Psychoeducational Groups

These aren’t open-ended support groups or traditional therapy sessions. Think of them more like a warm, guided workshop — led by a clinician, grounded in evidence, and focused on giving you something concrete you can use the same day.

The emphasis is on learning and practicing skills together, not on processing the past or sharing more than you’re comfortable with.

Current Groups Available

We keep our groups small, between 3 and 8 people, so there’s always room to ask questions, breathe, and feel genuinely supported. Spots fill quickly, and we update our offerings often. Check back if you don’t see the right fit yet.

• For Teens (15–18): Navigating Boundaries & Relationships
  • Thursday, June 4th | 5:30-7:00 PM | In person (Naperville)
    For teens who feel overwhelmed by friendship stress, pressure to people-please, or uncertainty about how to speak up for themselves. This group builds confidence in communication and helps teens feel more grounded in their relationships.
    Led by Rebecca Potempa, LCPC
  • Walk away with:

    • Tools to set boundaries without guilt or escalation
    • Practical communication strategies for real-life situations

• For Parents: How Can Therapy Support Your Child?
  • Friday, May 22nd | 1:00–2:30 PM | Virtual
    For parents who are curious about therapy but unsure what it actually looks like or how it helps. This group provides clarity so you can move forward with more confidence and less uncertainty.
    Led by Kelly McLaughlin, LCSW
  • Walk away with:
    • A clear understanding of what child/teen therapy looks like in practice
    • How parents can best support progress outside of session
• For Expecting & New Moms: Preparing for the 4th Trimester
  • Tuesday, June 9th | 1:00–2:30 PM | In person (Shorewood)
    For expecting or recently postpartum moms who want to feel more prepared for the emotional and physical transition after baby arrives. This group focuses on realistic support and early awareness of what to expect.
    Led by Madeline Enervold, LCSW
  • Walk away with:
    • Practical postpartum self-care strategies
    • Awareness of early signs of PMADs and when to seek support

To reserve your spot: Call, text, or email intake with your name, email, and the group you’re interested in. We’ll send over the forms needed to complete your enrollment.

Call: 630-281-2496 | Text: 630-228-1771 | Email: intake@counselingworks.com

Group Therapy vs. Psychoeducational Groups

It’s helpful to understand how these two formats differ. Right now, psychoeducational groups are our primary offering at Counseling Works.

• Group Therapy is typically process-oriented, focusing on deep emotional sharing and the relationships that form between members over time.

• Psychoeducational Groups are content-oriented. They function more like an interactive class led by a therapist, built around teaching specific skills for a specific challenge.

The psychoeducational structure offers concrete tools, expert clinical guidance, peer connection, and a goal-oriented setting with a clear curriculum and timeline.

Who joins these groups?

Many of our clients are in the middle of a big change, a divorce, a career shift, new parenthood, or another life transition, and come specifically to feel more grounded and ready for what’s next.

Others are simply looking for a focused, cost-effective way to build skills they haven’t had the chance to learn yet. Whether you’re already working with an individual therapist or just beginning your journey, you’re welcome here.

Through these sessions, you can:

• Develop Healthier Coping Mechanisms: Learn to identify patterns and respond with resilience.

• Improve Self-Awareness: Gain a deeper understanding of how your mind and body respond to stress or conflict.

• Build a Toolkit for Success: Leave each group with affirmations or strategies you can apply immediately to your daily life.

• Normalize Your Experience: Connect with a community that understands and validates the challenges you’re facing.

• Bridge the Gap: Use these groups as a powerful springboard for your individual therapy work.

Ready to Take the First Step?

We understand that reaching out is a big step, and we’re here to make the process simple and stress-free. If you’re ready to gain the tools you need for a healthier life, we’re here for you.

Schedule your spot in an upcoming group today or contact us to learn more about what works for you.