Counseling Works

12/19/2025

As winter approaches, many people notice shifts in mood, motivation, and energy. For some, it’s the familiar “winter blues”… but for others, these changes may be part of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) a form of major depression that follows a predictable seasonal pattern.

In her article, “Seasonal affective disorder, winter blues and self-care tips to get ahead of symptoms” (Nov. 29, 2023), the author explains how SAD impacts about 5% of Americans each year, with women being four times more likely to experience it. Symptoms often begin in late fall, last through winter, and ease as daylight returns in spring.

What makes SAD different from the winter blues is how deeply it affects daily functioning: sleep patterns, appetite, concentration, motivation, and interest in activities. And because symptoms reliably return each year, early recognition and intentional support can make a powerful difference.

The good news? There are effective treatments and meaningful prevention strategies. Light therapy, vitamin D supplementation, cognitive behavioral therapy, and daily routines like walking, connecting with others, and planning enjoyable activities can help soften the seasonal impact.

If you find yourself withdrawing more than usual, losing interest in things you normally enjoy, or struggling to maintain daily functioning during the winter months, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

📩 Our therapists at Counseling Works are here to help you understand your symptoms and build a plan that supports you all season long. Reach out to schedule an appointment.

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12/18/2025

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be.

This week, we’re hearing from our clinician Krystina Bossany, who breaks down what the process really looks like when you reach out for support.

From the moment you contact us, you’ll receive access to our secure client portal, where you can complete paperwork, communicate with your therapist, and stay organized throughout your care.

Together, you and your clinician will create a treatment plan that reflects your goals, challenges, and the areas of your life you want to strengthen. And remember, your treatment plan is never set in stone. As your needs shift, it can be adjusted so you always feel supported and aligned with your progress.

Most importantly, we want you to know this:
You are not alone. We’re here to walk with you, at your pace, every step of the way.

📩 If you’re ready to begin or want to learn more about what therapy looks like, reach out to schedule your first appointment.

www.counselingworks.com

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12/17/2025

For children and adolescents, big emotions can feel even bigger during times of change and high expectations. Changes in routine, family gatherings, and social pressures can be a source of stress, anxiety, or withdrawal. It can be hard for them to express what they're feeling, and even harder for parents to know how to help.

Each of our counseling sessions is specifically designed to meet your child’s needs. Their therapist will first identify the issues your child is struggling with, discuss initial recommendations, and give actionable advice. We believe there is no “one size fits all” approach to therapy; every child is different and has different needs. Reach out to us today.


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12/16/2025

Seasonal shifts don’t just bring colder temperatures, they can impact emotional well-being in very real ways. Shorter days, less sunlight, disrupted routines, and increased stress around the holidays can all contribute to symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

If you’ve noticed changes in your mood, motivation, sleep, or overall energy this time of year, you are not alone and what you’re experiencing is valid. Many people feel the effects long before they realize winter is playing a role.

The good news? There are effective tools and strategies to help manage seasonal depression, from light therapy and structured routines to counseling support that helps you navigate the harder months with care and understanding.

At Counseling Works, our therapists are here to help you feel grounded, supported, and equipped, no matter what season you’re in.

📩 If winter feels heavier than usual, reach out. You deserve support that helps you move through this season with more steadiness and clarity.

https://www.counselingworks.com/services/individual-therapy/therapy-for-depression/

12/15/2025

Finding time for yourself can be tough, especially when schedules are packed and travel is involved. Online counseling offers a flexible, confidential way to get the support you need, right from the comfort of your own space. It removes the stress of commuting, allowing you to connect with a therapist on your terms.

We currently use TherapyNotes (a HIPAA compliant secure option for your telehealth sessions). For our team, the highest priority is always placed on protecting our clients’ health and safety, and we will do everything we can to ensure you receive the necessary support when you need us. Schedule your session today.


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12/12/2025

As the winter season settles in and the days grow darker, we’re reminded of the incredible organizations that bring warmth, comfort, and connection to our community. One of those truly special groups is Shorewood HUGS. 🤍 Shorewood HUGS

Their Hugs & Wishes Program supports individuals and families within a 20-mile radius of Shorewood who are facing illness, disability, or other hardships. What began in 2008 with five friends has grown into a 50+ member organization that has fulfilled 1,300+ wishes and contributed over $1 million to those in need.

From special experiences to essential support, their mission stays the same: to make a positive impact, one hug at a time.
During the winter months especially, their work reminds all of us how compassion can create warmth and how community can create hope.

If you’d like to support Shorewood HUGS, consider attending their 2026 Lovely London Ball at the Hollywood Casino Event Center in Joliet on February 7th at 7 PM. More details and ticket information can be found at shorewoodhugs.org or on their page, Shorewood HUGS.

🤍 At Counseling Works, we believe in the power of community care and we’re grateful for organizations like this that continue to lift others up.

12/11/2025

The holidays can be a beautiful season, but they can also bring stress, pressure, and the expectation to make everything perfect.
Our Founder & Director, Kristen Breese, reminds us that perfection isn’t the goal. 🤍

This year, make sure you’re creating a holiday that works for you, too.

Your plans, your energy, and your emotional well-being matter just as much as everyone else’s.

And if something needs to change, whether it’s how you celebrate, where you go, or what you take on, remember this:
Adjusting your holiday to fit your needs doesn’t mean it will be this way forever.

It simply means you’re caring for yourself in the season you’re in.
What matters most is the time shared with loved ones, not the details in between.

If this season feels overwhelming, our team is here to support you.
📩 Send us a message or visit our website to schedule an appointment.

12/10/2025

The holidays can be particularly difficult when you're navigating the loss of a loved one. The empty chair at the table or the absence of familiar traditions can make feelings of grief feel even more intense. Grief is a deeply personal journey with no right or wrong way to feel, but you don't have to walk it alone.

We hope you’ll consider meeting with us at Counseling Work. You deserve to feel healthy and fulfilled, but you can also honor your feelings of grief following a loss. These two things are not mutually exclusive. We look forward to offering you a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which to work through the emotional experience of losing a loved one.


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12/09/2025

Perfectionism is common among high achievers, but it comes with hidden costs.

In her latest blog post, Natalie Yard, MA, LPC, NCC breaks down why so many successful people silently struggle with perfectionism and how shifting toward self-compassion can actually enhance performance, not weaken it.

Natalie explains how constant self-pressure and harsh self-talk drain creativity, resilience, and well-being over time. Research from Dr. Kristin Neff shows that self-compassion supports motivation, reduces anxiety, and helps people bounce back from setbacks more effectively.

The key mindset shift?
You can aim high while still giving yourself grace. Excellence doesn’t require self-punishment.

Natalie also shares practical tools like noticing your inner dialogue, celebrating progress, and allowing space for mistakes to help high achievers thrive without burning out.

If perfectionism is taking a toll on your mental health, therapy can help you build healthier patterns while still honoring your goals.

📩 Check out the blog by visiting the link below or reach out to our team if you’re ready for support.

https://www.counselingworks.com/why-perfectionism-harms-high-achievers-and-how-self-compassion-boosts-success/

12/09/2025

🌟 Big News from Counseling Works

We're thrilled to share that our Naperville location has expanded, with four new counseling rooms thoughtfully designed to give clients the space, comfort, and support they deserve.

Every day, people walk through our doors for so many reasons: to manage stress, process life changes, heal relationships, explore identity, set boundaries, or navigate some of the hardest moments life can bring. This expansion offers more space for clients to feel heard, understood, and encouraged. It reflects our mission of providing accessible, compassionate, deeply personal care for every person who trusts us with their story.

If a new chapter in your clinical journey has been on your mind, think of this as your invitation. Join a space where your compassionate care can truly thrive.

📨 Send us a message or visit https://lnkd.in/g3Vxsi28 to learn more.

🌟 Big News from Counseling Works We're thrilled to share that our Naperville location has expanded, with four new counseling rooms thoughtfully designed to give clients the space, comfort, and support they deserve. Every day, people walk through our doors for so many reasons: to manage stress, pr...

12/08/2025

When the season is supposed to be bright, it's hard when you feel a heavy sense of sadness or emptiness. Depression can make it feel impossible to connect with joy, especially when expectations are high. It's more than just a fleeting bad mood; it's a persistent weight that can drain your energy and hope.

In many ways, the process of simply saying out loud what you’ve been thinking and feeling can help to normalize and curb the severity of these deep emotions and difficult thoughts. Therapy offers you a safe space to explore your experience of depression without worrying about being judged or not having your emotions validated.

Reach out to one of the many trained Counseling Works therapists to begin working towards regaining the happiness you deserve. We are here to help you.


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12/05/2025

We’re thrilled to welcome Amanda DeBoy, LPC, PMH-C, CADC, CTP to the Counseling Works team!

Amanda provides individual therapy for young adults and adults at our Naperville and Lemont locations. She specializes in life transitions, perinatal and maternal mental health, and trauma, offering support that feels grounded, collaborative, and real.

With certifications as a Perinatal Mental Health Professional, Certified Trauma Professional, and Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor, Amanda blends evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness with a trauma-informed, client-centered approach - helping clients manage overwhelm, rebuild confidence, and discover what healing looks like for them.

As a former full-spectrum doula, Amanda brings a deep understanding of the emotional complexities of parenthood. She provides a calm, affirming space for new parents to process joy, fear, grief, and transformation.

Reflecting on her work, Amanda shares:
“The gap in resources for new parents during such a vulnerable time inspired me to become a therapist—so I could offer a safe, affirming space for individuals to process, heal, and grow.”

Join us in welcoming Amanda to the Counseling Works team!

https://www.counselingworks.com/about-us/meet-amanda-deboy/