At Braden Counseling Center, we understand that people are complex and complicated. While we are all free-thinking human beings, our thoughts, wants, and desires are typically linked to our personal experiences throughout our lives.

The unfortunate reality is, people face very real stress every day. While each of us experience different kinds and levels of stress, it still affects all of us in varying ways, and sometimes it can be overwhelming. We are here to guide, counsel, and treat all of our clients with any mental and psychological troubles that they face in their day-to-day lives. By enlisting the help of a caring psychiatric provider, you bring yourself one step closer to feeling like you again.

The professionals at Braden Counseling Center are licensed and qualified to perform unbiased psychological assessments of our clients in order to get them on the fast track to recovery. A treatment plan cannot be made properly without first identifying the aspects of your life that trigger stress.

Psychological Testing and Assessment

There are many reasons why an individual would undergo a psych evaluation, and it is nothing to be afraid or ashamed of. Just as a General Practitioner would examine your body for any physical ailments, a psychiatric provider needs to do the same for your mind in order for you to get better. Some of the reasons why a person needs to be evaluated are as follows.

Peace of Mind

We know that we all experience stress. We also know how stress can negatively affect our everyday lives. What many of us are unclear on is what we can do about it. A psychiatric evaluation is the first step toward trying to find a better way to deal with our stress. At Braden Counseling Center, we utilize the latest in tried and tested methods to get to the heart of what is causing you stress, and then formulate a plan that can begin the process of healing.

Child Psychological Evaluation

As difficult as it is for an adult to understand the psychological implications of the stress that they go through, it is exponentially more difficult for a child. We tend to think of children as always having the time of their lives, and that nothing that is going on can affect them in any negative way. Nothing could be further from the truth. Children face stress and doubt in the same way as adults, the only difference is, they probably understand what is happening to them even less than adults do.

If a child is falling behind in school or is getting in trouble, the default reason that many people think is that they are not trying hard enough or lack discipline. This type of thinking can dangerously affect a child’s development because the reasons why they are not performing the way they should be far more complex. A child psychiatric provider, like those found at Braden Counseling Center, will be able to help them understand what is going on in their minds and put them on a path toward recovery. Do not make the mistake of thinking that there is no way your child needs psychiatric assistance. Get them the help they need, just as you would if they faced a physical illness of some kind.

The Three Factors of a Psychiatric Evaluation

A psychological evaluation can be broken down into four main components.

  • The Therapist
  • The Client
  • The Psychiatric Provider
  • Trust

Without these four areas coming together, it is impossible for any progress to be made. The therapist needs to fully understand the history that has led the client to their current position, as well as the methods that they use in order to effectively treat their patients. The client needs to be open, forthright, and willing to accept that they might need changes in their lives. The psychiatric provider needs to be knowledgeable of the use of psychiatric medication to manage the challenges of the client.  Finally, the two must trust each other that the patient is willing to put the time and effort into healing, the therapist has their best interests in mind, and that progress takes time.  Patience is key in these situations.

Our Main Assessor, Amy Adams

Braden Counseling Center is lucky to have Amy Adams on staff to provide psychiatric servicesand treatment for adults and children. Amy Adams (MSN, APN, FNP, PMHNP) is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master’s Degree in Nursing from Illinois State University and psychiatric certification from University of St. Francis. She comes to us with 25 years of nursing experience in a wide variety of settings, caring for patients across the life span. She has been working as an advanced practice nurse for 12 years with an additional certification in family medicine. This additional training and experience helps her to assess and treat clients in a more holistic manner. She has experience in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Amy believes in creating a caring therapeutic environment and working with her clients to establish an individualized plan of care that fits their needs in order to achieve their goals.

Start Down the Path of Recovery

Whatever reason why you might feel that you or a loved one need psychiatric services, please understand that there is absolutely no shame in admitting that you need a little help. For many years, mainstream media, movies, and television shows have portrayed the need for psychiatric help as a weakness. It is completely wrong and dangerous to make this assumption. We have no problem admitting that we need help with work, our relationships, or even something as simple as fixing a car, therefore we should not feel intimidated to admit that we might need a little help fixing our minds as well. Contact Braden Counseling Center today if you or someone you know could benefit from a psychological evaluation. We fully live by our motto “New Ways for Better Days,” and are here to help you.

We offer psychiatric services in Bartlett, Sycamore, Rochelle, Oregon, Geneva and Elgin.

What Our Clients are Saying.....

I called so many other counseling office first, either no one answer the call or no confirmed days for class, with Braden, right away, walk me through the process, fees and needed information, able to set up appointment next day to do the testing and schedule me the class right way. very helpful, not like some other place asked me to fill out so many medical forms although just 10 hours DUI Risk Education.I am really happy with them, they are also not charge as much as other company.
Lan Hankes
Lan Hankes
22:56 03 Oct 23
Everyone was very professional and kind!
Cody Neuschwanger
Cody Neuschwanger
16:49 18 Sep 23
Worked with Dwayne Thomas at the North Aurora location and couldn't be more satisfied with the respect and understanding he operated with. Really knows how to connect and convey the right message.
Bret Van Gampler
Bret Van Gampler
23:30 05 Sep 23
Very friendly and did a great job.
Matthew Quirk
Matthew Quirk
21:41 18 Aug 23
I appreciate the open dialogue allowing attendees to share their thoughts, which enriches the learning experience, but also to have the focused guidance of a counselor to ensure the point of topic.
Joe Freehill
Joe Freehill
18:44 04 Aug 23
I see Amanda Cimaglia and she is by far the most compassionate, respecting and caring counselor I've had. With all the craziness I'm going through she really keeps me grounded. Always listens to me and never ever rushes me but gives me time for her positive feedback.I've always had trouble trusting someone with my issues because I'd find out that the counselor did not go according to her perfession but listen to others to get something out of me. I never had once had that once with Amanda Cimaglia and she let's me work through things I need to at my own pace. And for that I thank her 😊 . She has my mental health at her best interest. Wish there was more counselors out there like her so others can have a safe spot to speak without judgment like I do.From the very bottom of my heart, thank you Amanada Cimaglia and Braden Counseling for having her on board. I'm sure all your staff and team members are just as compassionate ❤️
Maggie Opiola
Maggie Opiola
19:52 26 Jun 23
David Jones is an outstanding counselor. I feel very fortunate to have him as our Lead on Saturday Morning group sessions.
John Boehm
John Boehm
06:31 24 May 23
Staff was amazing. Everything was explained and all questions answered.
Wanda Sutton
Wanda Sutton
23:21 21 Apr 23
understanding compassionate reflextive knowledged tool based
happy holiday
happy holiday
20:10 09 Dec 22
Braden Counseling is a clinic we frequently refer to because of the clinical quality and comprehensive services. All interactions we have had with Braden have been very positive and helpful; excellent coordination of care.
Maggie Miilano
Maggie Miilano
16:57 02 Dec 22
Braden counseling is very good at what they do. They do great things. I’ve been through there system more then once, I recommend them all day every day. Take your pick. I’d say choose one these guys. Very friendly, never mess up and very interactive. If you need anything they are there. I have met a lot of the staff and they all are true and gifted. Thank you Braden counseling for your great works!
Cody Bell
Cody Bell
23:02 21 Sep 22
Dr.Braden is an incredible, sweet and motivating leader! I’m so blessed to have found her center to successfully get me through 10 years of care. Everyone should know if I overcame my many obstacles they can too! Work hard and put up a fight!
Lisa Tegeler
Lisa Tegeler
00:19 29 Jul 22
As an attorney, finding the right treatment center for my clients is critical to their success. I have been referring my clients to Braden Counseling for years. They are always hard working, professional, and accomodating.
Brian Mirandola
Brian Mirandola
16:59 26 May 22
I love my therapist at Braden, I always feel listened to and I look forward to my visits. All of the staff I've interacted with has been super friendly and helpful, and the environment is very calming. Best therapy center I have been to.
Devon Buza
Devon Buza
15:25 25 Jun 21
Very professional and they were extremely nice, I'm happy with my choice of going threw Braden counseling center for my classes!
gage butts
gage butts
19:43 07 Feb 21
Amazing place
Ralph Burton
Ralph Burton
16:30 30 Jan 21
Braden Counseling’s staff is outstanding! The counselor conducted herself in a very friendly, courteous, and professional manner. I was treated with dignity and respect. I was put at ease and the evaluation went smoothly, and efficiently. I would definitely recommend Braden Counseling for all of your personal needs.😊
Gregory Link
Gregory Link
17:16 21 Jan 21
Excellent first visit with Dr. Braden.
Gary Duffett
Gary Duffett
21:18 19 Dec 20
My son liked his first visit and is open to going back again.
Veris Nicole
Veris Nicole
22:36 12 Oct 20
Very friendly and welcoming staff. Highly recommend
Jennifer Rosales
Jennifer Rosales
21:50 29 Jul 20
I could not be more satisfied with braden counseling with thier help. Very patient with clients in crisis and need of thier help.
randall nuckles
randall nuckles
15:12 09 Jul 20
I truly got the help I needed here and I appreciate all the staff member for making it a comfortable environment to feel free to talk about what's on your mind and making sure you get the proper help you need.
Majah’s Mayhem
Majah’s Mayhem
19:30 20 May 20
Love the staff .. came here for help and they definitely made a point to take care of all my paper work I needed .. would highly recommend them mostly Nikki shes a great help with anything .. always so cheerfull here 🙂
miguel tovar
miguel tovar
00:58 17 Dec 19
All staff very nice, respectful, caring, patientWould definitely recommend
Zack Newby
Zack Newby
01:23 18 Nov 19
One word....AMAZING !Very Comprehensive and Professional service. I would Highly Recommend to any one in need.
Joseph Perry
Joseph Perry
16:58 10 Jul 19
Dr. Jane Braden was absolutely wonderful and help me though my whole dui process, made it easy and help me understand.thank you some much DR. Branden for everything, your the best !!!😜
Sean Battersby
Sean Battersby
18:46 12 Mar 19
Friendly staff, very professional and results driven
Jeffrey Kerner
Jeffrey Kerner
13:53 01 Aug 17
Caring staff. Dr Braden was extremely compassionate and supportive during a difficult time. Recommend to anyone!
T Anderson
T Anderson
21:54 06 Apr 16
Braden Counseling center has the finest professionals around. I'd highly recommend their services should a need arise.
Ndisox
Ndisox
03:03 29 Mar 16
Braden Counseling is amazing! Very kind, very friendly staff. Treated me as though I'd been family. I'd recommend them to anyone!
Jessica jorgensen
Jessica jorgensen
22:34 24 Mar 16
They have amazing staff. They listen and help out so much I would recommend them to anyone .
Brad Jorgensen
Brad Jorgensen
22:33 24 Mar 16
The staff is very welcoming and friendly and professional when you walk through the door!! I had been dealing with some anxiety for some time.... I am so glad I went to Braden counseling my first visit there I felt a sense of being welcomed and actually listened to!! Needless to say when I walked out the door I felt a weight off my shoulders I haven't felt in sometime!! So thank you to your wonderful staff!! I would highly recommend Braden counseling to anyone who is looking for a great counselor to talk with and help with your mental health!!
Deborah Mccoy
Deborah Mccoy
19:00 24 Mar 16
I was an emotional wreck when I first went. I was nervous and probably not making a lot of sense. The staff seemed to understand and immediately put me at ease. By the time I left, life just didn’t seem so bad. Thank you Braden Center for being there.
Pam Pascolini
Pam Pascolini
15:57 24 Mar 16
The staff is friendly and courteous. I was amazed at how helpful they were. These people are top notch and very professional. I would highly recommend this office.
Tricia Hernandez
Tricia Hernandez
15:45 24 Mar 16
Braden Counseling Center has always been wonderful. Their front staff is very kind and helpful and Dr. Braden is nothing but professional during all encounters I have had with her. Their facility and staff care about providing quality services to their clients. I highly recommend them.
Amanda Poturalski
Amanda Poturalski
13:56 24 Mar 16
Would give this place more then 5 stars if I could. I Highly recommend them. Staff is amazing there and so helpful .
Master Shake
Master Shake
21:57 23 Mar 16
I highly recommend Braden Counseling. All the staff there is amazing and very sweet 🙂
Melissa Stathis
Melissa Stathis
21:48 23 Mar 16
Highly recommend this place. Very helpful and always courteous. Ms. Rogers is the best and has excellent skills with people to help them through a multitude of problems.
Sarah Schuyler
Sarah Schuyler
20:37 23 Mar 16
Amazing place! The counselors have helped me through some of my lowest points & the girl at the front desk, Cindy, is always super helpful, kind & courteous. Highly recommend!!!
Jennifer Alexander
Jennifer Alexander
19:54 23 Mar 16