Joan French, LCPC
Trauma-informed counselor blending clinical and creative methods
- Integrative therapy approaches
- Art therapy informed
- 17 years experience
About Joan French
Joan French is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with more than 17 years of clinical experience supporting adults through stress, anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, trauma, and major life changes. She emphasizes the human need to be heard and connected, noting that many people seek therapy after feeling lonely, isolated, or misunderstood. Joan strives to build a trusting, nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients can bring forward difficult or previously unspeakable topics, believing those conversations are often central to healing.
Her practice is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on a range of evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method, mindfulness practices, and trauma-focused techniques. She also incorporates positive communication skill building, anger management strategies, and art therapy methods when appropriate. Joan sometimes uses gentle humor she calls "chuckle healing" to ease tension and foster connection.
Joan holds a Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from Governors State University and an Art Therapy Certificate from Northwestern University, and she brings a blend of clinical training, life experience, and therapeutic skill to her work. Her clinical focus includes areas such as attachment and abandonment issues, codependency, communication and control issues, family of origin problems, grief and loss, self-esteem concerns, gender dysphoria, and challenges related to intimacy and commitment. She has experience working with people who identify as LGBTQIA2S+.
Her work with adults 18 and older includes addressing sleep difficulties, career concerns, coping with life transitions, and other adjustment issues. Joan is described by colleagues as resourceful, creative, and patient, and she considers it an honor to support individuals on their journey toward greater resilience and well-being.
Her practice is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on a range of evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method, mindfulness practices, and trauma-focused techniques. She also incorporates positive communication skill building, anger management strategies, and art therapy methods when appropriate. Joan sometimes uses gentle humor she calls "chuckle healing" to ease tension and foster connection.
Joan holds a Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from Governors State University and an Art Therapy Certificate from Northwestern University, and she brings a blend of clinical training, life experience, and therapeutic skill to her work. Her clinical focus includes areas such as attachment and abandonment issues, codependency, communication and control issues, family of origin problems, grief and loss, self-esteem concerns, gender dysphoria, and challenges related to intimacy and commitment. She has experience working with people who identify as LGBTQIA2S+.
Her work with adults 18 and older includes addressing sleep difficulties, career concerns, coping with life transitions, and other adjustment issues. Joan is described by colleagues as resourceful, creative, and patient, and she considers it an honor to support individuals on their journey toward greater resilience and well-being.
Areas of Expertise
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
AbandonmentAttachment issuesCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMidlife crisisMood disordersMulticultural concernsNarcissismPanic disorder and panic attacksPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSelf-loveSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues
Therapeutic Approach
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Gottman Method Mindfulness Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy Internal Family Systems
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Joan French have?
Joan French has 17 years of experience in therapeutic counseling.
Is Joan French a licensed therapist?
Yes. Joan holds the LCPC credential, which stands for Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. License details: IL LCPC 180.007674.
In which languages does Joan French provide therapy?
Joan provides therapy in English.
Where is Joan French located?
Joan is located in Illinois.
How can I work with Joan French as my therapist?
You can work with Joan French through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Joan French work with international clients?
Joan French does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Joan French cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Could Online Therapy Be a Good Fit?
Many people wonder whether remote therapy can truly help. For a wide range of common concerns - stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or navigating life changes - online therapy can be a practical and effective option comparable to traditional in-person sessions.One of the clearest advantages is flexibility. Individuals can connect with therapists in the format that works best for them: video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or in-app messaging. This flexibility makes it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules and to choose the communication style that feels most comfortable.
Licensed professionals offer a variety of therapeutic approaches online, and clients may switch therapists if they seek a different fit. Online therapy supports ongoing engagement with therapists and can help people pursue treatment goals from locations that better match their needs and routines.