A Better You Counseling, PLLC

04/24/2026

•Trauma is not just an isolated experience. It often develops into a repetitive cycle that shapes thoughts, emotions, and behaviors over time.

•These patterns often develop as adaptive responses to protect you from harm. They are learned and reinforced.

REMEMBER! You are not defined by your trauma responses. They are patterns and patterns can change.

Healing is possible and you don’t have to do it alone. 🫶

04/22/2026

Natalia Avalos, MSW Intern will be offering up to 8 free sessions for individuals aged 16-28.
Note: Working with an intern means you are receiving thoughtful, up-to-date care with guidance and supervision every step of the way.

Contact us to schedule your free sessions, we're here to support you!

04/15/2026

Hi!!!👋

My name is Natalia and I would love to work with you!! If you think I could be a good fit for your needs I would love to help you take that first step!

Let’s explore emotions, build insight and grow together🌱

📞773-945-6819
📍3150 W Higgins Rd, Hoffman Estates IL

04/08/2026

From our waiting room to our therapy spaces, this place is for you 🤍

04/03/2026

Therapy gets misunderstood a lot so let’s clear that up! Understanding therapy helps reduce stigma and set realistic expectations.

🌱Therapy outcomes depend on consistency, the therapeutic relationship, and your readiness for change

04/02/2026

Struggling to focus?

Try the Pomodoro Technique!

The Pomodoro Technique helps you stay productive without burning out by breaking your work into simple, manageable intervals:

🍅 25 minutes of focused work
☕ 5 minute break
🔁 Repeat 4 times, then take a longer break

This method boosts concentration, reduces feelings of overwhelm, and helps you finish what you start.

03/11/2026

If you ever struggle to ask for what you need or saying no without feeling guilty then this DBT skill is for you! This skill will help you communicate clearly and assertively.

This assertive communication can help you gain confidence, protect your boundaries, feel respected and reduce stress and anxiety.

Can you think of a recent situation where you struggled to ask for what you needed or set a boundary? How could using this skill have changed the outcome?

03/06/2026

Sometimes our brain tricks us into perceiving things in ways that aren't entirely accurate. These are called cognitive distortions which are thinking patterns that influence how we view the world, how we feel and how we act.

These are the most common that we ALL fall into. Recognizing them and challenging them is the first step towards a more balanced thinking!

03/05/2026

Intrusive thoughts can feel very overwhelming but there are ways to cope! By noticing, labeling and accepting our intrusive thoughts, we can reduce their power and increase self-compassion.
Remember: Your thoughts do NOT define you! Practice responding to them with kindness instead of judgement.

03/05/2026

Intrusive thoughts are unwanted thoughts or images that enter our mind often triggering feelings of anxiety, disgust or shame. It is important to remember that these are just thoughts and not a reality or secret desire. Sometimes our brain just comes up with things, especially during times of stress, anxiety or past trauma. These are some themes that are more common than you think!

03/03/2026

02/26/2026

Feeling anxious every so often is part of being a human but it's HOW we respond that truly impacts our lives. Often times, we respond with avoidance because it is the quickest way to get relief. Our brain quickly learns that avoiding keeps us safe and we continue to avoid the things that make us scared. However, over time, our anxiety intensifies and our confidence decreases.

If this resonates, you are not alone. It is easy to get caught in this cycle. The good news is that small, brave steps change the cycle. Every time you face discomfort instead of avoiding it, you are teaching yourself safety, confidence and resilience.

Understanding how anxiety shows up in your life is the first step to breaking free from it! Does this cycle have a presence in your life?