About | Anxiety Professionals of Illinois

Modalities We Use

We use multiple approaches in our therapy

CBT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Unlike other forms of therapy, CBT looks at your current problems and gives you practical tools to overcome them on a daily basis. The concept behind CBT is that our thoughts, feelings, and actions are all connected. It aims to help people overcome problems that are overwhelming them by breaking them down into smaller parts. Through treatment, we work on becoming aware of, and challenging, inaccurate or negative thoughts.

ERP

Exposure-Response Prevention

Exposure-Response Prevention (ERP) is a form of therapy in which, through the help of a mental health professional, you gradually confront your fears. This form of therapy is designed to help overcome phobias, obsessions, and compulsions. Through ERP, you will be able to overcome your fears and stop the cycle of compulsions and avoidance.

HRT

Habit Reversal Training

Habit reversal training (HRT) is a highly effective way for people to reduce undesired behaviors or habits. These habits can include, for example, tics, hair pulling, nail biting, and skin picking. Often, we don’t understand the reasoning for these behaviors until we document them and become aware of the situations and sensations that take place before the behavior.

ACT

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is an approach that is action-oriented. During therapy with ACT, clients will learn to stop avoiding and denying their emotions. Rather, they learn to accept these emotions and acknowledge that they are an appropriate response that should not hinder them. With this knowledge, clients will learn to accept their difficulties and commit to taking the necessary steps to change their behavior.

PE

Prolonged Exposure

Prolonged exposure is a specific type of cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches individuals to gradually approach trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations. Individuals work with their therapist in a safe, graduated fashion to face stimuli and situations that evoke fear and remind them of the trauma to increase their comfort and reduce their fear.

SPACE

Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions

SPACE is an evidenced-based treatment program that is designed for parents of anxious children. Unlike other therapies, SPACE does not require a child's participation in the program. Through this approach, parents will learn how to replace their accomodations to the child's anxiety with supportive responses and actions to help your child face and overcome their anxiety without you unknowingly exacerbating their anxiety.