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I am Christine Appell and I go by Chris. I have an Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor license in Illinois and have worked in private practice for many years and as a school counselor and in child welfare as a clinical supervisor for 10 years.
My approach
I would say that I am very much client centered - what do they need at this time and what do they need to hear. I will respect people's differences from mine and support those differences, such as religion, society, beliefs. I do go back to attachment issues or stay current in the moment if needed. I enjoy people and dynamics that present.
My focus
I work with women, women exploring their spiritual journey, couples, adolescents, parenting issues, men exploring their social emotional needs, and after time in schools I love supporting teachers. I have experience in all of these areas.
My communication style
I continue to be aware of myself in counseling, asking myself if I'm being too directive. I am a very good listener but clients appreciate my reflective feedback - often something they never thought of before. I am also not afraid to say something that needs to be said, but will ALWAYS ask the client if that "fits." I do not project my beliefs on them if it does not fit their thoughts.
My journey to therapy
I believe it is a strong part of who I am. I am an empath and strong feeler, but I also have a sense of knowing. These things come into play. Originally I did it for kids in foster care and adoptive parents, but I am a single mom who raised 3 kids. Divorce, single parenting, aging are difficult life transitions and I feel strongly the need to help others.
My goals for you
I will usually leave a client with something to do at the end of each session to think about, solve, or address before next session. If excuses get in the way, that becomes part of the counseling.
My first session with you
Most first sessions include the client/s doing most of the talking and me asking few questions, depending on their need to de-stress. With some it can be hard to get a word in - But I will ask questions to help me clarify and will do some summary at the end of the session. I will attempt to address any immediate need.
