Stephanie M. Russo, MA, LCPC
Stephanie is interested in helping people achieve positive change and personal growth. She sees her role in the therapy process as being a guide and an encourager. Stephanie’s laid back demeanor contributes to her already creative and flexible therapy approaches, making clients feel safe and respected. Stephanie also understands that making the decision to talk with someone can be difficult and sometimes even scary for clients, “It’s really important to me to build trust with my clients and help them feel comfortable in the therapy process.”
Stephanie provides therapy to individuals, adolescents, and families as well as utilizes play therapy techniques when working with children. She has led therapy groups for adolescents dealing with family and peer relationships, conflict resolution, academics, and substance abuse issues. Her group experience also includes facilitating psycho-educational groups for adults and adolescents.
Stephanie has significant experience working with abuse and trauma survivors, as well as depression and anxiety disorders. Stephanie is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
In addition to providing counseling, Stephanie teaches undergraduate psychology courses at Triton College. Her prior work experience includes work at in-patient psychiatric hospitals and a non-profit community health organization.
Stephanie received her Master of Arts degree in Psychology from Argosy University – Illinois School or Professional Psychology. She is a licensed clinical professional counselor.
Stephanie also has special expertise in the following areas:
- Abuse
- Adolescent Concerns
- Anxiety
- Children (Ages 3 and Up)
- Depression
- Divorce Related Issues
- Family Concerns
- Grief & Loss
- Life Transitions
- Marriage/Couples Counseling
- Parenting Concerns
- Postpartum Concerns
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Relational Issues
- Self-Esteem
- Self-Harm
- Sexual problems
- Stress/Anger Management
- Trauma
Stephanie can be reached by phone at 630.718.0717 ext. 204 or email Stephanie@fvinstitute.com.