Trauma Focused Therapists in Maryville, IL

Hello! My name is Monica. I am a counselor by profession and by nature; even the meaning of my name is "counselor". I have a Master's Degree in Social Work, with over 15 years of experience. I am also certified to administer Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, treating children and adults of all ages.

We are all human. I know trauma on a personal level and treating trauma has become my passion. I use a client centered approach where you are the master of your own life; I am merely here to walk beside you as a guide and companion. My hope is to empower you to work through your trauma and life’s challenges.

In my 10 years of experience helping individuals and families, I have learned that true healing and real change starts with prioritizing the things that make you happy the most. Finding hope and motivation from what’s dearest to your heart can provide you with incredible strength to overcome just about anything that life throws at you. Your unique experiences, moments of hurt, flashes of joy, all play a role in creating the next chapter in your life. It’s time to do what’s best for you and ultimately start living the happiest life that you’ve always imagined. Your story has a wonderful ending as long as you keep pushing ahead.

Life can be difficult. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and to lose our sense of well-being and security. We look around each day and wonder why other people seem to have no trouble living life free from the sort of difficulties with which we struggle. We can begin to feel hopeless. But there is something inside each and every one of us, something beautiful and strong that cannot be touched by our trauma and recurring troubles, but can be obscured by them. Reconnecting with this part of ourselves in a safe, healing atmosphere can help us meet life’s challenges with a greater measure of peace with ourselves and the world.

The path to healing after a trauma is unique to each individual. I believe in helping you discover the best path for you. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor within a private practice setting. I graduated in 2018 from Wake Forest University with a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Since then, I have had the opportunity to serve a diverse range of clients in community and private practice settings. I have provided individual, family and group therapy to adults and children. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma in their life to include children, adolescents, and veterans.

Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass... It's about learning how to dance in the rain. - Vivian Green........... Sometimes you just need someone to listen and validate your feelings. Sometimes you need someone who's been there done that. Sometimes you just need a place to go to help get you back on track. I'm that someone and I've many life experiences as well as extensive training to help you. Licensed as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with extensive training in childhood complex trauma. Let me help you learn to dance in the rain!

Your relationship is not the same as when you said, “I do” and you’d do anything to get it back. You give so much all day at work and at home that you’re exhausted! It’s hard when you’re pouring from an empty cup to connect to your partner and family. Often, we try to protect our partners by not burdening them with our work stress, so we come home frustrated and shut down. You want to be truly known, to feel safe emotionally and for the bickering to stop. You dream of having a stronger bond and peace.

Do you constantly find yourself in toxic relationships? Have your relationships caused you anxiety or depression? It’s time for a change. As your therapist, my goal is to help you thrive in healthy relationships with your romantic partner, friend, or family member. Using an emotion focused approach I will empower you with tools to improve your relationships and your self esteem. As I completed the requirements to earn a PhD in Counseling and Psychological Studies at Regent University, I began to focus on empowering Black single mothers struggling with depression and anxiety. If you’re ready for change, let’s connect.

I have had a variety of experiences working with people who have had different types of problems. I have worked with individuals having problems ranging from anxiety, depression, anger management, chronic habitual problems, compulsivity, bipolar, sexual addiction, sexual offending/deviant behaviors, and psychotic issues. The value of therapy is that clients can come in with issues and with work receive some results in the form of change. It is my job to help facilitate that process. I believe in helping people work out their problems and provide them with the skill sets to help them accomplish their goals.