Raven Allen (she/her/hers)

Rooted in the transformative principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and holistic, strength-based techniques, I strive to create a therapeutic space where authenticity, healing, and empowerment can flourish. My approach is comprehensive, trauma-informed, and deeply personalized, grounded in the belief that true healing often emerges in the presence of radical acceptance and compassion. Having grown up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and now rooted in Chicago, I carry with me the lessons of community, resilience, and adaptability, which shape my commitment to serving BIPOC, queer, and other underrepresented voices. I honor the complexities of identity and center each person’s lived experiences as the foundation for our work together. 

I believe therapy should feel like coming home to yourself, a place where all parts of you are welcome and celebrated. Whether navigating issues of identity, trauma, or relationships, embracing your truth is a radical and necessary act of self-love. My hope is to walk beside you on this path as you rediscover your own strength and find your voice. Together, we’ll explore your story and the ways you can reclaim it with power, courage, and love, moving toward a journey of healing, growth, empowerment, and collective liberation.

Questions? raven@forrealtherapy.com

INTERVIEW BIO WITH raven allen

Is there anything in particular that helped you grow intuition and listening to yourself?

The first step was moving to Chicago. I had no family here and didn’t know anyone. I had to trust myself to navigate this new, diverse environment. Religion can be harmful because it promotes a black-and-white way of thinking, even though our world is full of gray areas. I believe that some things aren’t meant for everyone, and that’s okay.

Coming from a religious background, I learned to understand and trust my intuition, using it in my everyday life. I identify as a spiritual person and believe that no book can dictate what is right or wrong for me. In my interactions with others, listening to my gut has always been my guide, even when I don’t fully understand the logical reason behind it. My gut feeling is always right. Religion has taught me to trust myself more.

How have all these transitions in your life changed how you approach therapy and your sense of being in the world?

One thing I’ve learned is the importance of being flexible. Not everything has to go a particular way. This mindset helped me through transitions. Knowing how to pivot and self-regulate by telling myself everything will be okay is crucial. Even when starting something new, I remind myself that I can do it because I’ve accomplished other things before, even if I’m not perfect at it. This stronger belief in my abilities helps me overcome overthinking and focus on action. I apply this perspective to others as well. Everyone makes mistakes and struggles, but I see the person in front of me, not just their challenges or struggles.

How do your cultural identities as a Black woman shape your experiences, and how does seeing things from a global or international perspective influence that?

As a Black woman, carrying this identity has been a rollercoaster. People often project their assumptions, and there’s constant policing of our voices. Dealing with mental health is often dismissed, and we’re expected to be strong, leaving little room for vulnerability. 

Globally, it’s liberating to see Black women represented beyond stereotypes. In American media, Black women are often depicted as career-driven and one-dimensional, but shows like Insecure challenge that. They highlight “awkward Black girls” and show the full spectrum of who we are/can be. This type of representation is freeing, not only for Black women but for everyone who benefits from seeing real, multifaceted people rather than one-dimensional tropes. It reminds me that our stories are valid and that there’s room for all of our complexities.

How would you encourage young Black women who may be struggling with feelings of self-doubt?

I want to say: be who you are unapologetically, and everything will align. This is the biggest lesson I’ve learned from life. You are going to get some pushback. When you are a light, people will try to dim it and devalue you, but that means you are doing something right. By being true to yourself, you get one step closer to your desires, wants, and dreams. I don’t want to negate that for Black women, it’s harder. However, I’d rather face challenges than repress myself and conform to the confines others have created for me.

What is your universal piece of advice?

Give yourself permission to be seen authentically.