Bernice Banks , LCSW

Bernice Banks is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois who brings 18 years of clinical experience supporting adults, children, couples, and families. She holds a master’s degree from the University of Chicago (1997) and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Roosevelt University, both in Illinois. Her career spans roles in both the public and private sectors within social services and mental health, providing a breadth of experience across settings.

Bernice has been in private practice for 12 years and focuses on marriage, couples, and family therapy while maintaining a strong background in child and adolescent mental health. Her areas of expertise include grief and loss, depression, stress, and anxiety, and she works with clients facing a range of life challenges. She approaches therapy as a practical tool to build understanding, develop coping skills, and improve relationships.

Drawing on Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Bernice helps clients gain insight and learn new strategies to manage difficult thoughts and emotions. Her practice emphasizes empowerment so clients can make informed choices and handle future challenges more effectively. She creates a nonjudgmental space where clients and therapist work together toward clear, achievable goals.

Therapeutic Approaches and the Convenience of Online Care

Bernice Banks integrates Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into her online practice to meet diverse client needs. Client-Centered Therapy centers on listening with empathy and creating a respectful, nonjudgmental environment so clients can explore their experiences and identify their own solutions - this approach is often helpful for relationship concerns, self-esteem, and life purpose. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors; it is practical and skills-based, and can be effective for stress, anxiety, depression, and coping with life changes.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Bernice works collaboratively with each person to determine what fits best based on needs, goals, and preferences. Together they set priorities and adapt techniques over time to support progress.

Online therapy offers flexible options such as video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, which can make scheduling easier and allow continuity of care from different locations. These formats can help clients access consistent support while balancing work, family, and other commitments.