About

Welcome to PFECT

About PFECT

At PFECT, therapy is more than just an appointment—it’s an opportunity for growth. Our founders, two devoted therapists, believe that consistent support is the key to progress. PFECT guides children, teens, young adults, couples, and families toward significant growth. Our expertise lies in school refusal and anxiety. Still, Jena and Nicole each bring unique skills to tackle a broad spectrum of life’s challenges. Be it parenting difficulties, communication breakdowns, or overwhelming anxiety, PFECT is here to assist. Our approach is warm, understanding, and empowering, whether you’re connecting with us remotely or visiting our welcoming space in Downers Grove.

"Healing takes time, and asking for help is a courageous step toward a healthier mind."

Meet Nicole

Nicole is your therapeutic partner for navigating the intricacies of relationship dynamics. She works with teens (13+), families, and couples, helping them break down communication barriers, cope with parenting challenges, and learn how to manage anxiety together. With a deep understanding of family dynamics and relationship challenges, Nicole helps families

and couples strengthen communication, resolve conflicts, and build deeper connections. She specializes in helping couples and families see situations through each other’s eyes, fostering better communication and stronger relationships. Nicole is incredibly skilled at guiding parents to understand their teens’ perspectives better. She is highly experienced in addressing school anxiety and refusal.

Areas of expertise:

  • Parenting Difficulties

  • Family Communication Problems

  • Couple’s Issues

  • Anxiety Management

Preferred therapeutic techniques:

  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

  • Person-Centered Therapy

  • Narrative Therapy

  • Solution-Focused Therapy

"Home is where the heart is, but it can also be a breeding ground fo miscommunication,stress, disagreements, and frustration. Since no one lives in isolation, all family members must communicate positively to maintain our safe space."

Meet Jena

"Having worked on the child's side of school anxiety and refusal, I now feel empowered to assist parents/caretakers in supporting their children at home and advocating for them at school!"

Jena’s mission is to support kids (5+), teenagers, and young adults who are navigating the sometimes rocky waters of school-related stress, anxiety, and behavioral challenges. She understands how the pressures and transitions of academic life can weigh heavily on a student’s well-being, thanks to her years of experience in both educational and therapeutic environments. With her practical and structured approach, Jena equips young people with the necessary tools to manage time, stay organized, and foster independence. Regardless of whether she’s assisting a child refusing to go to school, guiding a teenager through a challenging academic change, or aiding a young adult in adapting to new responsibilities, Jena collaborates closely with families to ensure that the progress achieved in therapy is reflected in real, lasting change at home and in school.

Specialties:

  • Mood/Behavioral/Cognitive Disorders

  • Overcoming School Avoidance, Anxiety, and Refusal

  • Enhancing Self-Esteem

  • Encouraging Positive Attitudes and a Growth Mindset

  • Behavioral Disorders, and Cognitive Disorders and on the Therapeutic methods: Solution-focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Preferred therapeutic methods:

  • Exposure Therapy

  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Solution-Focused Therapy

At PFECT, therapy isn’t just about overcoming challenges—it’s about fostering confidence, connection, and lasting change. Jena and Nicole are prepared to support you and your family in starting your therapeutic journey.