Chandra Thompson LCPC

People pursue counseling and therapy for a variety of reasons. Some may enter therapy to address major life changes, such as divorce, and others may seek help in managing mental health conditions, like depression. There's a common misconception that people who go to therapy are "crazy," when in fact, most therapy clients are ordinary people struggling with common, everyday issues. Many people seek counseling because they have identified specific goals or issues that they wish to work on. My clients can expect me to promote self-actualization, empower self-growth, improve relationships, and reduce emotional suffering.

Often, I choose to use the CBT method. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a short-term form of behavioral treatment. It helps people problem-solve. CBT also reveals the relationship between beliefs, thoughts, and feelings, and the behaviors that follow. Through CBT, people learn that their perceptions directly influence how they respond to specific situations. In other words, a person?�?s thought process informs their behaviors and actions. CBT techniques incorporate many different therapeutic tools. The tools I use help people in therapy evaluate their emotional patterns and states. Common techniques include journaling, challenging beliefs, relaxation, and thinking exercises. These types of exercises can help clients become aware of their emotional and behavioral patterns.

• Illinois, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, 180006574