Hi, my name is Jennifer Layton (Jen), I’m a Licensed Social Worker (LSW). I graduated with a B.A. in Human Behavior and Psychology from the University of Kansas in 1995 and my Master’s Degree in Social Work with a Clinical Focus from the University of Kansas in 2006.

I loved Social Work before I knew what that meant. I began providing direct care support in a community living environment with individuals diagnosed with a variety of mental health and developmental disabilities while working my way through my undergraduate education. As I pursued my profession, I began to gain an understanding of the enormous gap between needs versus available services and funding versus action for change. I began writing grants & upstarting nonprofits to reduce that gap. That led me to graduate school; I have spent the years since focused on clinical and therapeutic services. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of settings and facing adversity and challenges ranging from Spectrum Disorders, anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders, PTSD, substance abuse, domestic violence, family conflict, divorce counseling and co-parenting.

I have a special interest in trauma recovery resulting from social injustice, incarceration, sexual assault, and generational trauma. In addition, healing from the hidden abuses endured from a narcissistic partner, trauma bonding and being raised by narcissistic parent. I have a great deal of experience in crisis intervention and mediation.

My therapeutic approach is eclectic and is always person-centered and individually tailored to meet a client where they are today. I believe in treating the entire family unit when appropriate and being solution-focused to achieve your goals. These approaches may include motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, trauma-informed therapy, mindfulness and acceptance. I am a fierce advocate and will walk with you on your journey at a safe pace that leads to healing and restoring balance for your highest quality of life.

When I’m not working with you or your families, I love spending time with mine. We cook together every chance we get and love dancing in kitchen. I enjoy gardening, road trips, music and I appreciate the quiet at the end of the day. The best moments for me are seeing my 3 son’s journeys from my babies to becoming amazing young men or what they call “adulting”.

I utilize teletherapy videoconferencing using a secure network allowing services to reach individuals and families across the entire State of Illinois from the comfort of their own home.