Deanna Filkins, LCSW

Hi there! I'm Deanna Filkins, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my MSW in Community Practice from DePaul University in Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Illinois State University. After 12 years working in community mental health as a Family Therapist and Executive Director of a non-profit, I am dedicated to opening a practice that empowers children, adolescents and families through mental health treatment and support. I have extensive experience providing individual, couple's and family therapy, alongside facilitating group work with adolescents and high school youth. Throughout my career, I've collaborated with various school systems to expand mental health awareness and interventions, especially within the high school population of youth. I was a contributing author to the published Interconnected Systems Framework Monograph titled, “Advancing Education Awareness: Interconnecting School Mental Health and School-Wide Positive Behavior Support” and I've spoken at several state and national conferences regarding the importance of high school mental health supports within the PBIS framework. I work within a strengths-based, trauma-informed and systems perspective. I believe that youth and families are the root of all communities and connection is imperative to healthy growth and self-actualization. What we do, how we act and what we feel- impacts those around us and our environments (ie: relationships, school, work or individual sense of self). You know your mind, body and situation best. I look forward to learning from you, building a team of support and helping you feel like your best self out in the world. "Connection is why we're here: it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives." ~Brene` Brown ***Please note: Clients can opt in or out of texting communication via a professional, encrypted platform from this provider within your client portal.