Jason Brescia

Bio

Since childhood, I have always considered myself a helper. It brings me joy to know that as a counselor I am able to reach out to so many and assist them on this journey that we call life.

I received my Bachelors of Arts in Clinical Psychology and Applied Music from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. Upon graduation, I then went on to pursue my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Illinois University, as well as a professional certification in trauma-informed care. After graduating, I spent a short time in private practice before working on the front lines of mental health in community mental health, serving those with low income. During this time, I worked with various age groups and an even wider range of concerns. These include complex trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, grief, gender/sexual identity, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and more. Being in community mental health, I also collaborated with social workers, DCFS case managers, and others in my community to ensure the best care for my clients. I learned in this time that flexibility and creativity are of utmost importance when providing quality care for those I work with.

I have an eclectic approach to therapy with roots in Person-Centered care, valuing authenticity, vulnerability, honesty and unconditional positive regard. My goal is to make you feel as comfortable as possible during our time together, since when we feel comfortable with the person we are talking to, discussing difficult topics tends to feel more natural. I am trained in CBT, and often incorporate ideas of reality therapy, existential therapy, as well as bringing in external connections such as movies, video games, music, and other forms of media to help process whatever you need to talk about.

Outside of therapy, I love to cook and grill, especially continuing on traditional recipes from my great grandmother. I also play Dungeons and Dragons with friends, read, listen to audio dramas, play video games, listen to A LOT of music, and play trombone as a member of my local community band.

In-network insurances

Blue Cross Blue Shield • Self pay • Aetna

Specialties

Adjustment Disorder • Anger Management • Anxiety • Bipolar Disorder • Borderline Personality Disorder • Daytime Sleepiness • DBT/CBT • Depression • Domestic Violence • Gender Dysphoria • Grief and Loss/Bereavement • Insomnia • LGBTQIA+ • Life Coaching • Life Transition • Major Depressive Disorder • Men's Health Issues • Mindfulness • Mood Disorders • Narcissism • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) • Occupational Difficulties • Personality Disorder • Phobias/Irrational Fears • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Trauma • Relationship Issues • Sadness • Schizophrenia • Self Esteem • Sexual Dysfunction • Sleep Disorder • Social Anxiety • Stress/Worry • Suicidal Thoughts

Education and training

• Northern Illinois Univeristy, Masters of Science and Education
• Wartburg College, Bachelors of Arts in clinical Psychology and Applied Music (Trombone focus)

Professional memberships

• ACA
• National Eagle Scout Association

Honors and awards

• Eagle Scout

Languages spoken

• English

Pronouns

• he/him/his