Jen Kosanovich, M.A., ALMFT (she/her/hers)
Child & Teen Therapist for Anxiety, Confidence, and Performance Pressure
I understand how easy it is for young people to start believing that mistakes define who they are, especially in high-pressure environments like sports, school, and achievement-focused families. When stress, self-doubt, or fear of failure take over, confidence and joy can quickly fade. My work helps kids and teens reconnect with a healthier, more balanced sense of themselves.
How Can Therapy Help Kids and Teens with Anxiety, Confidence, and Performance Pressure?
Working with me feels active, supportive, and tailored to each individual. Sessions are not just about talking, they often include games, movement, art, storytelling, or visualization to help young people express themselves in ways that feel natural. I help clients slow down overwhelming thought patterns, build practical coping skills, and develop confidence that carries into everyday life. Families and caregivers are part of the process, creating a supportive environment that reinforces growth outside of sessions.
Helping Kids and Teens Build Confidence, Resilience, and Emotional Balance
My approach is grounded in meeting young people where they are developmentally and emotionally. I focus on helping clients manage pressure, improve focus, and build resilience while also shifting how they relate to mistakes and challenges. Rather than seeing setbacks as failures, clients learn to approach them as opportunities to grow.
My work is also shaped by lived experience. As a former figure skater in a hockey-centered family, I understand the unique pressures that can come with competitive environments. I also began my own therapy journey as a child, giving me insight into what it is like to sit on the other side of the room at a young age. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as an early childhood educator and later in school leadership roles, deepening my understanding of child and adolescent development.
I received my Master’s in Couple and Family Therapy at Adler University. When I am not seeing clients, I enjoy working on my art and taking long walks with my 4 year old maltipoo, Apollo. I love taking the time to enjoy new restaurants, art exhibits, music, and theater throughout Chicago. For self-care, I prioritize getting my nails done, partake in hot yoga, and appreciate a large coffee and bagel while indulging in a good book.”
You might be a good fit for working with me if you or your child:
Feels overwhelmed by pressure or expectations
Struggles with confidence, self-doubt, or fear of failure
Is navigating performance stress in sports or other high-pressure environments
Has a hard time managing big emotions or stress
Gets stuck in negative thought patterns
Would benefit from building coping skills and emotional awareness
Jen Kosanovich works with children, teens, and young adults who feel overwhelmed by pressure, self-doubt, or fear of failure, helping them build confidence and manage stress. Her sessions are active and engaging, using creative approaches like games, movement, and storytelling to build coping skills and resilience. She also collaborates with families and offers in-person therapy in Chicago and virtual sessions across Illinois.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
What is it like to work with you?
Working with me is active, supportive, and personalized. Sessions often include games, movement, art, or conversation, depending on what feels most natural. I focus on helping young people feel comfortable, understood, and equipped with real tools they can use in their daily lives.
Who do you help best?
I work best with children, teens, young adults, and especially young athletes who feel overwhelmed by pressure, struggle with confidence, or fear making mistakes. Many of my clients are navigating high expectations and want to feel more balanced and self-assured.
What should I expect in the first session?
The first session is about getting to know you (and your child) and understanding what’s been going on. I create a comfortable, low-pressure space and move at a pace that feels right, while also beginning to identify goals and how we can work together.
Do you work with parents and families?
Yes. I collaborate closely with parents and caregivers to support progress outside of sessions. This might include sharing strategies, offering guidance, or helping create a more supportive environment at home.
How do you help with performance anxiety or sports pressure?
I help young athletes build confidence, manage stress, and shift how they view mistakes. We work on mental skills like focus, emotional regulation, and resilience so they can perform while still enjoying their sport.
How do you help kids who have trouble expressing their emotions?
Not every child wants to sit and talk—and that’s okay. I use games, art, movement, and other creative approaches to help kids express themselves in ways that feel more natural and less intimidating.