Joan French

She also addresses issues such as abandonment, attachment difficulties, codependency, communication and control problems, commitment and jealousy, family of origin wounds, divorce and separation, gender dysphoria, and feelings of emptiness, guilt, or isolation. Joan affirms and welcomes clients who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ and those who are exploring or questioning their gender or sexual orientation.

Her practice emphasizes a trauma-informed, integrative approach that blends evidence-based methods to fit each person’s needs. Joan describes herself as resourceful, creative, and patient, and she aims to create a trusting, judgment-free therapeutic space where difficult or “unspeakable” topics can be voiced.

She incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy, and also draws on emotionally-focused and client-centered principles. When appropriate, she adds elements like art therapy, positive communication skill building, and light humor to support healing.

Joan holds a Master of Arts in Community Counseling from Governors State University, an Art Therapy Certificate from Northwestern University, and practices as an LCPC in Illinois (IL LCPC 180.007674). She accepts individual adult clients ages 18 and up and offers sessions in English.