Nicole Kough, LCPC - Therapist in Illinois

About Nicole

Nicole Kough is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) practicing in Illinois. She has worked in the field since 2009 and brings 15 years of clinical experience to her work. Nicole aims to create a calm, supportive space where parents and individuals can talk through stressful moments and confusing feelings.

She keeps sessions straightforward and focused on what matters to each person. Nicole listens without judgment and helps people sort out thoughts and reactions.

Background and approach

Conversations move toward practical steps clients can try between sessions. Nicole often uses cognitive behavioral techniques to notice and shift unhelpful thinking patterns. She also draws on solution-focused strategies to identify small, achievable goals.

These methods are used to address stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship strain, and intimacy-related concerns among other issues. Her approach includes elements of narrative therapy to help people make sense of difficult stories in their lives. Over time she helps clients build self-compassion and clearer communication habits.

Nicole tailors each plan to the situation and preferences of the person seeking help. People who choose her typically want practical tools and a steady, understanding presence. She aims to help clients manage change, repair connections, and find clearer paths forward.

Therapeutic approaches and how they work online

Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and understanding the person without judgment, helping clients feel heard and supported as they talk through challenges like relationship strain or grief. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions and teaches practical skills to change unhelpful thinking patterns and reduce anxiety or depression.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will discuss goals, preferences, and what feels most useful, then tailor techniques to the client's needs. This collaborative process helps clients try methods that fit their life and pace.

Online sessions are offered by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to give flexibility for busy schedules. These options make it easier to fit therapy around parenting, work, and other obligations while still accessing a licensed professional. The variety of formats also allows different ways to stay connected between sessions and try steps suggested by the therapist.

Client-Centered Therapy

The direction comes from you rather than from a set programme. The therapist offers a warm, non-judgemental space to think out loud and work at your own pace. Online, this rests on the relationship rather than on being in the same room.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT looks at the link between what you think, how you feel, and what you do. You work on noticing unhelpful patterns and practising steadier responses. It suits online sessions well, because much of the work happens between appointments and can be talked through from anywhere.

Narrative Therapy

Looking at the story you have come to tell about yourself, and where it came from. The work is in separating the problem from your identity and finding accounts that fit you better.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of problems does she address?

Nicole works with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship and family issues, trauma and abuse, anger, career stress, and coping with life changes, plus related concerns like communication problems and blended family issues.

How would you describe her therapy style?

Her style is supportive and nonjudgmental, focused on listening and helping clients set clear, practical goals. Sessions often combine talking through thoughts with steps to try between meetings.

What experience does she bring?

She has been working in the field since 2009 and has 15 years of experience using a mix of approaches to help people with mood and relationship concerns.

What are her credentials and location?

She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), IL LCPC 180010758, and she practices in Illinois.

In which languages are sessions offered?

Sessions are offered in English.

Which session formats are available?

Sessions are offered as video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

How are sessions paid for and what do they cost?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

How do I begin the process of working with her?

Start by selecting the Start Therapy button, completing a short matching questionnaire, and then scheduling according to therapist availability.

Specialties and expertise

Top specialties

Stress, Anxiety
Relationship issues
Grief

Also works with

Therapeutic approaches

Experience: 15 years
Licensed: Illinois
Languages: English

Next step

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