Joan French, LCPC
- Trauma-informed care
- CBT and DBT techniques
- LGBTQ+ affirming support
About Joan French
Her approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), internal family systems (IFS), positive communication skill building, anger management, and art therapy. She blends clinical skill with creativity and patience, and she sometimes uses gentle humor in sessions, a practice she playfully refers to as "chuckle healing."
Joan holds an LCPC - Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor - and she completed a Master of Arts in Community Counseling at Governors State University, along with an Art Therapy Certificate from Northwestern University. She works with adults on issues including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma and abuse, relationships, self-esteem, grief, sleep concerns, career transitions, and a range of attachment and family-of-origin challenges. Joan also offers an affirming space for people who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ or who are exploring questions about gender and identity.
Clients may find her resourceful, creative, and steady in guiding them through life changes and healing work, combining lived experience with clinical expertise to support meaningful progress.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
Therapeutic Approach
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Joan French have?
Joan French has 17 years of experience in therapeutic counseling.
Is Joan French a licensed therapist?
Yes. She holds the credential LCPC, which stands for Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. License details: IL LCPC 180.007674.
In which languages does Joan French provide therapy?
Joan French provides therapy in English.
Where is Joan French located?
Joan French is located in Illinois.
How can I work with Joan French as my therapist?
You can work with Joan French through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Joan French work with international clients?
Joan French does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Joan French cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Integrative Approaches for Online Therapeutic Work
Joan often draws on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and shift unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors; CBT is practical and useful for issues like anxiety, depression, and stress. She also uses dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills to teach emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, which can be especially helpful for intense emotions, relationship difficulties, and problems with impulse control. Client-centered therapy is another key influence, focusing on empathetic listening and building a collaborative, accepting relationship that supports self-exploration and growth.
Determining the right approach is a collaborative process. Joan works with clients to understand their goals, preferences, and needs, and she tailors techniques from different models so the plan fits each person rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method.
Online therapy offers practical flexibility: sessions can take place by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, allowing clients to access licensed professionals from home, work, or other settings that suit them. This adaptability can make it easier to maintain consistent care around busy schedules and life transitions while still engaging in meaningful therapeutic work with a therapist.