Hello, my name is Braden Norton. I joined Alliance Counseling in Rockford, Illinois in 2020 as a full time clinician after completing my Master of Social Work degree at Aurora University. I primarily work with teenagers and adults, however have enjoyed working clients of all ages. I have worked with a large number of clients who were struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, LGBTQ+ issues, phase of life problems, marital conflict, work issues, anger, and self-esteem to name a few. My work is most influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Emotion-Focused Therapy. I draw much of my inspiration from contemporary authors, researchers, and mental health professionals and encourage my clients to find their own sources of inspiration and motivation. I approach my work as a therapist and social worker through a holistic perspective and aim to help my clients work through their issues by learning skills to cope with all of life’s stressors by increasing their distress tolerance, skills acquisition, and implementing behavioral and calming strategies.