Kellen Smith

Hello, my name is Kellen Smith and I am happy to see that you have taken the courageous first step in reaching out for help. I am proud of you. I have a unique ability to combine true-life experiences with clinical analysis resulting in the most effective course of action for the clients I serve. My focus is on intertwining real-world examples with research and data. My compassion for understanding the human side of client behavior sets me apart from many who operate “strictly by the book”. I am not a stranger to personal tragedy, and share my real-life experiences providing insight and understanding into the world of mental health and addictive behaviors and demonstrate from first-hand experiences how faith, perseverance, and belief in oneself can create positive results in one’s life. Prior to joining the FJ Psychological Services team, I have worked at Gateway Foundation Lake Villa, Nicasa Behavioral Health Services, Greater Illinois Sober Living (Footprints to Recovery), Northwest Community Counseling and mentored at risk adolescent girls through the Pioneer Center of Human Services. I am one who has devoted my life’s work to improving the human condition, and have made it a personal and professional commitment to combat the ill effects of Human Trafficking. In this field, I have completed the Cook County Human Trafficking Taskforce training, the Operation Underground Railroad training, the A21 Campaign Facilitator Training, the Polaris Project Training, the Stewards of Children Training, as well as completing the Illinois 40-hour Domestic Violence Training Course. I have experience in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I currently work with adults, adolescents and young adults who are experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Substance abuse and mental health have played a significant role in my life, and I am ready to assist others in navigating through their own healing journey.