about Gracie o.
“Throughout my early life, the pressures of decision-making and change felt unbearable. I was often afraid of change, mainly because I did not understand it. It took many life lessons to figure out that growth stems from change. Life is never stagnant, so why should I be? Growing from a place of fearing change to a place of embracing change led me to be a therapist.
One thing I love about therapy is it gives people options they may not have considered before. Often, people become so wrapped up in the woes of daily life that they believe there is only one way to move forward. When, in reality, there are various roads to take, you just cannot see them over the headlights in your face. That is what I am here for! I want to help whoever I am working with to see the light at the end of the tunnel and recognize you do not have to be stuck where you are. The journey of getting to said light leads to growth and change, and I want to assist you in that journey.
As a couple and family therapist, I work with clients experiencing interpersonal issues, communication difficulties, and familial conflict. I believe familial conflict can often stem from simple miscommunication. I also believe, if people had the tools or confidence to better communicate their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives, they would be able to better connect with others. I strive to help couples and families communicate with one another to strengthen their loving relationships.
I received my bachelors degree at Dominican University in River Forest, IL, and I am currently completing my Masters in Couple and Family Therapy at Adler University. When I’m not helping clients, I often play video games, watch movies, or enjoy a sitcom I probably have already watched a thousand times!”
“I strive to help couples and families communicate with one another to strengthen their loving relationships.”
- Gracie Orellano, B.A. (she/her/hers)
Gracie is a therapist intern at Empower Family Therapy. She is a Couple & Family Therapy Student at Adler University. She is completing her master’s coursework and gaining clinical experience. She is receiving direct supervision under Aubrey Reynolds, LMFT, clinical director of Empower Family Therapy, as well as professors at Adler University.
To schedule an appointment with Gracie, contact us and mention her name.
Gracie’S SPECIALTIES INCLUDE:
Latinx Culture and Issues
Narrative Work
Men’s Mental Health
Identity Development
Communication Skills for romantic and family systems