Stefanie is a psychotherapist at Wildflower. In her clinical practice, Stefanie draws from evidence-based modalities, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Somatic therapies. Stefanie’s experience spans working with adolescents, adults, and couples on issues including complex trauma/PTSD, grief, ADHD, body image concerns, substance use, shame, reproductive identity, and relationship challenges. Stefanie has a strong interest in perinatal and reproductive mental health, addressing concerns related to the menstrual cycle, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), infertility, pregnancy loss, and other matters related to family planning. Stefanie obtained her master’s degree in social work from Loyola University Chicago, with a focus on advanced clinical practice. Her clinical experience involves offering psychotherapy in various outpatient environments such as private practice and community mental health. Read Stefanie’s full bio here.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a psychotherapist?
My own experience in therapy was instrumental in shaping my desire to help others in the same way that I was helped. My therapist provided me with a safe and empathetic space where I could begin to make sense of my past and present circumstances that were affecting my mental health. I am incredibly grateful to have witnessed first-hand the immense value of therapy and how it can truly transform people’s lives. It was this realization that inspired me to pursue a career as a psychotherapist. I want to be able to provide others with the same level of support and guidance that I received during my own therapy journey.
As a psychotherapist, what part of your job is most satisfying?
As a therapist, there is no greater reward than witnessing the healing that occurs through authentically connecting with clients in session. Clients often come to therapy feeling like they must wear a mask or hide parts of themselves from others. In many cases, clients have become so accustomed to concealing parts of themselves that they are not consciously aware of it. A solid therapeutic alliance sets the foundation for clients to feel safe enough to let down their guard, empowering them to connect to their authentic selves and develop an awareness of what makes life meaningful to them. When clients feel genuinely seen, they can access parts of themselves that they may have been hiding or suppressing, which is an essential step in the healing process.
How would you describe your therapeutic approach?
I take a relational approach to therapy that is client-centered and focuses on healing the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. I use a combination of traditional talk therapy, mindfulness practices, and somatic techniques to create an integrative therapeutic experience. Therapy is collaborative, so fostering genuine, warm, and compassionate relationships with my clients is crucial. I value humor, creativity, and curiosity as essential elements in healing. I recognize that humans are multifaceted beings and welcome all of my client’s unique perspectives and values. The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model heavily influences my therapeutic approach, which allows for exploration and growth without pathologizing any individual parts of the self.
Why do you believe that psychotherapy can help?
Psychotherapy has many components that can be helpful depending on an individual’s specific needs. However, a meaningful factor common across all types of therapy is the healing nature of the therapeutic relationship. In the current era of loneliness, a solid therapeutic alliance has immense power. The bond between a therapist and their client is unparalleled. This connection creates a haven where individuals can express their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. The therapeutic relationship offers a unique opportunity for individuals to feel heard, validated, and supported in their journey toward personal growth and healing. Examining this from a systems perspective, as clients gain insights into their function in the system and how it affects them, they can initiate positive changes within themselves, their relationships, and their communities, leading to restorative systemic transformation.
What are some of your specialties and what drew you to them?
My specialties are close to my heart, stemming from my own healing journey and personal values. My unwavering dedication to reproductive justice fuels my desire to support those struggling with reproductive mental health. I am deeply committed to working with clients who face reproductive mental health challenges, such as PMDD and PMADs, and those who struggle with body image secondary to pregnancy, infant/pregnancy loss, and birth trauma. My passion also extends to helping new parents adjust to changes in their families. My additional specialties include working with clients to break generational patterns, address complex trauma, and navigate issues related to attachment wounds, Highly Sensitive People (HSP), ADHD, codependency, and substance use.
What is one thing about psychotherapy you wish everyone knew?
Healing is not linear, and progress can be sneaky. Working on oneself can be a difficult journey that doesn’t always have a clear path. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions following a therapy session. You may sense a weight lifted off your shoulders or feel overwhelmed and unsure about moving forward. These emotions are completely valid and understandable. Processing emotions can be intense, particularly when they have been buried for a long time. Real progress can be uncomfortable as it demands us to examine and adjust long-standing behavior patterns. You may experience significant breakthroughs, but there may also be periods of slow or subtle change and even occasional setbacks. It’s crucial to be kind to yourself and trust that the process is just as important as the outcome. If you’re uncertain about continuing, consider attending another session to process your apprehensions with your therapist. Remember that seeking help is an act of bravery and a valuable step toward growth.
What is your motto or personal mantra?
“Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” – James Baldwin
What are your favorite self-care activities?
I prioritize my self-care routine based on what my nervous system needs, which I suppose is an act of self-care in itself! It is often holding myself accountable to do mundane things like laundry or meal-prepping. I try to engage in daily movement such as yoga, walking, or dancing around my apartment to Donna Summer. Whenever possible, I enjoy being in nature, whether camping, hiking or simply curling up on a sunny patch of grass like a little fawn. I make it a point to spend quality time with loved ones as a part of my self-care routine. However, sometimes I crave solitude and need to spend time alone, indulging in a good book and enjoying my own company. Lastly, I prioritize the importance of my own therapy in my self-care regimen.
