Acceptance Counseling

07/27/2026

07/24/2026

Have you ever found yourself replaying a conversation over and over, wondering...

"Did I say too much?"
"Are they upset with me?"
"Did I do something wrong?"

For many adults with ADHD, this isn't "being too sensitive." It may be something called Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), an intense emotional response to real or perceived criticism, rejection, or disappointment.

You might:
• Take constructive feedback very personally.
• Avoid trying new things because you're afraid of failing.
• Assume someone is upset with you when they probably aren't.
• Replay conversations for hours or even days.
• Feel overwhelming shame after making a small mistake.

These reactions aren't a sign of weakness or immaturity. They're part of the emotional regulation challenges that many people with ADHD experience.

The good news? Once you recognize what's happening, you can begin to respond differently. Therapy can help you build awareness, challenge unhelpful thoughts, regulate emotions, and develop healthier ways of coping.

If you've spent years believing you're "too emotional" or "too much," know this: there may be more to the story.

Understanding your brain is often the first step toward giving yourself the compassion you've deserved all along.

💙 You don't have to navigate ADHD alone.
By: Stephanie Adamson, LCPC, CADC, CDVP

04/25/2026

I want to welcome our newest therapist to our practice!!
Stephanie Adamson has joined our team at Acceptance Counseling!!

Stephanie Adamson, LCPC, CADC, CDVP

Hello, I’m Stephanie, a clinician who brings deep, hands‑on experience and genuine, down‑to‑earth care. I’ve worked in behavioral health since 2008 across clinical, supervisory, and executive roles, including directing substance use services and leading domestic & sexual violence programs and agencies. I also have experience in residential treatment, outpatient therapy, program development, staff supervision, and community advocacy. I hold a Master’s in Community Counseling, am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), a Certified Drug & Alcohol Counselor (CADC), and an Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Practitioner (CDVP).

I meet people where they are and help them find safety, stability, and practical next steps.

I offer trauma‑informed, compassionate care for those facing many challenges but specialize in substance use, sexual assault, domestic violence, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. I blend evidence‑based tools with strength-based, real‑world problem solving. My goal is to create a respectful, nonjudgmental space where I listen first, clarify what matters to you, and build achievable goals together.
If you’re ready to talk, call (630) 901‑6665 or email [email protected]. I’d be honored to walk alongside you. You don’t have to carry this alone.

02/03/2025

Introducing our staff at Acceptance Counseling!

I am happy to welcome Amanda Pavela to the practice.
Before working as an LPC in private practices, Amanda was a Nationally Certified professional school counselor since 2010, advocating for students' and families' educational rights in diverse rural, urban, and suburban communities throughout Chicagoland. Amanda enhances her therapeutic expertise and education with ongoing professional development certifications and training in areas such as anger management (CAMS-II), trauma-informed crisis prevention intervention practices (CPI), expressive arts therapy, play therapy, conflict resolution and mediation, career counseling and exploration, and neurodivergent awareness. Amanda aims to meet new clients at their personal comfort level, appreciates humor and comedic relief when possible, and hopes to share strength-based strategies to bridge gaps where clients may feel at a crossroads.

Acceptance Counseling also features Monika Breidenbach, who joined the practice in 2024.
As a skilled professional passionate about understanding human behavior, Monika brings expertise in stress management, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and cultural and relational issues. She also has a keen interest in nutritional and integrative medicine for mental health, employing innovative approaches to treating and employing complex trauma (C-PTSD). She utilizes a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including CBT, ACT, Solution-Focused (SF), REBT, DBT, Attachment-Based Therapy, Adlerian therapy, Reality Therapy, and Mindfulness.

And to reintroduce myself, I am Dianna Miller. I have been in the behavioral health field for 20 years. I hold master’s degrees in both addiction studies and clinical psychology. I am licensed as an LCPC and LMHC, and I am also certified as a CRADC. I am fortunate to have lived experience of sobriety since 1995. I work with both mental health and substance use issues, serving individuals, couples, and families. I believe that everyone can change. While change can be very difficult, it is possible. With the right support and guidance, you can address what isn’t working and gain the necessary tools to live balanced and fulfilling lives.

If you're ready to change your life, we are here to help you on that journey.

10/12/2024

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/09/18/health/alcohol-cancer-young-adults.html?ogrp=dpl&smid=url-share

Scientists continue to rethink the idea that moderate drinking offers health benefits.

04/13/2024

Contact Monika at 708-406-9792
[email protected]