About Us: Meet Amber DiCosola, LCPC

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and am often thought of as kind-hearted and humorous. My clients experience me as warm, open, encouraging, and direct, which helps me to create a safe space and therapeutic environment. I try not to take myself too seriously, but when the time comes for a more serious issue, I pride myself on being a dependable partner in this process of growth and development.

How I Help…

Conflict is a part of life, but everyone as the ability to resolve his or her problems. People come to counseling for a variety of reasons, but there is no problem too big or too small to discuss. I believe counseling is about helping individuals to achieve their goals by creating a safe environment and by helping remove barriers. Healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires honest caring without judgment, and I cooperatively assist my clients in clarifying their goals for treatment.

My theoretical approach is a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as motivational interviewing techniques, although I draw from a variety of methods to create a tailored approach for each individual and situation. Working from a culturally sensitive and evidence-based framework, I am committed to providing my clients with empathy, warmth, and authenticity to create a safe space for growth and exploration. I see therapy as a tool to help people build upon the strengths they already possess while learning new skills to enable them to live more fulfilled, balanced, and connected lives.

My Background…

I grew up in a Chicago suburb and attended college at Western Illinois University. I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Western Illinois University-Quad Cities. My career as a therapist started in university settings, working with young adults as well as non-traditional learners experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and chronic mental illness. I have facilitated a variety of therapy groups with topics such as grief, self-esteem, and aggression/anger management, in addition to working with individuals and couples. This experience has strengthened my desire to offer support to individuals facing unique challenges in their life.

On a more personal note…

I believe in preventive self-care and having a daily practice of activities that build resistance to life’s stressors. My personal self-care is exercise; I love participating in kickboxing, spin, yoga, or any fitness class with good music. No matter how stressed I am, I always feel more relaxed and confident in myself and my abilities after a fitness class. I try my best to be outside as much as possible, even in Chicago’s winters. I love going for long walks and enjoying the beautiful street art and vibrance the city has to offer. I also value emotional connections and make spending time with my friends and family a priority.

See my full bio by clicking below.