Barbara Noonan is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a specialist in working with couples, adults, and adolescents. Barbara specializes in grief/loss, family-of-origin issues, relationship concerns, depression and anxiety. She earned her Master of Arts in Art Therapy from the School of the Art Institute and completed a Two-Year Post-Graduate Certificate in Marital and Family Therapy from The Family Institute at Northwestern University.
What made you become a therapist?
I noticed in my early teens that what really interested me about my friends and family
were the behaviors that they exhibited. It was quite fascinating to guess why they acted
the way that they did and what would come next. This interest eventually extended to
others beyond the narrow world of my young teenage years and my family and friends.
It made sense to me to pursue a career in the therapeutic world.
What are your practice specialties?
My specialties include, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues.
What self care activities do you and would recommend to others?
Exercise is a must as well as Yoga. I have been Yoga practitioner for the past 14 years
which includes meditation and reflection. My art studio is my refuge. I Paint and Draw
a couple of times a week. Also I make it a point to spend time with family and friends.
Why do you feel it’s important to seek counseling?
Counseling is a way for individuals to reach their fullest potential with the help of an
objective observer. We are all products of our environment and none of us escapes
childhood unscarred. So many things need to be explored: stress, sadness, grief, life
transitions, our innermost fears. These are best talked about with an experienced
professional with whom we feel safe and comfortable.
Who can benefit from therapy? How can it help?
I absolutely believe in everyone’s ability to change, grow and develop. What’s most
important is joining with the client to help in the process. I try to use my sense of humor
in working with clients. I strive to help each client recognize that he or she is far
stronger than one might imagine and to break the cycle of negative thinking.
Essentially, I believe that people really heal themselves – with our help, of course.
Everyone has to deal with changes in life as well as sadness and discomfort. Therapy
can be an enormous help in adapting to them and learning to cope with the stress
involved.
Contact UB’s Intake Coordinator to schedule an appointment with a UB therapist at the Chicago downtown counseling office location.