Hi! I live in Indiana, but I graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with my Master of Social Work degree. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the field for over 25 years in many different disciplines. I worked at domestic violence shelters, with family and child services, hospital social work, vocational rehabilitation, and teaching at the college level. I recently decided that I could make more of a difference doing counseling with people who are seeking services to help them get through life's struggles and make positive changes in their lives.
In our first session, we will discuss what issues you are having that brought you to therapy and see if we can make a plan, together, to alleviate some of your symptoms and get you back on the track to peace and happiness.
I am open to various lifestyles, and I won't pass judgement on anyone. I am a skilled listener, and I can empathize with a multitude of situations. I have quite a bit of knowledge in many subject areas, but if I don't know about something, I will take the time to do research on it in order to assist my clients to the best of my ability.
I love working with people who are going through life transitions, such as a divorce or the end of a relationship, those starting a new job or career, and those struggling to care for family members who are unable to care for themselves. Sometimes just talking things over out loud with someone helps to put things in perspective and provides relief from negative and stressful emotions.
We will practice using positive self-talk, reframing, thought stopping, and cognitive restructuring to change your thinking patterns in order to allow you to have a happier life and healthier relationships.
You may feel free to talk about whatever you would like to discuss, and I will provide you with an empathetic and non-judgemental environment and assist you in exploring self-exploration and growth.