Welcome! My counseling practice is in Wheaton, Illinois and I am also licensed in Florida. I have a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and a doctorate in Counselor Education & Supervision. In addition to private practice, I serve as professor in the counseling graduate program at National Louis University in the Chicago area where I teach all foundational theory and research-based courses.

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

At the onset there of course is intake-related agenda, but my philosophy is to move right into counseling as I know clients are eager to find relief and not be bogged down for an entire first session with housekeeping business. I've been told by almost all clients how valuable it was to jump-start counseling and hearing their story right off the bat on Day One.

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

The feedback I have received mostly speaks of being able to connect quickly with the client and work in tandem with them to push through short and long term goals. Using a gambit of techniques, theory/concepts and practical tools has been useful as well as humor and honestly making coming to therapy something to look forward to - not dread.

About Joan VanderSchaaf