Dr. Laura Mathis-Alwin, Licensed Clinical Psychologist

My mission is to provide the scaffolding that allows an individual or couple to safely explore the distress or problem that is being experienced.

Approach

One of the things we will likely do in therapy is to explore what Adlerians call “interfering ideas.” Through a variety of techniques and assessments, we would work together as a team to discover thought patterns or ideas that may be interfering with your success in love, friendship, career, or spiritual endeavors. In my experience, interfering ideas are often at the root of depression, anxiety, marital discord, etc. Once these ideas are identified, a plan for addressing these interfering ideas is developed, put into action, assessed regularly, and modified as needed. Of course, depending on the problem you bring in, other specific techniques will be included in your therapy program (i.e. stress management, anger management, grief therapy, etc.).

In the interest of total disclosure, I am a person of faith. For some people this is important and it can be included as part of their therapeutic process. However, my practice consists of people from a variety of faith backgrounds and of no religious beliefs at all. I can assure you that without your expressed stated desire for spiritual beliefs to play a part in your therapy, they will not. In all cases, therapy must be a judgment-free and safe place to be. Please feel free to ask me questions about this or anything in my profile.

Education

Dr. Alwin earned her BA in English Literature from The King's College in New York.  She worked in advertising for a number of years before returning to school to pursue her Masters and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

She attended The Adler School of Professional Psychology (Chicago).  Her internship was completed at Cornerstone Counseling Center, a faith-based center, and her residency at ACP, Associated Psychologist and Therapists, a group private practice (both of Chicago).

Professional

Dr. Alwin most recently had a successful private practice in downtown Chicago, IL.  While there she worked with individuals, couples, and families.  She has a passion for helping people get their lives on track (reducing the symptoms and other obstacles) that get in their way.  She has a particular passion for helping couples increase healthy interactions while decreasing unhealthy interactions.

 Her volunteering included working with Chicago's underserved populations, serving on The Adler School alumni board, and extensive work with Africa.

 For her work with the underserved both in Chicago and Africa (Zambia and Uganda), she earned alumni of the year for 2010.