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

  • Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act of self-care. I understand that disappointments, loneliness, grief, and trauma can leave you feeling anxious, unsure, and disconnected from both yourself and those around you. It’s completely normal for changes in your life to trigger these feelings as well. If you’re feeling tired of being overwhelmed or lost, please know that you’re not alone. I am here to support you on your journey toward feeling confident, empowered, and energized. If you’re ready to explore this path and embrace a change, don’t hesitate to reach out. You deserve to feel whole again.

    I work with clients of all ages facing challenges such as grief, anxiety, depression, and loss, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and family conflicts. Through a trauma-informed approach, I empower clients to heal from their past and embrace new strategies to navigate triggers and future stressors with resilience and strength.

    My priority is to build a relationship based on trust and emotional safety so you can achieve your therapeutic goals as quickly and completely as possible!

  • 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.

  • You don’t have to have it all figured out to start therapy. My ideal client is someone who’s feeling the nudge for change—even if they’re not sure where it’ll lead. Maybe you’re overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in cycles of sadness, facing big life transitions, or feeling disconnected from yourself or others. You might not have the words for it yet, but you know something’s off—and you’re ready to explore what healing could look like. Many of my clients want clarity, emotional connection, improved relationships, stress alleviation, or peace of mind. They all want to know themselves better and live more intentionally and compassionate

    Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) helps couples reestablish trust and improve communication, and I help people with anxiety, unresolved wounds, and inner conflict. We provide a secure area for you to be yourself, explore what's holding you back, and develop the tools to live the life you want.

    I also have a heart for supporting families of individuals with disabilities and understand the unique emotional dynamics those relationships carry. Whether you’re working through emotional pain, relationship struggles, or just craving more peace and purpose—I’m here to support your journey toward lasting change.

  • Taking the first step toward therapy is an act of courage and self-care—a recognition that your story matters, your struggles deserve attention, and healing is possible. Therapy isn’t about 'fixing' what’s broken but uncovering strengths, building resilience, and navigating life with clarity. My warm, collaborative approach provides a safe space to explore your story, identify patterns holding you back, and develop tools to overcome obstacles. Together, we’ll work toward the fulfilling life you envision.

    I am passionate about guiding individuals, couples, and families through life transitions, relational challenges, and emotional struggles. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, grief, relationship conflicts, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to support you in a way that feels empowering and compassionate.

    The therapeutic process can be transformative, and I encourage you to take this brave first step toward personal growth and healing. Let’s work together to uncover your potential and create lasting positive change.

  • My ideal client is someone navigating challenges in their relationships, personal identity, or life transitions. They may be struggling with feelings of disconnection, grief, or unresolved family dynamics. This client seeks a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions, understand their patterns, and rebuild healthier connections with themselves and others. Their goals might include improving communication, strengthening emotional bonds, processing trauma, or redefining personal narratives. They are motivated to grow and open to exploring themselves.

    I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Narrative Therapy, helping individuals, couples, and families strengthen relationships, process grief, and rewrite personal stories. I offer a compassionate, collaborative space to explore emotions, heal from trauma, and build healthier connections. Together, we work toward.

    I understand that reaching out for help can be daunting, but you don’t have to go through this alone. Together, we can explore your challenges, process your emotions, and strengthen your connections. If you’re ready to take that first step toward growth and healing, I’m here to walk alongside you. Your story matters, and I’d love to hear it.

  • I recognize that seeking support is a courageous and important step, and I am here to guide you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. My approach is built on respect, empathy, and collaboration, with a deep belief in each person's individuality. I adjust my therapeutic methods to suit your unique needs and goals, whether you're facing life changes, navigating difficult emotions, or seeking to enhance your overall well-being. My specialty and focus lie in mentorship, life coaching, individual and couples therapy, mediation, and navigating complex family dynamics.

    I incorporate cultural awareness and diverse viewpoints into each session, ensuring you feel truly heard, understood, valued, and respected. I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely.

    I aim to build a trusting connection, where you feel supported and empowered to discover your strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and reach your personal growth goals. Together, we’ll navigate this journey as you become a stronger, more resilient, and confident version of yourself.

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.