ivy-ellis-therapy-chicago

Ivy Ellis, LCSW, PMH-C (she/her)

What’s It Like to Work With Me?

If you’re reading this, it probably means you’re looking for a therapist, and I understand the challenges that come with that process. My goal is to make this experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Whether you've had therapy before or if this is your first time, I'll guide you through each step and regularly check in along the way.

My style of therapy is collaborative, client-centered, and strengths-based. From the outset, I want to understand what it’s like to be you - your life, your relationships, and your struggles. I firmly believe that you are the expert in your own life. It goes without saying, “one size does not fit all.” Each person is unique, and so is their story; therefore, I tailor my approach to meet your needs.

This is a safe and open space- I’m not afraid to talk about all the uncomfortable things in life. We all have scary thoughts in our head, and I’m here to listen to them.

Guiding Principles

Empathy

Empathy is at the heart of my practice, which is why I named it "Empathic Counseling Center." I genuinely care about my clients and consistently approach them with understanding and empathy.

Commitment

I am committed to providing you the best level of care.  To achieve this, I take part in continuing training and certification to improve my knowledge and skills. If I believe I can help you, I will do so wholeheartedly; however, if I feel another resource would be more suitable to meet your needs, I will guide you accordingly.

Humor

Humor is an integral part of our journey together. While we delve into meaningful work, we'll also find moments of laughter. I approach my work with dedication, but I never take myself too seriously.

Authenticity

Authenticity is central to my approach. I'll be honest, pointing out when you might be avoiding certain topics. I don't offer praise merely for reassurance; when I say something, it comes from a genuine and sincere place.

Credentials and Experience

While my sparkling personality sets me apart from other therapists, I'm also a firm believer in the value of education and training to ensure I know my sh*t. With over 12 years of experience, I've been dedicated to providing effective therapy services. I use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement and Desensitization Processing (EMDR), among other tools that are just right for you.

Education and Licensure

  • Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from University of Chicago

  • Bachelor's degree in Business and Psychology from Washington University in St. Louis

  • LCSW Illinois (#149016923)

  • LCSW Indiana (#34009778A)

  • LICSW Washington (#LW 61302127)

  • LICSW Minnesota (license #32349)

  • LMSW Michigan (license #6801114043)

Trainings and Certifications

  • Certification in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C)

  • Fellowship through the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Certified Therapist

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Levels 1 & 2

  • EMDR Advanced Practice for Perinatal and Maternal-Infant Mental Health

  • Social Thinking Clinical Training

  • Gottman Method Couples Training Level 1

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy Training

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia

More About Me

  • Outside of sessions, I enjoy reading and watching television. I’m happy to share book recommendations; however, I’m not the best source for TV suggestions, as I tend to gravitate towards silly television content.

  • I love baking and eating desserts, though my “critics” (aka my husband) describe my baked goods are “mushy.”

  • As the youngest of three siblings, I have plenty to say about birth order and how it has shaped me. I’m also a mother of two daughters. Sometimes I think, “What am I doing today that you will talk about with your therapist in 20 years?”

  • My own journey with therapy began early; my mom took me to see a therapist in second grade when I didn’t want to go to school. Since then, I've been in therapy on and off, and I met my current therapist online during the pandemic. I firmly believe in the saying, "Behind every good therapist is another good therapist."