Deer Park
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I prefer to be contacted by: Phone
Personal Statement
I value your story and your unique experience in the world. I work hard to set aside my own biases, interpretive concepts and diagnoses to take the time to really listen. I consider it an honor and privilege to support and guide others through the many challenges of life. I believe interventions and interpretations become relevant after first taking the time to really listen.
Who I Serve
Working with middle schoolers, teens and their families is a specialty of mine— accounting for about two thirds of my practice. I particularly enjoy counseling those who may have had trouble connecting with professionals in the past. As such, I work to provide an environment that is safe, productive, and yes, even fun! I also spend time with parents equipping them with the skills they need to address long-standing conflicts and to rebuild their family relationships.
I also find great joy working with artists of all types. Many artists have found therapeutic power in the process of creating and/or performing art—which can provide the artist with a great deal of emotional resiliency. I also respect and enjoy the artists often unconventional worldview.
Treatment Specialties and Competencies
- Oppositional Behavior
- Family Conflict
- ADHD
- Sandtray therapy
- Mood Disorders
- Divorce Support
- Social Skills Deficits
- High-functioning Autism
- Obsessions and Compulsions
- Depression
- Addictions
- Faith-based Problems
- Anger and Aggression
- Anxiety Disorders
- Bullying
- Difficulty with Motivation
Theoretical Approach
My treatment methods are highly eclectic–typically adjusting my approach to the needs of each client–involving behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, family systems, religious, existential, and certain dynamic theories of change. It’s not uncommon for me to use play therapy, art therapy, and other expressive forms of treatment. I also look to professional research and incorporate ‘best practices’ to help decide what approach may be most effective for a particular client. I view each person holistically, and believe that many other forms of professional care can help facilitate change.
Education
- Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois since 2002
- Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology in 2000 from Trinity International University in Deerfield, IL
- Bachelors degree in Philosophy in 1997 at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL
Experience
With 20 years of clinical experience in private practice, I have treated a wide range of family problems and clinical issues for both children and adults. Early in my career, I also worked at a psychiatric hospital for children and teens, and helped develop an intensive outpatient program for behaviorally disorders children ages 4-8. Since 2000, I have worked full-time as a therapist in two practices, here at the Cherry Hill Counseling and also independently in Wheaton, Illinois.