Elissa McNicholas, LCPC, ATR, PMHC, Clinical Supervisor

Pronouns - she/her

*Please Note: Elissa only sees clients virtually and can work with clients in Illinois and Virginia.

Approach to Therapy:

I am dedicated to providing clients with a safe space to process their history and experiences. My approach reflects aspects of person-centered therapy, in which a client’s perception and understanding of themselves is valued first and foremost. I believe my client is the expert of their own life. It is my intention to help clients consider new viewpoints to assist him or her in deciding for themselves what is best for the growth of their mental health. Simultaneously, I draw from narrative therapy, an approach which approaches person’s struggles as something outside of themselves. This theory, I feel, allows clients to “rewrite” their perception of their life story, taking on a new and empowered approach to how they view their experiences.

I believe symptoms and struggles are just one part of who we are, and our strengths and passions should be celebrated and utilized throughout our growing process. When working with clients, I apply my art therapy skills to the therapeutic process, encouraging exploration and self-expression alongside art making.

It’s always my goal to be cognizant of multicultural issues clients may face in their process of healing and growth, furthering my intent to provide meaningful support. I meet my clients with an enthusiastic and positive attitude as they work towards achieving a more balanced, healthy, and fulfilling life.

Clinical Interests:

My prior experience working with children struggling with attention deficit disorders, learning disabilities and trauma has allowed me to discover my passion for supporting younger clients identify and better understand their emotions in this ever changing world. I have supported emerging adults experiencing anxiety and adjustment issues while navigating their new roles in dynamic chapters of their life. I’m trained in pregnancy and postpartum mental health and enjoy working with people navigating perinatal anxiety and/or depression.

In addition, I have worked with men and women struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma and self-injury, preparing me to integrate creativity and discussion in both individual and group therapy settings. I focus on assisting clients in improving self-esteem and self-efficacy, enhancing coping skills and techniques for assisting in emotional regulation, and identifying their unique strengths. Finally, I’m focused on the importance of being kind to oneself not only during periods of growth, but valuing self-care in daily routine.

Education and Training:

I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Studio Art minor from Elizabethtown College in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. Following my graduation, I moved to Chicago and attended Adler University (formerly The Adler School of Professional Psychology), where I completed my Master’s degree in Counseling with an Art Therapy concentration. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the states of Illinois and Virginia and a Registered Art Therapist.

My training has led to work experience in a variety of out and inpatient settings, where I focused on counseling children, adolescents, adults and the geriatric population.

I’m also certified in perinatal mental health through Postpartum Support International and specialize in treating perinatal mood disorders.

Three things I love:

Traveling, repotting plants for my home, and listening to NPR.

Elissa can be reached at: elissa@amandaatkinschicago.com and you can read a recent blog post here.