Growing up and living most of my life in Lake Bluff, I truly understand the challenges and rewards of living in the North Shore area. I’ve been deeply committed to serving this community, working with adolescents at Family Recovery Centers in Lake Bluff, volunteering as a Youth Group leader at Christ Church Lake Forest (SHYG) and working as a music instructor at School of Rock in Highwood/Evanston for beginner and advanced musicians.
Adolescents & Young Adults — Understanding personally & professionally the power of counseling
What drew me to psychology was from my own experience in therapy and seeing firsthand how much it helped. During my adolescent years, my grandfather passed away and my sister was in a serious car accident. I wanted my feelings to just “go away.” Instead, my parents sent me to therapy. While I was reluctant, I am now really grateful as it was a turning point in my life. I was pleasantly surprised to see that it worked!
Transitioning from one stage of life to another is an ongoing process, and it can be very difficult and overwhelming to go through alone.
I don’t know what it’s like to be you, but I do know what it’s like to be young; I have worked with young people in an intensive outpatient (IOP) setting after hospitalization. I helped young people struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, substance use, academic difficulties, attachment issues, and ADHD. I will meet you exactly where you are, listen to your story without judgment, and help you develop the skills that are necessary to move through the challenges you face.
It is incredibly rewarding to help other adolescents heal and grow in counseling. I love to empowering young people (and their parents!) help navigate any fears, reluctance, or resistance to therapy.
ADHD
ADHD is one of the most exhaustively researched mental health conditions in our current literature, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood, both by people living with the condition and their peers. I should know; I’ve been diagnosed myself! This puts me in a position where I am uniquely able to identify and assist those who are living with ADHD in coping with their condition and the often overwhelming nature of the world.
Career, social, and academic pressures all have the potential to be especially straining for the ADHD brain, but you do not have to struggle alone. It is my hope that we can work together to help you adapt to the obstacles that your condition has put in your path, as well as recognize the brilliant parts of your personality that are so often overlooked.
Once again, I saw the power of counseling to help navigate life. I am passionate about helping others not only understand themselves better, but how to find out who they truly are and thrive. I am grateful to be working with Inspire, and for their necessary and compassionate work meeting the mental health needs of our community.
A psychology life-long learner
I’ve been laser-focused on studying psychology. I majored in psychology at Taylor University, in Indiana and am currently finalizing my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Trinity International University. I am excited about the opportunity I have to help others.
Music, sports, running & exercise
Part of my journey in my own self care is through music and exercise. I play the drums, guitar, and piano… and debatably the saxophone. In addition to playing, I love teaching others to express themselves through music. I’ve been an instructor to beginners and advanced musicians at School of Rock in Highwood/Evanston. I also love running, sports and exercise. I’ve participated in an ultra-marathon, jiu jitsu and love watching just about any sport! I’ve learned the power of moving my body to express and free myself from emotions and frustration.
A safe space where you are welcome, safe and accepted
As your counselor, I provide a safe and accepting space where all that you are is welcome with me. Life can often be an emotionally painful experience, and you will receive the caring empathy and compassion that is required to pass through such times. Additionally, I believe therapy can be an extremely practical environment, and we can work together to equip you with useful tools and tangible skills that will allow you to heal and grow into your fullest, most empowered self
More than anything, I am interested in getting to know you: your story, struggles, triumphs, and every unique characteristic that makes you who you are. Knowing and honoring your truth is an empowering experience that can allow you to live freely, and I have the distinct honor of facilitating that journey in our time together.
My Style
Within the therapeutic relationship, I believe in a multifaceted approach to counseling that combines person-centered and behavioral techniques, and is tailored to your individual needs. My person-centered view of therapy emphasizes the importance of empathetically assisting you through your hurt, moving toward accepting yourself as you truly are, and helping you to find and name the innately positive qualities and strengths that exist within you as a human being. It would be an honor and a privilege to move through this process with you and move confidently toward your goals and desires.
If this seems a bit too amorphous or idealistic to you, I also believe in the efficacy of pragmatic approaches to counseling, particularly cognitive behavioral (CBT) and dialectical behavioral (DBT) theories. Through these approaches to treatment, we can examine the ways in which the three dimensions of your thoughts, feelings, and actions interact. At the same time, you will also cultivate a tangible skill set that will assist you in creating harmony between these three dimensions of living, and in moving toward a more peaceful and healthy life experience.
For fun
In my free time, I love to run and get out in nature, as well as pursue my other passion of music. I play four different instruments, have played in bands with my friends for years, and have recently undertaken the pursuit of learning audio engineering. Creative expression adds color and variety to my life, and is one of the things I value the most! I also completed an ultra-marathon in 2019, running 4 miles every 4 hours for 48 hours. I started jiu jitsu during COVID. I also enjoy music auto-engineering, watching sports, and trying out a new cookbooks with my girlfriend. I also love spending time with my parents, family, and friends.
Jack Mancuso, MA, LPC 
