Emily Rebstock, LSW
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Emily Rebstock, LSW •
What are my areas of expertise?
I work with clients navigating challenges related to sports performance, anxiety, life transitions in adolescence, young adulthood, and adulthood, and LGBTQIA+ identity and mental health. Whether you’re an athlete looking to strengthen your mental game, a young adult facing big life decisions, or someone managing daily anxiety or seeking affirming support around your identity, I offer personalized, evidence-based care to help you build resilience and move forward with confidence. My goal is to help you feel grounded, capable, and empowered—both in and out of the game.
What is my professional background and training?
I’m a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) with a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from UIC’s Jane Addams College of Social Work, where I focused on Sports Performance Psychology. I’m also a certified personal trainer and bodybuilding coach, which allows me to integrate both physical and mental performance into my work with clients.
My clinical experience includes working with collegiate athletes through UIC’s G.R.I.T. Program, where I supported individuals in building mental resilience and emotional well-being alongside their athletic pursuits. I’ve also worked with youth through Girls in the Game, leading after-school programs that used sports to empower elementary and middle school girls through health and wellness education.
This combination of clinical training and real-world coaching gives me a unique lens to help clients thrive—in competition, in relationships, and in life.
How do I approach therapy and client care?
I tailor therapy to each client’s needs, drawing from evidence-based practices that support real, lasting change. At the heart of my work is a strong, collaborative relationship—because healing starts with feeling heard and understood.
I integrate approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients build emotional regulation skills and shift unhelpful thought patterns. I also use mindfulness-based strategies to support stress reduction and present-moment awareness, and incorporate narrative therapy to help clients reshape the way they understand their experiences.
Above all, my approach is client-centered—rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a belief in each person’s capacity for growth.
What do I enjoy outside of work?
Outside of work, I stay active through my love of sports—I play soccer and basketball regularly and prioritize fitness as a key part of my routine. When I’m not on the field or in the gym, I enjoy relaxing at home with my cat and unwinding with a good movie. These moments of movement and rest help me recharge and stay grounded, both personally and professionally.