Kelly Dean, Masters Level Intern

She/Her

Therapy for caregivers, helpers, and leaders who are tired of holding it all together and want to feel more grounded and connected to themselves.

If you’re the one everyone counts on—at work, at home, in relationships—but you feel depleted, anxious, or unsure how to slow down, you’re not alone. I most often work with adults – often caregivers, helpers, or leaders – who are navigating anxiety, burnout, relationship stress, and identity transitions related to work, family, or major life changes.

Specialties:

Burnout, over-functioning, and chronic self-neglect
People-pleasing and anxious attachment
Boundaries without guilt or shame
Identity transitions (career shifts, divorce/marriage, life stages)
Emotional regulation when stress feels cyclical or overwhelming

What You Can Expect

My style is warm, grounded, human, direct, and collaborative. Clients often describe sessions as a place where they can slow down, be honest, and make sense of what’s really going on. I lead with empathy and validation, while also gently naming patterns and offering thoughtful challenges when something feels important to explore. I believe directness can be kind—especially when it’s rooted in trust.

Together, we explore patterns, emotions, and meaning—sometimes connecting current stress to earlier experiences. I may offer reflections, ask clarifying questions, and introduce tools that support insight and emotional regulation. I’m a blend of structured and open-ended: enough structure to help you feel contained and supported, with room for curiosity and what naturally wants to emerge. In the first session, we’ll focus on what’s bringing you in, your goals, and your context—moving at a pace that feels supportive, not rushed or overwhelming. You don’t need to have the “right” words” or a clear plan – we can figure that out together.

We Might Be a Good Fit If You Often Feel…

“I’m exhausted all the time, but I don’t know how to slow down.”
“I take care of everyone else and don’t know how to put myself first.”
“I overthink my relationships and feel anxious when things feel uncertain.”

A Little About Me

I became a therapist because I believe therapy can be a place to reflect, recalibrate, and reconnect with what matters most—especially during uncertainty, change, or loss. My work draws from relational/attachment-based therapy, CBT-informed tools, and somatic/nervous system–informed practices to help you build awareness and choice with more self-compassion. My approach helps you understand why you react the way you do, learn how to regulate your nervous system in the moment, and make more intentional choices in relationships.

I live in Chicago, I value time with my partner, daughter, and close friends, and I use yoga as a way to reset and reconnect with myself. If you’re ready to slow down and care for yourself with the same intention you give everyone else, I’d love to work with you.

*I may not be the best fit for clients seeking highly directive or prescriptive treatment, or those needing a higher level of care for active substance use, unmanaged psychosis, or acute safety concerns.

If you’re looking for a space to be honest, slow down, and start showing up for yourself in a new way, I’d be glad to work with you.

Schedule a Session