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Monica Smiley

  • MA, LCSW, BCBA
Astute • Evidence-Based Care

Monica Smiley

MA, LCSW, BCBA
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • ACT • Client-Centered • Behavior Analysis-Informed Care
New Patient Form Call 773-799-8966
Monica Smiley headshot
 
Introductory Video
About the Therapist Monica Smiley, MA, LCSW, BCBA graduated from the University of Illinois in 2003 where she majored in Psychology. She then proceeded to earn two additional degrees: a clinical degree from the University of Illinois as a Mental Health Clinician, and an additional degree from Aurora University as a Board Certified Applied Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Monica is currently pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology to further enhance her counseling skills and deepen her understanding of therapeutic practices. She has worked in the field of mental health for her entire adult career in both private practice and as a Professor of Psychology at the collegiate level.

Monica works from a collaborative therapeutic relationship and seeks to create a safe space to explore problems and motivate meaningful change. Skilled in Behavior Analysis, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Therapy techniques, her integrated approach helps clients develop practical coping skills, identify core beliefs, and support behavior change as they work toward their goals.
Monica strongly believes that therapy is for everyone—a tool to teach continued positive mental health strategies and create life-long fulfillment.
Therapeutic Modalities
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Client-Centered Therapy
  • Behavior Analysis-Informed Interventions
  • Solution-Focused Techniques
  • Cognitive Therapy Strategies
Certifications & Training
  • MA — Mental Health Clinician (University of Illinois)
  • BA — Psychology (University of Illinois, 2003)
  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
  • Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
  • Doctoral studies in Clinical Psychology (in progress)
  • Professor of Psychology (collegiate level)
Specialties
  • Anxiety & Chronic Stress
  • Depression & Low Mood
  • Panic Attacks & Panic Disorder
  • Adjustment Disorders
  • Life Transitions
  • Women’s Health
  • Societal/Systemic Concerns
  • Interpersonal Relationships
My Favorite Wellness Services for Mental Health
  • Acupuncture — support nervous system regulation and stress resilience
  • Mat Pilates — build strength, confidence, and body awareness
  • Restorative Yoga — downshift the stress response and improve sleep
  • Reiki — promote calm and emotional grounding
What to Expect Your first session focuses on your goals, what you’re navigating right now, and what has (and hasn’t) worked before. Monica collaborates with you to create a practical, evidence-based plan—blending skill-building with insight, behavior change strategies, and (when helpful) holistic supports from the Astute team.
Why Choose Astute
  • Evidence-based psychotherapy with a warm, collaborative approach
  • Integrated wellness options on site (yoga, Pilates, acupuncture, reiki, sound bath)
  • Coordinated care with your consent (PCP, psychiatry, school, partner clinicians)
  • Accessible hours via telehealth for Illinois adults (18+)
Location: 3001 N Southport Ave, 2nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60657 • info@astutecounseling.com • 773-799-8966
 

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