Team

<h3>Meet David Hickey, MSW, LSW</h3> <p>David (he/him) is a Licensed Social Worker and Staff Therapist at Uniquely You Behavioral Health. He works with clients beginning at age six and has experience supporting individuals across the lifespan. His clinical focus includes working with neurodivergent individuals, as well as those navigating anxiety, and depression.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> <p>David’s therapeutic approach is guided by unconditional positive regard, collaboration, and empowerment. He believes the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for growth and change, and he adapts his methods to meet the unique needs of each client.</p><p>Drawing from a range of modalities, David integrates DIR/Floortime, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based practices. His eclectic style allows him to flexibly use the approaches that best support each client’s goals and strengths.</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>David is committed to creating a safe, affirming, and empathetic space where clients feel truly seen and valued. He has a special dedication to working with neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing and honoring their unique journeys. His practice emphasizes collaboration and empowerment with clients as active partners in their healing process.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>David completed his Master of Social Work at Indiana Wesleyan University. He has recently completed specialized training in ADHD and Autism assessments, offering clients an accessible alternative to the months — or even years — of waiting that are common with traditional neuropsychological evaluations. His ongoing professional development reflects his commitment to providing effective, up-to-date, and compassionate care.</p> <h2>Work with David</h2> <p>David currently offers daytime availability for new clients, with a waitlist for evening sessions. As a Staff Therapist, he is dedicated to providing individualized care that helps clients of all ages build resilience, deepen self-understanding, and move toward lasting growth.</p><p> </p>https://youtu.be/OcskPC69jHY?feature=share

<h3>Meet Carey Dwyer, MSW, LSW</h3> <p>Carey (she/her) is a licensed social worker dedicated to supporting neurodivergent children, teens, and  young adults through compassionate, client-led care. Her approach is grounded in respect, empathy, and empowerment, with a deep commitment to meeting each person right where they are.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>What Guides Carey’s Work</h2> <p>Carey specializes in the DIR/Floortime model and integrates evidence-based approaches such as narrative therapy, person-centered care, dialectal behavior therapy (DBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). These modalities help Carey support each individual’s unique developmental journey in ways that feel meaningful and affirming.</p><p>At the heart of Carey’s work is playful engagement, emotional attunement, and a strengths-based lens to help foster growth in communication, self-regulation, and connection. Carey’s therapeutic stance and commitment to providing neurodiversity-affirming care helps her create a safe, respectful space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered in their unique journeys.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>Carey has a Bachelor of Social Work from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, IN and a Master of Social Work degree from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois – Chicago. Her previous experiences as a school social worker have made her knowledgeable about multi-tiered systems of support and special education.</p> <h2>Work with Carey</h2> <p>Carey is currently accepting new clients, and would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey. She offers a warm, affirming space where all forms of communication, processing, and being are valid. Her approach is rooted in respect for neurodivergent experiences and identities, and she works collaboratively to support your unique goals, strengths, and ways of engaging with the world. Whether you're seeking support, connection, or a place to simply be yourself without judgment, you are welcome here.</p>https://youtu.be/8c0RzrObvPQ?feature=share <h3>The Personal:</h3> <h2>If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?</h2> <p>Probably pizza!</p> <h2>What is your favorite movie?</h2> <p>I would say <em>The Devil Wears Prada </em>or <em>Moana</em>!</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>I love to relax with my family and friends. We recently adopted a cat named, Lincoln, who is slowly starting to come out of his shell. I also love to explore local coffee shops in the Chicago area, go for hikes, listen to music, and read.</p>

<h3>Meet Brittany, LCP</h3> <p>Brittany (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) at Uniquely You Behavioral Health. She brings a deep passion for supporting teens, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. During graduate school, Brittany conducted research centered on gender identity and provided specialized support to members of the transgender community. Her work is grounded in intersectional feminist theory and a belief in viewing clients through a lens of empowerment, honoring the full complexity of their identities and lived experiences.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> <p>Brittany believes that a powerful shift happens when we slow down and examine the patterns of our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. She views therapy as a space where clients can show up exactly as they are—without masking or minimizing—and begin the process of healing in a way that feels safe, affirming, and true. Her style is collaborative, deeply person-centered, and rooted in authenticity. She draws from Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Existential approaches while adapting her tools to meet the unique needs of each person.</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Brittany is committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming care and creating a space where clients don't feel pressured to perform or “fix” themselves, but instead are encouraged to build self-understanding and compassion. She recognizes that traditional models of success or functioning don’t apply to everyone—and works to help clients define healing on their own terms.</p><p>Creativity, Meaning, and Growth Brittany’s work is shaped not only by clinical training, but by a lifelong relationship with creativity, meaning-making, and emotional depth. She believes therapy can be a sacred, transformative experience when built on trust, curiosity, and presence. Whether you are navigating identity exploration, grief, trauma, burnout, or the slow process of self-rediscovery, she offers a grounded presence to help you reconnect with what matters most.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>Brittany holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lewis University and a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Before entering the counseling field, she supported animals and their caretakers through crisis in emergency veterinary care and worked in the gaming industry as a creative tester. These experiences inform her appreciation for complexity, storytelling, and the many forms that healing can take.</p> <h2>Work with Brittany</h2> <p>Brittany believes that by simply making an appointment for therapy, you’ve already created momentum to change, grow, and redefine your life. She is currently accepting new clients and is honored to hold space for those navigating the hard work of healing. With warmth, insight, and a touch of humor, she offers a therapeutic space where you don’t have to carry everything alone—and where your truth is safe to unfold.</p>https://youtu.be/mEG230BzstQ?feature=share <h3>The Personal:</h3> <h2>What’s your favorite holiday?</h2> <p>Hands down, Halloween! I love everything spooky from horror movies to haunted houses even though I can be quite the chicken. I also love the cozy season and any excuse to make a huge pot of soup.</p> <h2>What animal best represents you?</h2> <p>I think I'm best represented by a black jaguar. They are mystical, protective and intuitive - often moving with quiet purpose and symbolizing transformation. At the same time, have you seen one of them play? They're goofy, silly cats at heart as well</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>My weekends are usually spent connecting with friends, spending quality time with my cats, Snow and Murphy and my new dog, Jasper and adding to my quickly growing gem and mineral collection.</p>

<h3>Meet Kat, LCSW, C-DBT, ADHD-CCSP</h3> Kat (he/him/they/them) is a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about LGBTQIA+ and disability advocacy, and certified as a specialist in ADHD and dialectical behavioral therapy.  They have a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Knox College, and a Master’s in Social Work from Loyola, as well as specialized training in workplace mental health, executive function coaching, DIR/Floortime, peer support, aging, dementia, caregiver stress, and harm reduction.  At present, they're working on learning more about Internal Family Systems, mind-body interventions, and RO-DBT. Kat is passionate about lifelong learning, and constantly seeking out new tools to add to his arsenal. As a neurodivergent clinician with chronic illness, Kat uses warmth, humor, practical experience, and a broad, evidence-based therapeutic toolbox to help people identify their strengths, adapt to new challenges, and pursue their goals, regardless of diagnoses. Clinically, he has a soft spot for helping people make work and/or school work for them, as well as LGBTQ+, chronically ill, and/or neurodivergent people dealing with anxiety, trauma, or stress. Due to their COVID-cautious nature, Kat’s services are strictly telehealth.https://youtu.be/DfXxev6V8LA?feature=share <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=".svg"]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block}</style> <img width="623" height="1024" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Headshot-623x1024.jpg" alt="A person with short, styled brown hair and light skin poses indoors against a light-colored wall. They are wearing a dark green top, a long necklace, and small hoop earrings. One hand gently touches their chin, revealing a detailed black ink floral tattoo on their forearm. They are smiling slightly and looking directly at the camera." /> <h3>The Personal:</h3> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>What’s your favorite holiday?</h2> <p>Halloween, hands down – I live for spooky season and I’ve always got at least two costumes on deck, ready to go.</p> <h2>Favorite Drink?</h2> <p>Sparkling water, herbal tea, or espresso – it just depends on the weather and the time of day.</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>If it’s above freezing, you can find me outside walking by Lake Michigan, fishing at various places in Chicagoland, running, picnicking with friends, or writing. If it’s below freezing, you can find me still outside running, albeit significantly less cheerfully – or watching movies and creating art with my chosen family.</p>

<style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Admin Staff</h2> <img width="500" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Michelle-500x500.jpeg" alt="" decoding="async" /> <h3 class=owl-title data-setting=item_title >Michelle K</h3><h5 class=owl-subtitle data-setting=item_subtitle >Social Media Marketing</h5> <a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_1_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_2_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_3_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_4_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a> <img width="500" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-500x500.jpg" alt="" decoding="async" /> <h3 class=owl-title data-setting=item_title >Veronica E</h3><h5 class=owl-subtitle data-setting=item_subtitle >Executive Assistant</h5> <a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_1_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_2_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_3_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_4_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a> <img width="480" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/matt-pictures-480x500.jpg" alt="A young man with short dark hair smiles while standing in front of a plain light-colored wall. He is wearing a beige textured sweater with a geometric pattern." decoding="async" /> <h3 class=owl-title data-setting=item_title >Matt Herling</h3><h5 class=owl-subtitle data-setting=item_subtitle >In Office Support</h5> <a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_1_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_2_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_3_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_4_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a>

<style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Interns</h2> <h3>Meet Yairis; Clinical MSW Intern</h3> <i data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">She/Her/Ella</i><p>Yairis is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Her decision to pursue a degree in social work is rooted in her experience growing up in a Spanish speaking, culturally rich household. </p><p>Yairis brings a deep appreciation for the complexities and strengths found within Latinx families. Her lived experience inspires her commitment to culturally centered care and her aspiration to become a therapist who can show up for those from similar backgrounds, individuals who may not have seen themselves reflected in mental health spaces growing up.</p> <p>Now excepting clients in person with insurance and sliding-scale. </p> <h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> Yairis believes that healing begins in relationships where people feel genuinely seen and understood. She offers a warm, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach that emphasizes emotional safety and collaboration. She provides services in both English and Spanish, with the goal of reducing barriers to care and fostering inclusive, affirming spaces where diverse communities can thrive. <h2>A Commitment to Cultural Humility & Empowerment</h2> <p>As a bilingual, first generation Latina, Yairis is deeply committed to honoring the cultural values, stories, and resilience her clients bring into the therapy room. She centers her work around cultural humility, intergenerational healing, and identity exploration, believing that everyone deserves to be supported in their journey toward wellness.</p> <h2>Work with Yairis</h2> <p>She is passionate about supporting children, teens, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and generational trauma. Her work is especially grounded in family dynamics, identity development, and healing across generations.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tabs-wrapper{width:25%;flex-shrink:0}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active{border-inline-end-style:none}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:after,.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:before{height:999em;width:0;right:0;border-inline-end-style:solid}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:before{top:0;transform:translateY(-100%)}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:after{top:100%}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-horizontal .elementor-tab-desktop-title{display:table-cell}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-horizontal .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active{border-bottom-style:none}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-horizontal .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:after,.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-horizontal .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:before{bottom:0;height:0;width:999em;border-bottom-style:solid}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-horizontal .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:before{right:100%}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-horizontal .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:after{left:100%}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-content,.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-title,.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-title:after,.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-title:before,.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tabs-content-wrapper{border:1px #d5d8dc}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tabs{text-align:start}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tabs-wrapper{overflow:hidden}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-title{cursor:pointer;outline:var(--focus-outline,none)}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-desktop-title{position:relative;padding:20px 25px;font-weight:700;line-height:1;border:solid transparent}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active{border-color:#d5d8dc}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:after,.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-desktop-title.elementor-active:before{display:block;content:"";position:absolute}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-desktop-title:focus-visible{border:1px solid #000}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-mobile-title{padding:10px;cursor:pointer}.elementor-widget-tabs .elementor-tab-content{padding:20px;display:none}@media (max-width:767px){.elementor-tabs .elementor-tab-content,.elementor-tabs .elementor-tab-title{border-style:solid solid none}.elementor-tabs .elementor-tabs-wrapper{display:none}.elementor-tabs .elementor-tabs-content-wrapper{border-bottom-style:solid}.elementor-tabs .elementor-tab-content{padding:10px}}@media (min-width:768px){.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tabs{display:flex}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tabs-wrapper{flex-direction:column}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tabs-content-wrapper{flex-grow:1;border-style:solid solid solid none}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-view-horizontal .elementor-tab-content{border-style:none solid solid}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-alignment-center .elementor-tabs-wrapper,.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-alignment-end .elementor-tabs-wrapper,.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-alignment-stretch .elementor-tabs-wrapper{display:flex}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-alignment-center .elementor-tabs-wrapper{justify-content:center}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-alignment-end .elementor-tabs-wrapper{justify-content:flex-end}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-alignment-stretch.elementor-tabs-view-horizontal .elementor-tab-title{width:100%}.elementor-widget-tabs.elementor-tabs-alignment-stretch.elementor-tabs-view-vertical .elementor-tab-title{height:100%}.elementor-tabs .elementor-tab-mobile-title{display:none}}</style> English Español English <iframe id="vid-en" style="aspect-ratio: 9/16;" title="YouTube video" src="https://youtube.com/embed/LhQWuQmJRa0?rel=0&playsinline=1&enablejsapi=1" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Español <iframe id="vid-es" style="aspect-ratio: 9/16;" title="YouTube video" src="https://youtube.com/embed/MlWHP1RQxlc?rel=0&playsinline=1&enablejsapi=1" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=".svg"]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block}</style> <img width="640" height="853" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/yairis-scaled-e1750380595679-768x1024.png" alt="A woman with long wavy black hair and glasses smiles while sitting on a tan leather couch. She is wearing a black embroidered blouse and light blue jeans, with her hands gently folded in her lap. A large abstract painting hangs on the wall behind her." /> https://youtu.be/BiJkGLPJCsQ?feature=share <h3>Meet Rylee; BSW Intern</h3> <p>Hi! My name is Rylee and I am a BSW student at the University of St. Francis in Joliet! I will be graduating in December and begin my MSW in January. I love working in social work because I have a strong passion for giving back, listening, and helping in any way I can. I am so excited to learn and grow during my internship here at Uniquely You, where I will have the opportunity to engage with my community, with clients, and get to know the field firsthand. I am so grateful for the chance to have these experiences and ecstatic about my future in this field!</p>

<h3>Meet Atlas, Our Therapy Doodle</h3> <p>Hello! I'm Atlas, the fluffiest member of the Uniquely You Behavioral Health team. Before joining this wonderful family, I graduated from 16 weeks of puppy school where I learned all the important things like sitting, lying down, and staying calm—skills I use every day! </p><p>I've made lots of human friends, especially at a therapeutic day school for autistic children, where I even encouraged a kiddo say their first word. They called me "fluffy," which is pretty spot on!</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> <p>I take my job as a therapy dog very seriously, but always with a wagging tail. Since joining Uniquely You, I've honed my skills to stay serene during therapy sessions, ensuring I'm the best support I can be. </p><p>My trainers have worked closely with all the therapists here to make sure they know how to use my doggy talents to the fullest. Whether it’s lending an ear (I have two very good ones) or just being a comforting presence, I'm here to help in the most paws-itive way!</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Being a therapy dog is all about bringing joy and comfort. Studies show that spending time with a therapy dog like me can decrease anxiety and stress, elevate moods, and even lower blood pressure. Plus, I'm great at encouraging communication and social interaction!</p> <h2>Work with Atlas</h2> <p>If you think a little doggy time might brighten your session, just let our staff know, and they’ll arrange for me to join in. I'm here to offer snuggles, support, or just make you smile. </p><p>Remember, I'm here if you want me, but no worries if you think we might not be the best match—I want whatever makes you most comfortable!</p> <h2>Benefits of Animal Therapy</h2> <p>Animal therapy isn't just fun; it has real health benefits! Engaging with a therapy dog like me can help improve emotional well-being, reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, and even help with physical health challenges. </p><p>I'm trained to be gentle and supportive, ready to help you feel more relaxed and optimistic during your therapy journey.</p> <h3>The Personal:</h3> <h2>If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?</h2> <p>Bread! I love bread! It’s the one thing I will break the rules for.</p> <h2>What is your favorite toy?</h2> <p>My stuffed alligator. I like to carry it around with me and throw it in air!</p> <h2>What is your favorite activity?</h2> <p>I love it when my humans take me on long off leash walks on the weekends. I get to sniff all the smells and adventure off into the field.</p>

<h3>Meet Jen, MSW, LSW</h3> <p>Jen (she/her) is Staff Therapist pending social work licensure. She recently received her Master of Social Work degree from Aurora University, following a career transition from corporate human resources and a fulfilling period raising her children. </p><p>Her decision to return to school and pursue social work was driven by a long-standing aspiration to become a therapist—a dream she initially set aside during her undergraduate years. </p><p>Now, Jen is dedicated to following her passion for supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> <p>Jen is committed to delivering neurodivergent affirming care, with a focus on collaborative therapy that respects the diversity and unique needs of neurodiverse families and adults. </p><p>She aims to help neurodivergent adults understand and process their experiences in a predominantly neurotypical world. </p><p>Jen utilizes a strengths-based, person-centered approach to therapy, integrating attachment-based methods with trauma-informed care to provide sensitive and effective support.</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Jen’s approach is deeply rooted in her belief that therapy should be a supportive, inclusive space where neurodivergent individuals can explore their identities and experiences without judgment. </p><p>She is dedicated to fostering an environment that empowers clients to embrace their strengths and address challenges through tailored therapeutic interventions.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>After completing her undergraduate degree and gaining substantial work experience in human resources and parenting, Jen returned to academia to fulfill her true calling in social work. </p><p>At Aurora University and while interning with us at Uniquely You, she honed her skills in neurodivergent affirming practices and continues to develop specialized competencies that cater to the nuanced needs of her clients.</p> <h2>Work with Jen</h2> <p>Jen currently has openings for both individual and parent session clients.</p>https://youtu.be/Rdud890hiOU?feature=share <h3>The Personal:</h3> <h2>If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life what would it be?</h2> <p>Fries because there are different styles and you can use different condiments for dipping, though cheese is my very favorite!!</p> <h2>How do you like to relax and unwind after your workday?</h2> <p>After work, my favorite thing to do is catch up with kids so I can hear about their day and what interesting things they have on their minds. Once the kids are bed, I like to do crossword puzzles on my phone while listening to a podcast or watch TV and crochet or knit.</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>Weekends are always family time with my two boys and my husband. Every Saturday night is family movie night and we eat a “snacky dinner” while sitting on blankets on the floor in the living room.</p>