Therapist Profile

My Approach to Helping

The image we present to others reflects the brightness of our spirit and the color of our life experiences, as well as our perception of such experiences. Each of us has the ability to fully feel and radiate our unique inner beauty so that it shines in all that we do. Events in life can sometimes dim our brightness as we attempt to regain our sense of control, equilibrium, and make adjustments. Such transitions can be challenging at times - the death of someone dear to us; a sudden job loss; the emotional impact related to infertility, a special needs child, or waiting to adopt a child; substance abuse issues in a family; daily stressors or trying to balance life, which can exhaust our resources; and traumatic community or world events. The stress and grief which can accompany such events, especially if prolonged, can lead to difficulty in truly feeling happy again, unless we have the courage to reach out and trust others to assist in this process. The uniqueness of who we are, is that we all cope with life transitions differently. What we all have in common though, is that as human beings, we need other people for support through the challenges which life can bring. Speaking with a trained and objective listener, being open to guidance, education, and nourishing your heart, helps to ease discomfort, then leads to empowerment, hope, and happiness. The world begins to open up again, we take in its beautiful colors, and we reflect them back in all that we do. I offer you an opportunity to nurture yourself and to discuss your difficulties constructively and confidently; freeing you to enjoy all the good things life has to offer. The nature of my approach is consultative, eclectic, educational, empathic, interactive, and supportive. I am very warm, down-to-earth, relaxed, and non-judgmental in my work with people. I assist individuals in finding the positive opportunities that are available to them in their lives.

More Info About My Practice

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker both in Illinois and Wisconsin, and have 25 years of experience. I am also a Certified Addictions Counselor, and a Certified Employee Assistance Professional. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, from Loyola University of Chicago, and my major emphasis of study was in Developmental Psychology, with a Minor in Women's Studies. I received my Masters in Social Work degree from Jane Addams School of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago, with an emphasis in Mental Health and Employee Assistance Programs. In addition to my previously mentioned services, I also facilitate support groups for the types of concerns I specialize in and conduct Critical Incident Debriefings, Seminars, Presentations, and Trainings for the community and businesses. In addition to my individual professional work experiences, education, and credentials, I have journeyed many of the same paths of personal life experiences that I assist people with. I draw upon these events to assist those whom I support. Since I have an understanding and familiarity of life transitions, emotional processes, and the progression of healing, I sincerely empathize with others. I also have first-hand knowledge and familiarity of the empowerment which leads to growth, and value the power of diversity, in which we are all unique gifts in the world.