Hallie Williams, MA

Psychotherapist

Treatment Philosophy

As a therapist, I believe that developing a strong therapeutic relationship is paramount. I strive to create relationships built on trust, honesty and compassion with each of my clients, ultimately creating a safe foundation for positive change and healing. I understand how difficult it can be to seek out help and strongly believe that asking for help is an important first step towards lasting and meaningful growth.

I utilize a positive, strengths based approach, focusing on identifying a person's strengths and learning how to use them to leverage life’s challenges and difficulties. A fundamental part of my therapeutic approach is to encourage self-knowledge, and self-acceptance. I firmly believe that within each of us lies the power to be whomever we want and that the therapeutic process can be a powerful tool in bringing this into fruition.

  • I enjoy working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families facing challenges across a broad spectrum. I have experience working with individuals struggling with substance use and addiction, depression, anxiety and eating disorders. I am also passionate about developing a healthy self-relationship, encouraging self-exploration, self-compassion, acceptance and trust.

    When working with clients, I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), positive psychology, strengths based therapy, and play therapy.

    When working with children I use a child-centered approach, focusing on identifying feelings in order to promote emotional regulation, positive self-image, and healthy coping skills.

    During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my two wonderful sons, ages 12 and 13. I also love to write, travel and spend time with friends and family.

  • I received dual degrees in Psychology and Social Welfare from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Shortly after graduating, I pursued a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. During my time there, I completed an internship at a treatment center for adolescents struggling with substance abuse. I went on to work as a counselor at a residential treatment center, specializing in treating adolescent girls struggling with substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and self-harm behaviors. I also spent several years providing career counseling to MBA students attending DePaul University.

  • Age 4 & up