attic therapeutic
studio
Philosophy
I am a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience and hold a master's in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. I view treatment as a growing, developing relationship, use humor when it makes sense and strive to inspire creative collaboration, through a trauma-informed lens. I have a great deal of experience working with anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD, school refusal, life transitions, step-down from higher levels of care (hospital or IOP/PHP are common) and neurodiversity.
Attic Therapeutic Studio was imagined by Matt Cleaver (me,hello!) from the belief that needs should drive therapeutic practice and intentional space can provide respite and promote wellness. I have spent my time in clinical work at various levels of care and have always tried to think critically and creatively about what could be most helpful. I would be sitting in a session and a client would say something along the lines of, "I wish we could (insert potentially therapeutic activity here)" and I would think, "sure in a perfect world...", and then I thought, "wait, why can't we?". With that intent, Attic Therapeutic Studio was born.
I often engage art, mindful practice (in many forms), traditional talk therapy and am open to exploring other helpful tools in session. Sometimes space/different spaces in life can present their own challenges, so immersive experiences (out of the office) can be incorporated into treatment (read more). I work with individuals, families (however you define it) and relationships with people of nearly all ages (min. age of eight w/ some exceptions) and feel each area of practice informs the other. I don't view therapy as a place to manage and process trauma and conflict exclusively and hope to support those I work with in discovering the tools needed to experience joy while supporting healing and growth. Consultation and clinical supervision (MSW and LSW) are also offered for professionals.
“Many people are alive but don't touch the miracle of being alive.”
- Thich Nhat Hanh
SERVICES
All services listed below are designed as a guide to be adapted to the needs of the client. Frequency, location and length of session are common considerations in developing the therapeutic process with each client. Once you find something that feels like a good fit, click the "Schedule" button below the list of services and you'll be redirected to my client portal. If you're a new client, you will need to request an initial consultation to start the process (video and phone consultations are offered free of charge). If you have any questions (if you don't see something you're curious about, please, just ask!) or prefer to start the process with email or a phone call, please visit the contact section to get in touch. For professionals seeking consultation/supervision, there is an option to request an appointment for that as well (follow the link for new clients if you are a new professional consult).
Individual
1:1 session for individual clients. This can take the form of traditional talk therapy and the studio space and resources are available for mindful practice and creative expression through various mediums. Sessions can be utilized as a stand-alone support or blended with additional supports to create a more intensive treatment program.
Relationship and Family
Relationship and family work can often stem from a specific conflict initiating the outreach for therapy. Someone or everyone feels like they are at a stand-still or progress may feel impossible. While these issues are always important and sometimes necessary to address immediately, the goal is to develop a conflict process within the family or relationship system that can promote sustainable, healthy stasis. Individual and collaborative art and meditation as well as experiential (improv/roleplay) methods are tools that can be explored in addition to talk therapy. Extended formats with additional correspondence and/or in-the-moment/in-home coaching/support when needed are common treatment considerations.
Social Context/Person In Environment
Experience is not something that "happens to us" as we move through life. Our contribution lies in our interaction with these environments (and others within them) and this collective experience impacts the way we live and the choices we make. Sometimes space/different spaces that we navigate can present their own challenges, so immersive experiences can be incorporated or, in some cases, can be the primary focus of treatment, occurring out of the office in the context(s) of one's life. This model is fitting for many challenges and is of particular help to those struggling to integrate coping into regular routines, those struggling with fears or phobias, social anxiety or folks requiring more than once-weekly interaction to remain in the least restrictive environment. Re-framing the relationship one has with the environment and the relationships within it can be an integral part of the meaning making process and and foster a renewed sense opportunity.
Brief Treatment
Brief treatment is a solution-focused model, emphasizing behavior change, symptom reduction and/or management of a specific life crisis or transition. The goal is the development of more effective strategies and tools to manage stress, anxiety and interpersonal relationships. This can range from a situation at work to a specific relationship issue or any situation that feels like it needs acute attention. This starts with a 6-12 session framework and is adjusted based on the needs of the client, relationship or circumstance.
For Professionals
1:1 clinical supervision for LCSW candidates and individual consultation offered for full licensed clinicians (please click here and follow the links for an initial consultation ).
Get in Touch
1450 W. Waveland Ave.
Chicago, Il 60613
Ph: 773-365-9991