Alexis Westbrook, PsyD - Illinois Psychologist at Grow Therapy

Alexis Westbrook

Alexis Westbrook

(she/her)

PsyD
12 years of experience
Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Dr. Alexis Westbrook is an African American clinical psychologist who specializes in a trauma-focused approach to treat relational issues. She has over 12 years of experience in helping adults across the lifespan develop healthy coping skills and healing strategies to manage life's difficulties. Her practice is rooted in a collaborative and strength-based approach, focusing on the well-being of her patients. Dr. Westbrook has a passion for helping people heal from the effects of trauma and she uses evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic Therapy to help her patients confront and process traumatic experiences and their impact on the relationships within their lives. She is a strong advocate for social justice and works toward dismantling systemic barriers that hinder healing. Dr. Westbrook provides cultural-competent care, considering each person’s unique cultural background and identity to provide the best possible care. She is passionate about helping her patients achieve a greater sense of balance and peace in their lives.

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

During the intake session one can expect a welcoming and supportive environment that acknowledges and respects their unique experiences and identity. The intake session is a crucial time for building rapport, gathering information, and setting the stage for future therapeutic work.

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

In clinical practice, I prioritize my understanding and focus on the long-lasting impact traumatic experience. I recognize that trauma can have wide-ranging effects on individuals' lives (i.e., thoughts, emotions, behaviors, etc.), impacting not only their lives but also the lives others they may be in community with. As a result, within clinical practice, I also prioritize a focus on relational-informed therapy. Relational-informed therapy focuses on exploring and improving relational dynamics, both past and present, with an understanding that the quality of one's relationships can profoundly influence their mental health and wellbeing.

About Alexis Westbrook

Licensed in

Address

Appointments

Fully booked

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

As an African American Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a keen awareness of cultural context and individual experiences, recognizing how these factors shape cognition, behavior, and emotions. In my practice, I conduct thorough assessments to understand clients' backgrounds and unique challenges, addressing issues like racial discrimination and cultural identity. By identifying and restructuring negative thought patterns influenced by societal messages, I help clients develop more compassionate self-perceptions and test new beliefs through real-world behavioral experiments. Integrating culturally relevant coping strategies, such as mindfulness and community support, I provide a holistic approach to mental health. In group therapy, I foster discussions on racial identity and societal expectations, promoting a sense of community and empowerment. Constant self-reflection and education ensure I offer empathetic, effective care, empowering clients to build resilience and a positive self-concept amid societal pressures.

Trauma Informed Care

As an African American Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I employ Trauma-Informed Therapy with a deep understanding of the impact of cultural and historical trauma on my clients. I begin by creating a safe and trusting environment, acknowledging the profound effects of systemic racism, discrimination, and intergenerational trauma. Through careful assessment, I identify trauma-related triggers and responses, helping clients understand how their past experiences influence their present behavior and emotions. By incorporating culturally sensitive techniques and practices, such as mindfulness, grounding exercises, and community-based support, I help clients build resilience and coping skills. My approach emphasizes empowerment, collaboration, and respect, ensuring that clients feel validated and understood as they work through their trauma and move toward healing and recovery.

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