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Testing Services at DASC

Did you know DASC also offers a full range of psychological assessment? Our staff offers comprehensive assessments for a range of needs. We are equipped to do academic and achievement testing for ADHD and Learning Disabilities and can also do personality and psychiatric diagnostic assessments.

To see if we have the services you need, please contact us at 773-494-5505. 

 

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Meet Our Clinical Staff >

Rodney J. Benson, Ph.D      

Stacey R. J. Belmont, Ph.D.

Katherine Schaefer Berg, Ph.D.

Jena Stallings, Ph.D.

Thomas Alm, Psy.D.

Elaine Gordon, LCSW

Melissa Novak, LCSW

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Who is DASC?

The Depression and Anxiety Specialty Clinic of Chicago was founded in 2005 by Rodney J. Benson, Ph.D. after it became apparent that there was a significant shortage of quality Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) available in Chicago. Many people with treatable disorders, such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Social Phobia and Major Depressive Disorder were suffering needlessly because they could not access quality care. It has been the mission of DASC to address this shortage by providing services to those suffering and also offering training opportunities to other professionals to increase the availability of CBT. DASC currently has 8 clinical staff specializing in using and teaching CBT.

Experience and Certification Matter

Academy of Cognitive TherapyMany professionals claim to use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy but have no formal training or certification. DASC is one of the only area clinics that is run by a certified Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy. This means that you can be confident that you will get the best, most scientifically-supported treatment available. We have the training and experience needed to deliver the best treatment.

What can be done about anxiety and depression?

If you think you have a problem with anxiety or depression, you have many treatment options.  Most problems with anxiety and depression can be treated without medication.  Even if you are currently taking medicine, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been shown to be an effective addition to the treatment program.  It is one of the most effective treatments for these disorders.

Will it take a long time to work?

Many people do not seek therapy for anxiety or depression problems because they think they will continue to suffer for months or years.  In fact, many people see reductions in their anxiety or depression in just a matter of weeks.  And the changes that they make in their lives can last a lifetime.

To take the first step, call us or fill out our online contact form to schedule an initial evaluation to see if Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy is right for you.  A brief assessment can tell you about the nature of the problem and what your treatment options are.  All contacts with our clinic are private and confidential.  If you have been suffering with anxiety or depression in silence, you could be on the road to recovery more quickly than you think.

Mission

The Depression and Anxiety Specialty Clinic of Chicago was founded to provide the most up-to-date, scientifically sound therapy to adults and adolescents who suffer from anxiety and mood disorders in the Chicago area.  Though tremendous advances have been made in the treatment and management of these disorders, many people do not have access to the best care.  It is our mission to educate the public about their options and to deliver the best, most competent care.

Philosophy

Our goal is to provide the most effective, scientifically-proven treatments to people suffering with anxiety disorders and depression.  It is our belief that treatment works best when patients are thoroughly informed and educated.  We believe it is right to educate patients about all of their treatment options to find the solutions that work best for each person.  Only then can people make the right decisions for themselves and their families.  We strive to maintain the highest level of professional knowledge and to ensure that we are prepared to deliver cutting edge, excellent care.