What inspired you to become a counselor?
I have always had a deep curiosity about what makes us tick as humans. Why do we do the things that we do? What truly makes us who we are? How do we most deeply connect with ourselves and with others? I also value authentic, deep connection and have found great joy and meaning in the sharing of the good but also the very real hard moments of the people in my life. My curiosity about humanity led me to psychology, and my desire to be with people in the most deeply authentic and often painful moments of life led me to applying that psychology to the art of counseling.
What is something you would like new clients to know about beginning the counseling process?
I would want anyone coming into a counseling session to know that I am very aware of how vulnerable it is to seek counseling in the first place. It is my sincere desire to provide a warm and safe space for all of my clients, while realizing that trust is built over time and that the therapeutic relationship is a living and dynamic thing that will change and adapt as the client and I get to know each other, leaning into the give and take of trust and safety.
How would you describe your style or approach when counseling?
I see the process of counseling through a psychodynamic lens; I believe that the things that present as mental health concerns in the present have roots in the past. Every individual is a complex compilation of narratives and personality; a mix of what has happened to them and the family and systems that they are rooted in as well as their own unique self. I approach the work of exploring mental health concerns with immediacy, warmth, and unconditional positive regard while holding what the individual brings from both past and present.
What self-care practices do you enjoy doing the most?
I believe that rest is a powerful force in our lives. It is only when we allow ourselves to enter into regular cycles of rest that we can be our most creative, most healthy selves. I prioritize rhythms of rest on a daily and weekly basis, carefully attuning to what my body and mind are telling me that they need. One tool I use regularly to enter into rest is to physically slow down; turn lights and sounds down, sit down, literally pause and breathe until I am aware of what I need. Sometimes what comes next is reading a good book, sometimes it is cooking a nourishing meal by lamplight, sometimes it is moving in intuitive ways that nurture my body., sometimes it is reaching out to a friend. Awareness is the best tool that I have found to practice true self-care.
How do I schedule an appointment with Stephanie?
You can email me directly at sbooth@springtreecounseling.com. I see clients both in our Evanston office and virtually. If you are interested in learning more about Stephanie, you can read her full bio here.