Clifton Burns Jr, PhD

(he/him)

LCPC, 16 years of experience
Authentic
Humorous
Empowering
VirtualAvailable

My first career includes 17 years of retail management. I worked in multiple divisions, environments, and roles within the retail management industry. Most of my experiences were in the Big-Box retail environments or within the corporate office environment, so I understand the expectations and stressors of P&L management, marketing, staff performance/recruitment/training & development, shrinkage, O.S.H.A. compliance, and merchandising. I transitioned from the retail management industry to the human services industry in March of 2010 after receiving my master’s degree in Human Services with a specialty in Mental Health Counseling. I recently obtained a doctorate degree in Human Services. This information is pertinent for adults who need assistance to cope with work-life balance, corporate industry standards, stressful work environments, conflict management with co-workers, and work performance due to compassion fatigue or inappropriate time management.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

I ensure that each client feels empowered to be the leader of their journey, as I assist each client in achieving goals by using the S.M.A.R.T. model. The expert of my client’s life is the client.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I utilize the eclectic approach. As individuals, our emotional, behavioral, and psycho-social needs are completely different. This approach draws from multiple theoretical orientations to fit the specific needs of every individual, whose needs may not be resolved using only one approach.

Specialties

Top specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Other specialties

Anger Management

Coping Skills

Couples Counseling

I identify as

Black / African American

Man

Licensed in

Illinois

Accepts

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Location

Offers in-person in 3333 Warrenville Rd, Naperville, IL 60563, Regus office or Suite 200

Virtual

My treatment methods

Trauma-Focused CBT

Our goal is to empower each client to create their narrative as we address behaviors, trauma, or behavioral health symptoms that hinder personal, professional, and educational success. We identify the triggers and previous experiences that are causing "fight or flight" reactions and reduce the weight (or power) that the client is assigning to this person (or situation).

Person-centered (Rogerian)

My role as the therapist is not as “The expert” or “The fixer.” I facilitate the client’s therapy goals and empower the client to be the leader. I utilize a solutions-focused and person-centered approach within therapy to identify problems, develop plans, create paths, and establish monitored S.M.A.R.T. goals.

, 148 ratings

15 ratings with written reviews

May 15, 2026

Every time we meet he challenges me to think differently and he gives me feedback that can be used immediately. He is very open-minded and allows me to walk through my challenges. He is AMAZING!!

Verified client, age 55-64
Review shared after session 19 with Clifton

March 31, 2026

Was a great session he really listened and cared.

Verified client, age 25-34
Review shared after session 1 with Clifton

March 25, 2026

Enjoyed my first session with Mr. Burns. Pumped for next week to dive deeper and learn more.

Verified client, age 25-34
Review shared after session 1 with Clifton