Dr. Katherine Schaefer Berg sits in a cream-colored armchair, speaking to a patient during a therapy session in a cozy therapy office with plants and wooden furnishings.

About Me

I'm a clinical psychologist with a doctorate and 20 years of experience treating adults with mental health challenges.

My mission is to help people overcome their mental health challenges using a balance of compassion and science. I am passionate about using evidence-based therapy techniques to help you confront fears, understand patterns in your thoughts and behaviors, discover hidden strengths, and grow in a safe, judgment-free space.

I see patients in my St. Charles, IL office or virtually (within Illinois).

More about my services
A close-up of an adult and a child holding hands outdoors, with the adult's hand gently clasped around the child's hand. 
My path to clinical psychology

As an undergraduate, I developed a strong interest in psychology research, particularly in how we think, learn, and process the world around us, and how we can use that knowledge to make sense of the human experience.

After earning my bachelor's degree, I spent time working as a case manager at a group home for children and adolescents in the foster care system. Working with kids and families as they navigated the complex challenges of the system, I saw firsthand the impact that mental health can have on people's lives.

That combination of a strong academic foundation and a desire to help people in a deeper, more meaningful way led me to pursue advanced degrees in clinical psychology.

Educational Background

  • Doctorate of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University (2007)

  • Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA (2004)

  • Bachelors in Psychology with Minor in Business Administration from Northern Illinois University (1999)

Laptop displaying a webpage for the American Psychological Association, with reports and research articles, surrounded by printed data charts and graphs on a desk.

additional training & CREDENTIALS

Since the beginning of my career, I have continually sought out the most rigorous training available in evidence-based treatment, going directly to the source whenever possible.

  • Diplomate Certification,Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies
    (founded by Dr. Aaron Beck, the originator of CBT)

  • Postdoctoral clinical trial therapist, evaluating the efficacy of CBT for depression
    (trained directly by the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies)

  • Intensive DBT training, Behavioral Tech Institute
    (founded by Dr. Marsha Linehan, the developer of DBT)

  • Currently completing advanced training in Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy

In addition to being committed to lifelong learning, I also offer teaching and consulting for other therapists.

A simple illustration of two ginko leaves arching upwards.
Teaching & Consulting Services
Ginkgo leaves growing on a tree trunk 
Why ginko leaves?

Known as a “living fossil,” the Ginko is one of the oldest living tree species in the world. It outlived the dinosaurs, and even survived the bombing of Hiroshima. Over time, it’s uniquely-shaped leaves have come to symbolize growth, perseverance, and hope.