Lakeitta is a psychotherapist at Wildflower Center for Emotional Health. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Illinois State University and her Master’s degree from DePaul university, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, groups, and families who have experienced a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. She provides therapy through a client-centered approach and incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and breathing techniques to effect positive coping and increased self-awareness. Read Lakeitta’s full bio here.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a psychotherapist?
I believe that I was always meant to work in this field. Since I can remember, I’ve had a natural desire in helping others and learning about what shapes people into who they are. In addition to empathy and compassion being modeled in my upbringing, these are my natural traits that hold great importance to me. I made the decision to continue to build upon my intrinsic interests by gaining more knowledge and training. I found a passion in mentoring younger students in adolescence and continued on throughout college. From that, I’ve worked in other service-oriented professions such as youth development, community outreach, post-secondary education, residential treatment, and community mental health. Through those experiences, I learned that meaningful relationships with clients are developed through safety, trust, consistency, and genuineness. I am excited to provide psychotherapy and continue to grow in this profession.
As a psychotherapist, what part of your job is most satisfying?
I deeply value holding space with clients through their triumphs and challenges. I believe being a support and providing a non-judgmental space provides peace, even if for a moment. It is an amazing feeling to witness a client reach a place of growth and self-fulfillment after some bumps and periods of self-doubt. Those moments of celebration hold great meaning!
How would you describe your therapeutic approach?
My therapeutic approach is client-centered, and I operated through a collaborative approach. I see the client as the expert of their life and myself as a supportive resource. I have received training in a variety of evidence-based practices and use different approaches based on the individual needs of the client.
Why do you believe that psychotherapy can help?
Having a space where you feel safe to process your experience is vitally important to your well-being and is a freeing feeling. Not many people have a space to feel, express, and just be human. In therapy, you can discuss your hopes, fears, challenges, and wins. You have the ability to release heavy feelings and stress, while gaining knowledge and trying new skills that will best help you along the way.
What are some of your specialties and what drew you to them?
I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma. When trauma occurs in a person’s life, it can deeply impact their overall well-being. Providing space for a person to process and cope through these impactful encounters is rewarding and powerful. My specialties also include working with people who experienced anxiety, depression, life transitions, separation and grief.
What is one thing about psychotherapy you wish everyone knew?
Change does not happen overnight. We often search for instant gratification as humans, and sometimes think that the therapist will provide the answers. In order for therapy to work, we must be willing to try something new, challenge self, and remind ourselves that we will not get everything right the first time.
What is your motto or personal mantra?
My own personal mantra is “I am capable” and “This pain won’t overcome me”. These mantras are helpful in reminding that we have the tools to get through tough times and even though it is painful, we are powerful enough to overcome obstacles and intense feelings.
What are your favorite self-care activities?
My favorite self-care activities are spending time with loved ones, listening to music, doing crafts, and watching a great movie along with having snacks.
