Meet Stephanie

Psychotherapist | Independent Contractor

Stephanie Sutherland, LCSW


ABOUT

Life has many ups and downs that can be difficult to navigate independently. I recognize the strength and bravery it takes to seek out support through therapy. I do my best to honor your vulnerability and risk in booking an appointment with a stranger by providing an open, collaborative, and empathic therapeutic environment.

Worksheets and homework not your thing? Me either. In our sessions, I utilize a client-centered, non-directive approach where you can use the session as your space to work through what you need to at that moment. I view my role as your therapist to walk alongside you to help you heal, offer gentle guidance, and teach healthy coping skills to assist you in flourishing into the best version of yourself. I encourage art, play, self-care, connecting with nature and community, humor, and a desire for growth and change.

I attended the University of Southern California MSW program to specialize in early childhood trauma and play therapy. I am trained in and primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which focuses on changing unhelpful thought patterns, increasing mindfulness, and developing healthy coping skills. I am skilled at working with children (5-12), adolescents, and young adults.

MORE ABOUT STEPHANIE

When I am not working you can find me creating some sort of craft and bingeing reality TV. I find so much joy in my little zoo of animals consisting of two dogs and holland lop bunnies and spending time in nature with my partner.

Qualifications

  • Licensed by State Illinois

  • Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California

  • Specialization in Trauma and Play therapy from USC

Stephanie’s highlighted specialties include…

Full Specialties

  • Children (5-12)

  • Adolescents

  • Young Adults

  • Anxiety and Depression

  • Child Development

  • Child Welfare Involvement

  • Behavioral Challenges

  • Early Childhood Grief and Loss

  • Grief and Loss

  • LGBTQ+

  • Parent-Child Relationships

  • Parenting

  • Play Therapy

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Neurodiversity

Treatment Approaches

  • Play Therapy

  • Psychodynamic Approach

  • Attachment Based Treatment

  • Parent Coaching

  • Client Centered

  • Trauma Informed

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • LGBTQ+ Affirming

Population

  • Children (5-12)

  • Tweens and Teens

  • Adolescents

  • Emerging Adults

  • Young Adults

  • Parents

Get in touch.

Contact us for a free 20 minute phone consultation.