“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.”   

~ Socrates

Such well spoken words, but isn’t it so much easier said than done? I’ve noticed that oftentimes, clients struggle with acceptance, and making meaningful behavioral changes. Being raised locally, I’m very familiar with the demands that students, athletes, parents, and other high achievers face. Let’s not forget the societal expectations…they can be fierce.

If you identify with any of these areas, chances are you and I will work well together:

• You’re a stressed out teenager who is having a hard time managing the stress of AP classes and your future (former AP student here!)
• You’re an athlete who values doing your best, but you feel like you’re falling short
• A family member has borderline personality disorder or is a narcissist, and you are sick of walking on eggshells
• You’re struggling with alcohol use, and you’re not quite sure how you got here
• You’re a family member of someone with a substance use problem, and you don’t know how to best support them without sacrificing yourself in the process

During our work together, we’ll examine different behavioral patterns that may not be serving you well, and figure out how to make choices that are more aligned with the goals and values that you have set for yourself. We’re not meant to feel like tightly wound balls of stress day after day!

Hey there, I’m Meghan, and I support clients who are ready to dive in and make stuff happen! With a strong focus on behavioral change, I empower my clients to develop practical strategies for lasting improvement. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-injurious behavior, trauma, substance use, and the complexities faced by family members of those with a personality disorder. I am a dedicated licensed social worker (LSW) with a passion for working with adolescents and young adults. My therapeutic practice is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Systems Theory, with a strong foundation in evidence-based Psychodynamic Theory. This comprehensive approach allows us to address both the immediate symptoms and underlying causes of distress, and work towards distress tolerance.

I hold a Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) from the University of Iowa and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Social Work (MSW) from Loyola University Chicago. Additionally, I have earned a Certificate of Advanced Brief Interventions for Substance Abuse among Multiple Communities from Loyola University. This specialization provides me with a unique perspective, allowing me to engage in open conversations and provide non-judgmental support in relation to substance use for both adolescents and adults.

Beyond my clinical work, I have a passion for writing. I believe that this unique combination allows me to approach therapy with creativity and empathy, offering a well-rounded perspective to my clients. I am always happy to explore alternative and creative approaches to working through emotions in a way that is unique to my clients; they say that everybody learns differently, and I believe that everybody heals differently, too.

My journey to becoming a therapist began as a teenager when I was fortunate to form a strong relationship with a therapist who took the time to truly understand me, and who changed my life in the most profound ways. Inspired by her impact, I’ve dedicated my career to passing along that same goodness. I firmly believe that having a supportive therapeutic environment should be a gift offered to anyone who seeks it. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where my clients can explore their feelings, overcome challenges, and achieve personal growth.

No matter what stage of life you are at or what challenges you may be facing, I’m committed to supporting you in achieving your mental wellness.