About
Learn a little bit about me, my background and and my journey as a therapist.
Gina Baldacci
Clinical Social Worker / Therapist
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost 20 years of experience within both pediatric and adult health care settings. How did I find myself in healthcare you might wonder? Truth be told, I thought I might want to be a doctor but, after working at my first children’s hospital and spending time with the social work staff, my career path quickly changed. I have had the great privilege of working with children and adults (and their families) coping with cancer and other chronic illness. I have supported clients across the lifespan struggling with anxiety, managing life transitions, dealing with challenging medical treatments, navigating hospital systems and adjusting to a new normal. I have seen illness from both sides of the coin, as both a clinician helping patients and as a family member helping a relative.
Living & Working Abroad
In December 2017, I made an international move from Chicago to Doha, Qatar (the Middle East). While abroad, I worked in a newly opened women and children’s hospital. I spent much of my time providing emotional and resource support to parents whose babies were admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Many families shared that they had never worked with a social worker and having extra support during such an incredibly stressful time was so valuable. Being able to explore life and community in a different country was a most profound experience! I lived and worked with people from all over the world and gained valuable insight into multicultural practices and beliefs.
In August 2020, I relocated back to Illinois and, after getting settled and sorted, decided to begin my private practice. My experiences throughout my career have truly led me to become the therapist I am today.
Using a Strengths-Based Approach
Learning about and listening to someone’s story is a privilege. Throughout my career, I have had countless children (and their parents) and adults (and their families) share their stories. Through an experienced and thoughtful lens, I bring a sense of calm and clarity to my sessions with clients. My approach is both collaborative and supportive with a bit of humor thrown in for good measure. I draw primarily from cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems and strengths-based practices. I also utilize self-compassion and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques. I look forward to working with you as you take steps to manage the stressors in your life.Perhaps, most importantly, is that I understand that life continues to move forward even when someone is faced with crisis. And often, amidst trying times, there are wonderful and joyous moments too.
My Educational Background
I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Illinois Wesleyan University (1995) followed by my Master of Social Work at University of Illinois at Chicago (2004). I have had additional training in divorce and custody mediation as well as in mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques.