Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change – Toni Robinson
Heather is currently in network with Aetna, Anthem, BCBSIL PPO, Blue Choice, United Healthcare and Cigna. She is also offering self-pay and can also provide a SuperBill if requested.
Hi! I am a Pre-Licensed Counselor in Illinois. I find myself working with many clients in adulthood who are seeking to create a balanced life amidst all the changes happening around them, from career choices to their shifting self-image and relationships. During their journey of self-discovery, my client’s often reach out to me for guidance in navigating negative self-image and the common issues that stem from it like: difficulty setting boundaries, negative self-talk, and difficulty finding direction and purpose in life. I specialize in working with anxiety, panic, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. I provide both warmth and curiosity into my sessions working with clients in a collaborative and direct way. I welcome you into a safe space where you can explore your inner world, self-exploration, feel supported and challenged.
APPROACH
Through building awareness of your patterns, thoughts and behaviors, you will gain the ability to tap into your natural strengths and identify new ways to approach communication, relationships, life and work. My therapeutic approach is strengths based while also pulling in pieces of Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Somatic work. Above all, I focus on customizing each client’s journey to fit their needs. Here is what that may look like:
Brief Psychodynamic Therapy (BPT) is an evidence based approach that promotes understanding and change in people’s inner experiences, increasing positive feelings toward the self, and facilitates learning methods so people can live their lives more successfully.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence based approach in which negative thoughts and distortions in thinking are challenged. Once the patterns of thinking are identified, we work to change those patterns which will in turn change your feelings and then your behaviors.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy has roots from the ancient Buddhist tradition. Mindfulness teaches people how to moderate their level of stress, reduces anxiety, and increases self-efficacy. It offers individuals to create an accepting and non judgemental attitude toward the self.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
2022 – Masters in Counseling Psychology | The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
2019 – Bachelors in Psychology | DePaul University
EXPERIENCE
I have experience working in several different community agencies, and private practice. Over the years, I have gained experience working with youth, adolescents and adults with a variety of presenting problems. I have worked mainly with young adults and middle aged adults. My strengths lie in anxiety, stress, depression, individuals struggling with self-esteem, identity, cultural and body health issues as well as relationship discord and trauma. I have conducted individual and couples counseling with traditional and non-traditional relationships. I am very passionate, affirming and thoughtful about working with members from diverse groups including BIPOC clients and folks from the LGBTQ community. Growing up in an immigrant home, I am very familiar with the challenges encountered being raised by immigrant parents. The stigma correlated to mental health, language barriers, clashing values and beliefs which can cause low self-esteem and loss of identity are a few that impact one’s wellbeing.
PERSONAL
I enjoy finding new recipes and cooking meals at home with family and friends. I love to be creative. I love to paint, as it helps me express herself and takes my mind off things. I have a cat named Lucy so you might see her around. I really enjoy watching tv shows/movies with lots of snacks. I love the city but being outside in nature hiking, riding bikes, and swimming are my favorite things to do.