Founder | Therapist | Resilience Advocate

Antonio J. Wheeler Jr. is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor with over a decade of experience helping individuals heal, grow, and reclaim their lives. As the founder of Anchored in Wellness Chicago, Antonio blends clinical expertise with deep empathy to create a space where transformation is possible—and sustainable.

With a passion for understanding what has happened to you, rather than what’s wrong with you, Antonio practices resilience-centered therapy grounded in the 7 Dimensions of Wellness. His work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential—mind, body, and spirit—and that healing begins with feeling seen, safe, and supported.

Antonio began his professional journey in 2009 as a substance use counselor after earning his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Chicago State University. He went on to complete his master’s in Social Work at The University of Chicago. Over the years, his career has included serving individuals navigating addiction, domestic violence, anger management, and trauma. One of his most meaningful roles involved providing trauma-informed support to gunshot victims immediately following injury—a powerful example of his mission to serve those most in need.

What sets Antonio apart is his humility and unwavering empathy. He sees therapy not just as a profession, but as a calling: a sacred opportunity to walk alongside others as they learn to rise from what they've survived and step into who they truly are.

“I’m not here to fix you. I’m here to remind you of your strength, and to help you anchor in it.”