I am here to provide a safe space for self-exploration and empathy. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with a Provisional Art Therapy credential (ATR-P). I am based in Illinois and make appointments virtually. I am available for talk therapy, art therapy, or even a mixture of both. I have a background of working with people who have had anything from substance use issues to anxiety (social and generalized), life transitions, grief, phase of life issues, self-esteem issues, substance use issues, and who struggle with communication in relationships.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I'll introduce myself and ask you some questions to get to know you better. Then, I will discuss your goals for therapy. If you do not have any goals, then do not worry! We can work as a team to figure out what you would like out of therapy in general. This is your time to invest in you! We can explore what that looks like for you within your first few sessions. I will ask about any present symptoms you are experiencing and lifestyle habits. I will review the structure of therapy and the general guidelines. At the end I will check in with you to see if you feel like we are a good fit.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
One of my greatest strengths as a provider is my ability to hold space for uncertainty. When you're able to sit with your own uncertainty, you can move forward. I think of this as the hamster running on a wheel in your brain. At some point, the hamster gets tired from running all day long and takes a break. I treat therapy as the hamster taking a break from functioning and exploring its own needs. This way, the hamster can get back on the wheel when it is ready!
About Elise Stewart
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Existential
My personal belief is that life does not always guarantee easy challenges. Through curiosity, differing perspectives, and a sense of purpose, we can continue to face difficult challenges and use them to our advantage. Exploring stressful events and our responses to them teaches us more about our capabilities and limitations. I use this framework as a main motivator when working with clients.
Adlerian
I was trained in Adlerian Art Therapy and used the Adlerian theory in conjunction with Existentialism. Adlerian theory is similar to psychoanalysis but more focused on a sense of purpose and role within the community. We feel the need to find and define our roles in life as we grow. That takes great courage and self exploration.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Reviewing our thought process and inner core beliefs we are able to assess and re-adjust our mindset. I work with clients to identify thinking errors, cognitive dissonance, and core beliefs that influence their decision-making.