About Us: Meet Sydney Walden, LCSW

Sydney Walden, LCSW

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Clinical Supervisor at DK Therapy. I offer an accepting space and a trusting relationship where curiosity, humor, and insight are used to untangle and sort out what is happening in your life so you can see your strengths and develop effective strategies that fit with who you are.

How I Help…

No single treatment approach fits all people and all problems. Your preferences, goals, and situation will be the points of reference for how we’ll work together. I have several years of experience with evidence-based therapies like Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (CBT and DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), exposure therapy, EMDR, mindfulness-based strategies, as well as narrative and feminist therapy.

What this looks like is that you and I will use strategies and techniques that fit you; maybe it’s homework that includes monitoring yourself and your environment while using new skills and techniques. Maybe you prefer progress gained by perspective, insight, and empathy for yourself and your relationships. Or perhaps you want to clarify what’s important and valuable in your life and devise new ways to prioritize those things. If you have had a history of neglect or trauma we will work together to build back your ability to tolerate frustration and distress, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships.

EMDR is a valid way of treating past trauma. I’ve completed basic training in EMDR and use it with people who have had traumatic accidents, losses, and other traumatizing episodic experiences. Attachment-focused EMDR focuses on creating safety through resourcing so you are prepared for EMDR and adapts to your needs.

At DK Therapy I work with LGBTQ as well as straight couples in every stage of their relationship, whether they are dating, seeking pre-marital or marital counseling using emotion-focused and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Developed from John Gottman’s 40+ years of couples research, The Gottman Method provides couples with a roadmap and a set of skills that not only can help them build stronger relationships but can also help them be a better parent, co-worker, boss, and friend.

My Background…

I grew up and attended college in Iowa before serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in South America. I continued graduate work in Chicago and worked as a mental health social work clinician providing treatment for adults with addiction and mental illness. After caring for my mother through Alzheimer’s Disease, I have been working with individuals, couples and families facing many different types of stressors; from life transitions to difficult relationships to complex trauma histories.

On a more personal note…

You can find me exploring Chicago museums, street fairs, and neighborhoods. I enjoy traveling, spending time with friends and family, and satisfying intellectual curiosity.