Learn more about Jessi Erickson, MS, ALMFT!
- What inspired you to enter this field?
I was inspired to enter this field initially in high school. During my first psychology course, I became very passionate about learning how the human mind functions. Additionally, I grew up watching some people around me struggle with anxiety and depression, and all I had wanted to do was help but I didn’t know how to.
- What do you enjoy most about being a therapist?
As a therapist, it is a wonderful feeling to watch as individuals, couples, and families start to see differences in their relationships with both themselves and others. Connecting with others and providing help in any way I can is one of the best parts of being a therapist!
- Where has been your favorite place to travel and why?
My favorite place that I’ve traveled to is Santorini, Greece! Everything is so beautiful in Santorini, everyone there is welcoming and kind, and the food tastes incredible. I also traveled there with my grandparents, so I got to make many memories with them.
- Do you currently hold any specialties or certificates? Or are there any you would like to work towards getting?
I am working toward getting a certificate in sex therapy and I have taken a few workshops through AAMFT.
- What is your favorite thing about living in Chicago?
My favorite things about living in Chicago is that there is never a shortage of things to do and there are so many amazing restaurants to eat at.
- What are some tools you use to decompress?
In order to decompress, I really enjoy reading, listening to music, and spending quality time with my significant other. Another important tool that I use is deep breathing exercises because they help me feel grounded.
- Do you have any mentors? Who inspires you and why?
One of my mentors includes a professor in my Master’s program. She was able to challenge me all while encouraging me, and she cared a lot about her students’ success. Additionally, since becoming a part of the Fleming Family Therapy team, Rachel Casey-Derue has become an important mentor of mine. She inspires me to be the best clinician possible and provides helpful insight.
- How would you recommend a client prepare for a session?
I would recommend coming into a session as open as possible. It’s understandable that it’s tough, but being vulnerable is how you know you’re growing.
- How do you keep up to date on industry trends and news?
To keep up to date on industry trends and news, I am a part of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and I continuously read books written by professionals in the industry.
- What are you most looking forward to for summer?
I really do not like the cold (I know, why do I live in the midwest?) so I am very excited for it to get warm out! Every summer, my family and I go camping at Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin and we go to our cabin, which are my two favorite summer traditions.