What does resilience mean to you? How important is it in facing current challenges? Are there areas in your life that might be holding you back? Congratulations on taking this important step towards addressing your mental health needs. It takes courage to begin therapy. Whether you're new to this or not, finding a therapist can be overwhelming, but we'll figure it out together. Hi! I'm Grace, an LCSW with 17 years of experience in the field. I graduated from Dominican University in 2007 with my MSW and received my LCSW in 2020. Since 2007, I've worked on various projects, from group work with homeless youth in Chicago to international social work combating human trafficking. My experience also includes administrative roles in home improvement for low-income individuals, early childhood consultation (0-5yr) and adjunct teaching at the Bachelor level. I draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques, including CBT, psychodynamic, narrative therapy, solution-focused, somatic therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and trauma-informed approaches. While I often focus on identifying faulty thinking patterns, the mind-body connection, grief and loss and trauma, I understand that a different approach, at times, is warranted. Aside from my work, I'm a first-generation Latina from Chicago, a creative soul, a level 2 Reiki practitioner, a dog mom and a cancer survivor/thriver.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, we will review intake documents, as well as, brief introductions. I will ask what prompted you to seek therapy. Once we have identified the challenges you are facing, we will discuss goal setting, expectations of the therapeutic relationship and logistics in how we will move forward together.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
While I've explored different areas, my strength lies in mental health. I consider myself a down-to-earth individual; I approach my work with seriousness, but without taking myself too seriously. I'm empathetic, caring, a good listener, and resourceful. I strive to create a non-judgmental and unbiased space based on mutual respect.
About Grace Luque
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is a method where we recognize unhelpful thinking patterns and learn to reevaluate them in a different light. We will learn to recognize, identify them and find healthier ways to view a situation. Changing faulty thinking patterns can further develop our coping skills, as well as, lead to changes in behavior and improved mood.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness can be a great tool to help one learn to get in touch with their bodies and regulate emotions. Emotional regulation can lead to not only a calmer state, but also build your emotional intelligence. Mindful practices can involve breathing exercises, guided imagery or any calming practice that teaches us to slow down and be "more present."
Trauma Informed Care
As a trauma informed therapist, I am aware of how trauma can play a role in our daily living. Trauma can manifest in a variety of ways in our bodies and can sometimes lead to a destructive path. I will work with you to create a safe space where we can address any traumatic event, while also avoiding retraumatizing.
Grief Therapy
As long as we are living, loss will occur. We live in a grief illiterate world and as your therapist I will work with you in helping you process your grief. No one grieves the same and there is no timeline for it, but we can work together to express it and move through it, rather than away from it. There is life after loss.