Mental Health Therapist
in Chicago, IL
Shirley Khong, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Welcome and hello!
As you take this initial step into therapy, know that you're not alone. I'm here to walk alongside you, providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can freely express yourself and explore whatever is on your mind. We'll work collaboratively to address your needs, goals, and aspirations, empowering you to discover insights, develop coping strategies, and create positive changes in your life. Remember, it's okay to feel uncertain at first – I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Specialties: Anxiety, Intergenerational Trauma, and Relationship Issues
In my experience as a therapist, I've come to realize that you can't teach others lessons unless you've lived them yourself. This belief shapes my approach to therapy, as I draw from my own journey to empathize with clients. By sharing my insights, I create a space where clients feel understood and supported in their struggles. Together, we explore their emotions and experiences, fostering genuine growth and healing. I believe that true transformation comes from both personal experience and compassionate guidance.
Growing up in an immigrant household, I witnessed how harmful communication patterns, beliefs, and behaviors can be passed down through generations. Many of us strive to differentiate ourselves from these patterns to prevent them from affecting our own children. Taking time for self-reflection and awareness isn't selfish; it's an act of self-compassion. By doing so, we can choose to pass on family heirlooms of love and resilience rather than the burdens of family trauma.
Throughout my career as a therapist, I've worked with couples from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and sexual orientations. Each couple's challenges are unique, so there's no one-size-fits-all approach. My role is to help partners slow down, become aware of how they feel, and notice both spoken and unspoken communication. By developing this awareness, couples can then commit to making changes that enhance communication and rebuild trust in their relationship.
How am I in session?
In a time where everyone is moving so quickly and want immediate relief, I like to slow down and give you space to reflect without interruptions. The silence might feel uncomfortable at first if you're not used to having full attention focused on you. There will be times when I will gently ask for clarification or use analogies to reflect back what you are telling me, in order to better understand your perspective.
I want you to know that this process is about building comfort and trust. Over time, I hope you'll feel more comfortable sharing about yourself. Remember, you can always say, 'No, I'm not comfortable talking about this topic,' and it won't offend me. I encourage you to set boundaries in our relationship, especially if you haven't had that experience with others. I'm here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself freely, without fear of criticism or rejection.
Details about me:
I am the first-born from a Chinese and Vietnamese immigrant family living in Chicago, IL
I'm a passionate amateur chef and baker who loves experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
I’m a life-long learner and always collecting and reading new books about finances, psychology, etc.
I love learning new languages and watching international tv shows or movies, especially Korean dramas.
I enjoy building Legos, including the two in my background setting (i.e., The Great Wave and Disney castle)!
If you would have met me growing up, I was usually the kid who was sitting inside drawing, reading, or watching tv.
My self-compassion practices include: having my own therapist, learning how to garden, being with nature (i.e., hiking, biking, rollerblading, etc.), weightlifting (I try for 2-3x a week), and engaging in daily yoga practices. To be honest, I forget some days when stress and anxiety gets the best of me, but it’s a work in progress.
Frequently Asked Questions in Chicago, IL
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Absolutely, seeing a therapist for anxiety can be very beneficial. It's important to find a therapist who is a good fit for you and your specific needs. As a therapist, I specialize in helping clients improve their anxiety and enhance their relationships with themselves and others. Therapy offers a supportive space to explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards a healthier, more balanced life.
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Instead of thinking about 'fixing' anxiety, let's focus on how we can better manage it. The first step is to become aware of the words and beliefs we use when we feel anxious, as they can significantly impact our experience. Next, it's important to have a safe and supportive space to process these feelings, helping them feel less overwhelming and out of control. Together, we can explore effective strategies tailored to your needs, helping you to manage and reduce your anxiety.
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There is no one-size fits all approach for anxiety. Each person's experience with anxiety is unique, and the most effective therapy can vary. However, by exploring different therapeutic options and becoming more aware of our thoughts, emotions, and experiences, we can find healthier ways to cope with anxiety. Let's work together to discover the best approach for you, tailored to your individual needs and preferences.
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For 50-minute individual sessions, it will cost $210 out of pocket, while for a 50-minute couples’ session, it will cost $220. I understand that therapy is an investment in your well-being, and I am committed to providing high-quality care. If you have insurance, I can help you navigate your benefits to see if any coverage is available. Additionally, please feel free to discuss any financial concerns with me, as I want to ensure that therapy is accessible for those who need it.