Michelle Kilimnik, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois. She completed her undergraduate education with degrees in Psychology and Spanish at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and her Master’s degree in Social Work at Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago. Michelle has worked with clients of all ages, with a primary focus on children and families. As a school social worker, Michelle worked with students aged three through eighteen in Illinois, New York, and New Jersey within public and charter school settings. Michelle has vast experience navigating the special education process in schools as well as providing at risk counseling, individual therapy, group therapy, social skills training, referral services, and family support.
Michelle has experience working with individuals with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, ODD, Autism, and individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Michelle has helped clients navigate through life transitions such as death, divorce, relocation, and identity development, as well as manage family conflict, low self esteem, anxiety, and anger. Michelle’s particular areas of interest include helping individuals develop coping skills, building self esteem, and developing social skills.
Therapeutic Approach
Michelle provides an environment of inclusivity, acceptance, and understanding in her practice. She utilizes a strengths based approach in which she partners with the client in identifying their interests and skills, setting personal goals, and working towards those aims. Michelle utilizes pedagogies including solution focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, and strengths based therapy throughout sessions.