Are you avoiding some of life’s most significant moments? Are you overwhelmed or stuck? Is life passing you by with nothing left? Give yourself some time to begin a journey that will help you. In my formal education, I have acquired various certifications and licenses that allow me to provide high-quality clinical services to adults including: 1. Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC): This license enables me to practice as a professional counselor in the state of Illinois. It demonstrates my competency and adherence to ethical standards. 2. Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Addictions Counselor (CAADC): This certification signifies my specialization in helping individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. It demonstrates my expertise in treating addiction-related issues. 3. Certified Co-Occurring Disorder Professional (CODP I): This certification further emphasizes my proficiency in working with clients who have co-occurring mental health disorders and substance abuse issues. It allows me to provide comprehensive care and support to individuals with dual diagnoses. 4. Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-Level 1): This certification validates my knowledge and skills in providing trauma-informed care to clients who have experienced significant psychological distress or trauma. 5. Certified Clinical Complex Trauma Professional (CCTP): This certification recognizes my specialized training and expertise in working with individuals who have endured multiple or ongoing traumas that have deeply impacted their psychological well-being. 6. Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS): This designation indicates that I have met rigorous standards of expertise and experience in providing clinical supervision to aspiring or practicing counselors. It demonstrates my ability to guide and mentor other professionals in the field. These qualifications enable me to provide effective and evidence-based therapy to adult clients, while also equipping me with the skills and knowledge to train and support future counselors.

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

Your participation in counseling is crucial for your mental wellness, and we will work together to ensure that you receive the care and support you need. Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance, and I will work with you to provide a comprehensive treatment plan that meets your individual needs. My ultimate goal in our first session is to get to know YOU, and have small talk to help you feel at ease as we review the below. 1. Introductions 2. Establishing needs 3. Review your intake questionnaire (structured interview). 4. Ask questions about presenting concerns. 5. Get to know you and the issues that bring you into treatment. 6. Discuss your relationships, interests, strengths and goals.

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

I firmly believe that building rapport, respecting clients' worldviews, active listening, mutual understanding, and clear counselor-client expectations are the pillars of creating safe and inclusive counseling spaces, whether it's in-person or online. If significant differences exist between us, such as in culture or belief systems, I will work to understand the differences. My years of clinical experience and counseling specialties for the last 14-plus years have afforded me to serve urban, suburban, rural-suburban, and rural populations in Illinois and various Illinois counties. I believe in the acceptance of all persons who want to gain greater mental health.

About Lisa D. Vinson