Therapist
She/Her/Hers
mschroeder@wearehelpful.com
(708) 317-9056
I received my Master’s Degree in Counseling and Art Therapy from Adler University, and I am a registered art therapist. In addition to being a therapist, I provide art therapy services for skilled nursing facilities and community agencies around the Chicagoland area. When I am not working, I engage in my own artmaking. I work in a variety of mediums but particularly enjoy working with textiles like crocheting and weaving. I am an avid reader and especially enjoy biographies and science fiction.
Meredith enjoys working with textiles, like crocheting and weaving, and is an avid reader, particularly of biographies and science fiction.
How my lived experiences shape my work
Therapy is rooted in a strong connection, one that flows naturally, where there can be meaningful words but also silences. I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership between myself and the client, requiring the co-creation of a safe and honest space. My approach to therapy is focused on the individual and involves the creative process as a tool for self expression and exploration. Making art can be used to learn about yourself, it can be a place to play, or a way to communicate beyond words. I incorporate art making into my sessions with clients and invite clients to join in that creation, no expectations or prior experience necessary.
The clients I work best with
As a white therapist, I work to recognize my own privilege and bias I bring into the therapeutic space, and I actively attempt to identify and challenge harmful systems. I have a background working with adults with physical disabilities and older adults living with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias as well as their family members. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety or stress, loss and the stages of grief. I am interested in discussing the creative process and how establishing/revisiting our own creative practices can teach us about ourselves.
