Hi! I’m Catherine, a licensed clinical social worker with experience providing psychotherapy in private practice and community mental health settings. I guide adults and adolescents with anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and stress related to life transitions through the healing process. I approach each client with warmth and genuine curiosity about their history, experiences, strengths, and challenges. Through and exploration of the “what now?” and “what next?” My approach centers on assisting clients in taking steps forward on a meaningful and authentic life path with a special focus on Gen-Xers, Millennials, and Gen-Zs. Together, we'll explore new strategies and perspectives to experience life with less suffering. We'll work to address current symptoms while also exploring the root causes for discontent. I am also a yoga teacher and incorporate somatic and mindfulness philosophy into my practice. I hold a Master of Social Work from Aurora University in Aurora, Illinois and a Bachelor of Arts in English from North Central College in Naperville, Illinois. I returned to school to pursue my Master of Social work after a successful career in public relations and marketing with tenures in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. I received advanced training in psychodynamic therapy, grief therapy, anxiety and related disorders, and emotionally focused therapy.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session together, we'll take some time to get to know each other while also delving into some of the specific challenges you're facing and areas you'd like some help. From there, we'll collaborate to effectively work to resolve those challenges.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I possess a unique understanding of navigating career pivots, addressing the challenges inherent in being part of a sandwich generation, and adapting to ever evolving family dynamics that significantly impact one's ability to manage life's challenges and create fulfilling experiences. In addition to my professional expertise, I bring a valuable perspective as a yoga instructor. Integrating principles of breath work, movement, and proven strategies to calm the fluctuations of the mind, I assist clients in finding clarity and tranquility admits life's demands.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I connect with clients who are navigating life transitions such as college, job changes, relationship changes, and exploring different ways to navigate in the world. In our work together, we can uncover patterns of thoughts, emotions and behaviors that may be influencing your current experiences. In session, we’ll navigate the intricacies of your past experiences and relationships, understanding how they shape your present.
About Catherine Stieg
Specializes in
Serves ages
Accepts
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Psychodynamic
I integrate psychodynamic principles in my therapeutic approach to create a space that fosters self-discovery and exploration. Drawing on these principles, we can uncover patterns of thoughts, emotions and behaviors that may be influencing your current experiences. In session, we’ll navigate the intricacies of your past experiences and relationships, understanding how they shape your present. Through open dialogue and reflective exploration, unresolved conflicts can be identified and addressed, helping you gain more insight into the root causes of distress. This enables us to work collaboratively to promote self-awareness, enhance interpersonal relationships, and foster personal growth.
Existential
In my therapeutic practice, I incorporate existential therapy to explore and understand the fundamental aspects of human existence. Grounded in the belief that individuals have the power to shape their own lives, existential therapy encourages an exploration of the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being human. In our sessions, we’ll engage in thoughtful conversations that delve into questions of meaning, freedom, responsibility, and the search for process. I strive to create an environment where you can authentically confront and grapple with the uncertainties of life and explore values, beliefs and choices that define who you are. Through our work together, we’ll uncover and challenge limiting beliefs and existential concerns to increase our ability to make meaningful choices. By fostering self-awareness and embracing our inherent capacity for growth, we’ll work toward creating a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Drawing on my training as a yoga instructor, I incorporate mindfulness-based therapy as a powerful tool to enhance self-awareness, resilience, and overall well-being. Mindfulness invites us to be fully present in the current moment, cultivating a non-judgmental awareness of thoughts, emotions, and sensations. We’ll explore techniques that promote a deep connection with the present. Through guided mindfulness exercises, breath awareness and meditation, we develop a heightened awareness of automatic reactions and patterns. This awareness forms the foundation for positive change, empowering you to respond to life’s challenges with greater clarity and calm. Mindfulness-based therapy is particularly effective in managing stress, anxiety, and enhancing emotional regulation. By fostering a mindful approach, we work toward breaking free from habitual thought patterns and cultivating a more compassionate relationship with yourself. This process enables you to balance life’s complexities with a greater sense of balance and resilience.