Welcome

I am so glad our paths have crossed!

I am Mary Madsen-Heskin, practice owner and solo therapist (counselor or clinician) at River’s Journey Counseling.


Since 1998, I have provided counseling services in residential, inpatient, and outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment settings. Although my work at not-for-profit agencies was fulfilling; I always felt like there was a piece missing to my therapeutic scope. I was not able to explore a more holistic approach with clients or offer non-traditional opportunities for stress and mood management and personal growth.

I opened my private practice, River’s Journey Counseling, in 2013. My hope was that all of my clients would find a safe and healing space. To discover and explore all facets of the self on their personal growth journey. To create lasting and positive change.

colorful dragonfly over grayscale river and rising sun

Bridging the gap between traditional talk therapy and energy-informed, holistic wellness.

Support as you navigate life’s journey to reach your fullest potential.

woman picking yellow and orange flowers near a river

Integrative and Holistic Therapy

I do not provide “cookie-cutter” therapy.

My therapy style reflects that.

Every client is different, with a unique story, needs, and goals. So, why would I use the same strategies with every client? I integrate different tools based so that I can best hold space and serve the individual.

  •  Start where you are, work at your pace with my  Person-Centered Therapy style. Gently moving through understanding, healing and growth with a trauma-informed style of therapy.

  • Change any negative or limiting thought-patterns, beliefs, habits, and behaviors that are keeping you feeling “stuck” in life (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). 

  • Explore old stories and narratives, fears and Shadow work while accessing your most creative and inspired self with Jungian-informed Therapy.

  • Focus on real-life solutions (Solution Focused Therapy) to create positive change in your life.  

  • Tap into your strengths and increase your sense of self-esteem and self-assurance; knowing you have the skills to tackle life’s ups and downs (Strength-Based Therapy).

  • Practice self-care, awareness of self (mindfulness), stress management, relaxation, and self-exploration (meditation) or learn strategies with Energy Psychology techniques Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT or “tapping”) and experience Reiki to facilitate a deeper level of healing and personal growth.

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My values inform my therapy style

  • I believe in equality.  I believe we are stronger; together. 

  • I believe diversity is what makes life so beautiful and rich. 

  • All sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions are welcome in my office. My pronouns are she, her and hers.

  • I consider myself an ally and safe space for all clients.

  • Like everyone else, I am still growing and learning.

  • I believe you have value and worth. You are stronger than you realize.  You have a place in this world that is uniquely yours. 

  • I am honored and grateful that you decided to share your path with me. 

Training and experience informs my therapy style

Education

  • Southern Illinois University at Carbondale; 1996. BA, Psychology

  • Illinois School of Professional Psychology; 1998. MA, Professional (Clinical) Counseling

License and Certifications

  • Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)

  • National Certified Counseling (NCC)

  • Masters Addiction Counseling (MAC)

  • Usui Reiki Master Practitioner/ Teacher

Professional Associations

  • Illinois Counseling Association

  • Illinois Mental Health Counselor Association

  • International Center for Reiki Training - Affiliate Member

  • Reiki Health Association - Member