Congrats on taking the first steps towards finding relief from what is upsetting you! It is always a privilege to help assisting someone in finding a new path. When forming a good therapeutic relationship 'the fit' is very important. I tell new clients that I am 'on probation' with them. Hopefully it will be a good match. You are the boss of you and ultimately you decide. 

I moved to Chicago in the late 1970's after receiving a BFA in Studio Art and am a practicing visual artist. In the 1980's I returned to school working towards an MA in Art Therapy and later obtained a CADC in substance abuse counseling. Graduated from Jane Addams UIC with an MSW focusing on adult mental health. I worked in Uptown doing agency and residential work. In 2001 I began working in private practice.

My clinical orientation is trauma informed and from a strength based perspective. When working with people to help them achieve their goals I have found by identifying strengths we can build by using what is already working and develop new tools to augment positive change. I draw from eclectic resources: CBT, DBT,12 step tools and using your narrative. I believe in a holistic approach. Using 'homework' assignments between sessions can also be encouraged.

Areas of expertise include: anxiety and depression; adjustment and transition issues; codependency; relationships/communication; I can work with the harm reduction model all the way to abstinence with substance abuse issues. I also work on acceptance with chronic health issues; grief and loss. 

I'd love to hear your story and we can work to change your narrative together. Be gentle on yourself.

Sarah Shapleigh, LCSW