ABOUT US
DENISE K. AMBRE, LCSW (she/her)
Owner
Direct Line: (708) 480-2813
As a psychotherapist and certified psychoanalyst, I believe that by exploring the unconscious and making it conscious, you can become who you want to be in this world.
This belief guides my work with adults and adolescents facing depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, relationship concerns, and attachment issues. I also offer family therapy and parenting support, helping clients navigate complex relational dynamics.
No matter the challenge, I believe old patterns can be broken, creating space to replace sadness with joy and build fulfilling relationships.
CHRISTOPHER SKEAFF, LCSW, PHD (he/him)
Associate
From a previous career in academic political theory, Christopher Skeaff brings to his clinical work a longstanding fascination with freedom, power, and change.
“I was drawn to the way political theory treats big, important problems from a variety of conceptual and historical perspectives,” he says, “particularly the question of freedom — its meanings, manifestations, and conditions.”
ELKA CUBACUB, LSW (she/her)
Associate
At the center of every person, there is something healthy, whole, and beautiful. That belief is truly at the core of my work. I use practical tools and mind-body practices to treat eating disorders, helping to reduce shame and rebuild a healthier relationship with food.
I also provide individual and family therapy for those navigating depression, anxiety, and psychotic conditions like schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.
My approach draws from mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems to promote healing, resilience, and self-understanding.
JANNETE PADILLA, LSW (she/her)
Associate
A core element of my approach to therapy involves cultivating a safe and comfortable space for clients to navigate their healing journey, ensuring they feel supported and never alone.
My clinical specialties include working with adolescents, young adults, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral and relational challenges, and substance use.
La terapia está disponible en español para quienes se sientan más cómodos comunicándose en su idioma natal.
PAILI BACHRACH (she/her)
Associate
I view therapy as a way to empower clients to advocate for themselves, develop strength and resilience, and adopt healthy strategies to cope with life’s challenges.
Many of my clients are individuals and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral changes, or family conflict. Together, we work to explore the deeper roots of distress, build on their strengths, and move toward a life that feels more grounded, intentional, and aligned with who they want to be.
ISABELLE (“IZZY”) GRACE AMBRE (she/her)
Therapy Dog
Isabelle, who goes by “Izzy,” serves as Ambre Associates' Chief Therapy Dog. A quintessential French Bulldog, she would describe herself as friendly, charming and affectionate, and our patients wholeheartedly agree!
To ensure everyone feels welcome, Izzy typically greets people excitedly when they arrive and then heads to one of her favorite spots (often Mommy Denise’s lap) to take a power nap for the duration of the appointment.
However, Izzy is always “on the job.” If she senses a patient in need of some extra comfort, she springs to duty and comes over for a gentle pat. She's a true people-pleaser in the best possible way, and specializes in being adorable.
It’s time to live the life you deserve.
If you’re interested in learning more about individual psychotherapy, adolescent psychotherapy, child psychotherapy, parenting support, psychoanalysis or couples therapy, please contact us by submitting this form, or by phone at 847-729-3034. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.