Kathleen “Katie” Gonzalez, LCSW

Katie graduated with her Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Illinois in Champaign- Urbana and a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from Loyola University. Katie is certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).   She has over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, families and adults.  Katie began her social work career in residential facilities and inpatient settings. She spent several years as a school social worker where she connected with teachers, children and families to help them realize their full potential.  

Katie’s experience as a school social worker provided her the opportunity to work with students ranging from kindergarten through young adult. She has extensive experience working with children, where she has excelled at supporting children with anxiety, depression, anger management, autism spectrum disorders, peer relationships, self-esteem, grief and loss as well as children and families dealing with divorce.   As a school social worker, Katie supported children in developing coping and problem-solving skills to enable them to function socially and emotionally in school and home settings. Katie understands the importance of working with the parents to improve their relationship and understanding of their child. When the child feels understood by both the parent and therapist, they can find a safe and secure way of beginning to deal with their problems.  

In a clinical setting, clients often cannot verbalize what is wrong or what is missing.  A skilled therapist can understand, by fully listening, the way clients are experiencing life in their relationships.  Once rapport is built, clients can use the therapeutic relationship to determine a path to growth and express what is needed in their lives to support personal growth and healthy relationships.   

Katie utilizes methodologies of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, play therapy, and art therapy to support clients. She is also trained in contemporary therapeutic approaches including EDMR therapy to assist her clients in processing and resolving the trauma they’ve endured. Katie is skilled at understanding clients’ needs and which therapeutic approach is most helpful to that individual.   

In working with children, adolescents, and adults, Katie seeks to understand what is needed or missing internally and in their relationship with others. Katie is a compassionate listener who creates a safe and secure environment that promotes understanding and growth.   Every individual has a unique way of adapting and growing. It is the therapist’s role to understand where this lies in each individual and to connect with them in a way that helps them to move forward in their emotional and behavioral growth.  Katie has a wide range of therapeutic approaches to address client needs. The therapist’s skills and effectiveness lie in helping the client use those techniques in their own individual ways.  

In her free time, Katie enjoys spending time with her children, family and friends.  She also enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, reading, and gardening.