Denise K. Netko, MS, LMFT
AAMFT SUPERVISOR, OWNER
In our modern world, many of us recognize the need to take time to slow down and get in tune with ourselves and our relationships. I actively engage with clients in a reflective process to explore current life stressors, challenges, & behavioral patterns. A relational framework is utilized to help guide clients through an exploration of how current and past relationships influence their lives. Within the context of a safe and trusting therapeutic environment, I help clients to identify the steps needed to overcome challenges and promote positive change.
I have a passion for helping individuals and couples explore current patterns and grasp an understanding of the underlying behaviors and feelings involved. I have over 12 years of experience working with individuals and couples on interpersonal issues, communication & relational issues, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, grief and conflict.
While earning her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Clarke University, Denise worked extensively with children and adolescents in the Dubuque community, as well as in internships in New York and Montana, working with children and adolescents affected by social, emotional, and learning challenges. Denise then went on to earn her Master’s of Science Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, with specialization in Child and Adolescent Development, from Purdue University. Throughout her graduate education, Denise was involved in the research of the effects of trauma on eating disorders and self-esteem. Denise completed her Master’s Thesis on The Relationship between Sexual Assault and Eating Disorder Symptoms.
Upon completing her graduate education, Denise began working for Community Counseling Centers of Chicago (C4). She provided community based psychiatric crisis intervention, assessment, and therapy services to children, young adults, and their families. With over 15 years of experience working with children & adolescents, Denise works at length with trauma, family dynamic issues and crisis intervention.
Denise actively engages with clients to facilitate insight into their lives, relationships and behavioral patterns. This is accomplished through the exploration of problematic issues, family and relationship patterns, and life experiences. Denise dedicates herself to providing a safe and supportive environment for her clients while working toward treatment goals. Her approach is collaborative, and she works to empower clients in order to create growth and healing within treatment.
Denise is a clinical member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) and a member of the Illinois Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (IAMFT). She co-authored the chapter Risk Factors and Suicide, published in the textbook Ethics and Professional Issues in Couple and Family Therapy. Additionally, she is a Level 2 trained Gottman Couples Therapist and is an AAMFT Supervisor.