I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over15 years of professional experience. I want to support you in bringing forth your best. I embrace the adage, “When you are ready for the next step, you will approach that step.” As a therapist, I see my role as helping you become the person you want to be. The change process requires (1) self-exploration (which may require you to talk about difficult and challenging issues, and (2) stepping out of your “comfort zone” (when you feel ready) to try new behaviors. As you talk about the situation you are in and the challenges you face, I may ask questions such as, “How have you previously approached similar challenges?” What worked? What didn’t work? What can you do to improve your chance for success? If you seem to be taking a self-limiting perspective, I might suggest replacing the self-limiting/self-defeating messages you are giving yourself with messages that are more appreciative and optimistic about who you are and what you have to offer (like “I am worthy” or “I am good at ________.”) What If you don’t think you are worthy or what if you don’t think you are good at ________? Then, I will ask you to explain how you concluded that. Or else, I may merely sit with you in support of you, leaving it up to you to tap into your gifts and bring them forth. Whatever you come up with, I will listen to you and reflect back what I am hearing from you, possibly offer my perspective, and hope that you can put it together to give it your best.