Later in life, she returned to school, Aurora University, to earn her master’s degree in social work to both learn the program side of social service agencies and develop her clinical and coaching abilities. After a career in nonprofit management, today, Judie does what she loves most and focuses her professional energy working with clients and teaching graduate level social work students.
As a survivor of domestic violence, Judie’s clinical work supports those experiencing domestic abuse, intimate partner violence, and those with narcissistic partners. Additionally, she has experience helping others manage through major life transitions (both wanted and unwanted), depression, and anxiety.
Judie lives in the Chicagoland area with her husband, Lou, and 2 rescue dogs, Wishbone and Stellaluna. She has two adult children, Kat and Carter. Kat is working on a Ph.D. in art history while Carter is in graduate school working on degrees in public administration and social work. Judie grew up in Illinois and loves to travel as it helps her understand and experience diverse perspectives.
I view the clinician’s role in therapy as a guide, a person who will walk along side in the healing journey. I am here to affirm, challenge, provide different perspectives, and help the client develop a new repertoire of skills to better cope with life’s challenges. Unconditional positive regard is at the core of my practice. I understand that we all have been broken by trauma or some challenging event. How we put together these broken pieces into something unique and more beautiful than before is the goal of the therapeutic process.
I have great respect for my clients and know the courage it takes to start therapy. The therapist – client relationship is rather unique. In this trusted relationship while the focus is always on helping the client develop better ways to manage and respond to life’s obstacles, inevitably, I learn from my clients as well.
To learn more or make an appointment, please contact us today.
Glen Ellyn Office
460 N Main St UNIT 205
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Oak Park Office
5940 W Midway Park
Chicago, IL 60644