Liya Ghiday, MA

Welcome! My name is Liya Ghiday

Are you hoping to feel more self-confident, improve communication within your relationships, and worry less about what others think? I can help you move towards these goals and become unstuck from other unwanted patterns in your life. I believe that your unique story is influenced by your history, relationships, and culture. In therapy, we will explore all of this as it relates to what you most want to improve or change in your life today.

My person-centered and culturally inclusive approach honors your individual perspective and strengths. Working alongside your pace, we will explore your values and set a new tone in your mindset. Our work together will help you to build self-compassion, better communication, boundaries, and comfort with imperfection. 

Others describe me as genuine, serene, and supportive. If you are seeking a space for processing difficult experiences, breaking old patterns, and building confidence, you can expect a judgment-free environment with me. No matter the season you are in, therapy is a great first step. I am a big advocate for being kind to ourselves and restructuring our negative thoughts. I am committed to helping you embark on whatever your journey may look like. I look forward to meeting you!

My Professional Background

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies from Indiana University and I obtained my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University. I am currently working towards my Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology. I have researched areas including racial and ethnic identity, imposter syndrome, and neuroscience studies.  

I have had the pleasure of working with a diverse range of populations. I specialize in interpersonal issues, self-esteem building, anxiety, and stress management. I also have experience in trauma-informed care. I was able to work closely within a transitional housing program providing psychotherapy to individuals experiencing childhood trauma, grief, addiction, homelessness, and financial crises. I also have experience with severe mental illnesses such as personality disorders and schizophrenia.  

As a woman of color and a first-generation child of immigrants, I am passionate about honoring cultural values and heritage. I have personal experiences with navigating multiple responsibilities while also juggling the stress of fitting into a Western society. I am steadfast in my belief that your individual story is intricately woven with threads from your cultural roots. I am a big advocate for self-forgiveness, boundary setting, and making time for self-care. I truly believe that we are the experts in our lives, and therapy is a great way to build insight and change within areas where we’d like to grow.  

Treatment Specialization Areas

  • College, Graduate School, and Emerging Adult Concerns

  • Communication and Relationships

  • Immigrant/First Generation Concerns

  • Racial Identity and Race-Related Stress

  • Self-Esteem

  • Perfectionism

  • Assertiveness and Boundary Setting

  • Anxiety

  • Trauma

  • Addiction

Contact

I see clients both via telehealth as well as in-person in our downtown Chicago office location. Email me at lghiday@openmindtherapycenter.com to set up your first appointment.