Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Master's from Heidelberg College and have practiced for seven years. , I’m a counselor who specializes in working with children and adolescents, helping them navigate the challenges they face and supporting their emotional well-being. My focus is on providing a safe, welcoming space where kids and teens can express themselves, explore their feelings, and develop tools to manage life’s ups and downs. I work with young people who are dealing with a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger, and adjustment issues, as well as those who may be struggling with academic pressures or social challenges. My approach is client-centered, meaning I believe each person has unique stories and needs, and I’m here to listen and help guide them through their journey. I often use techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected and to learn ways to shift negative patterns. I also incorporate creative methods, such as play and art-based activities, especially with younger children, to make therapy more engaging and comfortable.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

During this initial session, I spend time getting to know the client and their unique needs. This often involves asking questions about what has brought them to therapy, their current challenges, and their goals for the process. For younger clients, I might use age-appropriate activities, like drawing or talking about their interests, to help them feel at ease while gathering information. I may also involve parents or guardians in part of the session, especially with children, to understand the family's perspective and to discuss any concerns or goals they might have for the child’s therapy. I also take time to explain what therapy is, how it works, and what they can expect from our time together. This includes discussing confidentiality, the structure of sessions, and answering any questions they may have. For older children and adolescents, I make sure to emphasize that this is their space and that they have a say in the process. By the end of the first session, clients will have a better understanding of what to expect going forward, and we will begin to set some initial goals for our work together. This first meeting is all about starting to build a collaborative relationship and setting the stage for future progress.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I bring a strong sense of compassion and advocacy to my work. I am deeply committed to supporting clients not only through their challenges but also in empowering them to build resilience and self-confidence. This means being a steady and supportive presence during difficult moments while also encouraging them to recognize their strengths and progress. I strive to help my clients develop skills that will serve them beyond the therapy room, fostering their ability to cope with challenges and thrive in their daily lives. My passion for advocating for their emotional and mental well-being drives me to continually learn and grow as a provider, ensuring that I can offer the best support possible.

About Anita Funkhouser

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