Hello, I’m erica! Whether we find ourselves at our stressed out breaking point, ready to process old wounds, or simply seeking to understand ourselves more deeply in order to build a life that we desire, each of us needs a place to lay down our stressors and talk out the problems that we face that feels safe, warm, and non-judgmental. For many of us, one of those places is with a trusted therapist. It can feel daunting to explore the idea of starting therapy; and yet, to even be sifting through therapists online shows already a level of hope, care for, and dedication to yourself and your wellbeing - what a meaningful moment! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois, and earned my master’s degree in clinical social work from The University of Chicago. In my years of practice I have worked with adults who are struggling with the pressures of the world and the pain or trauma they have endured, are processing current or upcoming moments or seasons of change, and are overall seeking to find their own healing, hope, and beliefs. Most often my clients are looking to address anxiety and depression, trauma, perinatal mental health, self image and confidence, education and career direction and development, sexuality and sexual or gender identity, and cultural experience and identity. Regardless of what specifically you are seeking and carrying, I am honored to be invited to walk alongside you on your unique journey of healing and discovery. I seek to always offer warmth and a gentle and empathetic presence where you can feel free to explore whatever is on your mind or in your heart and know that it will be met not with judgment, but rather with compassion and care.

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

At the heart of meaningful therapy is a meaningful therapy relationship! My top priority is to build deep and genuine relationships with each client so that you can feel safe in doing the courageous work of therapy, and know that you are truly seen and cared for. To that end, our first session allows us a chance to get to know each other, work towards dispelling any fear or intimidation around the therapy process, and set a foundation for our new therapy relationship. We can expect in that first session to spend some time going over some information about starting therapy and answering questions you may have, hearing a little information about me and my approach, and spend most of the time talking about what things are like for you right now and what you’re hoping to get out of therapy.

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

I believe, honor, and cherish that no two clients are the same, nor are their needs! I believe you are the expert of your life and of your story, and see myself as journeying alongside you as you uncover more and more of your own truth and your own strength. I aim to have our therapy serve as a soft landing place as you navigate the challenges and stressors you are carrying, and am always going to offer a warm and empathetic environment for you to be able to comfortably explore who you are and what’s going on in life. Therapy is no joke, and neither are our struggles, but humor can often go hand in hand with hope and healing, and I can make space for laughter with clients who want to in the moments where we find some lightness together. I am accepting of, equally regard, and have experience working with people across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, any religious or faith traditions, and all ethnicities and citizenship statuses. Know that no matter your background, identity, or beliefs, I welcome you.

About erica brown