Full Bio - Dr. Jen
Treatment Style
I strive to provide individualized, supportive, and culturally-sensitive, patient-first care by integrating different research-based treatments that best match each patient’s unique strengths and needs. Types of treatment that I utilize include cognitive behavior therapy (and modified CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), parent training & education, psychology behavioral interventions, modeling/video modeling, functional communication strategies, social stories, social skills support, structured teaching/visual supports, SOS approach to feeding, and more. In therapy, I work with the patient and family to set goals together. Goals often focus on increasing understanding of one’s strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles, increasing independence and functioning, and decreasing or minimizing the impact of reported stressors. At times, goals may also include gathering more details about one’s strengths and weaknesses via a comprehensive psychological assessment.
With children, there is also a strong focus on supporting parents in incorporating more effective tools to best support their child. When appropriate, I also work with other professionals (e.g. speech therapists, occupational therapists, school staff, etc.) with a focus on building understanding and ensuring consistent support for the patient.
Areas of clinical expertise/specialization
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Intellectual Disabilities
Developmental delays/differences
Comorbidities (e.g. anxiety, depression, anger management challenges, trauma, eating/feeding issues) that often experienced by those with developmental differences
LGBTQIA+ & neurodevelopmental differences community
Parent/family training & support
Behaviors/feelings of overwhelm that are negatively impacting one’s participation in school, work, or other outpatient therapies
Certifications in: SOS Approach to Feeding, UCLA Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS), Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-II), Council on Quality in Leadership Personal Outcome Measure Interview, & Sibshop Facilitator
Education & Experience
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology - University of California, San Diego
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) - Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL
Clinical Experience: I have experience providing support to individuals with developmental differences and their families. I was very fortunate to train at various Chicagoland sites during graduate school, including Trinity Services, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center’s Pediatric Developmental Center, and Neurocare & Family Services. I completed my internship at AHRC-NYC, and my postdoctoral fellowship at Advocate Aurora Children’s Hospital Developmental Pediatrics Department in Park Ridge (at Lutheran General). After my fellowship was completed, I continued at Advocate Aurora as a clinical psychologist until January 2021. Moving forward, I’m excited to continue supporting patients and their families via my own practice.