Margot is a psychotherapist at Wildflower. She provides relational, psychodynamic, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, and culturally-responsive therapy to adults, couples, and teens. Her clinical interests include depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, racial trauma, gender identity, sexual abuse, addiction, eating disorders, sexual trauma, grief, developmental trauma, relational trauma, and complex health problems. Margot obtained her bachelor’s degree in communication from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and earned her master’s degree in social work at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice where she concentrated her studies in trauma-responsive care. Read Margot’s full bio here.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a psychotherapist?
For a long time, I have had a passion for understanding how emotions intersect with the mind and body. In my own life, I have experienced the transformative power of healing through the development of genuine connection and trusting relationships, which further ignited my interest to pursue a career as a psychotherapist. I believe that being in positive “community” with another human with a foundation of trust and respect provides us with a guide map for cultivating and navigating healthy relationships with ourselves and others. Once I recognized this power of possibility, I felt a deep intrinsic drive to be a catalyst for change and to support others on their journey to navigate the complexities of their inner worlds.
As a psychotherapist, what part of your job is most satisfying?
The most satisfying part of being a psychotherapist is witnessing everything from the subtle shifts to the profound breakthroughs that my clients experience. Seeing individuals gain self-awareness, overcome obstacles, and confront their fears brings immense joy and fulfillment to my heart. It is a privilege to be part of their journey towards self-discovery and healing.
How would you describe your therapeutic approach?
My therapeutic approach is relational and rooted in empathy, acceptance, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions freely. I believe that connection is the power that exists between people when they feel seen, heard and valued. Because of this, I emphasize the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship to foster trust and openness. I draw from various evidence-based modalities, such as psychodynamic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and somatic and mindfulness techniques, while tailoring the approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Why do you believe that psychotherapy can help?
Psychotherapy can help individuals in many different ways. Firstly, it provides a supportive space to discuss and process emotions, thoughts, and life challenges. Through this introspection, clients gain insights into their behaviors and patterns, leading to better self-understanding. Psychotherapy also equips individuals with real tools and strategies to navigate stress, anxiety, and depression which promotes personal growth, resilience, and facilitates lasting positive change.
What are some of your specialties, and what drew you to them?
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy and working with individuals dealing with anxiety and mood disorders. The prevalence of trauma-related issues in our society and their profound impact on mental health drew me to this specialization. Helping people heal from traumatic experiences and supporting them in building resilience has been both challenging and deeply rewarding.
What is one thing about psychotherapy you wish everyone knew?
One thing I wish everyone knew about psychotherapy is that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It takes serious courage to face our vulnerabilities and acknowledge that we need support.
What is your motto or personal mantra?
bell hooks said it best when she wrote “rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.” We may have forgotten the therapeutic power of community, but our nervous systems have not forgotten – and are aware of its importance at a cellular level. What I love about my work is being able to provide a space to help others inspire their own awakening and re-establish a connection to who they are.
What are your favorite self-care activities?
Some of my favorite self-care activities include spending time in nature with my dog, learning how to play the handpan, practicing yoga, reading books that inspire personal and spiritual growth, and of course, nurturing my social connections with loved ones.
