Hello, my name is Kristen Kasperek, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and a National Certified Counselor. I have 11 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples in individual and group settings. I worked as a Psycho-Social Rehabilitation Therapist for quite some time, where I became certified in OCD as well as PTSD. I have vast experience working with those who suffer from chronic mental illness, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I also have a wealth of experience working with those struggling with self-esteem, self-worth, poor relationships, and grief. If you are searching for direction and inner peace or need help getting past an obstacle in your personal or professional life, I would welcome the opportunity to work with you.
My approach
I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a combination of techniques from other theoretical approaches.
My focus
I have vast experience working with those who suffer from chronic mental illness, including Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder (mood disorders), depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. I also have a wealth of experience working with those struggling with self-esteem, self-worth, poor relationships, eating disorders, learning disabilities, and grief. I typically work with adults dealing with daily life challenges and marriage and family issues. I also assist clients with vocational challenges and issues. (employment issues, knowing what career path to take, etc.)
My communication style
Comfortable. I will always be in a quiet environment when we meet. I will do my best to make my clients feel safe and willing to share their stories.
My journey to mental healthcare
A difficult family dynamic helped me see that people need someone stable and supportive in their lives, often not family. Understanding that having that support can really change a person's life, I go above and beyond to be that person.
My goals for you
I try to have my client create their own goals, and we discuss gray vs. black-and-white thinking. If they struggle, I will help them create goals and keep them accountable.
My first session with you
To feel heard to feel safe, I will guide them through how the process works and open the floor to them, sharing what brought them here and how we can best work together.