Get To Know Us

Therapy is deeply personal- and so are we.

Beyond the clinical work we love, we’re a group of humans who tend gardens, chase toddlers, read poetry in the bathtub, cry at podcasts, and laugh loudly during lunch breaks. We believe that showing up for others starts with showing up for ourselves.

This page is a small window into who we are outside the therapy room. Not just what we do- but how we live, reflect, rest, and relate. Because at Gemstone, we don’t just talk about healing—we practice it.

"This is the day I adopted the love of my life, Ramona!" -Jane

 

Our therapist Jane Sussman holding her puppy, Ramona, on a sidewalk in Chicago
"Nunchucks belonging to Andrea Santiago, LCPC, NCC – therapist and co-owner at Gemstone Wellness Chicago

" I got my black belt at age 16. During the pandemic, my love for karate came back to me as I began to recall kata I used to do. I got back into using nunchucks again, and I found I was able to pick up exactly where I left off! I practice nunchucks and forms now weekly." -Andrea

 

 

"My heart, Ace." - Michelle

 

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Candid photo of therapist Andrea Santiago in a recording booth, showing creativity, expression, and authenticity

 

"Outside of being a therapist, I am a singer and part of an indie pop rock band. Singing has been something I have done my entire life, and to collaborate and work on music with others is such an honor and incredible feeling. Music and art are healing." -Andrea

"When I’m off duty you can almost always find me dancing (I’ve been a burlesque dancer in Chicago for the past 7 years) and spending time outside!" -Stef
Stef Stone, therapist at Gemstone Wellness, dancing outdoors with sunglasses and a smile.
Food photo taken by founder Jenny Martin, showing her love of eating and appreciation for life’s joys

 

"Good food makes me SO happy."-Jenny

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"Two of the things that bring me the most joy and peace: sunsets and my cat, Frank (a frequent guest during sessions)!" -Stef

"Something that grounds and relaxes me is free painting. I enjoy painting scenery very much as I find it very soothing." -Andrea

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"Live entertainment in Chicago is such a gift! Two of the best performances I’ve seen (John Early and The Fly Honeys) have both been at one of my favorite venues, Thalia Hall in Pilsen." -Stef

 

“A good mug with a warm drink is truly underrated and such a simple way to make me happy.” -Michelle

 

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"Traveling feeds my soul. I never take for granted any opportunity to see a new part of the world." -Jenny

 

Dr. Jenny Martin sitting in a chair by the ocean, reflecting her love of travel, depth, and contemplation.
Mountains photo by Michelle Cabrera, therapist at Gemstone Wellness in Chicago

 

“I love nature trips. Anything with a good hike and disconnect from the typical routine is my favorite way to decompress and ground myself.” -Michelle

"I love doing nail art!" -Jane

 

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