Cassidy Battista, Therapist

Appointments: In-office and Telehealth
Manages Medications: No, provides therapy only

License: Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Ages Served: 10 to 65+

I believe that healing and growth begin with feeling truly seen, heard, and understood. Every individual carries a unique story, and I approach each client with empathy, curiosity, and deep respect for their lived experiences. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and without fear of judgment. I view counseling as a partnership. I walk alongside my clients as they develop coping tools, process life experiences, and build the confidence needed to thrive in their daily lives.

I am currently working in Homer, Illinois as a lead clinical school social worker for middle school and junior high children while concurrently working part-time here at the White Oak Institute for Growth and Wellness. My work is rooted in a strengths-based and collaborative approach. I believe each client already possesses the capacity for resilience and growth, and together we build upon those strengths to navigate challenges and create meaningful change. I integrate cognitive-behavioral strategies to support emotional regulation and healthier thinking patterns, while also incorporating solution-focused techniques that empower clients to recognize progress and set achievable goals. For younger clients, I also incorporate play therapy techniques as a developmentally appropriate way to process emotions, build coping skills, and strengthen self-expression and confidence. Through play, children are able to communicate experiences and feelings that may be difficult to put into words, allowing healing to occur in a natural and supportive way. I am learned in trauma informed therapy and utilize, when necessary, trauma-informed strategies, ensuring that safety, trust, and emotional regulation remain at the center of therapeutic sessions.

I earned my undergraduate degree in social work with a minor in psychology at Southern Illinois University. I later earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Lewis University. I love spending time outdoors with my friends and family. I’m also a proud cat mom to three cats, who are truly like my babies, and mean the world to me! In my free time, I love getting lost in a good book, cooking, and baking. My favorite thing to do is going on spontaneous road trips with friends and family!

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Cassidy Battista, LSW

Fun Facts Q&A

If I could have dinner with any historical figure who would it be and why?
Cassidy responded, “My great-grandfathers who served in World War Two. Both of them received purple hearts for fighting in the war with such honor. Unfortunately, they passed before I was born.”