CJ Hilliard, MA

CJ Hilliard (MA) is a fifth-year doctoral student at Adler University in Chicago, IL currently completing his doctoral internship at Drexel University Counseling Center. His clinical interests encompass various areas, including but not limited to mood diagnoses, identity development, life transitions, existential concerns, performance enhancement, psychology within sport, and diversity-related issues. 

CJ believes in fostering a collaborative relationship to create a supportive space for clients to mindfully explore the complexities, challenges, and beauty of being fully human in the world. CJ's work is rooted in relational approaches, namely, humanistic and existential therapy, which believes in the importance of the client’s unique world view; the present moment; the relationship between therapist and client; and increasing the insight and awareness of clients in order that they may move in the world with more curiosity, intentionality, and authenticity. Although CJ's work is rooted in humanistic and existential therapy, he aims to utilize an integrative approach in order to ensure he is meeting the specific and unique needs of those he works with. Within the space of therapy, you may notice that CJ rarely gives direct advice, instead, CJ prefers to "join with" clients and be a fellow traveler with them on their journey as they explore their inner and outer world. Whether someone is seeking support for personal growth, entering therapy for the first time, managing anxiety or depression, addressing trauma, exploring relationships, or seeking a new path forward, CJ aims to provide a warm, curious, and non-judgmental environment.

Outside of work CJ practices self-care by working out and practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, skateboarding, watching the History channel, producing music, spending time with his cat Rez, catching up with friends and family, and supporting his favorite sports teams — FC Bayern, the Cincinnati Bengals, the Chicago Cubs, and the Ohio State Buckeyes!