Specialty Areas:
- Self-Esteem Issues
- Depression/Anxiety
- Life Transition
- Stress Management
- Crisis Management
- Trauma/PTSD
- Personality Disorders
- LGBTQ
- ADHD
- Parenting
- Children and Family Therapy
- EMDR Trained
Julie Noparstak is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a client-centered and strengths-based approach to treatment. Clients are met where they are at, and the scope and goals of therapy are determined collaboratively. Within the safety of the therapeutic relationship, this connection can be used as a catalyst for change, growth, and healing. Clients are supported to identify their core values, strengths, and talents, and to solidify a sense of self so that personal experiences and relationships can be experienced in healthy and meaningful ways.
Julie uses a diverse range of therapeutic interventions and modalities including psychoanalytic and psychodynamic approaches, relational and attachment theories, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Integrative Holistic Approaches, and Mindfulness Practices. Julie also has extensive experience working with children and families, helping to create healthier and happier relationship dynamics.
Julie obtained her Bachelor’s in Education from DePaul University and her Master’s in Clinical Social Work from the University of Chicago, as well as advanced training from the Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis. She holds a Professional Educator License (PEL) through the Illinois State Board of Education with Endorsements in Elementary Education and School Social Work.
My interest in becoming a psychotherapist grew from my own search for meaning as well as to better understand and support the emotional lives of my children and students. As a teacher I had a great deal of influence but found myself drawn to working with others on a more personal and therapeutic level. I wanted to help others not only feel better about themselves, but to understand how to access their own inner wisdom. In therapy, my clients have the opportunity to grow and create more fulfilling and positive life experiences for themselves and others.
1. What attracted you to being a psychotherapist?
I meet clients where they are at, building rapport and trust within the safety of the therapeutic relationship. So often shame, self-doubt, or obstacles in life throw us off center, but in a therapeutic relationship, clients can access emotional experiences in a safe way. By being accepted and having their stories heard, my clients have an opportunity to focus on themselves and find or reclaim intuitive knowing. I work with clients to set goals and support them in making changes in their lives so they may find greater peace and happiness within themselves and their relationships.
2. How would you describe your approach with your clients?
“Look at how a single candle can both defy and define the darkness.” - Anne Frank
3. What's your favorite quote about mental health?
What has surprised me most about being a psychotherapist is the realization of just how unique each client’s journey and experiences are. There is a kind of art to psychotherapy, where the relationship a therapist has with a client is dependent on the dynamics within that personal connection. My clients have inspired me in many ways over the years and have taught me valuable lessons. I am honored to share in and be a witness and support to their resilience and courage throughout the process of therapeutic healing and change.
4. What has surprised you the most about being a psychotherapist?
