Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
"My philosophy towards therapy, and, being a therapist, can be put this way...You can create change in your life. You can overcome difficult and even seemingly overwhelming obstacles. The first step is to believe that you are worthy of a better life no matter what the present situation tells you. The next step is to accept that, 'Life is a Journey'. I think there is incredible wisdom and hope in those four words; a journey is on-going and life gives you the opportunity to change direction anytime you truly want to! I believe we all have the ability to make things better for ourselves. Sometimes we just need a little help figuring out how to start."
Pamela has been a practicing therapist for over 30 years and uses a holistic approach to address her client's issues. She is also a Level II EMDR facilitator.
She received her Master of Science in Education, in 1986, from Illinois State University. In 1992, she was recognized as a National Certified Counselor (NCC), by the National Board for Certified Counselors. Pamela holds an active Illinois State License as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (#180.004957)
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Normal Office
During my 20+ years of experience in this community I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and families with a variety of issues and in a variety of settings. No matter what the age or what the issue I have found that most people have the ability to cope with life when they have the support they need. What I love most about being a therapist is seeing how positive changes in one person have a ripple effect in their family and community. We are truly all connected. I believe my non-threatening down -to- earth support, optimism, and problem-solving skills are my greatest therapy strengths. I would love the opportunity to listen to you and help you uncover the strengths you need to live life to the fullest.
Kathy received a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Illinois State University in 1994 and has been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois since 1996. She has been trained in numerous techniques including play therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), TBRI (Trust Based Relational Intervention) and BrainPaint EEG Biofeedback.
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
Before I was a therapist, I was an educator. Among other courses, I taught Crisis Communication in the Police and Fire Safety Academy and volunteered with an on-campus crisis center. My job was to teach first responders how to get important information from potentially traumatized witnesses/victims, and I often wondered what I would do if I were permitted to see the crisis through. What would I do if I were the therapist who assisted this person— start to finish—in recovering from a life-altering event?
When I accepted a faculty position in the Department of Communication at Illinois State University, I decided to find out. I earned another Master's Degree in Psychology. I believe that it is my combination of a solid background in communication—which includes relationships, gender-speak, assertiveness and self-talk—along with my education in Clinical Psychology and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certification that provides for a well-balanced approach to individual counseling.
My clients—though they often have very difficult circumstances to overcome—are most often wonderful people in difficult situations. They inspire me. When I see the healing, when I see the insight, when I see the answer with the client, I am humbled and grateful for the therapeutic relationship. And, I love the "happily ever afters."
Depression | Anxiety | Bi-Polar and Mood Disorders | Post Traumatic Stress Disorder | Acute Stress Disorder | Sexual Assault Victimization | Trauma | Chronic Pain and Disease | OCD | Adolescents and Young Adults with Special Needs | Anger Management | Impulse Control | Disordered Eating | Borderline Personality Disorder | Self-Harming Behaviors
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
Many humans suffer from emotional distress and psychological symptoms due to aversive life events. Often times, negative experiences can become “stuck” in our brains impacting how we perceive ourselves, others, or the world. Our beliefs about ourselves can become skewed and negative. As a trauma-trained therapist, I can help you work through these past events and shift these beliefs in order to be able to live the life YOU want to live.
By building a safe and trusting foundation, we can work together to build confidence in recognizing what is within our control to overcome negative behaviors and emotions. We will work to identify several different skills to help manage and decrease heightened emotions and symptoms.
Prior to joining Elliott Counseling Services, I have provided therapy for a wide range of ages from varying socioeconomic backgrounds. Working as an outreach counselor as well as a crisis intervention therapist, I have assisted individuals facing many different challenges such as depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), eating disorders, mood disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), and various other behavioral problems. I graduated Chi Sigma Iota from the University of Illinois Springfield in 2013 receiving my Master of Arts in Human Development Counseling. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (#180.011726) for the State of Illinois.
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
I have been a therapist for 10+ years and have worked with clients with a wide range of presenting concerns. I have been with ECS since late 2017. Before coming to work in private practice I spent seven years working at a community mental health center where I provided counseling, substance abuse treatment services, and crisis intervention. I work with people with depression, anxiety, difficulties with stress management skills, relationship problems, history of trauma, and more. I utilize a variety of clinical techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectic behavior therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I'm also trained in BrainPaint neurofeedback.
I believe that my clients are the best experts on themselves and treat all my clients with kindness, humor, and equality. As a therapist it's my role to support you and help you develop your talents to lead a richer, more fulfilling life.
I have a BA in Psychology from Illinois Wesleyan University and an MS in Clinical Counseling from Illinois State University. My Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor's license number is 180.00854.
In addition to being a licensed therapist I am also an experienced skydiver with more than 1,000 jumps. I manage the Women's Skydiving Network, an organization with almost 3,000 members that helps promote women in the sport and provides educational and training opportunities for women who are seeking to become skydiving professionals. In 2015 I was a member of the IL State Women's Skydiving Team that set a state record for largest all-female formation with 39 women. I am certified as a Coach and Instructor by the United States Parachute Association.
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Peoria Office
Kitty has worked as a professional counselor in medical settings since 2001. Prior to her work as a professional counselor she worked in the social services field with a variety of individuals: single mothers, refugee minors, the homeless and elderly, persons with developmental disabilities and the chronically mentally ill. She attended Illinois State University and later graduate school at Bradley University. She is a member of the American Counseling Association and is a board certified counselor. She loves a good laugh and uses humor in her practice as well as an individual’s faith and view of the world to facilitate awareness and healing.
“I believe healing is a reality and that the answers are within us. Life is a continuous journey, and everyone has valuable experiences that make them stronger and more resilient. We can learn and grow from the ups and downs. When someone can embrace that belief they can start to move forward and heal. We all get stuck and with assistance we can get unstuck. Sometimes we just need an impartial, safe, supportive person to speak with. That’s how I view professional counseling.”
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
Occasionally, as you’re traveling through life, you encounter challenges that seem to be preventing you from moving forward in a direction you are seeking to go. As a therapist, I consider it an honor and privilege to have an opportunity to journey with you. Together we will develop and practice effective strategies that support ongoing positive progress and changes.
With compassion and encouragement, I provide a comprehensive approach addressing cognitive and emotional areas, utilizing your strengths, and integrating healthier options which empower you to live your best life.
Dawn has over 30+ years of experience working with children, teens, adults and aged populations. She works with individual, couple/marital, family, and in group settings.
Clinical areas include: ADD/ADHD, addictions, adult and elderly (geriatric) issues, anxiety, child and adolescent issues, chronic illness, couples/marital, communication/conflict resolution, decision making, depression, divorce, faith based, grief/loss, life transitions (college, job changes, retirement, etc.), parenting, relationship enrichment, school issues, self-esteem, stress management, sexual assault victimization, and trauma.
Dawn received her Masters of Science with a dual emphasis in Higher Education and Human Services from Illinois State University in 1988. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CCBT).
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
Pain is a part of life; we do not get to choose whether or not we have this experience. However, suffering with pain is a choice. It is my primary therapeutic focus to help people recognize and decrease their suffering by building a life they see as worth living – to increase a sense of meaning and purpose, and to increase confidence in one’s ability to cope with struggles. I provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for people to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, the circumstances bringing them to counseling, and what they want out of life. I guide people to build upon their strengths and set goals to make changes that line up with how they want to live. We can experience joy and live to the fullest despite difficulties we may be facing.
Prior to working at ECS, I worked in community mental health and substance use treatment settings. These experiences provided me with the specialized skills to help people of all ages with a wide variety of mental health disorders and life changes. My areas of experience include depression, anxiety, anger issues, trauma, borderline personality disorder, addictions, stress-management, self-harm, relationship issues, low self-esteem, parenting, OCD, and life transitions/adjustments.
I received a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology (2015) and a Master of Science degree in Clinical-Counseling Psychology (2017), both from Illinois State University. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois (License No. 180.013004).
Therapeutic interventions and techniques used: CBT, DBT, Prolonged Exposure Therapy for trauma, Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD, crisis intervention, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), faith-based guidance and support, and more.
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
We are often taught to deal with life’s challenges by just “getting over it”. Your feelings aren’t a problem you’re supposed to ignore or fix. They’re feedback from your body about how you’re doing and what you need in life. It is ok to tell people that you are struggling or are having a hard time. Finding a safe person to share your difficult feelings with is hard. This is why it is important for me to create a safe and welcoming environment where you are free to be yourself without judgment.
Prior to working at Elliott, I worked several years in community agencies providing counseling to those of all ages. Some areas of experience include but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), other trauma related issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), relationship issues, mood disorders, self-harming behaviors, personality disorders, adoption, life transitions, divorce, grief/loss, self-esteem, sexual abuse, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD).
I use a person-centered approach to help assist you in coping with life’s challenges. I utilize a combination of techniques from the following modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused, Solutions Focused, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I enjoy connecting with individual clients from teens/young adults to the elderly. I am down-to-earth, compassionate and open to helping others through the counseling process. I have been working in the counseling field since 2012 and received my Masters Degree in counseling from Northern Illinois University in 2013. I continue to further my education in the areas of trauma and other mental health issues that are relevant within the work I do with clients.
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
Carl Rogers said, "the curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."
I work with clients not only to identify what they liked to change in their lives but also accept themselves and extend self-compassion. Looking at family history, typical reactions, and relationships can tell us a lot about ourselves. I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse as well as more everyday concerns like coping with stress, managing transitions, and coping with life disappointments. I draw from mindfulness, self-compassion, cognitive behavioral, humanistic, and acceptance/commitment therapy models. I aim to be adaptive and collaborative throughout the therapeutic process to help you work towards your goals and the changes you wish to make in your life.
I earned my BA in social sciences education from Illinois State University and my MA in clinical mental health counseling from Adams State University. I have spent over 10 years working in higher education, including college counseling and mental health education. In my work with Elliott Counseling Services, I work with clients of all ages with a strong interest in working with teens and young adults. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois and a National Certified Counselor.
We are all in this journey of self-discovery and change. Whether you have been to counseling before or are considering it for the first time, I hope you take this courageous first step to begin to re-write your story in a way that helps you achieve your life goals.
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
Stress is an inevitable facet of life which impacts each of us differently. Therapy is a great way to relieve stress, identify solutions, and move forward in our lives. I believe our mission in therapy is to cultivate a space in which we can safely explore your struggles at an individualized pace. Through exploration, we can begin to address your needs, identify healthier ways to cope, and help you to continue leading a productive and healthy lifestyle.
I am primarily an eclectic therapist - meaning that I take from a myriad of therapeutic approaches and combine them to best meet the needs of my clients. Some of my favorite and most utilized approaches include: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Humanistic, Existential, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
Prior to Elliott Counseling Services, I served as a community mental health counselor for several years working with clients of various demographics and backgrounds. I've successfully aided people with a variety of mental health disorders including (but not limited to): Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Adjustment Disorder(s).
I received my Master of Science in Clinical-Counseling Psychology in 2018 from Illinois State University. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (180.013747) in the state of Illinois. When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two cats, playing guitar/drums, and rock climbing.
We all deserve the space to explore our inner selves and I am humbled for the opportunity to help guide my clients' journeys forward. Talking about our problems is never easy, so I have the utmost respect for clients who allow me into their worlds.
LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
“I strive to create a safe space for you to begin to identify and resolve blocks that may be standing in between where you are right now and the life you truly desire.”
Laura received her Master of Education in Counseling and Human Development in 2021 from Lindsey Wilson College. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Laura has experience working with LGBTQIA, Trauma, anxiety, depression as well as concerns such as coping with stress and managing life’s transitions. She pulls from mindfulness, humanistic, cognitive, and existential therapy models. She works with individuals and couples.
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
Normal Office
“The success or failure of therapy in fact rests on the development and maintenance of the therapeutic relationship.”
-Dr. Garry Landreth, Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship
I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Bowling Green State University and Master of Science degree in Clinical-Counseling Psychology from Illinois State University in May 2020. Prior to joining Elliott Counseling Services, I provided therapy to individuals and families with a wide range of presenting concerns. I have experience working with children and adolescents with depression and anxiety as well as those who have experienced trauma, including sexual abuse, loss, and engaged in sexually reactive/problematic behaviors. I am particularly passionate about working with children and adolescents, though I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. As a clinician, I function from a client-centered approach and utilize techniques from various approaches, such as CBT, DBT, SFT, and play therapy.
LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER
PEORIA OFFICE
Elise is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who started her social service career at a small non-profit in Rantoul, IL. In 2015, she moved back to her hometown of Peoria to work with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing mental health crises, supporting them and their families in finding balance and stability. During that time, Elise enrolled in a graduate program to obtain her Masters of Social Work from the University of Illinois with a concentration in mental health
Elise is passionate in her pursuit of continued learning and enjoys researching developing techniques and approaches in the fields of neuroscience and behavioral health. Most of all, she enjoys learning from her clients – about the ways they have learned to adapt, their strengths, strategies for coping, and the insights that they offer regarding how each of us can improve as we move through the world.
Therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), BrainPaint neurofeedback, Expressive and Play Therapies, as well as Person-Centered and Solution-Focused approaches.
Elise has experience working with mood disorders (such as anxiety and depression), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Substance Use, and Personality Disorders. She enjoys working with clients of all ages and backgrounds and is enthusiastic about working with children/adolescents/young adults seeking to better regulate their emotional responses and adjust to major life changes. She is committed to meeting clients where they are and bringing an attitude of unconditional positive regard, empathy, and respect to each client with whom she works.
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
NORMAL OFFICE
“Therapy is not just about creating an absence of negative feelings, or, conversely, about creating happy feelings. It is about helping you live a productive life and about helping you develop and sustain meaningful relationships. It's also about learning and applying the skills needed in order to grow from life's ups and downs.” -Dr. Houston
Greg is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who received a Master’s degree in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. After graduation, he spent time working at a local community college counseling center, and then in post-adoption services. He has received specialized training in complex trauma, attachment therapy, and trust-based relational interventions. He has worked with a wide range of ages and socio-economic backgrounds. He has experience working with trauma, attachment issues, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Greg was born and raised in Washington, Illinois before relocating to the Bloomington-Normal area in 2019. In that time, he has provided services to the homeless, college students, and families in the area.
Greg is open to working with children, teens, and adults. He uses EMDR, Theraplay, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as the main modalities in his counseling.
LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
NORMAL OFFICE
Lori is an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and received her master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 2003.
Lori has over 20 years of experience working with individuals with various types of mental health conditions, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, chronic health conditions and physical disabilities. Depression, anxiety, and comorbidity often stem from changes in life and Lori uses her humanistic style to work with clients in adapting to their new roles. By embracing self acceptance, diving deep in self awareness, and working from both the inside and outside influences that attribute to incongruence in life, Lori is here to help you gain additional coping strategies and skills to help you day to day.
Give Elliott Counseling a call today to learn more about how Lori can be a resource for you.
LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
PEORIA OFFICE
I believe everyone is on a very individual journey to a happy and fulfilling life, and I enjoy walking alongside people as they navigate through the ups and downs of that journey. I value creating a safe and comfortable space where people feel respected and listened to, and where they can tell their story without any reservations.
I use an eclectic approach to helping people with their life challenges, and I try to focus as much as possible on their strengths regardless of the approach. I work with all types of life situations but specifically enjoy working with teenagers and adults focusing on trauma, identity, attachment, and relationship concerns.
I would be honored to walk with you on your journey and to explore how the counseling process can be most helpful to you and what it can look like to create that space for your growth and healing.
LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER
PEORIA AND NORMAL OFFICES
“Emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as Breathing is!” Boy have we really seen this particularly over the last few years. We all need to know that we deserve happiness even if we aren’t used to it. I have been a Social Worker for 28 years. In that time, I have worked in Community Mental Health, Rehab to home and long-term care, and hospice. I have had the privilege of working with hundreds of amazing people going through some of their toughest challenges and while I was there to help them, they also taught me so much.
I believe creating an environment of trust and safety is the most important part of the therapeutic relationship. I graduated with my Bachelor of Social Work from Western IL University in 1994 and with my Master of Social Work from University of IL in 2004. I earned my LCSW March 2022
My areas of experience include Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Self-esteem issues, Anger, self-harm, stress management, boundaries, and relationship issues.
Interventions include and eclectic approach drawing from Humanistic theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Neurofeedback.
LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
NORMAL OFFICE
Many people experience road blocks throughout their journey in life. These road blocks can seem unbreakable. Other road blocks can seem small, but there are so many of them that start to add up. I am here to help! As a therapist, I believe all of my clients have the tools it takes to break through these road blocks; I am just here to help sharpen them. I consider it an honor to work with my clients and I enjoy being a part of their journey.
My goal is to help my clients with their journey through empowerment, encouragement, and empathy. I consider myself an eclectic therapist that pulls from many therapeutic approaches and theories. I do this to “customize” your experience in therapy to what best suites you.
I am trained in Brain Spotting which helps treat trauma, helps clients obtain their goals, and to process major life events. I have experience working with a diverse age range of clients and a diverse range of symptoms.
Clinical areas of focus include: anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-esteem, communication, relationship issues, faith based, life transitions (i.e., high school, college, retirement, changing careers, etc.), ADHD, bullying, and trauma.
Age group focus includes: middle - late adolescents, young adults, middle-aged adults, and aged adults.
I received my Bachelor of Science degree and minor in Sociology from Illinois State University. My Master of Science degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology is also from Illinois State University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
NORMAL OFFICE
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor who believes in holism and working with the entire person within the context of their life. I recognize that our society generally views mental illness as an internal problem, which ignores how our social support, culture, workplace, and family of origin contribute to mental wellness. In addition, I understand how systemic racism, sexism, and heteronormativity are traumatic experiences and lead to constant feelings of stress.
While we all have unique patterns in the way our brains work, those external factors are just as important to our growth and healing journey. I like working with this “big picture” to find the solutions that you need. I use an eclectic approach in counseling, pulling from techniques such as person-centered, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, Bowen family therapy, behaviorism, and solution-focused therapy. I have specific experience working with adults and children with a variety of presenting concerns, LGBTQ+ youth, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, and complex trauma. I have a flexible schedule and can work evenings and weekends as needed.
LICENSED SOCIAL WORKER
NORMAL OFFICE
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Social Justice from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh in 2019 and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University in 2021. I am passionate about working with college-age individuals and adults who are experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns. I specialize in anxiety, sports performance, and life transitions as well as stress, relationship issues, and depression. I use primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as my approach to addressing these concerns and pull from Humanistic, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness as well.
I believe that relatability and trust are two of the most important pillars of creating and maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship. My clients' health, safety and happiness are my priority.
Outside of work, I enjoy working out, watching movies and spending time with my two cats, Rocky and Gouda.
LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER
NORMAL OFFICE
The greatest work can be accomplished when a sense of community is built through therapeutic rapport. You are not alone – no matter what you have faced or are currently going through. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
You will be respected as my client through cultural competency and diversity. I enjoy working with individuals who have been socially stigmatized due to their income level, legal history, teen pregnancy, religious preference, political affiliation, marital challenges, anger issues, etc. I look forward to individualized goal development and achievement when working alongside you. My passion is to instill a positive self-image and remind clients they are the expert on their own lives.
I received my Masters in Clinical Social Work degree from Simmons University in 2018. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois (149.021949) and currently a member of the National Association of Social Workers.
LICENSED CLINICAL PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR
NORMAL AND PEORIA OFFICES
Everyone faces stress, major life transitions and hard choices in life. The good news is that you don’t have to face any of these challenges alone. I believe counseling can help you work through these issues in a non-judgmental safe space.
The part of counseling that I enjoy the most is helping people find hope that things can and will get better. I know that seeking help and opening to a counselor can be challenging. We will start by getting to know each other as individuals and to develop an understanding of your goals and overcoming your challenges.
I hold a Master’s degree from Bradley University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have been licensed as an LCPC for 10 years. Prior to joining Elliott Counseling Services I worked in community mental health and in primary care offices giving me experience with a wide variety of clinical issues. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, but my primary areas of focus are anxiety, stress, depression, mood disorders, life transitions and relationship issues. Contact me today to get started on the road to healing.