Licensed to practice in 2 states and accepts 7 insurances. Specializes in Anxiety, Grief, Life Transitions and 8 more.
(she/her)
New to Grow
Life can be complicated, let's sort through it together! Hi! I'm Emily, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with clients in both Illinois and Ohio. I believe therapy should be a place where you can show up exactly as you are, without fear of judgment. In our work together, we'll celebrate your successes just as much as we'll work through your struggles, and I'll help you challenge unhelpful thought patterns while honoring the experiences that brought you here. We might even share a laugh along the way! My background is in medical and oncology based social work. In my work, I support children, adolescents, young adults, and families as they navigate serious illness, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and major life transitions. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and strive to create a space where clients of ALL identities feel respected, welcomed, and supported. I earned both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work, with a concentration in Mental Health, from Loyola University Chicago.
My goal is to make our first session as comfortable and welcoming as possible. I'll ask questions about what brings you to therapy, what's been going on in your life, and what you hope to gain from our work together. There is no pressure to share everything all at once (after all, you've lived a whole life, how could you possibly share all of that in 60 minutes!). I'll also provide a brief background of my experience, approach to therapy, and will answer any questions you might have about working together.
I value authenticity and connection. I bring warmth, curiosity, and humor into my sessions because I believe therapy doesn't have to feel cold or overly clinical. It's okay to laugh, celebrate progress, and recognize your strengths while doing the hard work of healing. My hope is that you'll always feel accepted, respected, and empowered throughout our work together.
I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and adults who are navigating life's many transitions—whether that's starting college or a new career, adjusting to changing relationships, managing stress at work, coping with anxiety, or simply feeling stuck and unsure of what's next. I'm especially passionate about supporting healthcare professionals, caregivers, and individuals adjusting to medical diagnoses or chronic illness. You don't have to be in the middle of a crisis to benefit from therapy. Whether you're hoping to improve your relationships, quiet your inner critic, manage anxiety, process difficult experiences, or create lasting change, I'm here to help.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients recognize the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we'll identify unhelpful thinking patterns, challenge negative self-talk, and develop practical coping strategies that support lasting change.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients build a healthier relationship with difficult thoughts and emotions. Rather than trying to eliminate discomfort, we'll focus on accepting what we can't control while taking meaningful steps toward a life that aligns with your values.
Motivational Interviewing
I use Motivational Interviewing to help clients explore their own motivation for change. Through a collaborative and nonjudgmental approach, we'll build on your strengths, work through uncertainty, and increase your confidence in reaching your goals.