Kellen M. Smith, BA, CADC, CODP

Kellen M. Smith, BA, CADC, CODP I (currently completing her MSW), is a graduate of Elgin Community College with an associate degree in applied science of Human Services and Substance Abuse Counseling, completed her Bachelor of Arts degree through Columbia College of Missouri with a Major in Human Services and a triple minor in Psychology, Sociology and Criminology. Kellen is nearing the completion of her Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Walden University.

Kellen has the unique ability to combine true-life experiences with clinical analysis resulting in the most effective course of action for the clients she serves. As a primary counselor, group counselor, and group leader, Kellen is focused on intertwining real-world examples with research and data. Her compassion for understanding the human side of client behavior sets her apart from many who operate “strictly by the book”. No stranger to personal tragedy, Kellen shares her real-life experiences providing insight and understanding into the world of mental health and addictive behaviors and demonstrates from first-hand experiences how faith, perseverance, and belief in oneself can create positive results in one’s life.

Prior to joining the FJ Psychological Services team, Kellen has worked with Gateway Foundation Lake Villa, Nicasa Behavioral Health Services, Greater Illinois Sober Living (Footprints to Recovery), Northwest Community Counseling and mentored at risk adolescent girls through the Pioneer Center of Human Services.

As one who has devoted her life’s work to improving the human condition, Kellen has also made a personal and professional commitment to combat the ill effects of Human Trafficking. In this field, she has completed the Cook County Human Trafficking Taskforce training, she has completed the Operation Underground Railroad training, the A21 Campaign Facilitator Training, the Polaris Project Training, the Stewards of Children Training, as well as completing the Illinois 40-hour Domestic Violence Training Course.  

Kellen has experience in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She currently works with adults, adolescents and young adults who are experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma.

She loves spending time with her daughter Addison, her fiancée Will, their dog Stino, her parents Tom and Mary, reading, and writing. Substance abuse and mental health have played a significant role in her life, and she is ready to assist others in navigating through their own healing journey.