Leading Chicago’s Mental Health Evolution: Rebecca E. Tenzer and the Rise of Integrated Clinical Care

At the forefront of innovation, Rebecca E. Tenzer and Astute Counseling & Wellness Services are transforming how Chicago approaches mental health—uniting evidence-based therapy with whole-body wellness.

In the heart of Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, a modern and comprehensive approach to mental health care is setting new standards. Founded by Rebecca E. Tenzer, MAT, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP, CIMHP, Astute Counseling & Wellness Services is more than a therapy clinic—it is an integrative wellness center that connects clinical psychology with body-based therapies to provide multidimensional support for clients navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, stress, and life transitions.


A Recognized Leader in Mental Health

Rebecca E. Tenzer brings more than two decades of experience to the field. A licensed clinician, mental health educator, professor, and published expert, she holds a clinical degree from the University of Chicago and a Master’s in Teaching. Her dual expertise allows her to blend therapeutic insight with educational strategy, making her one of Chicago’s most sought-after professionals in the field.

Her insights on topics ranging from anxiety to relationship dynamics have been featured in leading publications including VogueParents.comUSA NewsWGN TVRecovery.com, and wikiHow, among others. This summer, Rebecca will be featured in a new documentary series that chronicles her personal and professional journey, highlighting the creation of Astute and her impact as a business leader in the mental health space.

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Astute Counseling: Where Clinical Therapy Meets Functional Wellness

At its core, Astute Counseling & Wellness Services is founded on the principle that mental health must be addressed through both the mind and the body. While traditional talk therapy is often the entry point for care, Rebecca and her team have created an environment where treatment extends beyond the therapy room.

Astute’s clinical services are backed by current research and tailored care plans. But what makes the center unique is its commitment to pairing this with physical and somatic treatments that target stress, nervous system regulation, and behavioral health maintenance.


Why Integrated Mental Health Matters

Modern neuroscience and psychology continue to reinforce that mental and physical health are inherently connected. At Astute, the integration of evidence-based therapy with somatic techniques such as bodywork, movement, breath regulation, and guided relaxation allows clients to process emotional stress while simultaneously addressing physical symptoms.

This approach helps to:

  • Regulate the nervous system
  • Release stored tension in muscles and fascia
  • Improve sleep, energy levels, and mood stability
  • Reinforce new behavioral patterns through physical reinforcement
  • Reduce chronic stress responses

In other words, clients don’t just gain insight—they experience measurable shifts in how they function, move, and respond.


Comprehensive Clinical Services

With over 20 therapists on staff, Astute offers a broad range of services tailored to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Areas of specialty include:

  • Trauma and PTSD (EMDR certified therapy)
  • Anxiety, panic, and depression
  • OCD and intrusive thoughts
  • Grief, loss, and life transitions
  • LGBTQIA+ affirming mental health care
  • Women’s health and fertility support
  • ADHD, autism spectrum, and neurodivergent support
  • Sexual health and relationship therapy
  • First responder and healthcare worker support

Astute is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO and United PPO plans, providing accessible care to many across the Chicagoland area.


Wellness Services: Enhancing the Body-Mind Connection

In addition to traditional therapy, Astute offers a full suite of wellness services that help clients engage the body in their healing process, including:

  • Massage Therapy (including the signature Raindrop Technique)
  • Acupuncture, cupping, and lymphatic drainage
  • Reiki and vibrational sound therapy
  • Myofascial release and craniosacral therapy
  • Infrared sauna and light therapy
  • Guided meditation and breathwork
  • Somatic movement and personalized fitness sessions

Each service is clinically informed and designed to support regulation, physical health, and long-term recovery.


Movement and Somatic Classes Designed for Mental Health

Astute’s onsite movement studio offers a wide range of classes specifically created to address the physiological impacts of emotional and cognitive stress:

  • Restorative Yoga with Essential Oils and Sound Integration
  • Yoga Therapy for Mental Health
  • Breathe and Restore classes with breathwork and Hatha Yoga
  • Mat Pilates and Yogalates
  • Fit Fusion and Strength Training
  • Somatic Yin and myofascial release classes
  • Qigong and mindful movement sessions

These classes are appropriate for all experience levels and emphasize nervous system health, postural alignment, and mental clarity.


Specialized Programs and Events

Astute also curates specialized events that address targeted wellness themes and foster connection:

  • Monthly Sound Bath Experiences
  • Seasonal Programs like “Fall in Love with Wellness”
  • Women’s Circles and Supportive Workshops
  • Grief & Loss Processing Groups
  • Intentional Journaling + Yoga Therapy Events
  • Outdoor wellness sessions in the private Zen Garden

These experiences offer structured, research-aligned support in community settings.


A Thoughtful Retail Collection for Home-Based Wellness

Astute’s in-house wellness boutique provides clients with tools to extend their care into daily routines, offering:

  • Clinical-grade essential oils and diffusers
  • Meditation journals and wellness literature
  • Crystals, candles, and stress-reducing accessories
  • Organic teas and supplements
  • Branded gear and self-care kits

Shop online: astute-counseling-shop.square.site


Built on a Mission of Care and Accessibility

Astute Counseling & Wellness Services is not a trend—it is a thoughtfully built, mission-driven organization focused on improving lives through precise, integrated care. With a foundation in psychology and neuroscience, and an emphasis on body-based resilience, Astute empowers clients with tools they can use both in and outside the therapy room.

Rebecca E. Tenzer’s leadership continues to shape how mental health services are delivered in Chicago—making Astute a model for what modern, accessible, and impactful mental health care can look like.


Book Your Visit

Whether you’re seeking support for a specific condition or looking to optimize your mental well-being, Astute offers a range of options that can be tailored to your needs.

👉 Visit: www.astutecounseling.com
📞 Call: (773) 799-8966
🌐 Wellness Services: astutecounseling.com/astute-wellness-services
🛍️ Retail Store: astute-counseling-shop.square.site

Robert Lee

Robert Lee is a distinguished political correspondent who brings a wealth of experience from covering national and international affairs. His perceptive analysis and thorough reporting have established him as a reliable voice in the realm of political journalism. An astute observer of political institutions and mechanisms, Robert offers a unique insight into power dynamics and global influences. As an influential author for CEO Times Magazine, he continues to shed light on important political narratives.

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