Hi! I am board-certified dance/movement therapist (BC-DMT) and licensed professional clinical counselor (LCPC) in IL. I received my Masters from Columbia College Chicago and have been in the field for 10 years. I have worked with children through older adults experiencing a variety of struggles including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, dementia and trauma. I also provide support to people who serve as care partners/caregivers. An important aspect of my work is my multicultural approach that I bring to clients, which comes from my multiracial heritage (Black, Hawaiian, Chinese-American).

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

I see therapy as a collaborative process, so our first session will be about learning about one another, establishing a connection, and understanding the goal and the tools we can use to help you reach said goal. During our first session, I'll tell you a little more about me and how dance/movement therapy works. You will get a chance to ask questions to help you have a better understanding of the process and our working relationship. Then I will ask you tell me what brings you to therapy and what you are hoping to get out of it. I may ask questions about family history, major life events, or past experience with therapy/mental health practices, as relevant, in order to better understand your situation. Once we have established some goals (specific or general), we will discuss your history and comfortability with movement practices and physical awareness exercises. We may try some if you are interested and comfortable.

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

Because every person is different and experiences situations differently, I take a patient, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach to getting to know you and your situation. I care strongly about advocating for my client's best interest, and am supportive, but will, when necessary, introduce new perspectives to consider. Additionally, my love of learning about cultural traditions and perspectives allows me to hear how cultural practice may factor into your life and play an important role in your next steps.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I enjoy working with people who are entering or seeking to enter new chapters in their lives. Transitions are difficult even if we know they are for the best. Whether it is entering a new living situation, adjusting to a difficult new reality, searching for new relational connections, or connecting to self in order to create larger life changes, I understand the emotional and practical complexities life transitions can bring, and look forward to accompanying you toward your new way of living. My clients are typically curious about how the physical self can be a resource, but do not have to have movement experience to benefit from the work.

About Catherine Miller