- CBT techniques
- DBT skills
- Motivational interviewing
About Caryn
Caryn Kelley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Illinois with 10 years of experience. She works with people who are coping with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship strain, grief, and life changes. Caryn also addresses issues such as addiction, sleep problems, parenting concerns, self-esteem, and ADHD.
She begins by listening to what matters to each person. Sessions focus on concrete problems and clear goals. Caryn uses straightforward conversation to help people notice patterns and try different ways of responding.
Her work draws on client-centered methods that put the person’s perspective first. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) features in sessions when the goal is to identify unhelpful thoughts and test small behavior changes. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) strategies appear when people need tools for emotion regulation and tolerating distress.
Mindfulness techniques are used to build attention to present-moment experience, and motivational interviewing helps people who feel stuck make a plan for change. Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) ideas inform work on relationships and communication when those topics come up.
Caryn aims to balance listening with practical steps people can try between sessions. She encourages clear, doable practices rather than long lists of tasks. People who prefer a calm, direct style may find this approach useful as they sort through what’s getting in the way and what might help next.
How her approaches translate to online sessions
Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and reflecting back what the person says, helping them feel understood and clarify their own goals. This approach suits conversations about stress, relationships, and decisions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is about spotting patterns in thoughts and behaviors and trying small experiments to test new responses; it often helps with anxiety, sleep problems, and low mood. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provides practical skills for managing intense emotions and handling conflict, which can be useful when emotions feel overwhelming.Figuring out which approach fits best is part of the work. The therapist will discuss goals and preferences, try approaches that match those goals, and adjust the plan together as progress or obstacles appear. This collaborative process helps people see what methods help most for their situation.
Session formats are not listed in the biography, so confirm the current options before booking. In practice, online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a weeknight or a lunch break, allow shorter check-ins when time is limited, and reduce travel time. These practical benefits often help people sustain regular sessions while they practice skills and follow through on plans.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
10+ years
Listed in
Illinois
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does she work with?
She works with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, addictions, sleep issues, parenting stress, self-esteem, ADHD, and related concerns.
What is her general approach in sessions?
Her style mixes client-centered listening with practical methods. She uses conversation, skills practice, and small behavior changes to address problems.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has 10 years of clinical experience working in a variety of settings.
What are her credentials and location?
She is an LCSW licensed in Illinois and practices in that state.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with her?
She is not accepting international clients at this time.
How are sessions scheduled and what about cost?
Cost varies by location and sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin if I want to work with her?
Use the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule a first session.