
Grazyna “Gabi” Petersen, LCSW, CADC
Founder
Therapist at Contemporary Wellness, Naperville, IL
Credentials
- Master of Social Work
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- Certified Alcohol and Other Drugs Addictions Counselor
- Founder
About Grazyna
The stress from everyday life can be overwhelming for people of any age, and it can come from a surprising number of sources. Prolonged stress can lead to depression and anxiety, and we may not be sure where it’s coming from or what to do about it. If you are feeling hesitant about starting therapy, know that asking for help is a sign of strength and not weakness.
I see young adults (21+), adults, and seniors. My special interest is depression, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem, trauma, addictions, immigration, acculturation, and adjustment.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT, focuses on recognizing and challenging distressing thought processes and behaviors, replacing them with more realistic and positive ones to help with depression and anxiety. The psychodynamic approach examines the deeper sources of these behaviors. Mindfulness means observing and naming thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the body in an objective, nonjudgmental manner. In my work with clients, I use various techniques derived from CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness.
In addition, as a Certified Addictions Counselor, I offer therapeutic services to those struggling with addictions or needing support in maintaining sobriety.
I was born in Poland, and finding myself in a new country and adapting to a new culture allowed me to have a wider view of life’s experiences.
As we work together to find roots and solutions to your problems and issues, I will guide you through this process with kindness, compassion, and empathy.
Experience
Grazyna’s experience: counseling for individuals and couples; case management and counseling for seniors and their families; severe mental health and substance use disorders; crisis intervention in the emergency room; adjunct professor at the university, teaching social work.
How to start with Grazyna
Call our Naperville office at 1560 Wall St, Suite 204, Naperville, IL 60563, or send an appointment request. You can also browse our services.