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Our Approach

Treatment Approach

We offer a supportive, grounded space where clients feel safe to explore what’s happening internally and begin building meaningful, lasting change. Our practice provides individualized counseling for adults, teens, and families, with a focus on emotional wellness, relationship health, and practical tools that can be applied in everyday life. We believe therapy should feel both insightful and empowering—helping you better understand yourself while also creating real progress you can track over time.

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From a holistic and family-centered perspective, we recognize that mental health is shaped by our relationships, life experiences, nervous system responses, and the “roles” we learn to take on over time. We use positive reinforcement to build upon what’s already working, while gently addressing patterns that may be keeping you stuck. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, stress, trauma, OCD, life transitions, or relationship challenges, we tailor treatment to your goals while honoring your pace and comfort.

Our approach is eclectic and evidence-based, meaning we draw from multiple proven therapy models to best meet each client’s needs. Sessions begin with a relaxed but thorough discussion to understand what matters most to you. Together, we create therapy goals that guide the work, support growth, and help monitor progress throughout the therapeutic journey. Depending on your needs, therapy may incorporate Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Mindfulness-Based Interventions, Adlerian Psychodynamic Theory, and Family Systems perspectives.​

Below is a brief overview of these approaches for a clearer understanding of the tools we may use in your care.

The Founder of IFS, Richard Schwartz, explains the theory and practice of the therapy and how every person can simplify their lives. 

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

IFS is a compassionate, systems-based approach that helps clients understand the different “parts” of themselves—such as protective, critical, anxious, or wounded parts. Each part has a purpose, often shaped by past experiences, and may become more extreme when trying to protect you. IFS supports healing by helping these parts feel heard, understood, and better connected to your core Self, creating more inner balance and clarity.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It helps identify unhelpful thinking patterns and beliefs that may be reinforcing anxiety, depression, or stress. The goal is to build healthier interpretations of experiences and create practical behavior changes that support improved mood and functioning.

Therapy model explained in a simplistic manner to breakdown the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that occur due to personal interpretations of events. 

Explanation of ACT therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT helps clients develop a new relationship with difficult thoughts and emotions by reducing avoidance and increasing psychological flexibility. Instead of battling internal experiences, clients learn to make space for them while still taking meaningful steps forward. ACT supports values-based living—helping you move toward the life you want, even when things feel hard.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT is a skills-based therapy that helps clients manage intense emotions, reduce conflict, and strengthen relationships. It teaches tools in four core areas: mindfulness (staying present), distress tolerance (handling difficult moments), emotion regulation (shifting emotional responses), and interpersonal effectiveness (communicating clearly and confidently while maintaining self-respect).

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

ERP is a specialized, evidence-based approach often used for OCD and anxiety-related concerns. It helps clients gradually face triggers that create obsessive fear or distress while reducing the urge to respond with rituals, compulsions, or avoidance. Over time, ERP builds confidence and retrains the nervous system to respond with less fear and reactivity.

Mindfulness-Based Interventions

Mindfulness interventions help clients develop awareness of thoughts, emotions, and body sensations in the present moment without harsh judgment. This approach supports stress reduction, improved emotional control, and stronger mind-body connection—often creating more calm, clarity, and resilience.

Adlerian Psychodynamic Theory

Adlerian therapy emphasizes the importance of belonging, meaning, and connection. It explores how early life experiences, family dynamics, and patterns developed over time can shape identity and behavior. This approach helps clients understand motivations, strengthen self-worth, and shift patterns rooted in insecurity or feelings of inferiority.

Family Systems Perspective

Family Systems work focuses on understanding individuals within the context of their relationships—especially the family unit. It explores how roles, communication patterns, boundaries, and emotional dynamics influence mental health. This perspective can be helpful for improving conflict resolution, strengthening connection, and supporting healthier family functioning.

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21 REFLECTIONS PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING

2244 95TH STREET SUITE 219 |  NAPERVILLE, IL 60564

PHONE: 708.404.9337

EMAIL: 21REFLECTIONS@GMAIL.COM

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