A Better You Counseling, PLLC

02/26/2026

Feeling anxious every so often is part of being a human but it's HOW we respond that truly impacts our lives. Often times, we respond with avoidance because it is the quickest way to get relief. Our brain quickly learns that avoiding keeps us safe and we continue to avoid the things that make us scared. However, over time, our anxiety intensifies and our confidence decreases.

If this resonates, you are not alone. It is easy to get caught in this cycle. The good news is that small, brave steps change the cycle. Every time you face discomfort instead of avoiding it, you are teaching yourself safety, confidence and resilience.

Understanding how anxiety shows up in your life is the first step to breaking free from it! Does this cycle have a presence in your life?

02/25/2026

Gratitude means appreciating the good things in life, no matter how big or small. By practicing gratitude regularly, you can build happiness and self-esteem. Here are a few simple practices you can try!

02/22/2026

A person with healthy boundaries can say “no” to others when they want to, but also feel comfortable opening themselves to intimacy and close relationships. Try these tips to create healthy boundaries and protect your emotional, physical, mental and relational well-being.

02/18/2026

🌟Introducing: Antonio Hernandez-Silva, PMHNP-BC🌟

Antonio is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who provides compassionate, evidence-based mental health care grounded in cultural sensitivity and a patient-centered philosophy. Licensed in Illinois, he works with individuals across the lifespan from children and adolescents to adults and older adults-addressing a wide range of psychiatric concerns.

He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Aurora University, where he developed a strong foundation in clinical care, and went on to complete his Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner training at the University of St. Francis. There, he gained advanced expertise in comprehensive psychiatric assessment, accurate diagnosis, and individualized treatment planning.

Antonio offers thorough psychiatric evaluations, collaborative treatment planning, and thoughtful psychotropic medication management. He takes a holistic approach to care, recognizing the important connection between mental and physical health and tailoring treatment to each individual’s unique needs and goals.

With extensive experience in inpatient and high-acuity settings, Antonio has worked with complex and severe psychiatric conditions across all age groups. He is known for his calm, empathetic, and solution-focused style, helping patients feel heard, supported, and empowered in their care. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Antonio is deeply committed to improving access to quality mental health services and reducing cultural and linguistic barriers for diverse communities.

Antonio is currently accepting BCBS insurance and is available Friday's from 12pm-6pm.

📍A Better You Counseling
🌐 www.abetterucounseling.org
📞 (773) 945-6819

02/14/2026

02/04/2026

Did you know your eyes can hold tension that adds to stress? Try out these eye presses that are perfect for a quick grounding moment!

11/29/2025

“Change your words, change your mind.”

The way we talk to ourselves becomes the way we think about ourselves.
Speak with compassion.
Speak with intention.
Speak with power.

Your inner dialogue can be the first step toward healing, confidence, and growth.

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving from A Better You Counseling!

This Thanksgiving, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our clients and community.

Thank you for trusting us to walk alongside you in your journey. Your courage, vulnerability, and resilience-inspires us.

We also want to hold space for those who find this season challenging — whether you’re grieving, feeling distant from loved ones, or simply not in the holiday spirit.

May this day bring you comfort in whatever way you need — whether that’s being with family, resting, reflecting, or taking care of yourself.

With gratitude,
The A Better You Counseling Team
🌐 www.abetterucounseling.org
📞 (773) 945-6819

11/13/2025

Have you ever stared at a simple task for hours — knowing what you should do but just… can’t start?

That’s called ADHD paralysis, and it’s more common than you think.

It’s not laziness. It’s when your brain becomes overwhelmed by:

Too many choices
Fear of failure
Perfectionism
Lack of motivation due to dopamine imbalance

Your brain freezes, and suddenly “just start” feels impossible.

Tips to move through ADHD paralysis:

Start tiny: Pick one step — even 2 minutes counts.

Body double: Work alongside someone quietly for accountability.

Break tasks visually: Write them out or use sticky notes.

Self-compassion: Your productivity ≠ your worth.

Healing begins when you stop blaming yourself for how your brain works.

11/12/2025

We are happy to announce that our new Bilingual intern Natalia Avalos will be joining us in January, 2026. As part of her training, she will be offering low cost and pro bono counseling for at least 3 students who may benefit from extra support. If you know any students/young adults that could use someone to talk to, please reach out!

Let’s work together to make sure every student has access to mental health.

Send me a message for details or referral.