Vanesa is a dedicated and compassionate Master’s level graduate student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at the Family Institute at Northwestern University. She has completed her initial practicum training and joins Illuminate Therapy & Wellness for her final internship. Throughout her training, she has gained experience working with adults, adolescents, and groups, and she particularly enjoys supporting the geriatric population.  She is looking forward to gaining experience working with children and their families, assisting them through play and art therapy to find more adaptive ways to function in their roles and relationships.

Vanesa earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Studio Art from Lake Forest College, where she led multiple talks and presentations on women’s issues and mental health. Originally from Bulgaria, she moved to the United States in 2016, bringing with her a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and a commitment to providing culturally sensitive therapy. She understands firsthand the challenges of navigating a new culture and the importance of assimilation, adjustment, and feeling understood. This perspective fuels her dedication to create a safe therapeutic space where clients of all backgrounds are truly accepted.

Her welcoming, charismatic and creative nature fosters an understanding and accepting environment for her clients. She views each client holistically, striving to understand and address their unique needs and circumstances. Because of that, Vanesa utilizes a tailored therapeutic approach that includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Adlerian, Existential, Psychodynamic, and Creative Therapy techniques. Vanesa is passionate about her work and sees every client interaction as a mutual opportunity for growth and learning.

Vanesa aims to graduate in March 2025 and pursue her LCPC license. Passionate about the healing power of nature and the mindfulness it brings, she dreams of being able to incorporate it into her practice to help individuals and families. Her warm and understanding demeanor helps clients feel comfortable and supported, empowering them to embark on their own journeys of transformation.  Vanesa is an advocate for her clients, empowering them to make meaningful changes in their lives.

In her free time, Vanesa finds joy and peace in nature. She loves exploring the outdoors with her dog Daisy, tending her garden, painting, and cooking.

Personal quote:

I believe each of us experiences life in unique ways. Sometimes, these experiences and our perceptions can lead us to dark places that are difficult to navigate alone. I want to be there for those struggling with their mental health, supporting them on their journey of self-exploration and growth. It brings me joy to see people transform, much like caterpillars becoming butterflies. The process may be painful, but in the end, the butterfly emerges, free to fly.