Carolyn Cruse, MSW, LCSW
(she/her)
Trauma Therapist
Trauma—whether an acute experience or the chronic trauma that can exist within oppressive systems—often disconnects people from their intuition and their sense of self. My goal is to help clients reconnect with their own wisdom and to cultivate lives and relationships that are fulfilling and joyful. I work to help clients understand their experiences within the context of their development and their current lives and to build a relationship with themselves that is rooted in self-compassion.
Areas of Expertise and Services Offered
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Relational trauma
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LGBTQ+ identities
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Body image issues
Education, Training, and Advocacy
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B.A. in Psychology and English, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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Masters in Social Work (MSW), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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Licensed Clinical Social Worker
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Illinois Certified Sexual Assault Crisis Counselor
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Member of the Association for Size Diversity and Health
How We Might Work Together
I believe strongly that the quality and fit of the therapeutic relationship is the greatest agent of positive change for clients--especially when clients have experienced relational or interpersonal trauma. With a style built on warmth, humor, and flexibility, I work collaboratively with clients to explore and understand their experiences, to utilize their innate strengths, and to heal. I use a Health at Every Size lens in my work with body image issues and disordered eating, and I hope to create a space that promotes authenticity and growth.