Kelly Kenna, LCPC + Clinical Supervisor

*More About Kelly* 

Congratulations on taking the first step to creating the life you deserve! Seeking support is the ultimate act of self-care, one that can spark profound change in the way you see yourself and the way you relate to the world around you. I'm here to help you connect with your most authentic self and overcome the obstacles that are getting in the way of your happiness.    

*What To Expect From Our Work Together*

My approach to therapy is rooted in one main belief: that we each possess the internal wisdom, strength, and creativity needed to heal. In order to help clients unlock that potential, I use a client-centered, strengths-based perspective that incorporates techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

IFS is an evidence-based model that affirms the multi-faceted nature of personality and the positive intentions of those different facets. In our work together, I will guide you in getting to know your “parts” - those that are wounded, those that strive to protect you from external threats and overwhelming emotions - and use the innate wisdom of your core Self to heal them.

EMDR is an equally powerful approach to healing from within. In this mode of therapy we will work through past trauma and resolve the negative self-beliefs associated with them. Tapping into the brain's natural problem-solving ability, it uses dual attention stimuli (eye movements, tapping, etc.) to reprocess painful experiences and reduce distress that is affecting your everyday life.

There will be moments of discomfort as you learn to (safely) sit with and open up to painful experiences. But there will also be moments of triumph, breakthrough, even laughter. Along the way, you will learn some practical skills for managing difficult thoughts and feelings, creating healthier relationships, and developing greater confidence and resilience.

 

*What You Need to Know About Me*

I come by this work honestly. Having overcome my own mental health challenges, I know what it's like to feel completely lost. I also know what it's like to come through the storm a better, more whole and authentic person, and I feel incredibly privileged to be able to help others find the same strength and freedom in themselves. 

Though I take my work very seriously, I am at heart a playful and fun-loving person who loves to laugh. I majored in fiction writing as an undergrad and worked as a copywriter after graduation, eventually starting my own business. I also have a background in comedy, including sketch writing at Second City, live storytelling, and (my personal favorite) stand-up. These days I spend my free time reading or watching movies, playing paddle, hosting game nights with friends, and spending time with my favorite people.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a BA in Creative Writing and an MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from DePaul University. I am also a member of the Illinois Mental Health Counselors Association (IMHCA) and the Association for Size Diversity and Health (ASDAH). In addition to providing individual and group therapy, I also serve as Clinical Supervisor for the Westmont team.