Kathryn D. Michalski-Gardner,

M.A., L.C.P.C.

Kathryn is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC). She received her Bachelor's degree from Illinois State University and her Master's degree in Clinical Psychology, with an emphasis on Marital and Family Therapy, from Azusa Pacific University, California.

Kathryn has worked with families since 1999 to improve their ability to cope with difficult situations or illness. She has experience in a variety of settings helping individuals with illness and recovery. She has assisted families of the terminally ill, worked with high school students to manage daily stress and guide adults with developmental disabilities to become more independent.

At OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Eating Disorders Program in Peoria, IL, Kathryn was a Group Therapist, she worked with patients to manage their anxiety and beliefs about food and body image. She ran a Family Support Group to educate the loved ones of patients and learn steps to take at home to encourage the recovery process. She gained experience with women's issues, self-esteem and eating disorders.

At Edward Hospital - Linden Oaks Hospital, Naperville, IL, she worked on both the inpatient and outpatient Behavioral Health Adult units. She provided therapy for patients in crisis, with acute symptoms of distress and unmanageable responsibilities. She met with patients to teach them skills to communicate, set boundaries and improve their coping skills. She then entered into private practice in Naperville, IL.

Kathryn is currently with the group medical practice, Baber Psychiatric Associates. The practice has 4 psychiatrists, 1 psychologist and 8 psychotherapists. She provides counseling to individuals ages 14+, couples and families.

Kathryn has received training from the Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy and Research in Philadelphia and utilizes the tools of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in sessions. She can teach patients to identify their triggers, irrational thoughts, unpleasant feelings and unhealthy behaviors. She helps patients to recognize the distortions and guide patients to decrease stress and cope with difficult situations or relationships. She is a member of the International Association for Cognitive Psychotherapy.

She is a member of Postpartum Depression Alliance of Illinois and Postpartum Support International. She has completed the PSI Certification of Completion course in Perinatal Mood Disorders.

She is also a member of Illinois Counseling Association and Illinois Mental Health Counselors Association.