Emily Berkman

LCSW

She | Her | Hers

Grief & Bereavement | Anxiety | Depression | Stress | Work-Life Balance | Caregiving Stress | Life Transitions

My Background

“I am not what happened to me, I am who I chose to become” -Carl Jung

It has been my privilege to be a mental health professional since 2014 when I earned my masters in Social Work from the University of Chicago. I have worked in a range of settings, including hospice, universities and crisis call centers, but being here at Empowered offers me the opportunity to engage with clients in order to do the work of uncovering, healing and moving forward. 

Oftentimes, our struggles with grief, stress, anxiety, depression, or issues leave us thinking that we aren’t good enough, and it is hard to see ourselves in a positive way, and appreciate how we are navigating through challenging situations. Moving forward starts with an openness to trying something new. That’s where I hope to join you, and offer an opportunity to explore your thoughts and feelings, connect with your values, challenge your assumptions and ultimately look for some practical opportunities to apply what you learn and make positive changes in your life. I believe in the power of small, gradual efforts that can build to make a difference. I take a warm approach and often use humor to highlight the fact that we are all in this life together.

I have training and experience providing acceptance and commitment therapy, psychodynamic therapy, grief-focused work and support with developing communication and boundary-making skills. I work with individuals 18+ who are navigating stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions and care giving. 

I am from Chicago and my favorite nostalgic meal is a Chicago-style hot dog with all the toppings please. I love to mend and embroider, knit and crochet. I love music, art and film, and exploring our beautiful city and local nature preserves.