Julie Ekman, LCSW

Julie Ekman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Illinois with 29 years of social work experience. She has two master's degrees: a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver and a Master of Arts in School Leadership from Concordia University. Julie focuses on stress, anxiety, family concerns, self-esteem, career issues, and coping with life changes. She also addresses chronic pain and illness, communication problems, control issues, divorce and separation, guilt and shame, and workplace difficulties.

Julie spent much of her career as a school social worker and family therapist. For 26 years she worked with middle school students in school settings. That background shapes how she helps people manage everyday pressures, routines, and relationships. She draws on strengths-based and solution-focused ideas while using cognitive behavioral techniques to tackle specific thoughts and behaviors.

Sessions are practical and goal-minded. Julie helps people set short-term steps and track progress. Conversations focus on concrete problems like stress at work, communication breakdowns, or adjusting to life transitions.

She pays attention to how health issues, chronic pain, and disability affect mood, identity, and daily functioning. Her approach includes clearer communication strategies and problem-solving around limits and expectations.

Julie aims to work collaboratively on treatment plans that match what each person needs now. She respects different life circumstances and helps people make changes that fit their schedules and responsibilities.

Evidence-based approaches and online care