Chicago Clinical Psychologist Enjoys Helping Clients Find Contentment
Dr. Mitchell Hicks is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and part of the Core Faculty in the Clinical Psychology program at Walden University. He also works at Crosswinds Center for Personal and Professional Development, LLC. He shares that the things that trouble us are often caused and perpetuated by multiple causes, and thus can rarely be addressed simply, briefly and straightforwardly.
Dr. Hicks earned a Doctorate of Philosophy in clinical psychology from the University of Cincinnati in 2003, and then earned a license as a clinical psychologist in 2005. In 2009, he graduated from the Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis in adult psychoanalytic psychotherapy. During the same year, he sat for board certification in clinical psychology through the American Board of Professional Psychology.
What are the scope and responsibilities of your current role?
"In my practice, I work with adults and older adults in both shorter and long-term psychotherapy. Although I work with a wide variety of concerns such as depression and anxiety, I have particular expertise in working with men, pornography and sex 'addiction,' family of origin issues, relationship struggles and spirituality. In addition, I provide psychological evaluation services for the court system (forensic psychology) in both criminal and civil matters. As a professor, I supervise student research and teach courses in psychological assessment, group therapy, supervision, ethics and practical seminars."
What is your favorite part of your daily duties?
"[My favorite part of my day is] having the privilege of walking with someone through their most profound pains and helping them find fresh understandings, new ways of relating and ultimately contentment."
Do you feel your education prepared you for your current role?
"Yes and no. Yes, my academic training did lay a foundation from which to build. But this has not been sufficient, and I continue to develop my knowledge and skills through education, reading, teaching and consultation. A good psychologist is always learning."
Do you have any advice for people who desire to pursue a similar career?
"Spend at least as much time reading things your professor didn't assign; you'll learn more and find your passion. Be honest with yourself about why you want to do this - there are many ways to help others."
Michelle Guilbeau is a writer, reviewer, teacher and business owner. She also has experience in school administration, literacy coaching and is proud founder of CraftKitsForKids.com and MichelleGuilbeau.com Michelle enjoys sharing her knowledge of cities, food, travel, education and parenting issues with her readers. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
