BRADEN NORTON, LCSW
Phone: (815) 520-5916 | Fax: (815) 399-5767
bradennortonlcsw@gmail.com
Hey, I’m Braden Norton. I’ve been a full-time therapist at Alliance Counseling since 2020, after earning my Master of Social Work degree from Aurora University. I work with adults and teens (13+), and while I often connect well with younger adults, I’ve supported clients across many different ages and life experiences.
My work is grounded in a strengths-based, collaborative approach. I help clients navigate a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, identity exploration, life transitions, relationship challenges, anger, work stress, and self-esteem struggles.
I draw from a blend of evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Interpersonal Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Family Systems Theory, and Emotion-Focused Therapy—tailoring each session to fit the individual. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all model of therapy.
What sets my approach apart is that I don’t just teach these strategies, I use them in my own life. From mindfulness to stress management and habit-building, I’ve leaned on these tools personally, which allows me to show up with empathy and grounded, real-world insight. Alongside my clinical training and lived experience, I also stay current with research, authors, and thought leaders in the mental health field, and I enjoy sharing practical resources with clients when it supports their goals.
I take a holistic view of well-being, recognizing the important connections between mental, physical, emotional, and social health. Together, we’ll focus on building meaningful, sustainable change that aligns with who you are and what matters to you.
Growing up playing team sports taught me the value of working together and trusting others to achieve a shared goal. I bring that same mindset to therapy, showing up as a supportive teammate as you work through challenges and move toward growth.
If it sounds like we might be a good fit, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to connect or answer any questions.
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2010 | Illinois State University - Bachelor of Science in Graphic Communications
2020 | Aurora University - Master of Social Work
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I’ve worked in a variety of fields over the years—including landscaping, hospitality, graphic design and marketing, real estate, and restaurant management—which has given me a well-rounded, real-world perspective I bring into my work as a therapist.
During graduate school, I interned with Rosecrance Health Network, supporting adult criminal offenders through the Winnebago County Drug Court recovery program. I also worked at the Rosecrance Ware Center, focusing on community mental health.
In May 2020, I joined Alliance Counseling to complete my clinical supervision and continue my path toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
ACCEPTED INSURANCE: BlueCross BlueShield PPO Plans, Anthem, Aetna, United Healthcare & Evernorth (Formerly Cigna). Unfortunately, I am not able to accept Medicaid insurance plans.
