ACT, BRAINSPOTTING and PARTS THERAPY in CHICAGO, IL & CHARLESTON, SC

Psychotherapy for Ambitious Women Who Are Ready to Find Harmony and Self-Compassion. 

Providing Support for the Women Who Give It All— Find Space to Finally Receive.

Are you the high achiever who feels empty?

The perfectionist who’s exhausted?

Or the one who 'has it all' but feels like something’s missing? 

Therapy can help you find true alignment and fulfillment.

I help women build authentic connections and find inner-peace, without losing themselves in the process— Even if perfectionism, anxiety, or self-doubt have held you back before.  

Together, we’ll guide your Inner Critic to transform into your most supportive and empowering Cheerleader, helping you embrace your full potential.

Schedule a Free Consultation - Begin Making Yourself a Priority

Whatever you are navigating, I’m here to help you find clarity, healing, and balance.

Balance isn’t about doing it all; it’s about creating a life that feels steady, even when the world feels heavy. It’s giving yourself permission to pause, to breathe, and to choose what truly matters, so you can reclaim your energy and find peace in the chaos.

Explore the areas I specialize in and discover the support that’s right for you.

  • Break free from impossible standards and rediscover balance and joy.  Find out more here.

  • Navigate the stress of parenting with compassion and calm, finding time for yourself again.  

  •  Learn to embrace your differences, enhance communication, and build supportive relationships.  

  • Find peace with food and your body through compassionate, personalized support. Learn more here.

What if you could wake up feeling steady and sure of yourself, no longer drowning in doubt or questioning your every move?

Hi, I’m Dawn.

I specialize in working with women who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, and I help them move toward clarity, balance, and fulfillment. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of perfectionism, parenting, neurodivergence, or body image, I bring a compassionate, tailored approach to help you create lasting change.  

I see clients in Chicago, IL, Charleston, SC and throughout Illinois & South Carolina virtually, offering the flexibility you need to prioritize your growth.  

Learn more about my approach here or by scheduling a consultation call.

  • I’m a licensed clinical therapist deeply committed to empowering women and neurodivergent individuals to break free from perfectionism, anxiety, and self-doubt and to build lives that feel genuine and whole. With over 20 years of experience in the field, I bring a unique blend of knowledge and empathy to my practice, helping clients navigate a wide range of challenges, including body image concerns, neurodivergence, and eating disorders.

    My specialties include working with perfectionistic women, anxious moms, neurodivergent individuals and couples, and those facing body dissatisfaction. As a Certified Autism Specialist and an ADHD Specialist-in-Training, I have advanced training in the intersections of neurodivergence with women’s experiences, reproductive mental health, hormones, and body image challenges. My crossover training also addresses neurodivergence in the context of eating disorders, offering a nuanced and inclusive approach to care. I am currently pursuing the Inclusive Eating Disorder Specialist Certification to deepen this expertise.

    Drawing from a compassionate, values-aligned framework, I help my clients reconnect with themselves and create lives that are meaningful and fulfilling. My approach holistically addresses the mind, body, and heart, incorporating relational tools and practices designed to support lasting change.

    Here’s how I support clients on their journey from overwhelm to empowerment:

    • Values-Aligned Therapy: Together, we’ll uncover what truly matters to you—your values, passions, and goals—and use them as a guide for growth and decision-making, empowering you to live more authentically.

    • Specialized Neurodivergence Support: I provide tailored approaches for neurodivergent individuals, incorporating expertise in Autism, ADHD, and their unique interplay with life challenges, body image, and emotional regulation.

    • Eating Disorders & Body Image: With decades of experience in treatment centers and expert-led trainings, I help clients navigate eating disorders and body image concerns with compassion and specialized strategies.

    • Holistic & Integrative Care: I weave intuitive and energy healing practices into therapy sessions, including techniques from my current Reiki training, to support emotional balance and deep healing on a mind-body-spirit level.

    • Somatics and Physiological Awareness: Using approaches like Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Brainspotting, we’ll release tension, build self-awareness, and foster a sense of safety in your body.

    • Trauma-Informed Practices: My work integrates trauma-sensitive tools like EMDR and Brainspotting, helping clients process emotional pain and reconnect with their innate resilience.

    • Self-Compassion Development: Together, we’ll transform self-critical patterns into a kinder, more accepting relationship with yourself, paving the way for growth and self-confidence.

    • Perinatal and Postpartum Care: For clients navigating motherhood, I offer specialized support, addressing the unique mental health challenges of perinatal and postpartum experiences.

    Whether you’re facing perfectionism, anxiety, neurodivergence, or body image challenges, I’m here to help you find healing, empowerment, and a renewed sense of self. Together, we’ll create space for transformation and growth so that you can step into a life that feels authentic, grounded, and fulfilling.

    I offer virtual therapy sessions to clients in Illinois & South Carolina, making it easy to connect wherever you are—in every sense of the word.

What if life didn’t feel like an endless juggling act?

Imagine feeling at peace with yourself and confident in your choices.

Picture being able to show up fully in your relationships and daily life without fear, doubt or overwhelm holding you back.  

This future is possible— and it starts with taking that first step.   Let’s create the life you’re longing for—book a session today.

You’ve been silently screaming for relief, hoping someone will notice. It’s time to let someone truly see you. You’ve been sacrificing pieces of yourself just to get through the day. Let’s find the part of you that’s been waiting to be whole again. When was the last time you felt like yourself? It’s time to find her again.

You’ve been silently screaming for relief, hoping someone will notice. It’s time to let someone truly see you. You’ve been sacrificing pieces of yourself just to get through the day. Let’s find the part of you that’s been waiting to be whole again. When was the last time you felt like yourself? It’s time to find her again.

This kind of change takes courage and the right support. Therapy works best when it aligns with your needs and goals. Let’s explore whether my approach might be the right fit for you.

Is This Journey Meant for You?

I’m a good fit for you if:

- You’re ready to explore the deeper patterns holding you back and commit to meaningful change.  

- You’re seeking a therapist who will balance empathy with practical tools and strategies.  

- You value flexibility and want therapy sessions that fit your schedule and needs, whether they’re short check-ins or longer, intensive sessions.  

I might not be the best fit if:

- You’re looking for a quick fix or are unwilling to engage in deeper work.  

- You prefer in-person sessions, as I currently only see clients virtually.  

- You’re not ready to prioritize your emotional growth and self-care.  

If this sounds like you, let’s connect—schedule your consultation today.

Let’s Talk About What Might Be Getting in the Way

Ready to discuss what options might work best for you?—schedule a consultation today.

  • To make therapy more flexible and accessible, I offer sessions structured by 30-minute increments—ranging from shorter sessions to extended 360-minute intensive sessions for those who prefer deep, focused work. This allows you to tailor your experience to what fits your time and budget.  

  • Opening up can feel risky, especially if you’ve been hurt or dismissed before. In our work together, you set the pace. I create a safe, supportive space where your thoughts and feelings are honored—not judged. We’ll explore things when you’re ready and in a way that feels manageable for you.

  • Therapy is deeply personal, and finding the right fit is key. My approach is integrative, combining evidence-based methods with compassion and collaboration. We’ll work together to tailor our sessions to your unique needs and goals, focusing on tools that feel effective and meaningful to you.

  • It’s hard to ask for help, especially if you’re used to being the one who holds everything together. But needing support doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re human. Therapy isn’t about fixing you because you’re not broken; it’s about helping you reconnect with your strengths and find a way forward that feels right for you.

    5. "I’m already so busy. How can I possibly find the time for therapy?"

    Life is overwhelming enough, and adding one more thing might feel impossible. That’s why I offer flexible session lengths and virtual therapy, so we can fit into your schedule in a way that feels manageable. Taking time for yourself now can make everything else feel more sustainable in the long run.

    6. "What if therapy stirs up things I can’t handle or makes everything worse?"

    Feeling uncertain is completely normal. Therapy often brings up difficult emotions, but it also helps you find tools and clarity to move through them safely. We’ll work at a pace that feels right for you, with care and intention, so that you feel supported every step of the way.

    7. "I don’t even know where to start—how can I unpack everything I’m dealing with?"

    You don’t need to have it all figured out before coming to therapy. My job is to help you make sense of what’s overwhelming. We’ll take it one step at a time, starting with what feels most pressing, and build from there.

    8. "I’ve always been this way. Is it even possible to change?"

    It might feel like change is out of reach, but transformation is possible at any stage of life. Together, we’ll explore the patterns that have been holding you back and find new ways of relating to yourself and the world. You don’t have to stay stuck.

    9. "Virtual therapy doesn’t feel personal enough—will it really help?"

    Virtual therapy offers flexibility and accessibility while still fostering meaningful connection. Many clients find that they feel just as supported and connected as they would in person, but with the added convenience of meeting wherever you feel comfortable.

    10. "I’m not sure if I’m ready to face everything I’ve been avoiding."

    Taking the first step is the hardest part, and it’s okay to feel hesitant. You don’t have to dive into everything all at once. Therapy is a space where you’re in control, and we’ll move at a pace that feels safe and right for you.

    Do these align with how you’d like to address your clients’ concerns? Let me know if you’d like further adjustments!

  • Virtual therapy offers flexibility and accessibility while still fostering meaningful connection. Many clients find that they feel just as supported and connected as they would in person, but with the added convenience of meeting wherever you feel comfortable.

  • Taking the first step is the hardest part, and it’s okay to feel hesitant. You don’t have to dive into everything all at once. Therapy is a space where you’re in control, and we’ll move at a pace that feels safe and right for you.

  • I understand that therapy can feel like a significant financial commitment. But investing in yourself is one of the most impactful choices you can make. The tools, insights, and personal growth you gain in therapy can lead to lasting change, helping you feel more present, connected, and fulfilled in all areas of your life.  

What Does It Mean to Partner with Me on Your Therapeutic Journey-

Personalized, Expert Care Tailored to Your Unique Needs

Therapy is a deeply personal journey, and you deserve care that truly meets your needs. When choosing a therapist, it’s essential to find someone whose approach and expertise align with your unique needs and values.

If you’ve tried therapy before and felt like it wasn’t the right fit, you’re not alone.

Many of my clients share that previous experiences felt too surface-level or didn’t address their unique challenges as entrepreneurial, perfectionistic, anxious, or neurodivergent women.  

My approach is different. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel seen, supported, and equipped to make meaningful change.  

See how this time can be different—schedule your consultation today.

What makes me different from other therapists?

Here’s what sets my practice apart:

Comprehensive Expertise Across Diverse Modalities

With training in Brainspotting, EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Intuitive Eating, and Gottman Couples Method Level 2, and as an Internal Family Systems (IFS)-Informed Therapist, I offer a multifaceted therapeutic approach. This extensive toolkit allows me to tailor interventions to your specific challenges, facilitating deeper healing and personal growth.

Trauma-Informed and Holistic Healing

My training in various trauma modalities, such as Brainspotting, EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Polyvagal Theory, and as an Internal Family Systems (IFS)-Informed Therapist, ensures a sensitive and effective approach to healing past wounds. Additionally, incorporating Reiki and Intuitive Spirituality into therapy sessions offers a holistic dimension, addressing both emotional and energetic aspects of well-being.

Authenticity and Value-Centered Living

I believe in empowering you to live authentically, honoring your personal values over societal or familial expectations. Together, we’ll explore and clarify your values, fostering a life that aligns with your true self, free from the need to conform or diminish yourself for others’ comfort.

Health at Every Size (HAES) and Weight Inclusivity

I am committed to the Health at Every Size philosophy and am currently pursuing the Inclusive Eating Disorder Specialist Certification through IEDE. My practice encourages self-compassion for your body, including all shapes and sizes. My approach focuses on fostering a de-stigmatizing relationship with your body, moving away from societal pressures to conform, and embracing authentic self-expression.

Perinatal and Reproductive Mental Health Expertise

With a Perinatal Mental Health Certification and extensive training in reproductive mental health, I provide specialized support for individuals navigating the complexities of endometriosis, PMDD, parenthood, fertility, perimenopause, menopause and related challenges, ensuring compassionate care during these pivotal life stages.

Neuroaffirmative and Specialized Neurodivergent Support

As a an Autism Spectrum Disorder Certified Specialist and with ongoing certification trainings in ADHD, working towards an ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider, I provide foundational neuroaffirmative care that respects and celebrates neurodiversity, particularly “neurospicy” women. My practice offers a supportive environment for neurodivergent individuals, focusing on strengths and authentic living rather than conformity.

Entrepreneurial Insight and Support

As an entrepreneur working with many in the entrepreneurial community, and as a Goldman Sachs 10K Small Businesses Graduate, I can understand the unique pressures and dynamics of entrepreneurial life, particularly while integrating life as a mom of 3 girls. This perspective allows me to offer targeted support for balancing personal well-being with professional demands.

“Choosing to work with me means engaging in a therapeutic partnership that honors your individuality, leverages a broad spectrum of expertise, and is committed to fostering authentic, value-driven living.”

Embarking on a therapeutic journey is a significant decision. If my approach resonates with you, I invite you to reach out for a consultation. Let’s explore how we can work together to support your path toward healing and authentic living.

Take the next step.

Therapy for women seeking balance and connection—helping you move from overwhelm and self-doubt to a life of clarity, confidence, and fulfillment.

Take the first step toward the life you want—schedule a free consultation today.

Just Remember, You don’t have to keep everything buried. In this space, you’re allowed to be the one who doesn’t have all the answers—you’re the one who’s been carrying too much for too long.

You’ve filled every moment with noise, trying to outrun the silence that carries your pain.

Here, you don’t have to hold back tears, hide your fears, intellectualize, or minimize what you feel.

This is where you can slowly let someone step into your inner world.

With gentle care, your burdened ‘parts’ can release their pain and feel seen, understood, and free. As trust grows, your parts stop working against each other and begin to collaborate, creating a harmony that brings deep healing and lasting peace.

Unleash your untamed self and break free from the chains of 'shoulds' and 'musts.' Dive into this unapologetic journey—schedule your free consultation now and claim the bold, unfiltered life waiting for you!