Hello, my name is Joseph Bates, T-LCSW. But feel free to refer to me as “Joseph.” I received my B.S Degree from Governor’s State University located in University Park, Illinois and my MSW from the Catholic University of America located in Washington D.C.
I began my career as a substance use counselor working in hospitals and treatment facilities. My career took a different direction when I became a case manager working with homeless families in shelters located in St. Louis, MO. and eventually in Chicago IL.
Over the years, I have continued to provide counseling services such as anger management, substance use education, crisis intervention, domestic violence, and working with at-risk youth. I realized my passion for counseling began in my early adult years when I had a strong desire to learn about mental and emotional health and the impact that childhood trauma has on human development. After serving in the military, I became interested in understanding adult trauma and its impact on individuals and families.
My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe that a client needs to feel safe and confident knowing that their therapist is competent, which will allow us to bond and effectively communicate during our interactions.
I want my clients to feel that we are a good fit. Although therapy can be challenging in all kinds of ways, I want my clients to feel positive about where it’s headed. I try to inspire their confidence, leaving them feeling hopeful about the work that we are doing.
