Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois. I earned my MSW in 2005 from the University of Minnesota. I have supported many clients experiencing life transitions such as career and relationship changes. Additionally, I have many years of experience supporting people around aging, Alzheimer's disease, caregiving and grief. I am drawn to this work because I believe everyone deserves to feel understood and supported as they face the ups and downs of life.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session I'll learn what inspired you to reach out for support. I will begin to get an understanding of your interests and challenges. I'll also learn what kinds of supports and strategies have helped you in the past and what you hope for in the future. We can also review any questions you have about talk therapy and any previous therapy experiences of yours.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My strengths as a provider include my ability to create a non-judgmental environment where people can feel comfortable leaning in at their own pace. I am often told that I have a unique ability to put complex things into words for people. Being able to say how you feel and to describe what is happening is a key piece of beginning to make changes.
About Martha Tierney
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Compassion Focused
A big part of my therapeutic work is focused on increasing my clients' ability to treat themselves with compassion. I do this by helping to uncover unhelpful identity narratives and self-critical thinking patterns that have developed over time. Learning self-compassion can really enhance our ability to make positive changes in our lives because it creates room to be imperfect and still acknowledge small and large successes.
Grief Therapy
Grief can be an extremely painful and disruptive experience. It is important that we give it the respect it deserves. Too often, people feel pressured to "get over" losses and aren't given opportunities to be fully honest about how hard it is to adjust after a significant loss. I work to help people articulate complex emotions, identify meaningful ways to honor a loss, and adapt to new realities.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation is a helpful way to assist clients in understanding what is happening to them. In particular, I use psychoeducation with individuals and families who are experiencing Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Information about the disease progression and about available support options can be very helpful when navigating this complicated experience.