How to Know If Therapy Is Right for You: Signs You Might Benefit from Professional Support

Life can be overwhelming. Between work, family responsibilities, relationships, and personal struggles, it’s easy to feel like you’re barely holding everything together. When stress starts to take a toll on your daily life, it’s important to ask yourself: Would therapy help?

For many people, the idea of seeking therapy feels unfamiliar or even intimidating. Some may wonder if their challenges are “serious enough” to warrant professional support, while others may hesitate due to misconceptions about what therapy includes. The truth is, therapy isn’t just for those experiencing crisis—it’s a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being, develop coping skills, and navigate life’s ups and downs with greater resilience.

If you’re questioning whether therapy is right for you, here are some signs that it may be time to find the therapist who can support your needs.

1. You Often Feel Overwhelmed and Stressed

Everyone experiences stress, but when it becomes overwhelming to the point that it interferes with work, relationships, or your ability to function, therapy can help. A therapist can provide coping strategies to help you manage stress effectively and prevent burnout. Techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) focus on helping you shift unhelpful thought patterns and regulate your emotions. But support can often take the form of therapy groups and can be found in talk therapy styles of many varieties, too.

2. You Struggle with Anxiety or Depression

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health conditions, yet many people go untreated for years. Symptoms of anxiety can include excessive worry, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and even physical symptoms like headaches or digestive issues. Depression, on the other hand, may cause persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, and feelings of hopelessness.

Therapists offer a range of therapeutic approaches to address these conditions, including talk therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, and structured interventions like CBT. If anxiety or depression is making it difficult to enjoy your daily life, therapy could be a game-changer.

3. You’re Going Through a Major Life Transition

Big life changes—whether positive or negative—can be difficult to navigate. Moving to a new city, changing careers, getting married or divorced, becoming a parent, or experiencing the loss of a loved one can bring emotional challenges. Even if you feel like you should be “handling it well,” transitions can stir up deep emotions, making it hard to adjust.

Therapy provides a safe space to process these changes and develop coping skills that help you move forward with confidence.

4. You Have a History of Trauma

Unresolved trauma can have a lasting impact on emotional and physical well-being. Whether it stems from childhood experiences, abusive relationships, accidents, or other distressing events, trauma can manifest in many ways—flashbacks, avoidance, emotional numbness, or even difficulty forming healthy relationships.

Therapeutic approaches such as DBT, CBT, and trauma-informed therapy are designed to help individuals process trauma in a way that feels manageable and safe. A trained therapist can help you work through past experiences, reduce distress, and reclaim control over your life.

5. You’re Engaging in Unhealthy Coping Behaviors

Sometimes, people turn to alcohol, food, social withdrawal, or even excessive work as a way to escape emotional pain. While these behaviors may provide temporary relief, they don’t address the root of the problem and can often make things worse in the long term.

Therapy can help you develop coping strategies that are healthy and sustainable. Whether you struggle with emotional eating, substance use, or other habits that negatively impact your well-being, a therapist can guide you toward coping strategies that promote self-care and emotional regulation.

6. Your Relationships Are Struggling

Relationship issues—whether with a partner, family member, friend, or colleague—can be a major source of stress. If conflicts feel impossible to resolve, communication is strained, or past wounds are affecting your ability to trust and connect, therapy can help.

Individual therapy, couples counseling, and family therapy offer a safe space to work through interpersonal challenges, improve communication, and foster healthier relationships. Psycho therapists of many backgrounds specialize in helping people understand relationship dynamics and set boundaries that support emotional well-being.

7. You Feel Stuck and Unfulfilled

Sometimes, the signs that therapy could help aren’t as obvious as anxiety or depression. You might simply feel stuck—unsure of your next steps, unmotivated, or disconnected from a sense of purpose. Therapy can provide guidance, helping you explore your goals, values, and aspirations while addressing any internal barriers that may be holding you back.

8. You Want to Improve Your Mental Health—Even If Nothing Feels ‘Wrong’

Therapy isn’t just for times of crisis. Many people choose to work with a therapist for long-term personal growth, self-awareness, and emotional balance. Just like we go to the gym to keep our bodies strong, therapy helps keep our minds and emotions in good shape.

Working with a therapist can help you understand yourself better, improve your emotional intelligence, and create a more fulfilling daily life. If you’ve ever thought, “I wonder if therapy could help me,” chances are, it could.

How to Find the Right Therapist for You

If you relate to any of these signs, you may be wondering: How do I find the therapist that’s right for me? Here are some tips:

• Consider your needs – Do you need support for anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationships? Different therapists specialize in different areas.
• Explore different therapeutic approaches – If you prefer a more structured approach, CBT or DBT might be a good fit. If you want a more exploratory style, psychodynamic therapy or humanistic therapy could be beneficial.
• Look for credentials and experience – Licensed therapists, psychologists, and social workers have specific training in mental health treatment.
• Schedule an initial session – The best way to know if a therapist is the right fit is to meet with them and see how you feel. A good therapist will create a safe space where you feel comfortable opening up.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Mental Health

If you’ve been thinking about therapy, now is the time to take action. Wellington Counseling Group provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Our experienced therapists offer a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic and Existential styles of talk therapy, to help you manage mental health issues, build resilience, and create a more fulfilling life.

We proudly serve Chicago neighborhoods, including River North, Lakeview and Lincoln Park as well as  surrounding suburbs, such as Northbrook and the North Shore. Whether you need help coping with stress, overcoming trauma, or navigating a major life change, we’re here to support you.

Contact us today to schedule your first therapy session and take the first step toward healing.

5 Signs Your Anxiety Is More Than Just Stress—and What to Do About It

Everyone experiences stress from time to time. A big work deadline, an important social event, or an unexpected life challenge can make anyone feel anxious. But when those feelings become persistent, overwhelming, or interfere with daily life, they may indicate something more serious—an anxiety disorder rather than just everyday stress.

While stress is typically a response to an external situation and subsides once the issue is resolved, anxiety often lingers, intensifies, or appears without a clear cause. Anxiety disorders include various conditions, each with its own set of challenges, but all involve excessive worry or fear that can disrupt daily functioning.

If you’re unsure whether what you’re feeling is stress or something more, here are five key signs of anxiety that may indicate it’s time to seek professional help—and what you can do about it.

1. Your Worry Feels Constant and Uncontrollable

One of the clearest signs that your anxiety is more than just stress is persistent, excessive worry. With everyday stress, concerns typically arise in response to specific events and fade when the situation improves. However, individuals with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) experience frequent, uncontrollable worry about multiple aspects of life—work, relationships, health, finances—often without an obvious  clear trigger.

This type of anxiety can make it difficult to focus, relax, or enjoy daily activities. It can also feel disproportionate to the actual situation, leaving you emotionally drained. If your mind constantly races with anxiety fear, even when nothing obvious is wrong, it may be time to seek help.

2. You Experience Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety doesn’t just affect the mind—it also impacts the body. While stress can cause occasional headaches or muscle tension, chronic anxiety can lead to physical symptoms that feel overwhelming and distressing. These can include:

• Shortness of breath
• Racing heart or chest tightness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Trembling or excessive sweating
• Digestive issues or nausea

These symptoms occur because anxiety triggers the body’s fight-or-flight response, a survival mechanism designed to protect against danger. However, when the body remains in this heightened state for extended periods, it can lead to exhaustion and further anxiety.

If you frequently experience physical symptoms without a medical explanation, anxiety could be the underlying health condition at play.

3. You Avoid Social Situations Due to Fear

It’s normal to feel nervous before a big presentation or social event, but when fear of social situations becomes so overwhelming that you start avoiding them altogether, it could be a sign of social anxiety disorder.

People with social anxiety often experience intense self-consciousness, fear of judgment, or panic in everyday interactions, such as speaking in meetings, making phone calls, or even eating in public. This avoidance can limit professional and personal growth, making it harder to maintain relationships or pursue new opportunities.

If social situations leave you feeling paralyzed with fear, working with a mental health professional can help you develop strategies to manage anxiety and regain confidence.

4. You Experience Panic Attacks

Panic disorder is a manifestation of anxiety characterized by recurring panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear that peak within minutes. These attacks often come without warning and can include severe physical symptoms, such as:

• Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
• Chest pain or tightness
• Dizziness or feeling faint
• Chills or sweating
• A feeling of impending doom or loss of control

Because panic attacks can mimic heart attacks or other medical emergencies, many people initially seek medical attention before realizing anxiety is the cause. While occasional panic attacks can happen to anyone, frequent episodes that interfere with your mental health may indicate a panic disorder.

5. Your Anxiety Is Getting Worse Over Time

A crucial sign that anxiety is more than just stress is that it doesn’t resolve on its own—it gets worse over time. Stressful situations eventually pass, allowing stress levels to return to normal. However, untreated anxiety tends to grow, making everyday tasks increasingly difficult.

If you’ve noticed that your anxiety has escalated in intensity, frequency, or duration, it’s a strong indicator that professional support is needed. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to name one popular approach, along with other treatments for anxiety, can help you regain control and prevent anxiety from dominating your life.

What to Do If You Recognize These Signs

If these cases of anxiety sound familiar, the good news is that help is available. Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, and various treatments for anxiety can help you manage symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

Therapeutic Approaches for Anxiety

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – One of the most effective treatments for anxiety, CBT helps individuals recognize and change unhelpful thinking patterns that fuel anxiety.
• Exposure Therapy – This is a specific approach found within the CBT toolbox that will gradually exposure you to anxiety-inducing situations while assisting you in learning and using new mechanisms to cope as “exposure” escalates. It can help reduce fear and avoidance behaviors.
• Medication – In some cases, medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs can be beneficial alongside therapy.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques – Meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can help calm the nervous system and reduce fight-or-flight responses.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – Originally designed for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR can help process past trauma that may be contributing to anxiety.

Finding the right treatment depends on your unique experience with anxiety. A licensed therapist can help determine the best approach based on your specific needs.

Take the Next Step Toward Managing Your Anxiety

If anxiety is interfering with your daily life, relationships, or overall well-being, professional support can make a significant difference. Wellington Counseling Group offers evidence-based therapy for individuals struggling with generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and PTSD. Our experienced therapists specialize in CBT, talk therapy, and other effective treatments for anxiety to help you regain a sense of balance and control.

We proudly serve Chicago neighborhoods, including River North, Lakeview and Lincoln Park as well as surrounding suburbs, such as Northbrook and the North Shore. If you’re ready to take the first step toward managing your anxiety, contact us today to schedule a therapy session.

ADHD in Adults: Recognizing the Signs and Finding the Right Support

When most people hear the term Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), they often think of young children struggling to sit still in a classroom. However, ADHD in adults is far more common than many realize. While ADHD is often diagnosed during childhood years, many individuals go undiagnosed until later in life when the challenges of work, relationships, and daily responsibilities highlight persistent struggles with focus, organization, and impulsivity.

Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that affects a person’s ability to manage time, complete tasks, and regulate emotions. It can impact careers, relationships, and overall quality of life, but the good news is that with proper diagnosis and support, people with ADHD can learn strategies to thrive in both personal and professional settings.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your struggles with difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or impulsive behaviors might be signs of ADHD, this guide will help you understand the symptoms of adult ADHD, the types of ADHD, and the steps toward managing ADHD effectively.

Recognizing the Signs of ADHD in Adults

ADHD doesn’t look the same in everyone. While some adults with ADHD experience constant restlessness, others may struggle more with organization, time management, or emotional regulation. The symptoms can vary based on the type of ADHD, which typically falls into one of three categories:

1. Inattentive Type ADHD

This form of ADHD is primarily associated with difficulty focusing and staying organized. Signs may include:
✔ Frequently losing track of important items like keys, wallets, or documents
✔ Struggling to complete tasks at work or home
✔ Getting easily distracted and jumping between unfinished projects
✔ Forgetting appointments, deadlines, or commitments
✔ Struggling with time management and procrastination

2. Hyperactive and Impulsive Type ADHD

This type is characterized by impulsive behaviors and a constant sense of restlessness. Signs may include:
✔ Talking excessively or interrupting conversations
✔ Feeling the need to move, fidget, or multitask constantly
✔ Making impulsive decisions without thinking through consequences
✔ Struggling to wait for turns in conversations or group settings
✔ Taking unnecessary risks, such as reckless driving or impulsive spending

3. Combined Type ADHD

Many people with ADHD experience a combination of difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. This is the most common type of ADHD in both children and adults.

How ADHD Affects Daily Life

ADHD symptoms extend beyond the classroom or workplace—they can affect all areas of life, including:

1. Work and Career Challenges

• Difficulty focusing on projects for extended periods
• Struggling to complete tasks on time due to procrastination or distraction
• Trouble staying organized, leading to misplaced documents or forgotten assignments
• Difficulty following through on instructions or prioritizing responsibilities

2. Relationships and Social Life

• Mood swings and frustration when things don’t go as planned
• Interrupting conversations or struggling to listen attentively
• Forgetting important dates, such as birthdays or anniversaries
• Difficulty managing conflicts due to impulsive emotional reactions

3. Emotional and Mental Health

• Chronic feelings of underachievement or self-doubt
• Increased stress and anxiety due to unfinished responsibilities
• Struggles with managing ADHD symptoms leading to burnout
• Higher risk of co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety

Diagnosing ADHD in Adults

Many adults don’t realize they have ADHD until they experience ongoing difficulties at work, in relationships, or with daily responsibilities. Diagnosing ADHD requires an evaluation from a mental health professional, who will assess personal history, behavioral patterns, and symptom severity.

An ADHD evaluation may include:
✔ A comprehensive interview discussing past and present symptoms
✔ Questionnaires or checklists measuring difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and focus
✔ Gathering information from family members, partners, or coworkers to gain insight into daily challenges

Since ADHD symptoms can overlap with other conditions such as anxiety or depression, an accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan.

Managing ADHD: Strategies for Success

Although ADHD can present daily challenges, it is entirely manageable with the right strategies and support. Here are some ways adults with ADHD can improve their quality of life:

1. Behavioral Therapy and Executive Functioning Coaching

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps individuals with ADHD identify negative thought patterns and develop structured routines.
• Executive functioning coaching for ADHD focuses on practical strategies for improving organization, time management, and goal-setting.

2. Medication Options

For some individuals, medication can play a key role in managing ADHD symptoms. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are sometimes prescribed when ADHD coexists with anxiety or depression, though stimulant medications are more commonly used. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine what’s best for you.

3. Lifestyle Changes and Productivity Tools

✔ Use planners and digital reminders to keep track of important tasks and appointments
✔ Break tasks into smaller steps to avoid becoming overwhelmed
✔ Set clear deadlines and use timers to stay focused
✔ Exercise regularly to improve focus and mood
✔ Prioritize sleep—lack of rest can worsen ADHD symptoms

4. Seeking Professional Support

A mental health professional can provide individualized treatment plans, therapy, and coping strategies tailored to each person’s needs. Whether through one-on-one counseling, support groups, or ADHD coaching, professional guidance can make a significant difference.

When to Seek Help

If you’ve been struggling with difficulty concentrating, impulsive behaviors, or chronic disorganization, and it’s impacting your daily life, it may be time to reach out for professional support. ADHD doesn’t have to hold you back—with the right resources, you can build a more structured and fulfilling life.

We’re Here for You

At Wellington Counseling Group, we specialize in diagnosing ADHD and helping adults with ADHD develop effective strategies for success. Whether you need a comprehensive evaluation or ongoing support for managing ADHD, our experienced therapists are here to help.

We proudly serve individuals in Chicago, Northbrook, and surrounding areas. If you’re ready to take control of your focus, productivity, and well-being, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team.

Contact Wellington Counseling Group today to start your journey toward a more focused and fulfilling life.

Supporting Your Child Through a Divorce

Separation and divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences for families, especially for children. As divorced parents, you may be navigating emotional stress, logistical changes, and co-parenting adjustments, all while trying to support your child through this transition.

While divorce brings change, it doesn’t have to mean instability. With the right approach, parents can help their children maintain a sense of normalcy, process their emotions, and adapt to their new family structure in a healthy way. This brief guide will provide practical strategies to help you support children during this difficult time and ensure their emotional well-being both now and in the long term.

1. Prioritize Open Communication

Children often have many questions and concerns when their parents separate. The way you talk about the situation can shape how they process their emotions and adapt to the changes.

• Encourage your child to express their feelings. Let them know that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, or confusion.
• Answer their questions honestly but always age-appropriately. Keep explanations simple and focused on what affects them directly.
• Avoid overwhelming them with details. Children don’t need to know all the complexities of the divorce, but they do need to feel secure in what comes next.

Most importantly, remind your child that the divorce is not their fault and that both parents will continue to love and care for them.

2. Present a United Front

Even though your marriage is ending, your shared responsibility as parents remains. When possible, work together to present a united front and reassure your child that they are loved and supported by both parents.

• Keep routines consistent across both households to provide stability.
• Avoid blaming each other in front of your child, as this can create unnecessary stress and conflict.
• Discuss major parenting decisions together to maintain consistency and minimize confusion.

While co-parenting can be challenging, prioritizing your child’s well-being over personal conflicts can make a significant difference in how they adjust to the new family dynamic.

3. Create a Sense of Normalcy

Divorce brings change, but children thrive on routine and familiarity. Maintaining a sense of normalcy can help them feel more secure during this transition.

• Stick to regular schedules for school, meals, and bedtime, even when moving between two homes.
• Continue their usual activities such as sports, music lessons, or playdates to provide consistency and emotional relief.
• Encourage relationships with extended family members, such as grandparents, aunts, or uncles, who can offer additional support.

By keeping their day-to-day life as stable as possible, you help minimize anxiety and promote a smoother adjustment.

4. Allow Your Child to Express Their Feelings

Children may struggle to put their emotions into words, but they need a safe space to process what they are feeling. Encourage them to share their thoughts and listen without judgment.

• Acknowledge their emotions rather than dismissing them. Phrases like “I know this is hard for you” or “It’s okay to feel sad” help validate their feelings.
• Provide alternative outlets for expression, such as journaling, art, or play. Younger children may communicate better through drawings or storytelling.
• Model healthy coping strategies. Show them how to handle emotions constructively through calm discussions and self-care.

The more they feel heard and supported, the easier it will be for them to process their emotions in a healthy way.

5. Seek Professional Support When Needed

Sometimes, children need additional support beyond what parents can provide. If you notice signs of excessive distress—such as withdrawal, aggression, irritability, sleep disturbances, or academic struggles—it may be beneficial to seek professional help.

• Therapists specializing in child counseling can provide a safe environment for kids to talk about their emotions.
• Family counseling can help improve communication and co-parenting strategies.
• A support group for children of divorced parents can offer reassurance that they’re not alone in their experiences.

Seeking help is not a sign of failure; it’s a proactive step in ensuring your child’s emotional well-being.

6. Support Yourself to Better Support Your Child

As a parent, your own emotional well-being directly impacts your ability to support your child. Divorce is a major life change for you as well, and prioritizing self-care is essential.

• Lean on your own support system, including friends, family members, or a therapist.
• Take care of your mental and physical health to reduce stress and avoid burnout.
• Practice patience—with yourself and your child—as you navigate this transition together.

Children look to their parents for cues on how to handle emotions, so modeling self-care and resilience can help them feel more secure.

When to Be Concerned About Your Child’s Adjustment

While it’s normal for children to experience sadness or frustration during a divorce, some signs may indicate they need extra support. Watch for:

• Persistent anxiety or depression that doesn’t improve over time
• Frequent emotional outbursts or aggression
• Avoidance of social activities or withdrawal from family and friends
• Declining school performance or trouble concentrating
• Sleep disturbances or changes in appetite

If these behaviors persist, consider reaching out to a mental health professional who specializes in helping children through separation and divorce.

Helping Your Child Through This Transition

Divorce is a significant life change, but with patience, understanding, and the right support, children can navigate this transition in a healthy way. By prioritizing open communication, maintaining a sense of normalcy, and ensuring they feel loved and supported, you can help your child adjust to this new chapter with confidence.

Every child’s experience is unique, and while challenges may arise, creating a stable and nurturing environment will allow them to grow and thrive in the long term.

We’re Here for You

At Wellington Counseling Group, we specialize in helping families navigate separation and divorce with compassion and expertise. Our experienced therapists provide individual and family counseling to help children adjust, process emotions, and build resilience.

We proudly serve families in Chicago, Northbrook, and surrounding areas. If you’re looking for professional guidance on how to support your child through divorce, we’re here to help.

Contact Wellington Counseling Group today to schedule a consultation and give your child the support they deserve.

How Therapy Can Strengthen Your Marriage: The Benefits of Premarital and Couples Counseling

Marriage can be one of life’s most meaningful and rewarding commitments, but even the strongest relationships require effort, understanding, and communication. Whether you’re newly engaged, newlyweds, or have been married for years, couples therapy can help you build a solid foundation for a lasting partnership.

While many couples wait until challenges arise to seek support, therapy is not just about fixing problems—it’s also about prevention and growth. Premarital counseling and ongoing relationship therapy can provide invaluable tools for conflict resolution, improved communication, and navigating complex family dynamics.

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of premarital counseling and couples therapy, highlighting how they can strengthen your relationship and help you and your partner build a strong foundation for the future.

The Role of Premarital Counseling: Setting the Stage for Success

Premarital counseling is designed to help couples prepare for marriage by fostering open discussion about key areas of their relationship. Engaged couples often focus on wedding planning, but investing time in setting realistic expectations for marriage is just as important as planning the big day.

Through premarital counseling, couples:

• Develop communication skills that support long-term success
• Gain a deeper understanding of each other’s values, habits, and expectations
• Discuss financial goals and money management strategies
• Explore family dynamics and how past experiences shape relationships
• Learn conflict resolution techniques to handle disagreements constructively

By addressing these topics before marriage, couples can enter their union with confidence, trust, and shared goals, reducing the likelihood of future misunderstandings or conflict.

The Benefits of Couples Therapy at Any Stage of Marriage

Marriage is an evolving partnership, and challenges can arise at any point. Whether you’re experiencing recurring conflicts, struggling with communication, or simply want to nurture a stronger bond, couples therapy provides a structured space for open discussion and mutual growth.

1. Improved Communication

One of the biggest barriers in relationships is miscommunication. Over time, partners may fall into patterns of misunderstanding, avoidance, or defensiveness, leading to frustration and disconnection.

Therapy helps couples:
✔ Express emotions and concerns openly
✔ Learn communication skills that foster active listening and empathy
✔ Break unproductive cycles of argument and avoidance

When partners feel truly heard and understood, emotional intimacy deepens, strengthening the relationship over time.

2. Strengthening Conflict Resolution Skills

No relationship is without disagreements, but how couples handle conflict makes all the difference. Therapy teaches conflict resolution strategies that prevent minor issues from escalating into major rifts.

Couples learn to:
✔ Approach disagreements with patience and mutual respect
✔ Identify the root causes of conflicts rather than just the surface issues
✔ Work toward solutions that honor both partners’ needs

With these skills, couples can navigate disagreements without damaging their emotional connection.

3. Addressing Financial Goals and Money Management

Financial stress is one of the most common sources of tension in relationships. Differing views on spending, saving, and financial planning can create friction if not openly discussed.

Therapy provides a safe space for couples to:
✔ Align on short-term and long-term financial goals
✔ Address differences in money management styles
✔ Develop a shared budgeting and savings plan

By tackling financial discussions early, couples can avoid future disputes and work together toward shared financial security.

4. Navigating Family Dynamics

Every individual enters a relationship with their own experiences and expectations, often shaped by their family background. Differences in family dynamics can lead to challenges in how couples handle traditions, parenting styles, and relationships with extended family.

Therapy helps couples:
✔ Understand how their upbringing influences their relationship expectations
✔ Set healthy boundaries with in-laws and extended family
✔ Establish a unified approach to parenting and household roles

By recognizing and addressing these influences, couples can build a strong foundation that integrates both partners’ values while fostering unity.

5. Fostering Emotional and Physical Intimacy

Over time, relationships evolve, and maintaining intimacy—both emotional and physical—requires intentional effort. Stress, career demands, and life transitions can sometimes lead to feelings of disconnection.

Couples therapy helps partners:
✔ Reconnect emotionally and rediscover their shared bond
✔ Navigate differences in emotional and physical intimacy needs
✔ Cultivate appreciation and affection in daily life

A strong emotional foundation enhances overall relationship satisfaction and ensures partners continue to prioritize their connection.

Is Couples Therapy Right for You?

Many couples believe that therapy is only necessary when a relationship is in crisis. In reality, couples therapy is beneficial at any stage—it’s a proactive tool for deepening love, trust, and partnership.

You and your partner may benefit from therapy if:

• You want to strengthen your relationship and enhance communication
• You’re experiencing recurring conflicts that remain unresolved
• You want to align on financial goals, parenting, or household responsibilities
• You feel emotionally disconnected and want to rebuild intimacy
• You’re preparing for marriage and want to set a strong foundation for the future

Seeking support is not a sign of failure—it’s a commitment to growth, understanding, and long-term happiness.

We’re Here for You

At Wellington Counseling Group, we are dedicated to helping couples build strong, fulfilling relationships. Whether you’re engaged and seeking premarital counseling or looking to improve communication and connection in your marriage, our experienced therapists provide the support and tools you need.

We proudly serve individuals and couples in Chicago, Northbrook, and surrounding areas. If you’re ready to invest in your relationship and create a lasting bond, we’re here to help.

Contact Wellington Counseling Group today to schedule a consultation and start strengthening your relationship.

The Hidden Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety and How to Manage It

Anxiety is often portrayed as something that visibly disrupts a person’s life—panic attacks, excessive worry, or avoidance behaviors. But what about those who seem to have it all together while silently battling anxious feelings every day? This is where high-functioning anxiety comes in—a type of mental health condition that often goes unnoticed because those experiencing it appear successful, composed, and driven.

While high-functioning anxiety is not a formally recognized diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), it is a very real experience for many people. Individuals with high-functioning anxiety may outwardly appear like high achievers, but internally, they may be struggling with worry, self-doubt, and physical tension. Over time, this can impact their quality of life, leading to exhaustion and burnout.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Understanding the signs of high-functioning anxiety and learning effective strategies for managing it can help you regain control and find balance in your daily life.

What is High-Functioning Anxiety?

High-functioning anxiety is a term used to describe individuals who experience persistent anxious feelings but still manage to excel in their personal and professional lives. Unlike generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which can significantly disrupt daily activities, people with high-functioning anxiety tend to channel their worries into productivity.

On the surface, they may seem confident, ambitious, and organized. But beneath the surface, they may be battling racing thoughts, self-doubt, or a constant need for approval.

Signs of High-Functioning Anxiety

While high-functioning anxiety can look different for everyone, some common characteristics include:

1. Overthinking and Perfectionism

• Constantly second-guessing decisions, even minor ones
• Fear of making mistakes or not meeting expectations
• Feeling the need to control every detail of a situation

2. People-Pleasing Behavior

• Difficulty saying “no,” even when overwhelmed
• Prioritizing others’ needs at the expense of personal well-being
• Constantly seeking reassurance from others

3. Persistent Restlessness and Tension

• Trouble relaxing, even when there’s no immediate stressor
• Physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, or stomach issues
• Difficulty sleeping due to racing thoughts

4. Overachievement as a Coping Mechanism

• Working long hours or taking on too many responsibilities
• Struggling with imposter syndrome despite accomplishments
• Fear of slowing down due to worries about feeling unproductive

5. Avoidance and Procrastination

• Delaying important tasks out of fear of failure
• Avoiding difficult conversations or situations that may cause discomfort
• Feeling paralyzed by indecision

If you recognize these signs of high-functioning anxiety in yourself or someone you know, it’s important to remember that help is available.

Risk Factors for High-Functioning Anxiety

Like other mental health conditions, high-functioning anxiety can develop due to a combination of factors, including:

• Family history of anxiety disorders: Genetics can play a role in predisposing someone to anxiety.
• Personality traits: Perfectionism, high sensitivity, or being highly conscientious can increase vulnerability.
• Chronic stress: Work pressure, personal responsibilities, or unresolved trauma can contribute to persistent anxiety.
• Past experiences: Childhood expectations, academic pressure, or past failures may shape anxiety-driven behaviors.

Understanding these risk factors can help individuals identify patterns and take proactive steps toward managing their anxiety.

How to Manage High-Functioning Anxiety

While high-functioning anxiety can feel overwhelming, there are evidence-based strategies that can help improve quality of life and bring relief.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for managing anxiety. It helps individuals recognize and reframe negative thought patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and gradually face fears rather than avoiding them.

CBT strategies may include:

• Identifying triggers and challenging anxious thoughts
• Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness
• Gradual exposure to situations that cause anxiety to reduce avoidance behaviors

2. Medication Options

For some individuals, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) may be recommended to help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety. These medications work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve overall emotional stability.

3. Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care

People with high-functioning anxiety often push themselves beyond their limits. Learning to set healthy boundaries and practicing self-care can be crucial in managing symptoms. This might include:

• Saying no to excessive commitments
• Prioritizing rest and relaxation
• Engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment

4. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Techniques

Practicing mindfulness can help calm racing thoughts and create a sense of present-moment awareness. Techniques such as meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided breathing exercises can be beneficial in reducing physical symptoms of anxiety.

5. Seeking Professional Support

If high-functioning anxiety is interfering with your daily life, seeking help from a therapist or counselor can provide valuable support. Therapy offers a safe space to explore anxious feelings, develop effective coping strategies, and work toward lasting relief.

When to Seek Help

Many people with high-functioning anxiety hesitate to seek help because they believe they are “managing just fine.” And in fact, they may very well be performing at an unusually high level! However, untreated anxiety of this kind can take a toll over time, leading to burnout, chronic stress, and even physical health issues.

If your anxiety is affecting your relationships, work performance, or overall well-being, it’s important to reach out for support. Therapy can help you navigate anxiety in a healthy way, allowing you to find balance while maintaining your personal and professional success.

We’re Here to Help

At Wellington Counseling Group, we specialize in helping individuals manage high-functioning anxiety and regain control over their quality of life. Our experienced therapists provide evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and longer depth-oriented models of care, to help you break free from the cycle of worry and perfectionism.

We proudly serve individuals and families in Chicago, Northbrook, and surrounding areas. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more balanced life, we’re here to help.

Contact Wellington Counseling Group today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward relief.