Benjamin Wrase, LCSW

Benjamin Wrase is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois with 20 years of experience. He helps people facing addiction, trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, anger, parenting strain, and problems with self-esteem or communication. He also supports those dealing with relationship strain, family stress, guilt, shame, and forgiveness concerns.

Benjamin keeps sessions straightforward and focused. He uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to identify patterns of thought and behavior that keep problems going. He blends mindfulness practices to help clients stay present and reduce reactivity. Motivational Interviewing is used when someone needs to find their own reasons for change.

In sessions he listens closely, asks practical questions, and helps people set small, doable goals. He aims to translate insights into specific steps someone can try between meetings. That approach makes progress feel more manageable and less overwhelming.

Benjamin has worked with people from many backgrounds across two decades in clinical social work. His practice in Illinois emphasizes respect for each person’s beliefs and life story. He focuses on building skills for better communication, managing strong emotions, and coping with loss and setbacks.

People who prefer practical tools and clear guidance tend to find his style helpful. He supports clients as they practice new habits, measure progress, and adjust strategies when needed. The work is collaborative and paced to each person’s needs.

How Benjamin’s approaches translate to online therapy

Benjamin uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice unhelpful thoughts and change behaviors that keep problems going. In plain terms he helps clients map out thoughts, try different actions, and track what works. Mindfulness Therapy teaches simple awareness and breathing practices to reduce reactivity and improve focus during stressful moments. Motivational Interviewing helps when someone feels unsure about change by exploring personal values and reasons for wanting different outcomes.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will discuss your goals, preferences, and needs, then suggest methods that fit. Sessions are collaborative - you and the therapist adjust techniques and pacing as progress is observed.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video calls are useful for face-to-face conversation and exercises that benefit from visual cues. Phone sessions can be a good option when bandwidth is limited or for shorter check-ins. Live chat and text messaging allow for brief updates, reflections, and continued practice between longer sessions. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules and to continue work consistently.