Vanessa Mrock, MSW, LSW

Kids (5-10), Early Adolescents (11-13), Middle Adolescents (14-18), College (18-21), Young Adults (20-30)

LGBTQIA+ Affirming, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma, Women’s Issues, Relationship Stress, Binge Eating Disorders, Stressful Life Transitions, Troublesome Childhoods

If you work with me, I will bring a gentle, steady, safe and kind spirit to the therapy setting. As a Social Worker for 5 years, I had the privilege of serving refugees resettling in Chicago. I walked (literally) side by side, helping people far away from home, who felt lost and afraid, to reclaim their safety and security in a new land. I know how to break down seemingly overwhelming tasks into manageable small steps to achieve any task. My goal was to empowered these friends to find their voice and start from scratch to build a new life in the U.S. These skills are valuable for anyone struggling, as just about anything can feel overwhelming. Together, we can break down challenges into manageable and achievable small tasks.  

loyola university After completing my Bachelors and Masters in Social Work for Loyola University, I also was honored to help people, and their families, navigate the precious time left in Hospice care. I was able to hold a quiet and safe emotional space for their grief, sadness, fear. My goal was to be a loving presence for each of them as their journey on earth was coming to an end. 

I am passionate about providing culturally competent therapy. I honor each person’s unique backgrounds, values, and beliefs along with their experiences in life. I use a “client centered” therapeutic approach, which means that I allow you to set the pace for therapy and respect your individual comfort level as we work together. If you work with me, you’ll see I will give you a safe space to express freely and openly without judgement.

Kids and Adolescents 

I understand the power and rewards of therapy for kids — personally and professionally. I how it feels. As an adolescent through young adulthood, I saw the rewards of counseling and how it helped me work through difficult periods of life well beyond my time in therapy. I recognize that everyone’s story is different; therefore, I am focused on supporting you non-judgmentally with humility and empathy.

During all my experience, I have seen the power of family. I know that when a kiddo is struggling, it doesn’t just impact them–it impacts the entire family. I’ve also seen the rewards for everyone, when a family is supportive and working together. I believe in collaboration and empowering parents along the journey when their kids are working with me.

For Fun

Outside of the office, I love to relax with my partner and our two cats: Finn and Lou. I am an avid plant collector and even have a dedicated plant room in my home! I also love to garden outdoors during the summer! I am always attempting new cooking recipes -especially pasta, which I could eat every day! When I have time, I love traveling, especially to the Pacific Northwest and to Boston, where my entire family lives. 

 

To schedule an appointment

call (847) 919-9096 x1

[email protected]