Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Dedra
Dedra earned a Master’s in Social Work at the University of Chicago. Through strength- and solution-focused task strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, Dedra can help you identify your strengths within and put them to work.
Dedra creates a safe, supportive, and comforting therapeutic environment to process your emotions, explore your needs, and facilitate healthy coping skills. If you are feeling stuck, anxious, or struggling to make sense of your current situation and seek a partner to guide you through the storm, reach out today to schedule an appointment!

"Life is a series of transitions for all of us, with highs and lows, celebrations and challenges, joy and sadness; I hope to support you by identifying and developing strengths for use throughout life's journey."
Get to know Dedra
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
After years in the field of Social Work Programming, Policy and Advocacy, I made the decision to return to caring for individuals and families. Through the prolonged illness and loss of a beloved family member and experience in hospice care, I came to realize the lack of resources for grieving patients and families. So often the focus is on 'when' rather than 'how' the experience will play out. Loss is a natural part of life that we will all experience at one time or another. Whether through death of a loved one or a pet, loss of a relationship, career or dream, loss can generate anxiety, depression, lack of focus, or undesirable coping skills. My goal is to assist clients through these difficult life experiences, helping them to understand that they can and will continue to live a healthy, productive, and joyful life after all.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work well with clients who are open to new experiences and ideas, who may be seeking permission and acceptance of complicated emotions and feelings, or who just want to explore the possibility--you don't have to face these challenges alone.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I look forward to working with clients who want to learn, grow and understand themselves and their life experiences--and the differences between them. I want to provide a safe, comfortable environment for clients to share their feelings, sit with the feelings, and find ways to process and live with those feelings whenever they resurface.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
To be human is to feel--joy, sadness, love and loss are all part of the human experience. When these feelings cause us to be overwhelmed, anxious, depressed and disconnected, therapy can be an amazing tool to practice self care while weathering the storm.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I'm excited to be able to meet patients where they are in life, whether online, in-person, or a combination of the two options, and during the times that most meet your lifestyle.
What inspires you?
Seeing clients thrive in their lives, despite having experienced difficulties and challenges in their lives. I feel grateful to build connections and nurture personal growth as clients flourish.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
A thoughtful and supportive conversation about your needs, at your pace. I want to get to know who you are, your strengths and challenges, and what feelings or experiences bring you to counseling. I will share some observations, propose some ideas, and work with you to begin developing a map for your life's journey.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I like to spend time with my family and friends. I really enjoy the outdoors, whether walking and biking local trails, gardening or birdwatching, and try to prioritize health and fitness.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
I am incredibly curious, and live to learn. I am driven by empathy, compassion and service.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 12 years
- Graduating institute
- University of Chicago
- Graduating degree
- Master of Social Work
