*** ATTENTION: Please do NOT schedule yourself on this platform (Grow Therapy), as I am managing 2 separate scheduling calendars. Please view availability offered and then call/text me at 630-708-0392 to let me know your desired days/times for appointments. Once confirmed with me, you may then set up an appointment here, and fill out your intake information. Thank you! *** Hello there! My name is Jessica, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADC). I have over 22 years of experience working with individuals and families. It is a privilege assisting others as they navigate life transitions, painful loss, emotional distress, and circumstances that may be preventing them from facilitating change and moving towards a future they'd like to see. I obtained a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree and a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at George Williams College at Aurora University. I have a diverse background of professional experience, as I have worked in school settings; in partnerships with local police departments; in inpatient and outpatient programs in behavioral health hospitals; supplying psycho-educational materials and groups for youth and adolescents; presenting at seminars for other professionals in the field; and providing individual, family, and group therapy in a variety of settings.

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

In our first session together, we'll start with some brief introductions, maybe even do an "icebreaker" to help you relax a bit. Then, we can discuss what brought you to seek counseling and review the specific challenges you're experiencing or trials you are enduring. This will help me create a plan for us to work through in our follow-up sessions. Clients can expect to feel a bit "lighter" in the first session as we connect and I validate how you've been feeling. Early on in our work together, you will learn tools so you can work on regulating your emotions when upset or in distress. Additionally, and most importantly: When you leave your first session, you will already find that you are beginning to feel hope towards your future.

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

I strive to treat clients and their family members the way I would insist a provider treat my loved ones - with empathy, dignity, patience, and respect. I work to understand where my clients want to start within their own therapy, so they have ownership of their care and their goals for moving forward I empower them to recognize strengths, develop skills, learn strategies, and explore alternative solutions to their current crises. I aim to provide a safe, secure, and nurturing environment to promote healing. I engage clients with compassion, humor, and a direct and non-judgmental approach. I work alongside my clients, encouraging and helping them find hope on their individual journey to peace and restoration.

About Jessica L. Novak, LCSW, CADC