Dorene Swanson, LPC, CRC

Dorene obtained a Master’s degree in Education and Human Development, Rehabilitation Counseling with an emphasis in Mental Health from George Washington University, and an undergraduate degree in Sociology/Criminology from Northern Illinois University. Dorene is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor. She has an extensive background working with children and adults with a variety of abilities. She previously worked as an educational advocate and held positions in special education with an emphasis on vocational training. Additionally, Dorene has experience in behavioral health in a hospital setting, with patients in the inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and medical settings.

Dorene meets people where they are and walks alongside them through their life transitions to a place of acceptance, growth, and change. She is solution focused and looks for her clients to embrace their struggles and leverage them as a catalyst for change. Dorene believes that all things we experience shape and influence who we are and allow us the opportunity to grow and become the best version of ourselves we can be, with quality of life and contentment.

Dorene offers a Christian worldview to those who embrace their faith and use it as a focal point for self-identity and perspective. Dorene works with people of all ages and is drawn to those with disabilities, the elderly, and those experiencing a major life change such as the birth of a child, parents with adult children going off to college, the death of a loved one, a career change, a divorce, or the diagnosis of a new disability or limitation.

Dorene lives in the McHenry area, has been married since 1990, has two adult sons and a daughter-in-law living in the area, and a high school-aged daughter living at home. She has a dog named Brooks and an aquatic frog. Dorene enjoys having new experiences, exploring local social and recreational opportunities, live music, exercising, and traveling. Dorene is honored to join you on your journey.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step ~ Chinese proverb