Daniela Negrete, MS

From a young age, I knew I wanted to be in a helping profession, and counseling quickly became the path that felt most meaningful to me. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Illinois University, along with a Graduate Certificate in Trauma-Informed Counseling. My experience in both school and clinical settings has shaped how I show up in sessions and the way I connect with the individuals and families I work with.

I support children, teens, and young adults who may be navigating anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, family changes, school stress, relationship challenges, life transitions, and all the in-between moments that can feel overwhelming. I also value working with parents and caregivers, helping them better understand and support their child’s emotional world. I offer sessions in both English and Spanish to help create a space that feels comfortable and natural for the families I work with.

How I Can Help

My approach is warm, genuine, and collaborative. I want therapy to feel like a space where you can take a breath, feel safe, and show up just as yourself without any added pressure. With children, I incorporate play and art-based activities to help them express themselves in ways that feel natural and engaging. With teens and young adults, I focus on building a strong, trusting relationship while supporting them in developing confidence, insight, and practical coping skills.

I meet clients where they are and adjust sessions in a way that fits them. Some days that might look like talking things through, and other days it might look like slowing things down, getting creative, or finding small ways to make things feel more manageable. I believe growth doesn’t come from pressure, but from feeling understood and supported. My goal is to create a space where clients can build confidence and make sense of their feelings. It truly means a lot to me to be part of that process and to support clients as they figure things out in a way that feels right for them.

More About Me

Outside of the counseling space, you can usually find me checking out a new coffee shop, trying out a new recipe, or finding any excuse to be outside. I love spending time with my partner and our pets, and if there are animals involved, I’m immediately happy. I’m someone who really values those everyday moments, whether that’s a good cup of coffee, a walk outside, or just being around the people (and pets) I love, and that energy is something I naturally bring into the space with my clients.