Dr. Clifton Burns Jr
My first career includes 17 years of retail management. I worked in multiple divisions, environments, and roles within the retail management industry. Most of my experience was in big-box retail environments or corporate offices, so I understand the expectations and stressors of P&L management, marketing, staff performance/recruitment/training & development, shrinkage, O.S.H.A. compliance, and merchandising. I transitioned from the retail management industry to the human services industry in March 2010 after earning my Master’s degree in Human Services, with a specialty in Mental Health Counseling. I recently obtained a doctoral degree in Human and Social Services. This information is pertinent for adults who need assistance to cope with work-life balance, corporate industry standards, stressful work environments, conflict management with co-workers, and work performance due to compassion fatigue or inappropriate time management.
My first career includes 17 years of retail management.
First session
I ensure that each client feels empowered to be the leader of their journey, as I assist each client in achieving goals by using the S.M.A.R.T. model. The expert of my client’s life is the client.
Strengths
I utilize the eclectic approach. As individuals, our emotional, behavioral, and psycho-social needs are completely different. This approach draws from multiple theoretical orientations to fit the specific needs of every individual, whose needs may not be resolved using only one approach.
Origin story
I have worked as a therapist throughout my career w/o being in the role of a therapist. As a retail manager for big-box retailers, I used crisis management skills and ongoing de-escalation techniques with my supervisors, staff, peers, direct reports, and unsatisfied customers who needed someone to apply critical thinking to resolve their situation or create win-win solutions. I decided to leave an industry that was financially rewarding and follow my passion by working in an industry where I would find personal fulfillment.
Treatment methods
Trauma-Focused CBT
Our goal is to empower each client to create their narrative as we address behaviors, trauma, or behavioral health symptoms that hinder personal, professional, and educational success. We identify the triggers and previous experiences that are causing "fight or flight" reactions and reduce the weight (or power) that the client is assigning to this person (or situation).
Person-centered (Rogerian)
My role as the therapist is not as “The expert” or “The fixer.” I facilitate the client’s therapy goals and empower the client to be the leader. I utilize a solutions-focused and person-centered approach within therapy to identify problems, develop plans, create paths, and establish monitored S.M.A.R.T. goals.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions3333 Warrenville Rd, Naperville, IL 60563, Regus office or Suite 200