Jason Patino, Intern
Credentials: Intern, Therapist
Clientele: Adults, adolescents, individual, family
Location: South Barrington, Virtual (Illinois only)
Insurance: Medicaid
Starting August 18th
Hello, I'm Jason! I'm currently enrolled in Northeastern Illinois University's Master's of Social Work program. I hope to use my MSW to practice psychotherapy and continue to assist people battling depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, substance use and dependency, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. Throughout my 7 years in the mental health field, I have worked with populations of all ages, including children and adolescents, geriatric individuals, and everyone in-between.
I take a client-centered approach where I help others process with paraphrasing and empathetic listening. I enjoy hearing others speak on their experiences and offering support in the form of expanding vocabulary to make it easier for clients to express themselves. Therapy is about guiding, tool-building, and when necessary, nudging.
I have worked in direct service psychiatry since graduating with my Bachelor's in Psychology. For those first 4 years, I was an inpatient mental health counselor helping children and adolescents working through depression, anxiety, social issues, autism spectrum concerns, suicidal ideation, and aggression. Every check-in was a discussion on their feelings and progress towards discharge.
When promoted to an intake position as emergency department crisis worker, I worked with individuals experiencing acute psychiatric crises, including suicidal ideation, psychosis, bipolar episodes, alcohol and drug detoxification, and eating disorders. One of my favorite parts of crisis work came from comforting people in distress and gently reminding them that seeking help is not failure, it is strength. A little bit of humanity goes a long way.
On a more personal note, I enjoy nourishing my brain by playing video games, listening to eclectic music, socializing with friends, reading and re-reading books and articles, roasting my own coffee, and trying new food whenever possible. I strongly believe that providing care to others is best when I care for myself.
I hope to be an effective stepping stone on your mental health journey!
