Southern IL Institute of Behavioral Health

07/28/2026

This week's THERAPY TEAM SPOTLIGHT is on Rachel Daly!

My name is Rachel Daly. I earned my Master of Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2018 after completing my bachelor's degree majoring in Psychology at SIUE in 1997. Following graduate school, I worked as a hospital social worker until January 2021 while also beginning my career as a mental health therapist in 2019. After earning my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential in January 2021, I transitioned into providing therapy full-time.
My path to becoming a social worker wasn't a traditional one. Before entering the profession, I spent many years raising my three sons alongside my husband and working as a paraprofessional in a special education classroom. Those life experiences gave me a deeper appreciation for the challenges people face and shaped the therapist I am today. I believe those life experiences have helped me connect with clients through genuine empathy, understanding, and a practical perspective. My style is warm, compassionate, and conversational. I value creating a space where clients feel comfortable being themselves, whether that means sharing a laugh when it's helpful or sitting together in quiet reflection during more difficult moments.
Since beginning EMDR Basic Training in late 2024, I have incorporated Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) into my practice with clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, and other concerns. EMDR helps the brain process and heal from distressing experiences, whether those experiences involve significant, life-altering events ("Big T" trauma) or the smaller, cumulative experiences ("Little t" trauma) that can continue to influence thoughts, emotions, and relationships well into adulthood. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing clients experience meaningful change. I recently had the privilege of seeing a client heal longstanding emotional wounds through EMDR, allowing them to move forward with the confidence to begin a healthy romantic relationship.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. I view therapy as both a science and a craft—one that blends evidence-based approaches with authenticity, curiosity, and a strong therapeutic relationship. I tailor treatment to each individual's unique needs by integrating a variety of approaches, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed techniques, and strengths- and solution-focused therapy.
Outside of the therapy office, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three adult sons whenever we can all be together. I love being outdoors, especially hiking, and I enjoy reading, discovering new restaurants, traveling, and learning something new whenever I have the opportunity. As an introvert, I also appreciate quiet time to recharge. Life is precious, and I believe in making the most of it by finding joy, continuing to grow, and embracing meaningful connections along the way.

07/11/2026

This week's THERAPY TEAM SPOTLIGHT is on Jenna Callantine!

Hi, my name is Jenna Callantine and I am a therapy provider at Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health (SIIOBH). I have always been interested in Psychology but wasn’t exactly sure what my career would look like when I decided to major in Psychology in college. Throughout my undergraduate college experience at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville (SIUE), I learned more about what a mental health clinician does and what I would need to do in order to become one. I attended the Clinical Adult Psychology graduate program through SIUE after completing my Bachelor’s Degree. It was the most rewarding and difficult thing I have ever accomplished. I appreciate all my professors for teaching me everything I know and preparing me for life as a mental health clinician. I cannot recommend my program enough for guiding me to be the clinician I am today, as well as my supervisors at SIIOBH.

I gravitate towards providing primarily Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, though I also utilize other modalities as well. I really enjoy assisting clients to better manage symptoms of anxiety, OCD, and also to navigate difficult relationships. I consider it a great compliment to hear my clients say they notice a decrease in their symptoms and that they can better manage symptoms through techniques that they learned in our therapy sessions. I believe my clients deserve all the accolades for the accomplishments they make during therapy. They are the ones putting in all the hard work outside of our sessions. I enjoy being able to join them on the journey.

Outside of therapy, I enjoy reading, exercising, and spending time with family and friends.

07/07/2026

This week's THERAPY TEAM SPOTLIGHT is on Sara Downey!

My name is Sara, and I am happy to be at Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health!

I obtained my Master of Social Work degree from SIUE in 2014. I have been in the social work field for over 10 years and have worked in a variety of settings. I became interested in being a therapist after seeing how helpful it can be to have someone who listens to you without judgment, someone who only wants the very best for you.

My parents have always been passionate about helping others, and they instilled this in me. Over the years, it has become even more important to me to be an active part of the community and to make our surroundings a little brighter.

I also acknowledge that life isn’t always bright and easy. I truly feel that it is an honor to be trusted with somebody’s hardest moments and help them realize they are not alone. This is what led me to obtain a certification in grief counseling in 2025.

During therapy sessions, I use person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy techniques. Because I love working with all ages, I also incorporate expressive arts and activities as needed. I appreciate how diverse therapy can be and ultimately just want to share helpful tools and explore feelings in a safe environment.

I learn something new in each session I have. I value this because I am always trying to learn and grow! When I am not at work, I spend my spare time reading self-help books, hanging out with my daughter and family, playing board games, and loving animals.

06/14/2026

✨ Therapist Spotlight: Rachel Daly, MSW, LCSW ✨

At Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health, we are proud to have therapists who bring specialized training and evidence-based approaches to help clients heal and thrive. Today, we're also highlighting Rachel Daly, MSW, LCSW, and her work with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

Rachel provides a compassionate, supportive, and conversational environment where clients can safely explore life's challenges without fear of judgment. Her collaborative approach focuses on identifying strengths, fostering resilience, and helping clients create meaningful and lasting change.

Rachel works with individuals experiencing:

💙 Anxiety
💙 Depression
💙 Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
💙 Chronic Pain
💙 Trauma
💙 Life Transitions

One of Rachel's primary areas of focus is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain process distressing experiences and reduce the emotional impact of painful memories.

Many people find themselves feeling "stuck" in patterns of fear, anxiety, or emotional distress tied to past experiences. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—including visual, audio, and tactile methods—to help the brain reprocess these experiences in a way that promotes healing and symptom relief. Depending on a client's needs, therapy may incorporate a light bar, headphones, hand-held tactile tappers, or a combination of these tools.

Rachel completed EMDR Basic Training in 2025 and is currently working toward certification through EMDRIA. She also integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based interventions to help clients build confidence, develop coping skills, and move forward with hope.

Rachel is currently accepting new clients and is able to work with most insurance plans.

If you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, OCD, chronic pain, depression, or difficult life transitions, support is available.

📞 Call us at 618.710.4123 to schedule an appointment.
💻 Learn more or request an appointment online at www.siiobh.com

Healing is possible, and Rachel is here to help you take the next step. 🌱

06/14/2026

🌟 Please Join Us in Welcoming Lauren Jones to Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health! 🌟

We are excited to welcome Lauren Jones, MA, to our team of therapists at Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health!

Lauren earned her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler Graduate School and is passionate about helping individuals become the best version of themselves. While she works with clients of all ages, Lauren has a special passion for working with children, creating a safe, supportive environment where they can feel understood, build confidence, and thrive.

Lauren specializes in working with:
✔ ADHD
✔ Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
✔ Anxiety
✔ Depression
✔ PTSD and Trauma

Lauren understands that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. She tailors treatment to each client's unique needs and goals, drawing from a variety of therapeutic approaches. Her work is most often grounded in Person-Centered Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), with a strong focus on building genuine relationships, highlighting strengths, and helping clients create meaningful change in their lives.

Lauren is currently accepting new clients and offers both in-person and telehealth appointments.

To schedule an appointment with Lauren:
📞 Call us at 618.710.4123
💻 Visit www.siiobh.com

Please help us give Lauren a warm Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health welcome! 💙

Compassionate therapy for individuals, couples, families & children in Glen Carbon, IL. Licensed counselors offering in-person & telehealth counseling. Call today.

12/20/2025

Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health would like to thank all of our clinicians, staff, family, friends, neighbors, and clients for making this year's holiday donation drive a success! We dropped off your donations to Crisis Food Center today. They were so happy to have your donations. Thank you for helping us help others in this season of giving. Thank you for caring about those less fortunate than yourselves. Thank you all for seeing the value in lifting up your neighbors. The world is a better place because you all are in it!

THANK YOU!

12/20/2025

How ADHD Fuels Procrastination — and What You Can Do About It

If you have ADHD, you probably know the feeling of wanting to get things done but just… not being able to start. You’re not lazy or unmotivated—your brain simply works differently. ADHD affects the parts of the brain responsible for planning, focus, and motivation, which can make procrastination a daily battle.

Why ADHD Makes Procrastination So Common

People with ADHD often struggle with executive functioning—the brain’s ability to organize, prioritize, and follow through on tasks. This means things like starting a project, managing time, or staying focused can feel harder than they should.

There’s also a brain chemistry component. ADHD is linked to lower levels of dopamine, a chemical that helps us feel rewarded when we complete a task. Without that “reward hit,” tasks that seem boring or stressful can feel almost impossible to start. Add in perfectionism, overwhelm, or fear of failure, and procrastination can easily take over.

Practical Ways to Beat ADHD Procrastination

The good news? There are plenty of ways to work with your brain instead of against it. Here are some strategies that can really help:

1. Start small. Break big tasks into tiny, doable steps. Even a two-minute start can build momentum.
2. Use timers and tools. The Pomodoro method (25 minutes of focus, 5-minute break) or a simple checklist can help keep your brain engaged.
3. Make it interesting. Add music, a reward, or a fun twist to boost motivation—your brain loves stimulation.
4. Set up your space for success. Keep your work area clear of distractions and have what you need ready to go.
5. Be kind to yourself. Remember, procrastination is a symptom of ADHD, not a character flaw. Shame only makes it harder to get started.
6. Get support if needed. ADHD coaching, therapy, or medication can make a huge difference in managing focus and motivation.

Bottom Line

Procrastination and ADHD often go hand-in-hand, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make progress. By using strategies that match how your brain actually works—and giving yourself grace along the way—you can get things done without burning out or beating yourself up.

Cristina Froah, MA
Clinical Intern
Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health
www.siiobh.com

12/14/2025

The Power of Naming Your Emotions

Sometimes we carry emotions like heavy bags we don’t realize we’re holding. We feel tense, uneasy, or tired, but can’t quite say why. In those moments, naming what we’re feeling can be a quiet act of self-care. It’s simple, but powerful. Putting words to our emotions helps bring them out of the shadows and gives our minds a sense of clarity.

When we name an emotion—like “I feel sad,” or “I feel overwhelmed”—we’re activating a part of the brain that helps regulate the body’s stress response. Instead of being swept up in a swirl of feelings, we begin to make sense of what’s happening inside. It doesn’t erase the feeling, but it helps us feel steadier in the middle of it.

If you’re not sure where to begin, pause and check in with your body first. Notice where you feel tension or heaviness. Then ask yourself, “If this feeling had a name, what would it be?” You might find it’s anger, worry, disappointment, or even something more layered, like grief mixed with relief. There’s no wrong answer. The goal isn’t to analyze or judge, but to notice.

For many people, it helps to write the emotion down or say it out loud. Seeing the words can make them more real and less abstract. You might even add a simple phrase afterward, such as “and that’s okay.” This small act of acceptance can soften the edges of whatever you’re feeling.

Naming emotions doesn’t fix everything, but it often changes our relationship to what’s hard. It can open the door to self-understanding, calmer communication, and deeper empathy toward others. Over time, this simple practice builds emotional vocabulary and makes it easier to navigate the ups and downs of life with more kindness toward yourself.

Next time you feel unsettled or off balance, take a quiet moment to name what’s there. It’s a gentle way of saying, “I see you,” to your own experience—and that can be the first step toward healing.

Rachel Daly, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Therapist
Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health
www.siiobh.com

12/06/2025

The Value of Accountability vs. Avoidance in Life

Accountability is one of the most powerful—yet often uncomfortable—forces in mental health. It requires individuals to acknowledge their choices, tolerate difficult emotions, and remain present with the truth of their experiences. While this can stir feelings of guilt, embarrassment, or disappointment, these negative emotions are not harmful; they are signals. When we allow ourselves to feel them fully, they promote insight, self-awareness, and long-term growth.

The Growth That Comes From Feeling Hard Emotions

Holding oneself accountable naturally brings up discomfort. But leaning into that discomfort strengthens emotional resilience. It teaches individuals that they can survive difficult feelings rather than avoid or suppress them. This process improves self-regulation, builds confidence, and helps reshape future behavior. In short: accountability turns emotional pain into direction, clarity, and motivation for change.

Accountability Helps Us Process and Move Forward

When a person acknowledges what happened—whether a mistake, a harmful action, or a period of poor coping—they create space to process it. This can transform regret into learning rather than rumination. Accepting responsibility allows individuals to make amends, reevaluate patterns, and close emotional loops that might otherwise remain open and intrusive. It becomes a pathway toward healing rather than a detour into self-blame or shame.

Avoidance: The Hidden Cost of Not Facing the Truth

Avoiding accountability may feel easier in the moment, but it comes with significant long-term consequences. Suppressed emotions tend to grow louder over time, often resurfacing as anxiety, irritability, defensiveness, or pervasive shame. Avoidance can also reinforce maladaptive coping patterns—like shutting down, externalizing blame, withdrawing, or numbing. Over time, these patterns erode self-esteem, damage relationships, and prevent personal development.

Perspective

Choosing accountability over avoidance is not about self-punishment—it’s about self-liberation. By acknowledging what’s true, allowing ourselves to feel the emotions attached to it, and choosing growth over defensiveness, we build emotional maturity and resilience. Accountability becomes not just a responsibility, but an act of self-respect and a foundation for long-term mental health.

Riley Tanner, MA
Clinical Intern
Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health
www.siiobh.com

11/26/2025

Tis' the Season for the Southern Illinois Institute of Behavioral Health Holiday Drive.

Each year our providers look forward to hosting a donation drive that benefits the local community. By design, our careers in behavioral health allow us to help our neighbors who struggle year round. As providers at SIIOBH, we are all thankful for the opportunity to administer behavioral healthcare services to our community in a meaningful way. Each year, around the holidays, SIIOBH hosts a Holiday Drive to allow our clients, our followers, our family, and our friends to experience a version of the joy we experience daily in being able to touch the lives of those in need in our communities and to provide comfort, care, and (this time of year) tangible necessities to our neighbors in need.

This year we will be donating crucial food and supplies for Crisis Food Center. This organization knows how to meet people where they are and how to truly provide in our local communities most in need. Help us Help our Neighbors!

Information on how YOU can participate can be found on the picture flyer attached to this post. Let the gift of GIVING fill your heart this holiday season!