River O’Leary, LSW

They/Them

You are feeling overwhelmed with life, and your mind seems to be going in loops. You are unsure how to slow down, relax, or feel at home in your mind. Perhaps something has happened in life that feels like a mountainous challenge you have never faced before, and you don’t even know where to begin. You feel like those around you might not understand what you are going through or wouldn’t know how to help.

I will be here to listen to you without judgment and with a warm presence to support you in any challenges you may be facing. We will work together to help you navigate life and its many ups and downs, and I’ll always be on team “You.” Together, we will find ways for you to cope with stress and other uncomfortable feelings in a healthy way and bring insight into some patterns that may be bogging you down.

Your child will be met with the same warmth, support, and unconditional compassion. I will be there to hold a safe space for your child to express themselves, maneuver big feelings, and celebrate their wins no matter how big or how small.

Each stage of life is valuable, unique, and worthy of deep care and consideration. I am so happy to be here with you, and I look forward to seeing you for you, just as you are.

Schedule a Session With River >>

Areas of Focus

I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults with the following challenges…

Anxiety | Depression | Life Transitions | Identity Questions | PTSD | Children/Teens with Autism | Trauma | LGBTQIA+ | ADHD/Neurodivergence |

  • Experience

    - I have worked in a variety of settings in early childhood education, including my time as a preschool teacher and camp counselor

    - I have experience working in a care facility for young people experiencing behavioral and mental health issues

  • Education

    - Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Art and Design from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

    - Master’s of Social Work from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Fun Facts

    - I have traveled to 36 states by car and hope to one day visit all 48 mainland states

    - I have pet a bear cub, wolf cubs, and other baby animals

    - I am passionate about environmental conservation and sustainability


“Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together.”

— Brené Brown