Therapists in 61853

Are you feeling lost and completely overwhelmed? Have you found yourself struggling to cope and feeling burnt out lately? Are you wanting to heal from past trauma? Maybe you've been feeling on edge and out of control when things go wrong. You may be having a hard time in your relationships and wonder if you're the problem because you've always felt lonely, unwanted, and disconnected. Or maybe you've noticed that you're extra hard on yourself and are struggling with the sense that deep down you're not good enough. If any of these descriptions resonate with you, please know that you're not alone and we can figure things out together.

I am a licensed counselor and received my Master’s Degree in 2001 from the University of Illinois in Springfield. Prior to entering private practice, I worked as a junior high and high school counselor for 25 years. I have also worked in an inpatient psychiatric facility with both adults and adolescents. Most recently, I have been employed in child welfare with families involved with DCFS in foster care and reunification of families when appropriate. My employment experience in different fields has allowed me to see life from many perspectives and viewpoints.

You may not be there yet, but you are one step closer than you were yesterday. I specialize in treating kids and teens with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, eating disorders, difficult friendships and relationships, and trouble adjusting after divorce or other life changes. I am also passionate about empowering women through various stages of life: transitioning to college, identity development, becoming a mom, relationship conflict, divorce, and mental health. I offer parenting sessions to parents of children with emotional or behavioral struggles, and couples or family therapy for a variety of issues.

I work with adults across the lifespan needing support for anxiety, grief, relationships, and major life changes. Whether we meet virtually, face-to-face, or outdoors in nature, my clients leave sessions feeling reconnected to their self-worth and ability to change unwanted patterns. I have a special interest in helping clients heal from loss; establish healthy boundaries; practice courageous communication; and enjoy meaningful connection with others.

I have experience working with a wide variety of age groups and a diverse population of people. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families, treating anxiety, life adjustments, chronic illness, problems at school and life transitions. I mainly work with CBT but also incorporate play therapy, strengths-based approaches, and mindfulness.

Has your life taken an unexpected detour? Maybe it's a chaotic relationship, unrelating anxiety or navigating difficult family dynamics. Whatever your struggles might be, fighting these battles on your own can be difficult, painful and sometimes overwhelming. However, there is an incredible amount of power in a strong therapeutic relationship where you can process life with someone who desires to fully understand you with a lens of compassion and empathy.