Betty Burrows, Ph.D.: Northbrook & Chicago Psychologist - Therapy Approach & Focus, Qualifications & Background

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just plain dissatisfied with
aspects of your life?

Each person has characteristic ways of managing their emotional reactions
to their unique life challenges. The focus of my counseling work is on
identifying, strengthening, and, when necessary, modifying these coping
tools to optimize your satisfaction in work and relationships. One of the
most important parts of our collaborative work will be to create a safe
space for the exploration of feelings and behaviors. My style as a therapist
is interactive, supportive and nurturing, while also being honest and direct.

I conceptualize human development from a psychodynamic,
self-psychological perspective, (that is, understanding how one's
perceptions of childhood events and feelings affect current functioning), yet
my psychotherapy approach is eclectic and flexible, informed by your
needs and our mutually agreed upon goals for treatment. I have a strong
background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and teach a variety of
techniques to manage feelings and stressors (for example, relaxation and
guided imagery training, assertiveness training, mindfulness, systematic
desensitization and stress inoculation training).

I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, eating disorders (bulimia and
compulsive overeating), stress-management, bereavement and grief, and
relationship issues. Women's health and developmental issues are also a
special interest of mine, including coping with infertility, post-partum
depression, and menopause.

I worked as the Coordinator of the DePaul University Counseling Program
for many years where I conducted therapy with college and graduate
students, faculty, and staff, and conducted workshops and training on test
anxiety, stress-management and relaxation, transition and loss, eating
disorders, and self-esteem. My doctoral research concerned
self-awareness and emotion regulation in women with eating disorders, and
I have had specialized training and experience in the treatment of bulimia,
body dissatisfaction, and compulsive overeating. My Internship specialty at
Rush University Medical Center was in health psychology and focused on
weight management, headache and pain management, sleep disorders,
and adjusting to medical illnesses such as Multiple Sclerosis and cancer. I
have completed Level 1 therapist training in Gottman Method Couples
Therapy and use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work with
couples.

Qualifications

Education:
Undergraduate: University of Illinois
(Phi Beta Kappa)
Graduate: Depaul University
Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology granted in 1987

Residency Training:
Rush University Medical Center

Years in Practice: 20+

Professional Affiliations:
Member, American Psychological
Association
Member, Illinois Psychological Association
Member, National Eating Disorders
Association

Treatment Focus

Ages Treated: 16+

Modalities:
Individual Psychotherapy
Couples Psychotherapy

Treatment Approaches Used:
Psychodynamic
Cognitive Behavioral
Interpersonal

Specialties:
Anxiety/Fears
Relationship Issues
Eating Disorders
Depression
Health/Medical Issues
Infertility/Adoption
Loss or Grief
Stress Management
Parenting