Ashleigh Heller, LCPC

My Philosophy/Approach: I use a relationship-based, client-centered, integrative, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach to counseling. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), a newer yet very effective therapy that is predominantly used to treat trauma but has shown great success in easing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other concerns as well. I consider all domains that make up a whole person- mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual. It is my philosophy that with patience, determination, trust, and meaningful connection, insight and healing are attainable. I am passionate about supporting individuals while they navigate the various trials that occur in life. I find that it is helpful to validate strengths and motivations as a way to empower individuals to take control of their own lives. It is my goal as a therapist to help people begin to address their presenting issues by first providing them with unconditional support in a safe space. Together, we then work to uncover underlying sources of pain, connect the impact that thoughts and feelings have on behaviors, strengthen self-awareness and acceptance, explore and incorporate effective coping skills into daily living, and relieve distress to ultimately improve functioning and quality of life.

Education & Experience: I earned my B.A. in Sociology and B.M. in Music Performance from Northwestern University, and then my M.Ed. in Counseling from DePaul University, where I focused on both Clinical Mental Health Counseling as well as School Counseling. I have since become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I also hold a Professional Educator License with an endorsement as a School Counselor for ages Pre-K through 21. I have worked and volunteered in a variety of mental health settings, including a therapeutic residential school, a Chicago Public Schools K-8 school, a crisis call center for homeless youth, a nonprofit organization supporting grieving youth, and a LGBTQ+ community center. I am drawn to working with a diverse clientele and have experience with individuals ranging from preschool through adults. In the past I have facilitated group therapy and family therapy sessions, though currently I focus solely on individual therapy with clients.

More About Me: In addition to identifying as a committed lifelong learner, both personally as well as professionally, I am an avid musician, runner, nanny, reader, friend and family supporter.