-focused therapy techniques that harness the mind’s natural ability to heal. Through compassionate and personalized care, we guide our clients toward lasting transformation—creating change from within and building a future filled with strength, clarity, and confidence.

Our Vision

At Caring Conversations Center, we believe in the profound impact individuals—especially Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)—can have on their communities and beyond.

We envision a world where mental health care is accessible, stigma-free, and empowering. A world where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported in their healing journey—breaking cycles, reclaiming their strength, and transforming not only their lives but the lives of those around them.

Our Values

  • Mental Health as a Foundation for Growth

  • Trauma-Informed & Brain-Based Care

  • Equity, Inclusion & Social Justice

  • Holistic Wellness & Self-Care

OUR FOUNDER

Ciara Ward
MSW, MCR, LCSW, CAMS-II

I’m Ciara Ward, the founder of Caring Conversations Center and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, with over a decade of experience helping adults navigate life’s challenges. My work focuses on guiding individuals through transformation, life transitions, and finding balance, especially in areas like stress, anxiety, trauma, self-discovery, body image, self-esteem, and career shifts.

I began my journey at Saint Mary’s College, earning a degree in Social Work with a focus on Social Justice and Gerontology. I then pursued a master's degree in Social Work and Conflict Resolution at Dominican University, deepening my understanding of how personal growth and change are shaped by both internal and external factors.

My approach is centered on authenticity, self-awareness, and holistic healing, integrating the mind, body, and soul. Growth happens when we embrace where we are while making space for who we’re becoming. I create a supportive space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to navigate life’s transitions with clarity and confidence.

Beyond my work in traditional therapy, I founded Ci Notes, a platform designed to make self-exploration and healing accessible to everyone. Through Ci Notes, I provide resources that help individuals engage in self-reflection, personal growth, and transformation—whether in a session or on their own journey.

Meet the Team

  • She/Her/Hers

    The reward of therapy is profound and enduring. It is the gift of self-discovery, resilience, and an enriched understanding of the human experience. One of the greatest aspects of therapy is the gradual realization that healing is not synonymous with erasing scars; rather, it is an acceptance of the scars as integral parts of a unique narrative. Trust in the power within to rewrite your story with resilience and self-compassion. The reward is deeply rooted within!

    My approach is to provide a safe space for clients as they navigate and overcome life's challenges. I strive to empower individuals by helping them identify their strengths and develop strategies to overcome obstacles.

    The client is welcomed in an atmosphere where personal growth and healing meet in a supportive space. My client-centered approach emphasizes individual needs and goals, and we will work together to create a customized plan that is individually tailored to the client.

  • On my journey to be a LMFT my passion comes from helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. With a unique blend of personal and professional experiences, I specialize in working with clients facing life transitions, relationship issues, and cultural identity struggles. My approach is grounded in empathy and collaboration, where I work alongside you to foster healthier communication, stronger connections, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your loved ones. As a Tunisian-American and a single father who grew up in MN, speaking both French and Arabic, I bring a multicultural lens.

    I understand the complexities of identity, family dynamics, and code-switching that many individuals and families experience. Whether you're dealing with grief, parenting challenges, or seeking greater harmony in your relationships, I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your feelings, heal, and grow.

    In addition to therapy, I have a strong background in community development and social justice, having worked with diverse populations in both nonprofit and professional settings. My goal is to empower you to create meaningful change in your life and to guide you through the process of building stronger, more fulfilling relationships.

  • My name is Passion Nixon, and I am a dedicated pre-licensed marriage and family therapist currently pursuing my graduate studies at Capella University. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a concentration in Social Welfare from Augustana College and am certified in Systemic Marriage and Family Therapy. My clinical approach is integrative and client-centered, working with individuals, couples, and families to navigate life’s challenges and build stronger, healthier relationships.

    While I welcome clients of all ages, my passion lies in working with adolescents between the ages of 8 and 17. I find this work especially rewarding, as it allows me to foster growth, self-awareness, and positive coping skills during such a pivotal stage in life. My goal is to create a comfortable, empathetic space where young people feel heard, understood, and supported.

    I believe in the power of conversational, compassionate therapy, while grounding my work in Solution-Focused Therapy. This approach helps clients identify their strengths and move toward their goals with practical, actionable steps. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, I strive to create a collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to achieve meaningful, lasting change.

  • As a pre-licensed marriage and family therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Whether you’re facing immediate challenges or seeking long-term personal growth, I believe in the power of collaboration to help you uncover your strengths and build resilience.

    I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families navigating issues such as depression, trauma, and relational challenges. My approach is rooted in systemic and strengths-based therapy, recognizing that relationships—past and present—shape our experiences. Whether you’re struggling with personal hurdles or relationship dynamics, we will work together to create a path forward that fosters healing, growth, and meaningful change.

    No matter where you are in your journey, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I am here to support you every step of the way.

  • Relationships shape who we are—whether it’s our relationship with ourselves or with others. As a marriage and family therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate life’s transitions, relationship challenges, and personal growth. If you’re feeling stuck, wondering what’s next, or struggling with anxiety and depression, you’re not alone. Change is hard, but it’s also an opportunity for transformation.

    My therapeutic approach is grounded in Solution-Focused Therapy and Intergenerational Family Therapy, meaning we will explore your strengths, resources, and resilience to create a meaningful path forward. While I focus on what’s working and where you want to go, I also recognize that sometimes healing requires looking back. If your past experiences or family dynamics are impacting your present, we will explore those patterns together to foster deeper understanding and change.

    I provide a supportive and collaborative space for adults and couples seeking clarity, connection, and a healthier, more fulfilling life. Let’s take the next step forward—together.

  • As a pre-licensed marriage and family therapist, I am passionate about helping families, couples, and single parentsnavigate life’s challenges, strengthen relationships, and foster meaningful growth. Using a Solution-Focused approach, I guide clients in identifying their strengths and creating actionable steps toward positive change.

    Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I strive to provide a supportive, empowering, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Whether you’re facing relationship struggles, parenting challenges, or personal transitions, I am here to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

  • As a pre-licensed marriage and family therapist, I am passionate about helping families, couples, and single parents navigate life’s challenges, strengthen relationships, and foster meaningful growth. Using a Solution-Focused approach, I guide clients in identifying their strengths and creating actionable steps toward positive change.

    Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I strive to provide a supportive, empowering, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and understood. Whether you’re facing relationship struggles, parenting challenges, or personal transitions, I am here to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

  • I am here to support you through life’s challenging moments, whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles. My goal is to help you find healing and happiness by creating a safe, welcoming space where you can express yourself freely and authentically. I understand that reaching out for help can feel daunting, and I am committed to walking alongside you with empathy, understanding, and compassion.

    With over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, I bring mature wisdom, a calm presence, and a hopeful outlook to each session. Specializing in family systems approaches, I work with individuals, couples, and families to explore areas of distress, uncover patterns, and discover healing solutions. I am passionate about guiding clients to overcome challenges and realize their full potential.

    I value and respect each family’s unique circumstances, cultural backgrounds, spiritual beliefs, and community resources, integrating these elements into the therapeutic process. Together, we will build positive relationships and create a supportive space for growth and transformation.

  • I believe therapy is a collaborative and empowering journey where we explore your experiences, identify your strengths, and reshape your story with hope and resilience. Life inevitably brings challenges—feelings of overwhelm, discouragement, anger, or confusion—but you don’t have to face them alone. Together, we’ll uncover your inner resources and build a path forward toward greater comfort, joy, and peace.

    My therapeutic approach is rooted in Narrative Therapy, focusing on the stories we tell ourselves and those we've inherited from our families and communities. Sometimes, these narratives can limit how we see ourselves and our potential. I am passionate about helping you re-author your story, creating space for empowerment, self-agency, and meaningful change. My goal is to provide a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood as you embrace your authentic voice.

    I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating a range of challenges, including anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, communication difficulties, and life transitions. I welcome clients of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, and backgrounds, with a particular interest in working with men, LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families.

    I earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Loyola University Chicago and a Master of Science in Information Systems and Operations Management in Healthcare from Loyola's Graduate School of Business. Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s in Marriage, Family, and Individual Therapy at Capella University. Additionally, I hold a Gottman Level 2 Certification, which has equipped me with advanced tools to help couples navigate conflict constructively, strengthen their connection, and build a shared future. I am fluent in both English and Polish, bringing a multicultural perspective to my practice. It would be an honor to support you on your journey toward a more fulfilling life.

Ready to Get Started?

Our Client Care Coordinator is ready to connect you with a therapist who is the best fit for you, your unique experience, needs and goals.