Learn more about our clinician, Paige Haney, MS, MFT
1. What inspired you to enter this field? I grew up with a passion for reading. I loved entering the worlds of different characters to learn about their thoughts, feelings, hopes, and relationships. I was drawn to this field for the same reason. I believe everyone has a story to tell and deserves a safe space to do so. It is such a privilege to get to witness individuals, couples, and families courageously share their stories and to get to play a role in their story throughout the therapeutic relationship we develop.
2. Do you currently hold any specialties or certificates? Or are there any you would like to work towards getting?
I am trained in Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy and am a certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator- both of these trainings inform my work with couples. I would love to eventually receive certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy as well!
3. What is your favorite thing about living in Illinois? I love exploring Chicago! There are always new cafes, restaurants, and events to try out!
4. What are some tools you use to decompress? I love going on walks, reading, listening to music, and spending time with the people (and animals!) that bring me joy and help keep me grounded.
5. How would you recommend a client prepare for a session? I would ask yourself the question, “Why am I going to therapy at this point in my life? What led me to the decision to schedule this first appointment?” and for ongoing sessions, “What do I hope to gain out of this session today?”. Taking intentional time to reflect on where you are at and what you hope to learn throughout therapy not only helps your therapist better understand your goals and therefore how to support you, but it can also help you increase your understanding of your own needs. Before your first session and throughout your time with your therapist, I’d also recommend checking in with yourself to see if you have any curiosities about the therapy process or if there’s anything you are nervous about involving therapy. These thoughts and feelings are absolutely normal and valid and if your therapist knows about them, they can more readily address your questions and concerns. Overall, remember that you might not always feel “prepared” for therapy, but if you enter each session with the goal of being honest about your feelings, perspectives, and experiences, you are already courageously doing the work!
6. What are you most looking forward to now that it’s fall? There are too many things to list! Fall-scented candles, cozy nights watching scary movies and eating pumpkin-flavored treats, spending time with friends going to pumpkin patches and corn mazes…I could go on!