Linda Summers,Licensed Clinical Psychologist

My name is Dr. Linda Summers, and I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Collinsville, Illinois. I enjoy working with individuals ages 16 and beyond and specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship concerns. I use a solution-focused approach informed by each client's past and current life experiences. My approach to therapy will vary depending on each client's identified problems, their therapy goals, and their strengths and weaknesses. My therapeutic approach includes psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered, and somatic therapies. I work to enhance my client’s well-being by increasing their self-awareness, identifying their psychological and spiritual needs, and teaching them to employ new strategies in problem-solving.

I work with clients 16 years old and above who are managing a myriad of life problems and help them to live more fulfilling lives. These problems often present themselves as depression, anxiety, traumatic memories, physical ailments, relationship distress, and sometimes even dissociation. I help clients better understand their thoughts and feelings and increase their abilities to effectively manage their emotions. A wise person once said, 'They don't care what you know until they know that you care.' Coming to therapy can be hard and once there it is essential to feel safe and respected. I create a safe space in which clients can openly discuss their dilemmas without fear of judgment. Feeling accepted is a must in a therapeutic relationship.

As a young college student, I was mentored by two wonderful professors, also psychologists, who affirmed what I believed about myself; that I was designed to help others to grow. Honestly, I could not imagine any other vocation for myself. Having been a psychotherapist for over 30 years, whether working in psychiatric hospitals, the VA, outpatient clinics for active-duty military of all branches, private practice, school settings, or mental health clinics, I have been both challenged and fulfilled while assisting individuals of all ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic and education levels to become more effective in their respective lives and relationships. Helping clients establish goals for their progress in therapy is essential to providing effective treatment. This process will begin in our first session and become more defined as therapy progresses. We will look to build on your personal strengths and chart a doable course forward.

In our initial session, I will focus on developing a safe and affirming relationship while gathering important information about your current circumstances and social and psychological history. By the end of that session, I want to be able to summarize your circumstances and offer recommendations about a way forward. You may expect me to ask many questions and listen carefully to your replies.