I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better ― Maya Angelou
Jessica 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.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I believe we are all doing our best but can still do better, especially with the right help. I hope to offer you a warm and comfortable space to process your story and find understanding, acceptance, and growth. I aim to challenge you to explore yourself, stretch yourself, and love yourself.
APPROACH
I have an eclectic therapeutic style, sampling bits and pieces from multiple theories. As we work together, I customize my approach to fit your needs depending on your preferences and goals. I also believe humor is essential to keep us going sometimes. Theoretically, I utilize aspects of Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. That might seem like a whole lot of nothing to you, so let me clarify-
Person-Centered Therapy (PCT) is a client-centered approach in which the client takes the lead. Therapists following a person-centered approach provide a nonjudgmental and comfortable place for clients to process their thoughts and feelings.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach in which negative thoughts and belief patterns are identified and challenged. The idea behind this is if we change the way you think, we can change how you feel and do things moving forward.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of CBT that focuses on skills. DBT skills encompass four areas; mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT helps people recognize discomfort while still feeling “ok,” so they feel empowered to make decisions rather than act on impulses.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) believes that our mind is made up of sub-personalities or parts. Each of our parts has its own idea of what they think is best for us and problems arise when they have differing views. The goal of IFS is to bring those parts together to work together internally, and therefore, externally.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
2016 – Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Lewis University
2010 – Bachelors in Community Health | University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign
EXPERIENCE
I have experience working in a variety of settings including community mental health, school, and private practice. My previous experience includes working with people with severe mental illness, assessments, groups, crisis interventions and treatment planning. I currently specialize working with trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief.
PERSONAL
In my free time, I enjoy cooking, gardening, reading, and spending time with my family. I’m a huge animal lover and can talk about my dogs all day.
An essential part of making progress in therapy is finding the right therapist to help you along the way. I hope you’re able to learn a little more about me to get a better idea if I’m the right therapist for you.