David Kasher, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

David Kasher

David Kasher

(he/him)

LCPC
24 years of experience
Virtual

I have been licensed as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) since 2003. I currently work in college/university mental health providing culturally competent therapeutic support to students struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, mood disorders, interpersonal struggles, suicidal ideation, and grief/loss. While I truly enjoy working with clients in this particular age range, I enjoy the opportunity to work with adults of all ages who want to engage in collaborative self-exploration in order to live a life of value.

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

From the very beginning, I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic space through unconditional positive regard for my client. For me, first sessions are all about me sitting with the client and truly listening to their story. I come to the first session with so many questions. such as "What brought you here? What do you want to work on? How do you feel right now?" among others. It is my hope that the trust and safe space developed during the first session will act as the foundation for meaningful therapeutic work.

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

Along with my passion for listening actively to clients and meeting them where they are at in the therapeutic process, I believe in the restorative value of humor and I incorporate it appropriately into my therapy sessions. There is nothing more joyful than tapping into that part of a person that can laugh in the face of adversity. I believe that genuine laughter is one of the building blocks of coping with life's challenges. However, I also understand that laughter has its place in the therapeutic relationship. There will be times that clients need a more sublime space in which they receive support. I prioritize true empathic attunement into what the client needs in the moment.

About David Kasher

Identifies as

Specializes in

DepressionLGBTQ

Licensed in

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I typically implement CBT in my practice by encouraging clients to explore the interrelationship between their thoughts and feelings, with particular emphasis on identifying and challenging maladaptive core beliefs that promote distress. I strive to create a supportive therapeutic alliance that encourages clients to develop more self-affirming perspectives.

Compassion Focused

I believe that self-compassion and "psychological flexibility" are paramount to the human experience. Through my work with clients as well as my own lived experience, I've developed a greater understanding of how being kind to ourselves when facing obstacles and life challenges can only better equip us to live more empowered lives. Through Compassion Focused work, I encourage clients to develop this understanding and compassion towards self.

Interpersonal

In examining the term "interpersonal," a more accurate term that characterizes my practice is "relational." I believe that one's sense of happiness and personal fulfillment in life stems from the ways that they relate to others, their everyday lives, and the world around them. My work with clients typically encourages examining these relationships and whether they encourage or hinder living a life of value.