WHY I BECAME A THERAPIST

I value authenticity and the transformative power of being truly seen. I believe that healing begins when people feel safe enough to show up as their full, unfiltered selves, without fear of judgment or rejection. So many people move through the world feeling misunderstood or unseen, and I want to be someone who helps change that narrative.

I BECAME A THERAPIST TO HELP PEOPLE AWAKEN THE CHANGE THEY WISH TO SEE IN THEMSELVES AND IN THE WORLD AROUND THEM.

My goal as a therapist is to support clients in reconnecting with their strengths, gaining clarity and insight, and building a life that aligns with who they truly are AND WANT TO BE. When people feel genuinely heard and supported, they’re better able to access resilience, growth, and self-compassion.

In our work together, I focus on helping you understand how your past experiences have shaped the way you think, feel, and respond in the present. Many of the beliefs you hold about yourself, the ways you cope with stress, and the patterns that show up in your life and relationships were formed for a reason. Often, when clients first come to me, they feel like their nervous system is always on. This can show up as irritability, difficulty sleeping, trouble concentrating, or feeling overwhelmed by small stressors. Over time, staying in that activated state can make it difficult to relax, trust others, or feel safe in everyday situations. Together, we will work step by step to break these cycles and find realistic, practical solutions that support your short and long-term goals. We will also look at how you can begin making more intentional choices that align with who you are, while also reflecting who you want to become.

Therapy in Chicago | Lincoln Park Therapy Group

When I work with clients, I incorporate THREE THINGS to create positive change:

WARMTH | SUPPORTIVENESS | AUTHENTICITY

I always aim to show up to our sessions as my genuine self— with warmth, supportiveness, and true humanity (and a sense of humor when helpful). This is so you can feel comfortable being the most real version of you and sharing your thoughts and feelings openly. My role as your therapist first and foremost is to walk alongside you, cheer you on, and offer you steady support as you grow.

Because of this trust we build, I am able to then gently challenge you to look at things from new perspectives. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship creates the safety required for meaningful growth, and my clients often appreciate that I lead with kindness first while also being honest and direct when it’s needed.

Gray couch and armchair with wall art and window

WHO I WORK WITH

Although I enjoy working with all populations, I have the most experience working with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, performance & life balance issues, and interpersonal issues. I also have experience helping those who have dealt with sexual assault.

My area of expertise is working with teens and adolescents who have experienced severe trauma or have a troubled past, as well as working with college/ graduate students and couples.

t

I haven't had the best experiences with therapy in the past, how can I address my hesitation and move forward while also addressing these concerns?

Having hesitations, especially after having some therapy sessions that were not the most effective approach for you, is completely normal. In our work together, my goal is to make you feel as comfortable in this space as possible. In our first sessions together, we can work to better understand what hasn’t worked for you in the past and create a plan to help me tailor the therapeutic space to fit your needs. I am committed to listening and collaboratively adjusting our approach if something in our sessions isn’t feeling supportive or right for your needs.

A LITTLE ABOUT ME & MY PROFESSIONAL SKILLS

I completed my Masters in Social Work and Women and Gender Studies from Loyola University.
I am working to become a Licensed Social Worker with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
I have completed a 27.5 hour Living Brave course by Dr. Brené Brown focusing on Vulnerability, Courage, Shame, and Empathy.
I was formerly a Trauma Therapist and Medical Advocate working with survivors of sexual assault.
I use a blend of therapy methods and modalities (CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care) but I specialize in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).

“The best things in life are on the other side of fear.” – Unknown

Loves spending time with her doggy named Maisie

Loves doing art of all kinds and has been taking classes for many years

EnjoyS SPENDING TONS OF TIME OUTSIDE

DO YOU WISH YOU WERE BETTER EQUIPPED TO HANDLE CHALLENGING SITUATIONS? DO YOU WANT TO INCREASE YOUR ABILITY TO NAVIGATE LIFE’S UPS AND DOWNS?

I would be honored to partner with you and help you discover the tools that can help make life more manageable. Together, we will find ways for you to meet your goals and increase your happiness and life satisfaction.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT

Emma Hornberger

THERAPY CAN HELP YOU DEVELOP EFFECTIVE COPING SKILLS THAT LAST A LIFETIME.

SPECIALTIES