Stacey O'Connell, MD - AMITA Health Alexian Bros Ctr For Mental Health Arlington

I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy. We are all ultimately searching for purpose and meaning and our values are our compass for navigating a more meaningful life. In my experience people usually come to therapy because they want something in their life to be different and they are struggling to figure out how to make that happen; whether an individual is seeking to manage symptoms they are experiencing, make difficult decisions, strengthen their relationships with others and themselves, or to just have the support of someone that accepts them exactly as they are while they work through their challenges. I believe my role is to provide the safety and support needed for people grow and learn about themselves in ways that help them achieve their goals.

I believe that each client is comprised with skills and talents within themselves. I strive to help each client reach their ideal self while utilizing their strengths. I assist them in utilizing these strengths to overcome obstacles or empower them to recognize strengths that they did not know existed. I believe each client has a unique story and is influenced by the environment in which surrounds them. My biggest hope for my clients is to recognize that going through difficult times is not easy: they do not have to do it alone, and they are capable of overcoming tough challenges.

I have worked in community mental health with the under served suffering severe and chronic mental illness since 2002. I see my role as one who empowers people to truly believe in their own strengths and to arm them with the confidence and skill to manage their illness and life as independently as possible. I also see humor as a critically important tool, in treatment and in life.