Susan Perkins – LPC

I have an MA in Counseling Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado and am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I am working toward obtaining my LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) within the coming year. I remember the moment I realized that I wanted to be a therapist as a Junior in high school and I discovered that I could help people by talking with them (I previously considered being a veterinarian until I realized there’s blood involved). Since that moment, I have pursued a career helping others with mental health needs. I began my career working with individuals with chronic mental illnesses as a residential and outreach case manager. However, it wasn’t until I moved to Illinois and found a position as an advocate and educator for those with autism that I began to narrow my focus. After serving at Options and Advocacy for McHenry County for nearly 10 years, I now feel ready to fully dive into serving this unique and overlooked population of individuals with co-occurring mental health and intellectual disabilities and their loved ones.

I work with individuals from ages 5 to adult who are struggling with both a mental health issue such as depression, anxiety, life changes or grief and/or an additional diagnosis of autism or other intellectual disability. I also help parents, caregivers, and others who love someone with an intellectual disability. Being the person with these diagnoses or someone who cares for them can feel isolating and confusing. As a parent of two children with autism and intellectual disabilities and having served as an advocate/family educator for individuals with autism for nearly 10 years, I am able to connect with both populations in a way that other therapists may not feel equipped to do.

Feelings of social isolation and rejection tend to be the primary cause of depression and anxiety among those with a neurodiverse diagnosis such as autism. Autistic individuals can also have a difficult time with unexpected changes and being unable to control the circumstances around them. My professional and lived experiences have provided me with a wealth of knowledge regarding practical ways to help from the very basic needs (visuals and schedules) to social and emotional regulation techniques. While certain behavioral therapies can be useful for certain individuals, they are not always the correct fit for others. I can offer alternative ways to change undesirable behaviors for all ages.

On a more personal note:
I have been married for over 25 years and have three children (2 girls with a boy in the middle) and three fur children (1 dog and two cats). I love being outdoors as much as possible and enjoy reading, volunteering at my church, singing, traveling and knitting in my free time.