Perspective Psychology, LLC: New Outlook, Better You
Well, it’s happening…
After five years in the field – and almost 15 years after choosing psychology as a career – I am excited, and humbled, to announce the opening of Perspective Psychology, LLC!
While starting a private practice has always been my dream, I didn’t do it for me. I did it for you, the client. I have worked as a psychologist at a primary care clinic and a non-profit organization, among other settings, but this practice will provide more flexible treatment plans and allow me to better serve the needs of each client.
Although I tailor my approach to the individual, I primarily operate from a strength-based perspective. I believe everyone needs to acknowledge their strengths and learn how to build themselves up in order to be successful. This starting point allows you to better understand and process your life experiences, and thus, better cope with life events.
Through this practice, I hope to help people learn how to take a step back, look at themselves and the world around them from new and different perspectives, and live the most fulfilling life possible in accordance with their own values and priorities. I’m a firm believer that people can learn and grow from every experience, even negative ones, and that everyone can benefit from therapy.
I also hope to dispel some myths that still surround the mental health profession. Mental health isn't as cut and dry as physical health. It's not a broken arm that will automatically get better with a cast and rest; it's something you must consistently work on. Instead of putting a band-aid on symptoms and behaviors that you’re experiencing, you must look at the cause of those symptoms and behaviors. This is not always easy. In fact, it can often be difficult. At times, unpleasant.
But it is important to remember that the hardest things we do are often the most rewarding.
I know from experience. Starting a private practice has been an incredible journey, but it hasn’t always been easy. Transitions are hard, even for therapists. Although we (usually) have the necessary coping skills, we still fumble through things at times. We still get frustrated and overwhelmed. We still struggle. Therapists may seem like they have all the answers, but we’re human, too. We’re regular people trying to figure things out and find our way. If we’re able to relate to you or whatever you’re going through, it’s probably because we’ve been through something similar. And if we haven’t, we will do our best to understand. We’re all in this together, and our shared humanity is part of what will allow you to benefit from therapy.
In the end, I cannot change your life, but I can help you make changes and view it through a different, more productive perspective, which can help you live a healthier and happier life.
If you need to talk to someone, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I would be honored to help you through this process and go on this journey with you.
Dr. Amelia Powelson is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and the owner of Perspective Psychology, LLC. She can be reached at 312.588.9672 or amelia@perspectivepsychchicago.com.