Jenni Watgen
CREDENTIALS: MA, NCC, LCPC
CORE SKILLS: Working with children, adolescents and adults; individual and family therapy
PHONE: 630 879 1091
EMAIL: jwatgen@kuhncounselingcenter.com
LOCATIONS: Batavia and Naperville
EXPERIENCE
Growing up, I usually was the one out of my group of friends who tried to listen and help others with their problems. As I got older, I was a part of the conflict resolution team and helped classmates work out their problems at school. Being a helper brought me happiness and joy, although it was not always easy and not everyone always agreed or made up. Those experiences as well as my own personal ups and downs molded me into wanting to be a helper for others throughout life.
I’ve happily been working within the field for over 10 years. I received a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice at Aurora University and went on to obtain my Masters Degree in Forensic Psychology at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Though I originally wanted to work within a criminal justice field, after a counseling internship working with child and adolescent survivors of sexual assault and abuse, I realized counseling in a clinical setting was the way to go. Since graduating, I became a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois and also am a National Certified Counselor. When working with clients, I use a variety of expressive therapies such as art, play, music and sandtray therapy techniques which can be useful when other talk therapies may not be ideal. Collaboration with families, schools, psychiatrists, hospital staff and others remain a priority in cases where an integrated approach and support system is needed.
CONSULTATION
I also work as a Mental Health Consultant for the Two Rivers Head Start program in their 3 centers where I provide behavioral assessments for children ages 3-5, consult with teachers and staff and assist them with developing behavior plans and intervention strategies. Additionally, I provide training to staff on behavioral health issues impacting children and families.
AREAS OF FOCUS
- Depression & Anxiety
- Managing Stress
- Sexual Violence/abuse
- Anger Management
- Self-Harming Behaviors
- Obsessive Thoughts
- High Functioning Autism
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Behavioral Concerns