Mr. Richard Rodgers LCSW

My journey towards becoming a therapist was inspired by my experiences and a deep desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. After returning home from my deployment in Afghanistan, I witnessed firsthand the struggles that many men faced, including issues with alcohol, PTSD, and domestic violence. These experiences ignited a passion within me to help those who were suffering and in need of mental health support. To pursue this path, I became a mental health specialist, responsible for overseeing the mental well-being of 300 soldiers. This role allowed me to gain valuable experience in supporting individuals with mental health challenges within a military setting. As a Behavioral Health Associate, I facilitated groups and monitored the mental health of patients. It was during this time that I came across information about becoming a therapist. Intrigued by the potential to make a difference on a deeper level, I decided to pursue a career as a therapist. Motivated to enhance my knowledge and skills, I enrolled in the Social Work Program at Aurora University. This educational journey was marked by years of hard work, dedication, and a genuine passion for learning and growing as a mental health professional. Through my studies and hands-on experiences, I acquired the necessary qualifications and licensure to become a Social Worker and a therapist. I am grateful for the opportunity to combine my personal experiences, compassion, and professional training to support individuals in their healing journeys. The inspiration to become a therapist stemmed from a deep sense of empathy and a genuine desire to assist others in navigating their mental health challenges. It is a privilege to be able to walk alongside individuals as they work towards healing, growth, and a brighter future.

Do you feel you are in an antagonistic relationship? Are you victim of an emotional abuse where your loved one denies what you hear and see? Do you have a loved one who denies responsibility? Do you have some or all of these symptoms: hyperarousal, irritability, chronic fatigue, chronic shame, overeating, substance abuse, trust problems with others or even yourself, difficulty relating to others, avoidance of situations or memories, tightness in shoulders, jaw, stomach... among other symptoms? I am informed in Addictions, Trauma, and Narcissism Recovery. I am a Yoga, Mindfulness, and Meditation Coach. I help people who have difficult history in emotional and physical abuse. I use an authentic approach, focusing on parts therapy, mindfulness and meditation. Through couples therapy I help find compromise and communication. Sometimes you will have family members that will not validate you, but you continue seeking validation regardless. Being in an emotional and abusive relationship can cause chronic addiction and complex trauma and depression. You may have shame and worthlessness. I am here to help you see that you are worth more.

• Illinois, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 149.020534
• Indiana, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 34008256A

My journey began in the military, where I served as an infantryman in the Army for 10 years. Following my military service, I transitioned into the role of a Behavioral Health Specialist, providing support and care to fellow service members. This experience allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the unique mental health challenges faced by military personnel. I then joined Linden Oaks in Naperville, Illinois as a Behavioral Health Associate. In this role, I had the opportunity to work closely with diverse inpatient populations ranging from adolescents to geriatric patients. This experience broadened my expertise in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals of different age groups. Seeking to specialize in addictions, I became a substance abuse counselor in a methadone clinic. Working directly with individuals struggling with substance abuse disorders, I gained valuable insights into the complexities of addiction and honed my skills in delivering evidence-based interventions. My journey continued as an addictions counselor for the Bureau of Prisons. This role allowed me to work with incarcerated individuals, providing them with addiction counseling services within the correctional setting. I gained a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals involved in the criminal justice system and the importance of addressing addiction within this population. To further expand my expertise, I joined the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as a rehabilitation counselor and mental health therapist. This experience allowed me to support veterans in their recovery journey, specializing in both substance abuse and mental health treatment. Working within the VA system exposed me to the specific needs of veterans and the importance of providing holistic care. To further enhance my clinical skills, I worked as a therapist in a residential addiction treatment setting. Here, I provided individual and group therapy, helping individuals overcome their addictions and develop healthy coping strategies. Currently, I hold the position of Manager of Outpatient Services at Anabranch Recovery Center. In this role, I oversee the delivery of outpatient addiction treatment services, ensuring that individuals receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate support to individuals seeking recovery from addiction. Throughout my diverse work experiences, I have developed expertise in addiction counseling, mental health treatment, working with military personnel and veterans, and providing holistic care to individuals across different settings. I am committed to utilizing my knowledge and skills to empower individuals and support their journey towards lasting recovery.