Background:
Jen Dunning received her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences Disorders and Psychology; a dual Masters of Science degree in Organizational Leadership and Healthcare Administration, and has acquired graduate level credentials in the fields of Speech-Language Pathology and Early Childhood Special Education. Jen’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is accredited through CACREP. She is currently a member of The American Counseling Association and The National Society of Leadership and Success.
Jen has worked with various populations. She has worked as an educator and an applied behavioral analysis professional helping children with developmental disabilities learn functional skills. Jen understands the developmental aspects of emotions and behaviors needed to assist children, adolescents, and assisting their families in resolving problems, modifying behaviors, and making helpful changes in their lives. Jen has worked as a case manager as a part of an interdisciplinary team that services individuals with disabilities and their families. Her work involved facilitating services, supervising respite workers, and helping guide/counsel families navigate complex crises situations. In addition, Jen is passionate about assessing issues affecting individuals within organizational settings, as she acquired experience and knowledge in the leadership realm working as a hiring manager and departmental trainer for employees working with individuals with disabilities.
In Jen’s spare time, she enjoys quality time and travels with her family, singing, cooking, and volunteering for various non-profit organizations.
Therapy Approach:
Jen believes in an eclectic therapeutical framework. She empowers her clients to reach their potential in living a life that is meaningful to them, despite the uncertainty and distress they may currently be experiencing. Jen understands that although she may not be able to take her clients’ pain away, she is dedicated in making sure they do not feel alone. Jen focuses on understanding all the facets that have shaped her clients into who they are today, and approaches their unique needs through various methods and most importantly, through unconditional warmth and positive regard.
Specializations:
Jen’s clinical interests include working with children/adolescents impacted by emotional dysregulation, trauma, and attachment as well as working with couples facing relationship issues, and individuals experiencing trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, identity formation, transitional life stages, and unique multicultural concerns. Ultimately, Jen hopes to be certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Couple and Family Counseling. Jen is also interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in clinical counseling to train, supervise, and teach future mental health professionals like herself.
