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Bri McLaughlin(She/Her/Hers)

(She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW
Illinois
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)- Depression-Artists' mental health- Anxiety - Life transitions-Self-esteem-
AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & FeesTestimonials

Professional statement

Bri McLaughlin is a licensed clinical social worker in Chicago, IL. With telehealth, she can work with anyone in the state of Illinois. Bri works with individuals ages 14+ who speak English & Spanish. Many of her clients come in to address anxiety, depression, trauma and life transitions. Bri is particularly passionate about serving college students, young adults, writers and artists. She also has advanced training in the area of trauma, anxiety and depression disorders.

Bri is working toward a certificate in poetry therapy and is passionate about incorporating poetry and journaling into sessions. She uses poems and journaling to examine thoughts, emotions and behaviors, and increase self-esteem. Poetry therapy also helps clients to increase self-awareness and research supports ifs efficacy. Bri also has experience doing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), in which she teaches skills to manage emotions. She has a certificate in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), with which she helps clients re-tell the story of traumatic events with hope and empowerment.

In session, Bri focuses on exploring creative expression through journaling, poetry and talking. She also facilitates meditations and breathing exercises that can be practiced in stressful situations. This approach supports clients’ ability to heal, break free and create the life they want to live.

Bri's style is empathetic, engaging, and non-judgmental. When clients first start therapy, we will establish a strong relationship and comfortable environment where they feel supported and challenged to grow.

Bri received her Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Illinois - Chicago. She has worked at Trilogy Behavioral Healthcare, Inc., where she provided individual therapy for adults. Previously, she had worked as a child and adolescent therapist. Outside of private practice, she loves to write, read, sing and dance. Bri offers telehealth sessions as a convenient way to access therapy from your home.


Message to clients

Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma? Or a major life change? I'm Bri, and I can help! My training in therapy means I have the expertise you need and deserve when feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Clients in therapy with me learn new ways to cope more effectively. Together, we will explore your emotions and help you begin the healing process. Together, we will discuss creating the life you want to live. You can find your happiness and put it first! I teach my clients to invest in their relationship with themselves and others. Remember that the most important person in your life is you!

While I do use talk therapy, I specialize in poetry therapy, an approach shown to be effective by research in the treatment of depression, anxiety and trauma disorders. Poetry therapy is a collaborative and creative form of therapy that involves guided journaling inspired by evocative poetry. Therapy is a brave space for you to heal through talking and writing. Clients in therapy with me feel supported and challenged to grow.

I am passionate about helping you see the beauty that can come from the trias you've faced. I believe that out of pain, beauty can be created and allows us to grow in ways we never dreamed of! I offer a gentle, compassionate, and a real place to process your emotions. My philosophy of healing comes from a place of hope: you CAN empower yourself and heal! Can’t wait to hear from you! *Hablo Español*


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 9 years

Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, social worker
Family Service Association of Greater Elgin Area, social worker/therapist
Trilogy Behavioral Healthcare, Inc., bilingual family therapist/LCSW
Therapy with Bri, LLC, LCSW/owner

University of Illinois - Chicago, Master of Social Work, 2015
University of North Carolina, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 2015

Licensure

Illinois: 149.021818

Languages

English, Spanish

Specialties

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Healing painful experiences and memories from the past

Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life

Artists' mental health - Understanding of highly creative minds; goal setting related to the artistic and creative process; support finding meaningful balance in one’s life

Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)

Life transitions - Coping with difficult or impactful life changes, such as moving to a new area, relationship transitions, child rearing, or career changes; learning self-care to better manage resulting stress

Self-esteem - Cultivating self-compassion, assertiveness, and confidence; developing ways to reduce suffering, anxiety, social withdrawal, and self-neglect




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Families
  • Parents
  • Teenagers (13-18)
  • Young adults (18-24)

Locations & Hours


Insurance

  • Anthem Blue Cross
  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Blue Choice
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois PPO

Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$185 (55min)
  • Initial session:$185 (55min)
  • 45 Minute Individual Session$139 (45min)

Client testimonials

"Bri was very personable and I felt listened to when i gave her a brief description of my issues. She gave me a good overview of her practice and what that would look like."
- Zencare client August 2022

Book a Free Initial Consultation

The practice will call you for a free 10min phone call to discuss your needs and ensure a match!

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