Empower yourself to live the story you desire
The Art of Living Counseling Center is a group of clinicians dedicated to creating therapeutic environments where clients are invited to delve deeper into their personal stories for purposes of healing and empowerment. We believe life is best understood as an Art Form rather than a series of accomplishments, and we strive to help our clients focus on the craft of becoming a better human. We refer to this craft as; The Art of Living.
Our dynamic narrative approach uses the metaphor of Story to guide and organize the therapeutic process for individuals, couples, and families. With this approach, clients come to understand that they have been given powerful stories that have shaped and guided their development as a person. Ultimately, they get to choose what narratives to keep and which ones they want to edit or discard. By knowing your story, you can step into the fullness of who you are becoming.
Art of Living Providers
*Cyndi Mesmer, LCPC - Co-Owner & Clinical Director*
Cyndi Mesmer is a white cisgender, able-bodied, straight woman. She is the clinical director and co-owns, with her husband Steve, The Art of Living Counseling Center in Crystal Lake, IL. Cyndi has worked in all levels of care for mental health and has about 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and groups. She primarily works with clients working through trauma, both past and present. Cyndi sees the world through the lens of story and invites others to engage their stories in a way that brings more freedom and life, both personal and communal. She is a seeker of racial justice and advocate for other oppressed groups, believing that there should be equal rights and flourishing for all humans.
*Steve Mesmer, Lcpc - Co-Owner & Therapist*
Steve Mesmer received his Masters in Counseling Psychology from Trinity International University and is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. He has 22 years of experience in outpatient settings working with adolescents and adults. Steve, with his wife Cyndi, founded The Art of Living Counseling Center in 2004. Steve completed his advanced certification in Trauma and Abuse from the Allender Center in Seattle, WA, and has extensive experience helping individuals dealing with childhood trauma and abuse. Steve is passionate about using counseling and teaching to help couples transform their fragile and conflictual relationship into one that is rugged and alive. He also has extensive experience and training in men's issues, anxiety disorders, OCD, divorce recovery, and spiritual formation.
*Sandra Woznicki, Lcpc - Therapist*
Sandra Woznicki is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and is Nationally Board Certified. She received her Master's Degree from National Louis University in Human Services/ Counseling in 2001. Sandra loves working at The Art of Living, where she experiences a loving community of professional colleagues. She believes in the resilience of the human heart and our capacity as people to overcome the obstacles that life brings. Sandra sees her work as partnering with her clients and their natural resilience to help expand those abilities and help them love themselves and others more generously.
*Melissa Karner, Lpc - Therapist*
Melissa Karner is a Licensed Professional Counselor and is Nationally Board Certified. Melissa received her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from National Louis University in 2015. She has gained extensive experience working with families of children and adolescents over the past 10 years. Melissa has a passion for working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, and depression. She is trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Services Offered
The Art of Living Counseling Center offers a range of services, including individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and training. Our clinicians work with clients of all ages and backgrounds, addressing a variety of issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. We use evidence-based approaches and tailor our treatment to meet each client's unique needs and goals.
In addition to our therapeutic services, we offer training and consultation to mental health professionals, businesses, and community organizations. Our training focuses on trauma-informed care, narrative therapy, and other evidence-based approaches to mental health treatment.
Thank you for considering the Art of Living Counseling Center for your mental health needs. We look forward to the opportunity to support you on your journey toward healing and empowerment.
Positive Experiences
The reviews from Kathryn Spangler, Danielle Rueb - Castillejo, and other clients have showcased a sense of professionalism, compassion, and expertise from the team at The Art of Living. Kathryn shares her nearly seven-year experience with various therapeutic modalities, praising the care and professionalism. Danielle appreciates the highly skilled and attentive approach of Cyndi and her team, feeling seen and cared for. These reviews highlight the positive impact of the therapy sessions and the therapists' commitment to serving those who are navigating struggles and traumas.
Negative Experiences
In contrast, Susan Wynne and Johnathan Sanchez share their unfavorable experiences. Susan cautions others to be discerning when choosing a therapist, hinting that the methods used at The Art of Living can lead to severed relationships. Johnathan expresses disappointment and sadness regarding Cyndi's words, which he finds shaming and unprofessional. He recommends a different therapy center and advises Cyndi to reevaluate her approach.
