Christina Bieche, MSEd, LCPC, NCC
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Master of Science in Education in Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Clinical Site Director, Sycamore To make an appointment with Christina, please call 630-570-0050. You can also email Contact.OH@OakHeartCenter.com.
Specializes In:PTSD/Trauma, Terminal/Chronic Illness, Domestic Violence, Health Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety/Worry, LQBTQ+ Support, Relationship Concerns, Traumatic Grief, Acute Stress Disorder, Adjustment Disorder
Ages Served: Older Teens, Adults, Older Adults |
Professional Experience
I have always had a desire to advocate for those who are either unable to or have a harder time advocating for themselves which led me in the direction of criminal justice. I started my educational journey by first receiving my Associates Degree from Kishwaukee College in Criminal Justice. From there, I continued to study Criminology while earning a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from Northern Illinois University. I continued my education at NIU and received my Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a special focus on trauma. While at NIU, I was able to work closely with students as a counselor, mentor, and teacher in Student Involvement & Leadership Development, the NIU Counseling Lab, and teaching Career Planning to incoming freshmen and graduating seniors. While completing both internship and practicum experiences, I had the privilege of working at the Children’s Advocacy Center in providing counseling, support, and advocacy to non-offending family members throughout the forensic interview process. I also had a unique opportunity to provide counseling and support to homebound seniors while at the Family Service Agency.
In pursuit of full licensure as a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), I have had several amazing opportunities working within the community mental health system. I have worked as a clinical mental health counselor, clinical coordinator, assessment counselor, crisis residential coordinator, crisis center director, clinical supervisor, motivational speaker, quality assurance specialist, and trauma therapist.
In pursuit of full licensure as a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), I have had several amazing opportunities working within the community mental health system. I have worked as a clinical mental health counselor, clinical coordinator, assessment counselor, crisis residential coordinator, crisis center director, clinical supervisor, motivational speaker, quality assurance specialist, and trauma therapist.
Specializations and Treatment Approach
I currently treat:
Trauma- and stressor-related disorders (including PTSD)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (Worry)
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
Health Anxiety/Illness Anxiety Disorder
Traumatic Grief/Depression
Victims of Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault
LGBTQ+ Support
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been practicing in the field for over 15 years in various settings and enjoys working with clients aged 16-adult who experience depression, anxiety/panic, PTSD, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, work/life balance concerns, divorce/separation, LGBTQ+ topics, terminal illness, grief, and life changes/transitions. My clinical focus revolves around a trauma-informed framework of humanistic psychology, exposure techniques, acceptance/commitment, and cognitive as well as dialectical behavioral therapies to holistically address the mind, body, and spirit.
I believe a positive attitude not only leads to a more optimistic lifestyle, but also leaves one with an overall sense of happiness and resiliency. A person with a positive attitude will feel confident in opening the door to possibility which inevitably increases the likelihood of success in all endeavors. Although it can be a challenging and extremely vulnerable process to consider therapy for yourself or a loved one; I honestly believe the time spent identifying the therapist who is the best fit for you is not only a vital part to beginning therapy but also aids in establishing a real and genuine connection which will pave the way for true healing work to begin. Personally, I strive to nurture a therapeutic relationship that feels authentic, safe, and trustworthy as well as provide an open and non-judgmental environment where you can feel free to be yourself. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-exploration and work collaboratively in developing a course of treatment to assist in accomplishing your goals.
We will be utilizing a trauma-informed framework which encompasses a specific approach to therapy that focuses on recognizing and addressing how traumatic experiences inform our behaviors, thoughts, feelings, interactions with others, and ability to manage everyday life stressors. Therapy will include working together to identify connections between your traumatic experiences and the challenges you are facing today. Not only is this type of therapy evidenced based but also provides a gentle and manageable approach in gaining the skills needed to assist you in better understanding, coping, and processing uncomfortable emotions and memories tied to trauma. It is my hope that you will discover a feeling of empowerment which leads to creating a healthier, more adaptive meaning for the trauma that has taken place in your life. Ultimately, the goal will be to utilize this newly discovered meaning to have a more authentic connection with yourself, so you can have a more genuine connection with others and the motivation to reach your goals.
Trauma- and stressor-related disorders (including PTSD)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (Worry)
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
Health Anxiety/Illness Anxiety Disorder
Traumatic Grief/Depression
Victims of Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault
LGBTQ+ Support
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been practicing in the field for over 15 years in various settings and enjoys working with clients aged 16-adult who experience depression, anxiety/panic, PTSD, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, work/life balance concerns, divorce/separation, LGBTQ+ topics, terminal illness, grief, and life changes/transitions. My clinical focus revolves around a trauma-informed framework of humanistic psychology, exposure techniques, acceptance/commitment, and cognitive as well as dialectical behavioral therapies to holistically address the mind, body, and spirit.
I believe a positive attitude not only leads to a more optimistic lifestyle, but also leaves one with an overall sense of happiness and resiliency. A person with a positive attitude will feel confident in opening the door to possibility which inevitably increases the likelihood of success in all endeavors. Although it can be a challenging and extremely vulnerable process to consider therapy for yourself or a loved one; I honestly believe the time spent identifying the therapist who is the best fit for you is not only a vital part to beginning therapy but also aids in establishing a real and genuine connection which will pave the way for true healing work to begin. Personally, I strive to nurture a therapeutic relationship that feels authentic, safe, and trustworthy as well as provide an open and non-judgmental environment where you can feel free to be yourself. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-exploration and work collaboratively in developing a course of treatment to assist in accomplishing your goals.
We will be utilizing a trauma-informed framework which encompasses a specific approach to therapy that focuses on recognizing and addressing how traumatic experiences inform our behaviors, thoughts, feelings, interactions with others, and ability to manage everyday life stressors. Therapy will include working together to identify connections between your traumatic experiences and the challenges you are facing today. Not only is this type of therapy evidenced based but also provides a gentle and manageable approach in gaining the skills needed to assist you in better understanding, coping, and processing uncomfortable emotions and memories tied to trauma. It is my hope that you will discover a feeling of empowerment which leads to creating a healthier, more adaptive meaning for the trauma that has taken place in your life. Ultimately, the goal will be to utilize this newly discovered meaning to have a more authentic connection with yourself, so you can have a more genuine connection with others and the motivation to reach your goals.
About Me
What are your professional and personal values?
My top five values, both professionally and personally, are love, family, kindness, authenticity, and commitment. I believe identifying (and even re-evaluating over time!) a clear set of values is important as it helps to practice the actions and initiatives that leave us feeling fulfilled and promotes our well-being as well as self-respect. When our actions align with our values, then we are much more likely to feel satisfied with our decisions and relationships.
What is your favorite quote?
My favorite quote is "Our lives are not determined by what happens to us but how we react to what happens, not by what life brings us but the attitude we bring to life" by Wade Boggs.
What are some adjectives you would use to describe yourself and why?
I would describe myself as fun-loving, family-focused, compassionate, dependable, and driven. I have typically been described as the person who “loves love”...meaning I truly do try my best to bring “love” into everything I do both personally and professionally. Love is a great source of motivation and strength which not only improves one's self-worth and esteem but also contributes to building trust within relationships. Refocusing back to love has always given me the ability to endure life’s struggles, work hard at nurturing my passions, and willing to make sacrifices when needed.
What led you to decide that you wanted to be a therapist?
I have both a long and short answer for this question…LOL!! Most therapists, not all, have experienced something in their lives that has led them down a path of landing in a helping profession. We all have a story. For myself, I have experienced significant trauma in my past which has given me an empathetic and genuinely relatable perspective on the challenges faced by the trauma survivor. I get it and it is hard work. And I mean it when I say that I truly do feel blessed to be a part of one’s journey and healing process! Thank you!
What are some of your favorite self-care activities?
My self-care activities consist of meditation, spending time with my family, long country drives, dancing to my favorite tunes, woodworking, and any moment I can get near water…preferably the ocean!
What’s the most profound, meaningful, or interesting thing you’ve learned or experienced as a mental health professional? Why do you love being a mental health professional?
Oh my gosh! I just love meeting new people and being able to support them through life’s challenges is so incredibly rewarding that it seems like an added bonus…not like a job at all! The most meaningful moment for me is when I see my client’s take a turn or make a dramatic shift in achieving their goals…when symptoms of mental illness are no longer a hindrance but transform into super powers!
My top five values, both professionally and personally, are love, family, kindness, authenticity, and commitment. I believe identifying (and even re-evaluating over time!) a clear set of values is important as it helps to practice the actions and initiatives that leave us feeling fulfilled and promotes our well-being as well as self-respect. When our actions align with our values, then we are much more likely to feel satisfied with our decisions and relationships.
What is your favorite quote?
My favorite quote is "Our lives are not determined by what happens to us but how we react to what happens, not by what life brings us but the attitude we bring to life" by Wade Boggs.
What are some adjectives you would use to describe yourself and why?
I would describe myself as fun-loving, family-focused, compassionate, dependable, and driven. I have typically been described as the person who “loves love”...meaning I truly do try my best to bring “love” into everything I do both personally and professionally. Love is a great source of motivation and strength which not only improves one's self-worth and esteem but also contributes to building trust within relationships. Refocusing back to love has always given me the ability to endure life’s struggles, work hard at nurturing my passions, and willing to make sacrifices when needed.
What led you to decide that you wanted to be a therapist?
I have both a long and short answer for this question…LOL!! Most therapists, not all, have experienced something in their lives that has led them down a path of landing in a helping profession. We all have a story. For myself, I have experienced significant trauma in my past which has given me an empathetic and genuinely relatable perspective on the challenges faced by the trauma survivor. I get it and it is hard work. And I mean it when I say that I truly do feel blessed to be a part of one’s journey and healing process! Thank you!
What are some of your favorite self-care activities?
My self-care activities consist of meditation, spending time with my family, long country drives, dancing to my favorite tunes, woodworking, and any moment I can get near water…preferably the ocean!
What’s the most profound, meaningful, or interesting thing you’ve learned or experienced as a mental health professional? Why do you love being a mental health professional?
Oh my gosh! I just love meeting new people and being able to support them through life’s challenges is so incredibly rewarding that it seems like an added bonus…not like a job at all! The most meaningful moment for me is when I see my client’s take a turn or make a dramatic shift in achieving their goals…when symptoms of mental illness are no longer a hindrance but transform into super powers!
Professional and Educational Additional Experience
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Certifications
National Certified Counselor Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault 60-hour training, Illinois Mandated Reporter Training HIV Education and Certification First Aid and CPR Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI Training/Certified) Trauma- Focused CBT Certified (TF-CBT) Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (ACRA) Illinois Medicaid Comprehensive Assessment of Needs and Strengths (IM+CANS/IM+CAT) certified Professional Affiliations American Counseling Association (ACA) Illinois Counseling Association (ICA) Illinois Mental Health Counseling Association (IMHCA) National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Northern Illinois University Counseling Association (NIUCA) National Organization for Women (NOW) Illinois Children’s Trauma Network (ICTN) |
Workshops, Presentations, & Group Topics
Conflict Resolution – “Turning Challenges into Positive Action” Lifestyle Balance & Overall Wellness Benefits of Volunteering Communication Style & Confrontation Relationships – “Work, Love, and Play” Spirituality & Religion Stress Management Self-esteem & Empowerment Career Exploration (values, skills, assessments) Rethinking Multiculturalism Self-exploration- “Developing Purpose and Redefining Self” Motivation – “The Smile from Within” Inspiration through Laughter • Importance of Self-care Non-Offending Parent Support – “Restoring the Family Foundation” Suicide Prevention & Risk Assessment – SAFE-T Community-Based Crisis Intervention- NAMI Statewide Conference 2013 PTSD & Military Sexual Assault Outreach, Anxiety Support, and Information Sharing (O.A.S.I.S.) |
Blogs:
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Traumatic grief specifically takes place after a loved one passes away in a traumatic manner and typically occurs in a sudden, unexpected manner. If one tends to bottle-up grief or pretend it doesn’t exist, they may resist seeking out support, which can have a number of negative effects on one’s well-being such as increasing the risk of physical ailments, substance use concerns, and mental health disorders...(to read more, click on the link above).
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Have you ever noticed how our lives move so quickly that we sometimes forget what the "real" speed of life is?? We see our children grow up right before our eyes. Some days, we wonder how it's possible and yet on other days, we can't wait to see what life has in store for them. I can't help but notice how quickly those precious moments pass us by...oh, those moments in time! Life moves deceptively quick. Think about watching a sunrise when driving down a country road. The sky gradually gets lighter and lighter, yet you wait and wait for the sun to peek above the horizon. Then you blink and it's already cleared the horizon and jumped up into the sky blazing for everyone to see. It's easy to forget that the earth is actually spinning around at almost 1,000 miles/hr...(to read more, click on the link above).
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A very common and natural response following any significant traumatic event and is one of the primary diagnostic criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is hyperarousal, also known as hypervigilance. Biological changes in your mind and body which are initiated by a traumatic event instinctively remain alert to any additional potential threats to your wellbeing…both real or imagined. This is known as hypervigilance and can be an outcome of the anxiety experienced as part of Acute Stress Disorder or Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. The feelings of hypervigilance fluctuate and are often triggered by certain people or specific situations. Being in this constant state of heightened alert, tension, and “on guard” feeling for any hidden dangers is both stressful and exhausting to maintain over a prolonged period of time...(to read more, click on the link above).
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I heard once that the Chinese character for the word “change” was a combination of two other symbols: chaos and opportunity. I’m not sure if it is correct or not but in theory, it makes sense. With all the new changes going on every day, it is almost impossible to not think about how our lives have been impacted and what that means for our futures both personally and professionally. We can most certainly choose to focus on all that continues to not go in our favor…let’s face it, that’s pretty easy to do in the world today. But what would happen if we could find a way to embrace change? (to read more, click on the link above).
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