Lisa Allison

Hi, I am Lisa Allison- a Licensed Independent Social Worker and Educational Specialist in School Psychology. I have over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Therapist. I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Master's in Social Work and National Louis in Chicago with an Ed.S in School Psychology. I am board-certified in Ohio, Illinois, and Nevada. I access several different approaches to treatment based on what works best for each individual. Creating a therapeutic relationship and establishing trust are the foundation for effective therapy.

My approach

I am trained in family systems therapy, therefore, I utilize an understanding of family history and generational patterns. For some clients the past is not as important as the here and now, therefore short-term goals to deal with current issues for a better quality of life may be a more practical approach to treatment. I integrate different modalities based on each individual client's needs and preferences. Examples of these modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, meditation, hypnosis, and my personal favorite - solution resolution therapy. I like it when clients can accomplish their goals without feeling worn out by the lengthy process and beaten down by the financial strain. I appreciate that time and money do not come in an unlimited surplus for most people. I see therapists as a vehicle to empower and encourage clients. My clients find the validation they need to inspire change and reach their therapeutic goals.

My focus

My background and expertise include helping people with a variety of issues that include anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, motivation, divorce, confidence building, mood disorders, relationship concerns, family dynamics, couples counseling, support groups, social skills groups, emotional stress, life and work challenges, academic and school-related concerns, eating disorders, loss, cancer, illness support and most recently stress and life changes due to Covid and our new normal.

My communication style

I have a very laid-back communication style that makes me approachable and easy to converse with. I have been told by many clients that therapy with me feels like a conversation with an old friend who is safe without the risk of me knowing their friends or family. I am honest, direct, empathetic, and utilize humor when appropriate.

My journey to mental healthcare

I was on the path to becoming a journalist. I loved getting the story, I did not want the connection to end with the article. I wanted to do more to make a difference on a more personal level. I decided my interviewing skills could be better utilized in helping people rather than reporting facts. My career as a journalist was brief and I found myself in grad school after a few sessions with a career counselor. I have worked in various therapeutic settings and still love getting to know people, learning each client's story, and providing a safe space to create healthy outcomes.

My goals for you

I suggest goals but I ultimately allow clients to determine their own therapeutic journey. If a client would prefer that I take the lead. I will curtail the information given into small obtainable goals. If the clients set their own, I will work hard with them to create the steps needed to achieve the best outcome!

My first session with you

An information-gathering get-to-know-each-other session. I will ask questions to get the therapy process going and my clients are also welcome to share their expectations as well as ask me questions in order to develop a cohesive and supportive working relationship.