Maddy Stringer,
Practicum-Level Clinician

I believe that healing happens in connection. So much of who we are is shaped through the relationships and experiences we have with other people, and I believe we can also discover ourselves through others. Therapy, to me, is a place where we can explore those connections, understand ourselves a little more deeply, and begin to create meaningful change. I believe change often happens when we are willing to gently challenge ourselves and step outside of what feels familiar. 

 

My first priority in therapy is creating a space where you feel safe enough to be vulnerable. I want you to know that you don't have to have everything figured out before you walk through the door. I will meet you where you are, with curiosity and without judgement. From there, we can work together to explore the parts of your story that have shaped you and the patterns that may be showing up in your life and relationships today. 

 

I tend to think about people in the context of their relationships and their environment around them. In other words, I don't believe we exist in a vacuum. Our families, friendships, communities, experiences, and environments all influence the way we see ourselves and interact with the world. I also believe therapy doesn't always have to mean sitting in a chair and talking for an hour. I enjoy using hands-on and experiential techniques that help us connect what is happening emotionally with what is happening in your body. We might use movement, deep breathing, mindfulness, fidgets, imagination, or other creative techniques to help show down and notice what your body is communicating. Sometimes our bodies tell us things before we have the words to explain them. 

 

I am currently pursuing my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Wheaton College and completing my clinical internship. I received my bachelor's degree from Illinois State University in Human Development and Family Science. I am especially interested in working with teens and young adults who are struggling with substance use. I also love working with couples and children and enjoy the opportunity to meet each person and relationship with an open mind.