I have had the pleasure of working in mental health since 1995. My career began as a substance abuse counselor at a drug treatment center in Hannibal, Missouri where I worked for five years. During this period I treated women and their children. Additionally, I worked with male clients. This was a wonderful way to start my career and it gave me considerable experience.

In 2000 my husband, daughters (there were only two daughters back then) and I moved to the Chicago-land area to be closer to family. Since living in this area I have worked as a therapist with several client populations including: adults, children, and seniors, treating numerous problems. I specialize in working with women on a variety of issues. I think that women have very specific needs in today’s world.

Professionally, I have conducted training for the Fox Valley Crisis Line since 2003. I have also given presentations with various organizations regarding substance use and abuse. In addition I conduct training on Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT).

I received my bachelor’s degree in social work at Quincy University in Quincy, IL in 1995 and my Master’s degree from Aurora University in 2004.

Apart from work, I enjoy my active family life. I have been married for 14 years and have three daughters, a teen-ager, a pre-teen and a toddler. I love being with my family. We enjoy exploring northern IL. and we love vacationing in Door County. I enjoy reading, listening to music and cooking. I also enjoy being outside and exercising.

Recently I was elected as State President of the Illinois Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  You can read my interview here.  Also, I invite you to read an interview I gave recently regarding “Out of the Darkness” an event sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  http://www.ottawadelivered.com/story.cfm?id=7667&page=1#gotostory

Email me at: bethany@lifeworkcounseling.net