Andrea Chaitin-Richards, M.A., LCPC

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

Phone 708-429-6999 to make an appointment.
Contact Ms. Richards by e-mail

I received my masters in counseling psychology with emphasis on couples and family therapy in 1998. Since then, I have been providing counseling services to youth ages 11 – 21, couples, families and individuals. I have expertise in working with people from all walks of life; with challenges ranging from depression and anxiety, to relationship issues, life-transitions and behavioral problems. I have a strong interest in working with family members coping with the challenges of being caregivers, whether the person requiring care is a child with special needs, an adult with an illness, or a parent or spouse facing the end of life.

A Strength-Based Approach

I believe that clients have the wherewithal to find remedies to their problems within and around themselves. We all have strengths, inside ourselves, in our personal relationships and in our communities. For many, the key to living emotionally healthy lives is uncovering what those strengths are and utilizing them in the service of self-improvement.

A Collaborative Approach

I believe in the client’s self-knowledge. I have the clinical training, and the client has years of experience living in his or her skin. Together, we approach the problems at hand as a team as we work towards the client’s goals.

An Eclectic Approach

I believe that the client’s personality and his or her specific issues determine the style of therapy. Some clients need more of a structured, cognitive-behavioral approach. Some clients are grappling more with issues of meaning in their lives. For some, individual counseling alone is not enough, and couples or family therapy is warranted. I pay close attention to the specific issues clients face, who they are, what they want and tailor treatment accordingly.

The most important trait I possess as a clinician is authenticity. Clients have a good sense of who I am and where I’m coming from. I am honest, at times gently confrontive, and always genuine. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most transformative element of counseling, above any other modality or therapeutic technique. It is in that relationship that I give my all.

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