ADDRESS: 377 W. Virginia St., Crystal Lake, IL 60014
PHONE: (815) 707-4806
INTAKE: Gia@centerforcourage.com
También ofrecemos servicios en español! Pregunte hoy mismo por nuestros terapeutas bilingües.

Jannette Simmons, MA; ALMFT
Marriage and Family Therapist - Bilingual (English & Spanish)
"Courage starts with showing up and
letting ourselves be seen"
-Brene Brown
Introduction
You may not be entirely sure what you’re looking for as you glance at this page—but I want
you to know that you are not alone. It would be a privilege to hold space for your story, your
questions, and your inner world. All you have to do is show up. I understand how profound, liberating, and at times overwhelming it can feel to allow ourselves to be truly seen. At our core, we are wired for connection—we long to be fully known and fully loved. Yet, life experiences can sometimes leave us questioning whether that kind of connection is even possible. In those moments when we feel stuck in our relationship with ourselves or others, having support can make a meaningful difference. Therapy can offer a space to build awareness, develop tools, and begin moving toward a way of living that feels more authentic and aligned with who you are.
Experience & Background
I earned my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Wheaton College, where
I participated in a treatment observation team under faculty supervision, gaining early
clinical experience. I later completed a one-year internship at a community center and
have since worked in private practice for nearly three years.
In addition to my work in the United States, I bring nearly two decades of leadership and
service experience through cross-cultural ministry and community-based work in my
home country. I have worked extensively with marginalized women, facilitated recovery-
oriented programming, and served diverse populations across Mexico, Guatemala, and the
Dominican Republic. These experiences deeply shaped my passion for working with
culturally and ethnically diverse individuals, couples, and families—including those with
Third Culture Kid (TCK) backgrounds.
I have completed training in Prepare/Enrich (premarital counseling), Trauma-Focused
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and I am currently pursuing certification as an Art
Therapy Practitioner. I have also completed the Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
externship and Gottman Method Level 1 training—both evidence-based approaches for
working with couples.
I am a professional member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
(AAMFT), reflecting my commitment to ongoing growth and excellence in clinical practice.
Areas of Focus
• Couples, individuals, and families
• Women's Issues
• Mid-Life Crises
• Trauma-informed care
• Faith-integrated therapy (when desired)
• Cultural competency and diversity issues
• Grief and loss
• Personality disorders
• Neurodivergence and developmental challenges
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
*I work with adolescents through adulthood, supporting clients in understanding relational
patterns, healing attachment wounds, and developing healthier ways of connecting.
Creative & Expressive Work
Creative expression can open pathways to healing that words alone may not reach.I have over a decade of experience facilitating creative play and expressive groups across diverse settings.
Bilingual Services
I offer therapy in both English and Spanish, helping reduce language barriers that often
prevent individuals and families from accessing care. I also provide psychoeducation and workshops for Spanish-speaking communities particularly those impacted by developmental challenges.
My Approach
I view the therapy space as sacred—a place where your story is held with care and respect.
My role is to provide a safe and compassionate environment while also gently challenging
and empowering you to move toward meaningful change.
More About Me
I have been married for almost 24 years and my husband and I have been graciously
entrusted with two children. I love my little Afro-Caribbean family and find joy in living
simply, hospitality, dancing, reading, movies, traveling, nature, and creative expression.
Whether through painting, cooking, or meaningful conversation, I profoundly value faith,
authenticity, connection and laughter as essential aspects of life.
