Hello there! I'm Elliott, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. In addition, I am certified as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I've been providing mental health counseling services in a variety of settings for 13 years. My background is in working with teens and adults that struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, parenting difficulties, building healthy relationships, and finding purpose in life. If you’re open to meeting with me, I’d like to work with you on identifying barriers that might be keeping you from finding what you’re looking for. I usually help my clients identify these barriers by talking with them about the things that are important in their lives, how they see themselves as well as others around them, and what they think might happen if they make certain changes in their lives. Once we do that, it’s easier to understand what ideas, actions, and lack of healthy skills are hurting the chances of moving forward, and we can start finding different approaches that would lead to a more fulfilling lifestyle.
I provide a safe, calm, and non-judgmental space for my clients to be themselves, warts and all. I also work hard to break complex issues down into easy-to-understand language to make the most effective use of our time. I use a variety of therapy styles in sessions, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Strengths-based Therapy. I am also trained to work with clients on healing trauma and am a sex-positive therapist. However, regardless of what type of therapy being used, my priority is making sure you feel heard, valued, understood, and empowered to work with me on building new skills to deal with the problems you’re currently having. I also understand that sometimes a therapist and a client just don’t “click”, so if at any time you don’t feel like I am the best fit for you, please let me know so we can work on finding a therapist that will better meet your needs. I look forward to working with you. Take care!
PLEASE NOTE: My sessions typically last 45-50 minutes, but I can make them shorter if that is your preference. I make every attempt to return any messages left for me during the late afternoons/early evenings or by the next morning, but will usually not be available for an immediate response during the day, as this is when I am usually seeing clients for sessions. I am out of the office/not working on Fridays and Saturdays. If messages are left for me on Fridays or Saturdays, I will usually respond by Sunday morning.
Additional areas of focus: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Eating disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, ADHD, Attachment issues, Blended family issues, Co-morbidity, Codependency, Commitment issues, Communication problems, Control issues, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Domestic violence, Drug and alcohol addiction, Emptiness, Family problems, Fatherhood issues, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Impulsivity, Infidelity, Isolation / loneliness, Jealousy, Life purpose, Men's issues, Mood disorders, Multicultural concerns, Polyamory / non-monogamous relationships, Post-traumatic stress, Prejudice and discrimination, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-harm, Social anxiety and phobia, Workplace issues, Young adult issues
Clinical approaches: Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
IL LCSW 149.022246
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Elliott Lugo. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Elliot has helped me to understand my condition and has opened my eyes to who I am
Written on Oct 15, 2024 after therapy with Elliott for 2 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, and trauma and abuse
Elliott is very helpful, personable, and professional. He’s super considerate and has a great way of helping me discuss things that need addressed. I look forward to our sessions and leave our sessions feeling happier, more content, and confident in myself.
Written on Sep 07, 2024 after therapy with Elliott for 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, grief, eating disorders, anger management, and career difficulties
He's patient and very understanding! Would definitely recommend!
Written on Jul 31, 2024 after therapy with Elliott for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, and parenting issues
Elliot listens without judgement and offers great insight and advice.
Written on May 25, 2022 after therapy with Elliott for 7 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Elliot has really helped me make more progress than any other therapist. I was losing faith in BetterHelp but Elliot is outstanding. He listens and responds. Remembers things I told him from our first session. Hes non judgemental and really has concern for his clients. I’m going to stick with therapy for the long haul now as I’m excited for my continued progress and being a happy and healthier human being.
Written on Jan 31, 2022 after therapy with Elliott for 9 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, and relationship issues
Elliott is a great fit for my needs. He listens. Responds with fantastic feedback and makes me feel so comfortable. So glad I started this journey.
Written on Nov 20, 2021 after therapy with Elliott for 10 months on issues concerning relationship issues, and intimacy-related issues