Find a therapist in Illinois — covered by insurance

Hi, I’m Kat. I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. I’m passionate about walking alongside folks as they navigate life’s challenges and rediscover their strengths. I work with kids, teens, and adults who are facing a range of struggles—whether it’s healing from trauma, coping with grief or big life changes, managing tough relationships, or exploring who they are and what gives their life meaning.

I currently have over 16 years within the non-profit sector, private practice, residential substance abuse treatment facilities, and medical Social Work facilities. And over 10 years of experience as a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC). Throughout these roles, I have developed specialized skills in crisis intervention, non-violent Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI), care coordination, and de-escalation techniques for clients in active crisis, alongside with identifying solution-focused practices, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Trauma Reprocessing. My clinical experience includes delivering comprehensive care to clients managing chronic medical conditions, complex trauma, and acute substance use disorders.

My greatest joy comes from guiding folks into an organic + compassionate practice of fiercely approaching vulnerability + embodying whole-hearted living. My goal is to create brave, inclusive spaces in order to allow for radiant expression, courageous liberation, + uplifting connection.

During my college years, I discovered Psychology + started working in the therapeutic movement realm of Dance in Medicine. My work with people living with movement disorders such as Parkinson's Disease + terminal illnesses such as cancer + dementia initiated me on the path to pursue Dance/Movement Therapy.

I graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2013 with a Master of Arts in Dance/Movement Therapy + Counseling. I also received the Graduate Laban Certificate in Movement Analysis.

Since 2013, my field experience includes extensive work with women + girls recovering from eating disorders, addictive behaviors, + traumatic experiences; at-risk youth integrating back into society; elderly + adult populations living with movement disorders + levels of neurodivergence; + adults who identify as highly sensitive persons (HSPs), looking for support with spiritual integration + body-based work.

I specialize in offering transpersonal, integrative counseling with a somatic approach to human resilience, post-traumatic growth, + addiction recovery.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Registered Dance/Movement Therapist, Certified Reiki Master Teacher, + DONA trained Birth Doula.

Whether it's money, cultural awareness, of therapeutic fit, there can be many barriers with finding the right therapist. One of my biggest goals as a counselor is to break down these obstacles. To meet this end, I implement an intersectional approach as I get to know my clients. Understanding what you need best allows me to provide it.

1. I am committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. My practice celebrates diversity and is dedicated to understanding and addressing the unique cultural and personal needs of each patient. At my practice, i understand that everyone faces challenges in life. My goal is to empower you and tap into your own skills to problem-solve and move forward. I believe in creating opportunities for growth and healing through a collaborative approach. When it comes to prescribing medication, My philosophy is to prioritize minimal intervention with maximum benefit. I aim to find the most effective treatment plan tailored to your needs, minimizing medication while maximizing therapeutic outcomes.

I am a passionate therapist who strives to empower my clients

I utilize an eclectic therapeutic style that allows me to meet the client where they are to help them accomplish their goals

Being a therapist is more than a job to me. It is a calling

I am a solution focused therapist with 39 years of experience. My therapy style is cognitive, interactive, compassionate, and, if need be, challenging. I believe effective therapy should produce change, not just insight. I will listen to you deeply, help conceptualize the problems, patterns, and dynamics which are causing you trouble, and give you feedback. Together, we will develop a strategy for more effective functioning and a better quality of life. therapy.

I do not do phone consultations.

My name is Nicole Washington, and while my full name is Catherine Nicole Washington, I’ve always gone by my middle name. (A fun fact: I didn’t even realize Catherine was my first name until kindergarten—I thought my mom was Catherine and my name was “Cole” because that’s what everyone called me!)

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from Capella University, driven by a lifelong desire to help others—one that was deeply shaped by my own personal journey with mental health challenges. I believe healing is possible, not just because I’ve studied it, but because I’ve lived it.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including partial hospitalization programs, and I have experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults. My background also includes work with domestic violence survivors, DCFS-involved families, group therapy, and individuals navigating complex life transitions. Oh and I’m also a the spouse of a Veteran. Which gives me a unique perspective of the challenges that military family’s may encounter. These diverse experiences allow me to meet clients where they are—with compassion, understanding, and respect.