Daniel Hauff, MA, LCPC, CADC
About Me
I’m Daniel, owner and therapist at Bright Birds Psychotherapy. I support adults navigating a wide range of challenges, with particular experience supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals — including transgender and nonbinary persons, as well as military personnel, veterans, and first responders, and addressing men’s issues. I also engage with a diverse array of adults beyond these populations.
My Approach
My style is warm, affirming, and collaborative, creating a respectful, judgment-free, and safe setting. I view clients holistically to develop goals based on their own values, taking an eclectic, person-centered approach that tailors treatment to each individual, applying mindfulness, as well as cognitive behavioral, humanistic, and existential therapies. I’m an enthusiastic EMDR practitioner and together we can address trauma, addiction (including gambling, porn, and sex addiction), anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief — including pet loss.
Affirming & Inclusive Care
I strive to create a sex-positive, affirming space where clients feel comfortable discussing issues related to sexuality, intimacy, kink, desire, or identity — including topics that may feel difficult or stigmatized elsewhere. I also have experience working with diverse relationship structures such as polyamory and open relationships.
While these are key areas of specialization, I welcome clients of all genders and sexual orientations and proudly stand as a BIPOC ally.
Therapy with Humor & Humanity
Humor is a key part of my therapeutic style, helping clients feel at ease and supported as we work together on meaningful goals. Sometimes sharing a laugh along the way can help lighten the process. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel truly seen and heard, with space to explore your complexity, build resilience, and move forward on your own terms.
Pet Loss Support
The grief of losing an animal companion can be profound. For many, that pain is excruciating. I provide thoughtful and compassionate support for pet loss, helping clients honor their bond while navigating this unique and deeply personal form of grief.
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Alcohol & Drug Use Issues
Addiction Issues
Anxiety
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Exercise Addiction
Gambling Addiction
Gaming Addiction / Video Game Issues
Gender Identity
Grief & Loss, Complicated Grief, and Pet Loss
Men’s Issues
Neurodiversity
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Porn Addiction
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Sex Issues, Sex Addiction, Sex Work, & Sexual Behavior Issues
Shopping / Spending Problems
Social Media / Internet Use
Substance Use Disorders
Trauma & Complex Trauma
Workaholism
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Existential Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)
Humanistic Therapy
Mindfulness
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First Responders
LGBTQIA+
Men
Military / Veterans
Neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities)
Open Marriages / Polyamory
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Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) - #180.016691
Regulated by: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
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Certified Alcohol and other Drug Counselor (CADC) - #37331
Regulated by: Illinois Certification Board
EMDRIA Certified Therapist
EMDR International Association
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Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies, Center City, MN
MA - Addiction Counseling: Integrated Recovery for Co-Occurring Disorders, 2020
DePaul University, Chicago, IL
BA - International Studies: Human Rights & Social Justice, 2006
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Coverage and eligibility vary by plan.
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
UnitedHealthcare / United Behavioral Health / Optum
What’s in a Name?
Bright Birds represents the colorful, complex, and inherently valuable spirit within each of us. For our practice, the phrase is a symbol of hope and self-care — a reminder that tending to our own well-being with compassion and intention helps us heal, grow, and thrive.