Helena Whittaker, Clinical Intern

Pronouns - she/her

Approach to Therapy:

I practice a community-minded, holistic approach to healing, drawing from various therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness. I believe in the power of our relationships and environments to shape us and how we, in turn, shape them. I view each person as the expert in their life and adopt a collaborative approach to therapy. Together, we can explore new perspectives and solve life's challenges. I prioritize honesty, empathy, and a sense of humor in our therapeutic relationship.

Therapy is a space to challenge dominant cultural narratives, delve into systemic injustices, and pave a path forward.  As a White therapist, I am committed to acknowledging and addressing inequality and generational traumas that have affected BIPOC clients and communities. I strive to be an active force for social change in the therapy room and my community. I am proud to be an LGBTQ+ affirming, sex-positive clinician.

Clinical Interests:

I work with families, couples, and individuals, bringing a deep sense of joy and enthusiasm to my practice. My clinical interests lie in unpacking religious trauma, providing care for perinatal mental health, and supporting those who struggle with anxiety and depression. As a former nanny, I am thrilled to work with families with children of all ages, using my education in the arts to bring out each child's unique creative voice through poetry, storytelling, and imaginative play. My previous career as an actor has instilled in me a unique ability to help performers. I am well-versed in harm reduction strategies and have received training in psychedelic integration, further enhancing my ability to support my clients.

Education and Training:

I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Central Florida. I am pursuing my Master's in Couple and Family Therapy at Adler University. I am a member of AAMFT (American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy) and the Community Outreach Coordinator for the Association of Couple and Family Therapists Chapter at Adler University.

Helena is directly supervised by Kristen Herdegen, LMFT.

3 Things I Love:

Cozy games, nature walks, and being just a bit too pretentious about coffee.

Helena can be reached at helena@amandaatkinschicago.com.