Danica Stull

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with more than 10 years of experience providing therapy and counseling to people struggling with a wide variety of difficulties. In 2019, my youngest son was born with a devastating diagnosis, leading to an initial 8-month hospital stay, more than 20 surgeries, and a complete revamping of my understanding of life and what it means to do more than survive. I'd love the opportunity to take what I've learned through my formal education AND what I've learned through living this difficult and beautiful life to help you thrive in the best way possible. It IS possible to survive and even thrive through trauma, stress, pain, depression, anxiety, and much more.

My approach

I focus on acceptance, reality, and progress. I aim to help others do more than just survive through the difficulties we face in life. I am strengths-based with a strong focus on taking a realistic approach to our life and circumstances, identifying what options are available to us, and finding ways to move through them as comfortably as possible. I want to see my clients improve their functioning in life. I use CBT, DBT, Strengths Based, and an ever-evolving eclectic style.

My focus

I love working with people who are ready to open their eyes to the difficulties they are facing so the problems can be effectively dealt with. I love to help people name their problems, look them in the face, and deal with them. I love to work with people who have been knocked down by life and aren't sure how to get back up. I also love to work with people who are doing okay, who have already dealt with some of the difficulties and just need some help refining their skills-coping, communication, relaxation, and more.

My communication style

I listen to understand and will ask questions when I don't. I am confident and very engaged. I offer lots of input, including analogies and vivid descriptions of abstract concepts. I offer guidance but follow your lead. I welcome disagreement and believe you are the expert on your own life. I love to work with people to help them shift their perspectives and see things in a new way.

My journey to mental healthcare

I found myself naturally being a helper, offering advice, and engaging with people who were hurting that others avoided. I have a younger sister who was adopted through foster care, which drew me to the social work field at a young age, and once I learned more, I naturally transitioned into the field of Clinical Social Work and therapy. I have worked with all ages (from 3-100) in many settings (crisis mental health, schools, clinic, inpatient, and hospitals). I have completed certifications in Trauma Focused CBT. I spent many years in leadership roles, learning more about customer service. I am a medical mom with a very complex child and have learned so much about resilience and moving from survival to thriving through that process.

My goals for you

Initial progress with clients is often them showing an increased acceptance of their life situation with a clearer view of what their realistic options are. Secondary progress usually comes in the form of increased confidence and self-assurance, an ability to accurately assess a situation, and make difficult decisions with peace. Final progress is the ability to apply these concepts to future situations with little to no external guidance needed.

My first session with you

In my initial session with a new client, I let you set the pace. I have questions I can ask, but I also am very comfortable with an open-ended conversation where you fill me in. I like to get the "feel" of the situation, and the client in the initial session-we can clarify details later as needed.