If you (or someone you love) have been newly diagnosed with an illness (cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc.), or if your illness has worsened or changed, you may feel confused and overwhelmed. It might be difficult to sleep and eat (or you might find that you can't stop sleeping or eating). You may find yourself struggling with sadness, grief, worry, and even irritability. I can help you navigate this landscape and other terrain that involves various forms of grief, in all its agony and complexity.
I have specialized in working with people with complicated medical histories and treating co-occurring symptoms like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship difficulties, and care-giving issues since the beginning of my career. I am also well-versed in working with couple relationship problems and life transitions.
I developed a niche for psychological assessments related to surgical procedures (e.g., transplants, bariatric procedures) and dementia evaluations due to my extensive experience working within behavioral medical setting interdisciplinary teams. I have several publications on coping with stress involved in chronic illness, specifically with Multiple Sclerosis (a chronic neurological illness). This is both a strong professional and personal interest. I pay close attention to cutting edge research and support research with a top fundraising team right here in Illinois. I also enjoy, and have a lot of experience, working with couples and teens.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 20 years of experience in the field. I have expertise working with teens, adults, seniors, couples, and families. We all have life stories and I strive to understand where you have come from so I can help move you in the direction you want to go. My treatment approach is collaborative and we will work together to set goals—and evaluate progress towards those goals—together. I am dedicated to using evidenced based treatments to treat your particular problems. You are also a person and as such, I prioritize tailoring your treatment specifically to you. I provide all my patients with a blend of Cognitive Behavioral techniques to treat your symptoms and aid your journey towards living a more satisfying life. One of my favorite graduate students years ago during her last weeks of training with reminded me of a quote by Maya Angelou: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” My hope is to hear your story, help you move through hurt, anger, fear, and uncertainties of life and ultimately for you to leave feeling a strong sense of validation and empowerment over your symptoms and life journey.
At AMANI Clinical Services, we believe in an active (evidence-based) treatment approach tailored to your unique needs. We help you find solutions and see results that make meaningful difference in your life. Whether you need us to "work ourselves out of a job" or serve as your primary mental health provider (just like you see a primary care physician for your medical needs throughout the lifespan, we want you to get better and feel better-we are results oriented. We will work collaboratively to help you recognize the ways your life experiences have shaped your attitudes, beliefs, and choices. You'll understand how your symptoms developed and how you can take control of them, and leave session with a plan to try some new ways of thinking and acting.
When I’m not in the office, I love to travel to a variety of destinations both nationally and internationally with my husband, Mark. You might also spot me with our two lovable labs, Hurley & Stella. I love reading, going on long walks, hiking on occasion while traveling, and being a place of hospitality where family, new friends, and old friends can gather around our table for a meal and great conversation.
