Emily Peterman, LCSW
Education, Experience, and Training
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (License # 12152)
Master of Social Work, Aurora University 2023
Bachelor’s of Art in TESOL , Moody Institute, Illinois, 2018
My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that healing happens when we feel truly seen and understood. I prioritize building a trusting therapeutic relationship where you can explore your experiences openly and at your own pace. Therapy doesn’t require you to have the right words or a clear plan; it’s a space to reflect, gain clarity, and reconnect with yourself in a meaningful way.
I work with individuals who are navigating a wide range of concerns, including life transitions, relationship stress, identity exploration, loss and grief, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, emotional dysregulation, and suicidal thoughts. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or simply unsure of what’s next, therapy can offer a supportive place to make sense of what you’re carrying and move toward change with greater self-compassion.
Work With Me
I use an integrative, evidence-based approach to therapy, thoughtfully tailoring each session to your needs, goals, and readiness. My work draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and EMDR. I value both practical skill-building and deeper emotional work, and we’ll collaborate to find the balance that feels right for you.
In our work together, we may focus on:
Gaining insight into patterns, beliefs, and emotions that feel difficult or overwhelming
Learning tools to manage distress, anxiety, and mood-related symptoms
Strengthening emotional regulation and coping skills for daily life
Processing past experiences in a safe, supported way
Building a greater sense of agency, confidence, and alignment with your values
Reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, and taking that first step matters. If you’re considering starting therapy, I invite you to contact me for a free consultation to see if we’re a good fit.