Meet The ESW Community Clinic Therapists
The ESW Community Clinic offers comprehensive therapy services provided by graduate-level clinical trainees under the supervision of ESW clinicians.
Meet Courtney Kapanga, Clinical Intern
COURTNEY KAPANGA, CLINICAL INTERN
(SHE/HER)
ESW COMMUNITY CLINIC THERAPIST
COURTNEY’S CLINICAL INTERESTS:
CULTURAL HUMILITY AND BIPOC-AFFIRMING CARE
IMPROVING BODY IMAGE + SEXUAL CONFIDENCE
LGBTQ+ AFFIRMING CARE
LOSS OF INTIMACY + RELATIONSHIP CONFLICT
LOW LIBIDO + DESIRE DISCREPANCY
TRANSITION TO PARENTHOOD
RATES:
INITIAL EVALUATION (60 MIN) - $0.00-$120.00
SUBSEQUENT SESSIONS (50 MIN) - $0.00 -$120.00
LIMITED PRO BONO SPOTS AVAILABLE
I’m Courtney Kapanga, and I’m a clinical intern working under the direct supervision of Emily Gordon MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST.
I believe that sexual wellness is deeply connected to how we understand ourselves, our relationships, and our experiences. I strive to create a space where clients can explore their sexuality with curiosity, compassion, and openness, free of judgement or expectations of how they “should” feel or be. I believe that when we have the space to ask questions and better understand ourselves, we can make room for new possibilities.
Courtney’s Approach to Sex Therapy + Relationship Therapy
Courtney works with individuals and couples who want to feel more connected and fulfilled in their intimate lives. Many clients come into therapy wondering why their desire has changed, feeling disconnected from their partners, struggling with body image, confidence, or having difficulty putting their desires into words. Courtney helps clients make sense of these experiences and develop a deeper understanding of themselves, while learning to communicate more effectively.
Her approach is collaborative and individualized, with an emphasis on curiosity, self-awareness, and staying present in the moment. Courtney creates space for clients to slow down, tune into their thoughts, feelings and experiences, and explore without judgement. She does not believe that there is one definition of a healthy relationship or fulfilling sex life, and instead works alongside clients to discover what feels authentic to them.
Her goal is to create a space where clients can feel understood, empowered, and comfortable exploring topics that may be difficult to discuss elsewhere. She is committed to providing culturally responsive, holistic care and creating an affirming space for people of all identities.
Academic Background + Professional affiliations
Courtney is completing her final year as a master’s candidate in Couples and Family Counseling at Northeastern Illinois University. She holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from DePaul University and continues to develop her clinical skills through training and professional development in sex therapy and relationship therapy. She is particularly interested in integrating an understanding of culture, identity, and individual lived experiences into her work with clients.
Courtney is also a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT) and the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT).
Professional Journey
As a biracial and bicultural person with Congolese and American roots, Courtney has spent much of her life navigating different cultural perspectives and ways of understanding identity, relationships, and community. After living overseas for 10 years, she developed a strong appreciation for cultural humility and the importance of remaining curious about experiences that may differ from her own. These experiences continue to shape the way she approaches her work with clients. Outside of the office, Courtney enjoys getting lost in a good book, spending time with family, staying active, and taking walks with her dog and partner.
