GET TO KNOW YOUR THERAPIST
Payton Willis
Payton Willis, M.A., MHC
THE BEAUTY OF THERAPY IS THAT EVERYBODY IS UNIQUE, AND THEREFORE YOUR THERAPY PROCESS WILL BE TAILORED TO MEET YOUR NEEDS.
WHY I BECAME A THERAPIST
As human beings, we all stumble on times when life is difficult, and sometimes we can feel misunderstood and lost. I wanted to aid people in finding their path again, while offering support, encouragement, and trust in a safe, non-judgmental space.
I BECAME A THERAPIST TO HELP PEOPLE EXPLORE THEIR PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE. MY PASSION IS TO HELP PEOPLE IDENTIFY WHAT IS HOLDING THEM BACK AND GUIDE THEM TO LIVE THEIR BEST LIFE!
I believe therapy is a journey in which the connection between client and therapist is essential in order create a safe space to begin growing.
As a therapist, I aim to provide tools that are culturally competent and integrate evidence-based treatment like CBT with more humanistic techniques like unconditional positive regard. I also incorporate aspects of Psychodynamic theory, which focuses on childhood experiences and they ways they may impact our current reality. I believe that therapy will challenge you, however, the results are worth it!
When I work with clients, I incorporate THREE THINGS to create positive change:
acceptance | coping skills | self-reflection
When working with clients, I focus on the therapeutic relationship and collaboration. I encourage clients to gain an understanding of their thought process and the influence it has on their emotions and behaviors. Through the process, we will work on finding acceptance and creating a balance amidst life stressors. We will develop necessary coping skills to be able to face life challenges. I strive to approach each client with unconditional positive regard, empathy, and no judgement.
WHO I WORK WITH
I work with individuals and specialize in people experiencing relationship challenges, managing difficult life transitions, facing a Quarter-Life Crisis, dealing with depression or anxiety, and those with a history of trauma.
My area of expertise is working with people who have experienced trauma, and those who are struggling to cope with significant life changes.
WHAT IF I DON'T KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN?
That’s okay! I meet my clients where they are at. Through the therapy process, we will explore what first brought you to therapy and work together on identifying goals.
A LITTLE ABOUT ME & MY PROFESSIONAL SKILLS
- I graduated from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology.
- I am working towards becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
- I completed a 27.5 hour Living Brave course from Brené Brown focusing on Vulnerability, Courage, Shame, and Empathy based on Daring Greatly and Rising Strong programs.
“Life is from the inside out. When you shift on the inside, life shifts on the outside” ― Kamal Ravikant
Loves reading
Practices yoga
Loves to travel