Tori Kruel

Hello! My name is Tori Kruel and I'm a licensed and certified School Social Worker in Illinois with over 20 years of experience supporting children, families, and individuals. I earned my Master of Social Work degree (MSW) from Washington University in St. Louis and have worked in mental health, schools, group homes, after-school programs, and as a job coach with individuals with disabilities. I'm open-minded, creative, and solution-focused, using approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, play therapy, and strength-based practices. My goal is to create a warm, welcoming space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to find solutions and build on their strengths.

My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and focused on helping each client to feel heard, understood, and supported. I believe every person has strengths and abilities that can be built upon, and I work with clients to identify their strengths, develop practical coping skills, and find solutions that fit their unique needs and goals by tailoring therapy to each individual. My areas of focus include supporting children, adolescents, families, and individuals who may be experiencing emotional, behavioral, social, or life challenges. I especially enjoy helping clients build self-confidence, improve communication and relationships, manage emotions and behaviors, develop problem solving skills, and navigate transitions or difficult experiences.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and begin building a comfortable, trusting relationship. We'll talk about what brings you to therapy, what you would like to address, and the goals you hope to work toward. I'll listen to your concerns, learn more about your experiences, strengths, and needs, and we will begin developing a plan that feels right for you. Most importantly, you can expect a safe, judgment-free, welcoming environment where you can be yourself, feel empowered, and recognize that meaningful change is possible.