McKenna is the Practice Operations Coordinator and psychotherapist at Wildflower. In her clinical practice, McKenna draws on Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Solution Oriented Therapy. McKenna works with adults, couples and families experiencing anxiety and depression, relationship concerns and life transitions- some of which may take place in relationships, families, career paths or in education. McKenna has extensive experience in addressing the unique challenges faced by recently married couples and couples entering into parenthood. She obtained her master of arts degree in marital and family therapy from the University of San Diego. Read McKenna’s full bio here.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a psychotherapist?
Despite growing up in a community where many people struggled with various mental health challenges, there was a notable absence of understanding surrounding these issues. Recognizing the potential for more positive outcomes, both for myself and those around me, I became aware of the importance of having access to necessary tools to navigate life’s stressors. In my undergraduate psychology studies, I became more curious about the interconnectedness of our wellbeing and relationships. I then followed this curiosity into a graduate program specializing in marital and family therapy where I learned how to work with people to help them achieve the healthy and successful relationships with themselves and others that they were hoping for. I continue to choose and pursue this work because I believe in the mission of this field to offer compassion and support to those that are searching for positive changes in their lives.
As a psychotherapist, what part of your job is most satisfying?
Witnessing clients feel genuinely seen and understood is such a big part of why I do this work. Being able to listen to and validate their experiences, especially when it’s a new and empowering moment for them, fills me with immense joy. Furthermore, it is especially rewarding when clients begin to speak of themselves in a compassionate and forgiving manner—a shift often cultivated within the safe and supportive space we create in therapy. Experiencing my clients’ development of self-compassion and self-forgiveness signifies not only growth but also a fundamental reorientation of their relationship with themselves, one marked by kindness, acceptance, and understanding.
How would you describe your therapeutic approach?
I aim to serve as a mirror for my clients, gently reflecting back to them the positive qualities theymay struggle to recognize within themselves. Through empathetic listening and thoughtful reflection, I help individuals gain insight into their unique strengths, talents, and capabilities. This reflective process allows clients to develop a more balanced and compassionate view of themselves. This strengths-based approach not only fosters resilience but also cultivates a deeper sense of self-awareness and self-compassion.
Why do you believe that psychotherapy can help?
I believe that everyone has inherent strengths and resources within themselves to make positive change in their lives, and psychotherapy offers people the space to recognize and build on these pre-existing strengths. Psychotherapy acts as a collaborative partnership, where the therapist can act as a compassionate guide, offering the space for self-compassion, self-discovery and healing, based on the goals and hopes of each client.
What are some of your specialties and what drew you to them?
In addition to my interest in supporting clients through reproductive and perinatal mental health challenges, I am deeply committed to assisting my clients in fostering healthy and fulfilling relationships. Whether I am working with clients individually or in couples therapy, I am passionate about assisting clients in building stronger and more enriching connections. My enthusiasm for this work is fueled by the belief that every individual deserves to experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from authentic and loving relationships with others.
What is one thing about psychotherapy you wish everyone knew?
I wish everyone knew that psychotherapy is often dynamic; it is normal for the purpose and motivation for therapy to shift and transform over time. As clients gain insights, develop coping strategies, and enhance self-awareness, they may find new avenues for growth and exploration within the therapy space. For instance, the focus of therapy can shift from symptom reduction to building self awareness or pursuing positive changes in their lives.
What is your motto or personal mantra?
“It is a beautiful day to do hard things.” Kimberley Quinlan, LMFT
At its core, this quote embodies the acknowledgment of life’s challenges while embracing the inherent beauty and potential for growth within them. It feels equally empathetic and encouraging at the same time.
What is your own goal in providing psychotherapy?
My goal in therapy is to create a space for my clients to feel genuinely seen, heard and respected. I am committed to addressing the specific needs and goals of each individual client, as I ultimately want to ensure that whatever my clients are hoping to change, learn or better understand about themselves and their relationships. For this reason, at the conclusion of many sessions, I invite clients to reflect on our time together by asking questions such as, “What went well in our time together?” and “What can we do together to make this space more helpful?”
What are your favorite self-care activities?
Spending quality time with family and friends is my number one self-care. This invaluable connection helps me recharge, nurtures my emotional well-being, and fosters growth within my interpersonal relationships. I also love running and going for walks outside. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy sunshine, exercise and the beauty of Chicago at the same time!
