Kenny “Nearyby” Close
MFT
Hi there, I’m Kenny
I help couples and families navigate conflict, stress, and big transitions. After 20 years in the Navy leading teams under pressure, I bring calm structure, cultural humility, and evidence-based care. My work is collaborative and goal-focused, integrating SFBT, Gottman-informed tools, and a strengths lens. I have a special interest in first-responder and military families, reintegration, men’s mental health, and parenting.
LOCATION:
Libertyville, Illinois (Living Pono Counseling / Frontline Care Center)
Areas of Focus/Approach
Couples therapy (Gottman-informed)
Family therapy (structural & solution-focused)
Communication & conflict resolution
Life transitions & reintegration (military/first responders)
Men’s mental health & fatherhood
Brief, goal-focused treatment
Trauma-informed, culturally humble practice
Education & Certifications
M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy (in progress), National University (expected 2026)
B.A. in Social Science, 2015
A.A. in Mandarin Chinese, 2009
Gottman Seven Principles Leader; Bringing Baby Home Educator
QPR Gatekeeper Trainer
U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer (Ret.), 20 years’ service
THE LIVING PONO APPROACH
in life, Pono stands for righteousness and balance
In Hawaiian, if a person is living Pono, it means that they have struck the right balance within themselves, with other things, places, and the people in their lives.
We take that same approach when helping you to grow.