My name is Brian Kelley and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with nearly 20 years of experience working as a therapist near Chicago, IL. Reaching out for help is one of the bravest things an individual can do, and therapy is one of the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves. I am fortunate to be a part of a wonderful practice, Center for Self Actualization, located in Evergreen Park, IL where I provide individual therapy to adults.
I have two main goals in a first session. My first goal is to get to know as much about you and your background as possible. My second goal is related to providing an open and welcoming space so we can begin to develop a strong therapeutic relationship. If you leave the first session feeling any more at ease, comfortable or confident about me or the process then I feel I will have accomplished the second goal.
I strive to provide a collaborative, safe, and encouraging environment that promotes awareness and growth. My goal is for you to achieve improved relationships with yourself and others and find an understanding in life that restores hope, balance, and control.
I have worked with those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, stress management, relationship conflict, divorce, LGBT issues, grief/loss and trauma and helped them take back control of their lives. By working together to identify your unique needs, the source of distress, and what's perpetuating the problem, I will help you develop the tools to navigate and overcome the obstacles preventing you from finding fulfillment and living the life you want!
As a certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I explore the dynamic relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. The central philosophy behind CBT is that thoughts and behaviors have power to influence how we feel and our emotional wellbeing.
The primary focus of a humanistic approach is to tap into the power of your own pesonal potential and your self-discovery.
Utilizes techniques from the Gottman Institute to facilitate increase intimacy, better communication and conflict resolution.
Motivational Interviewing focuses on exploring and resolving ambivalence and centers on motivational processes within the individual that facilitate change.