Barbara Benn

Barbara Benn is an Illinois licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with 15 years of experience. She helps people who are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma or abuse, anger, and struggles with self-esteem. Her approach aims to make talking about hard things feel more manageable and less overwhelming.

Barbara builds an open, nonjudgmental space where clients can share thoughts and feelings. She uses motivational interviewing to support change and Person Centered Therapy to follow each person's priorities. She also draws on grounding and relaxation techniques when people need tools to calm down and focus.

In sessions she helps people set small, practical steps toward goals. That might mean working on social anxiety, finding motivation, or improving confidence. Barbara adapts the pace and methods to what each person needs rather than using one fixed plan.

She views taking the first step as an act of courage and aims to provide steady support through the process. Her style emphasizes listening, practical strategies, and helping clients notice progress. Barbara encourages collaboration so people can carry useful skills into daily life.

People who want to start typically complete a brief matching questionnaire and then schedule sessions based on availability. Barbara also works with international clients and conducts sessions in English.

Evidence-based approaches for online care

Barbara uses a mix of practical methods that are easy to explain and apply. Motivational interviewing focuses on finding a person’s own reasons for change and building small steps toward those goals; it is useful for struggles with motivation, low confidence, and making life changes. Person Centered Therapy emphasizes listening and following the client’s lead to create space for honest conversation and self-direction. Grounding and relaxation techniques are taught as concrete tools to reduce overwhelm and manage intense emotions, including anger and anxiety.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will review needs, goals, and preferences and recommend where to start, adjusting methods as progress is made. Clients are encouraged to give feedback so the plan stays useful and relevant.

The biography does not list specific session formats, so confirm available options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into daily life by reducing travel and allowing more flexible scheduling. They can also let people use shorter check-ins when time is limited or choose a session style that suits their bandwidth and comfort. Licensed professionals can adapt exercises, homework, and grounding practices to work well in remote sessions.