GET TO KNOW YOUR THERAPIST

Jessica Katz

Jessica Katz, LCSW

HEALING CAN BE MESSY. ONE STEP AT A TIME.

Jessica Katz, LCSW | Lincoln Park Therapy Group Chicago

WHY I BECAME A THERAPIST

Dealing with anxiety or difficult life experiences can feel isolating and overwhelming. I’ve been there. We all have. Sometimes, what we need most is someone who will simply sit with us and listen. I became a therapist because I wanted to offer that support, creating a space where you can feel less alone as you navigate life’s various challenges.

 

I BECAME A THERAPIST TO BE A SOURCE OF SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE STRUGGLING, EVEN IF THAT SIMPLY MEANS SITTING WITH THEM THROUGH DIFFICULT MOMENTS.

WHEN I WORK WITH CLIENTS, I TAKE A RELATIONAL, TRAUMA-INFORMED APPROACH THAT FOCUSES ON YOUR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND GOALS. I KNOW HEALING CAN BE MESSY AND ISN’T ALWAYS LINEAR, SO I TAILOR OUR WORK TO WHAT MATTERS MOST TO YOU.

You may be feeling anxious or burnt out, navigating a breakup, or noticing how negative self-talk, perfectionism, or past attachment wounds are affecting your relationships. Together, we can explore these experiences, better understand the patterns behind them, and work toward changes that feel meaningful to you. I draw from CBT, DBT, and creative approaches when helpful, while keeping your individual needs and goals at the center of our work. My hope is that you ultimately feel better about yourself, grow more confident in who you are, and learn to continuously give yourself grace along the way. Baby steps!

When I work with clients, I incorporate THREE THINGS to create positive change:

LIGHTNESS | COMPASSION | COLLABORATION

I try to make therapy feel approachable, comfortable, and maybe even a little less intimidating. I bring lightness and humor into the room, while also making space for the hard stuff. Building trust is incredibly important to me, and I want you to feel comfortable being yourself and showing up exactly as you are, knowing you’ll be met with compassion rather than judgment. I also believe therapy works best when it’s collaborative. I’ll listen, offer support, and gently challenge you when it feels helpful, while making sure your voice and needs remain an important part of our work.
Double doors to Suite 228 at our Lakeview office, with the Lincoln Park Therapy Group logo on the frosted glass
Lobby with chairs arranged for seating

WHO I WORK WITH

​I work with adolescents, adults, young adults, and couples navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, breakups, life transitions, self-esteem, perfectionism, and women’s issues. I also work with those experiencing work-related stress, attachment issues, body image issues, quarter-life crises, postpartum issues, issues surrounding social justice & equity, and those who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community.

My area of expertise is working with survivors of sexual assault, informed by my background in sexual assault advocacy and my trauma-informed approach to therapy.

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WHAT IF I'M NERVOUS ABOUT STARTING THERAPY?

If you’re nervous about starting therapy, I want you to know that’s completely normal. Opening up to someone new can feel really intimidating, and you don’t have to come in knowing exactly what to say or where to start. We can figure that out together. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you feel comfortable being yourself. There’s no pressure to share everything right away or have all the answers. And remember, you don’t have to do everything perfectly, including therapy!
Jessica Katz, LCSW | Lincoln Park Therapy Group Chicago

A LITTLE ABOUT ME & MY PROFESSIONAL SKILLS

 

  • I completed my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago with specialization in Advanced Clinical Practice. I also received my Bachelor’s in Psychology with and Certificate in Criminal Justice from University of Wisconsin-Madison.
  • I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
  • I have completed a 27.5 hour Living Brave course by Dr. Brené Brown focusing on Vulnerability, Courage, Shame, and Empathy.
  • I am currently training in EMDR.
“Fill up your own cup and let them fall in love with the overflow.” -Harry Styles
 

Enjoys staying active

Loves spending time with her puppy (Eddie) and kitty (Pepper)

woman

Enjoys GETTING LOST IN A GOOD BOOK

DO YOU WISH YOU WERE BETTER EQUIPPED TO HANDLE CHALLENGING SITUATIONS? DO YOU WANT TO INCREASE YOUR ABILITY TO NAVIGATE LIFE’S UPS AND DOWNS?

I would be honored to partner with you and help you discover the tools that can help make life more manageable. Together, we will find ways for you to meet your goals and increase your happiness and life satisfaction.