- CBT techniques
- Solution-focused work
- Trauma-informed care
About Lori
Lori Cheek Gilroy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Illinois with 26 years of experience. She helps people manage stress, anxiety, depression, anger, parenting strain, relationship friction, grief, trauma, and career or life transitions. She also supports those facing caregiver stress, chronic illness, adoption and foster care issues, and questions about life purpose.
She blends a client-centered stance with practical methods. Lori uses solution-focused work and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to break down problems into manageable steps. Motivational Interviewing helps when someone is uncertain about making changes, and trauma-focused techniques are used for past harms that still affect daily life.
Lori has worked in child welfare, family counseling, a family birthing center, crisis intervention, and mental health clinics. That range has shaped a pragmatic approach focused on what helps day to day. She respects each person’s beliefs and notes her own Christ-centered philosophy without requiring any particular faith from clients.
In sessions she listens first, then helps people name small goals and try concrete strategies. Typical work includes identifying patterns that fuel anger or resentment, practicing different responses, and building steps to reduce stress at home or work. She also addresses caregiver burnout and issues related to adoption and family of origin.
People who choose Lori can expect direct conversation, goal setting, and follow-up on what was tried between sessions. She describes her role as a guide who helps clients find their own answers and supports them as they practice new ways of coping.
Therapy approaches and how online sessions can fit
Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and following the person's lead. The therapist prioritizes the client's values and helps them identify what matters most. This approach suits people who want an attentive, respectful conversation about feelings and choices.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and behavior. It uses simple exercises and experiments to test unhelpful thinking and to build different reactions to anger or anxiety. This approach is helpful for day-to-day problems like workplace frustration or recurring arguments.
Motivational Interviewing supports people who are unsure about change. It uses focused questions and reflection to find reasons for change that matter to the client. This can be useful when someone feels stuck or resistant to trying new strategies.
Deciding which approach to use is collaborative. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, preferences, and what has or hasn't worked before. Together they will try approaches and adjust them based on what fits and what produces useful steps.
Confirm the exact session formats before booking, as current options are not listed here. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life - for example a shorter check-in during a lunch break, not needing travel time, or choosing a phone visit when video is difficult. Licensed professionals can adapt CBT exercises, solution-focused tasks, and motivational work to an online setting so practical skills are still practiced between meetings.
Areas of expertise
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
26+ years
Listed in
Illinois
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does she help with?
She works with stress, anxiety, depression, anger, parenting strain, relationship issues, grief, trauma, career changes, and related problems.
What is her therapy style like?
Her style is client-centered and practical, using solution-focused work and CBT to set goals and try concrete changes.
How long has she been practicing?
She has 26 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach in several clinical settings.
What credential does she hold and where is she based?
She is an LCSW licensed in Illinois and practices in that state.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people from other countries work with her?
International clients are not accepted at this time.
How are sessions scheduled and what do they cost?
Costs vary with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin if I want to work together?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.