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I'm Dr. Derrick Hassert, a licensed clinical counselor (IL) and licensed mental health counselor (IND) and currently a candidate at the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis. I have previous training in interpersonal psychoanalytic psychotherapy through the William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis and Psychology, and training in transference-focused psychotherapy through Columbia University's Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research. My focus is on psychotherapy with individuals and couples.
My approach
My theoretical approach is broadly psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, incorporating an attachment-based relational perspective to working with patients, listening from a perspective of openness and respect to the experience of the individual.
My focus
I've been in clinical practice now for about 10 years, and in that time I have gained experience in addressing issues related to strong emotions (such as anger, stress, anxiety, and depression--what is now often referred to as "affect regulation"), interpersonal and developmental trauma, the application of effective parenting techniques, couples counseling, and helping clients through life transitions such as career change, divorce, and retirement.
My communication style
I believe a good relationship between therapist and client is key to the process of psychotherapy. As a therapist I seek to build a collaborative bond with patients in order to work together to achieve better mental health, employing a conversational and accepting style of communication.
My journey to mental healthcare
I've always had the desire to understand and help people; this has led me to gain experience in different treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral and behavioral analytic approaches, as well as psychodynamic and psychoanalytic ways of thinking about psychological and emotional conditions and issues.
My goals for you
I believe it is essential to keep in mind that therapy is not a magic pill or a quick fix--it doesn't happen all at once and there are generally no simple solutions to long-standing mental and emotional issues. Therapy is a healing process that necessitates participation and investment from the patient and therapist alike. In the end, making small changes to self-defeating behavior and coping with feelings of sadness, fear, and pain can bring life-altering results. Together we can discuss what is hoped to be gained from the counseling experience (such as working on long-term issues that may go back to childhood or a very direct treatment plan for a specific concern, such as a phobia or social anxiety).
My first session with you
The first session is always devoted to allowing you to tell me about who you are, and what has brought you to therapy. Along the way, I'll ask questions that I hope will help me understand more about you as a person.
