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Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP

Clinical Therapist & Adjunct Professor

Rebecca Tenzer is the owner and head clinician at Astute Counseling Services, a private counseling practice in Chicago, Illinois. With over 18 years of clinical and educational experience in the field of mental health, Rebecca specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, grief, and interpersonal relationships using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, and other evidence-based practices. Rebecca has served as a member of the AmeriCorps and is also a Professor of Psychology at the collegiate level.

Education

  • Bachelor of Arts, Sociology and Anthropology, DePauw University
  • Master in Teaching, Dominican University
  • Master of Social Work, University of Chicago

Professional Achievements

  • Hosts a Podcast on 101.9 The Mix Chicago
  • Featured on WGN Radio and WGN TV as a Mental Health and Wellness expert, and completed a radio interview on WGN's 'Women in Business' show
  • Featured on 'Hubbard Helps Podcast' as a Mental Health Expert
  • Featured on DLC Anxiety Podcast as a Mental Health Expert
  • Named a Top 20 therapist in Chicago

Certifications & Organizations

  • Trained as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist
  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
  • Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS)
  • Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP)
  • Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP)
  • Member, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Society of America
  • Member, The National Association of Social Workers

Favorite Piece of Advice

Prioritize self-care, establish healthy boundaries, and remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep contribute significantly to mental well-being. Don't hesitate to talk openly about your feelings, and seek professional help when needed. Remember, it's okay not to be okay, and progress, not perfection, is the goal.

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Forum Comments (44)

I need help!! (he's getting a little bit...much)
Are you noticing any reasons as to why maybe his behavior is different at night? Is he overly stressed at school? Is there some sort of substance use going on that you’re not aware of? Something that could be changing his personality that you could address? If you’re uncomfortable with someone or they’re making you feel Controlled, that’s definitely a red flag. Do you think that this deserves a conversation to see if changes can be made before pulling the plug. Is it worth it?
How to end a friendship with someone.
Friendships are hard to navigate. Sometimes you’re getting along great and other times you’re bumping heads. I would take some time to really think about things after the fight. Emotions are high and you want to take time to process what took place. I would give yourself some space, let them know you’re taking some time to yourself and revisit this after you have time to decompress. If you’re still feeling the same way in a few days then I would act on it. There doesn’t need to be a huge dramatic ending to the friendship, but there can be if you need closure. Since there was an event that took place I’m sure they’re aware of how you feel.I would say create distance, space and then slowly stop talking to the person. If they ask for an explanation then you’re welcome to have a conversation or not. The ball is in your court.
Dealing with friend hypocrisy and data privacy issue
I would definitely bring it up to this person, but not in the group chat. I would have a conversation with them about why you feel like your privacy is being violated and that you explicitly asked them not to do what they did. Maybe there’s a reason behind it or they misunderstood. Either way you have the right to voice your opinion.
What makes you love someone & do you need a reason to love someone?
There are so many instances that you could fall in love with someone or love them as a friend without needing a reason. Sometimes it’s just the right place and time. Or maybe, they may fill a void that needing tending to. Love isn’t always about looks or intimacy, it can be a feeling you have for someone just because!
What are some fun things to do by yourself?
Finding something that you enjoy doing alone that brings you happiness can make a world of difference between a lonely night at home or a relaxing time rejuvenating your inner self! Try some diverse activities to see what you like most; this could be a hobby, self-care, lazy activities, reaching out to a friend, or getting out of the house. Create a list of the things that you enjoy doing and rate them on a scale of 1 to 10. Then, incorporate the things that make you feel good (rated an 8-10 on your scale) into your alone time. Think critically while making your list. Sometimes, the things we THINK we like are truly not what makes us feel good. Sitting on the couch for five hours, binge-watching Netflix with wine in hand, may not actually read high on your scale of feel-good activities, or maybe it does! Try new things and see if you can add to your toolbox of feel-good activities. Some ideas off the top of my head are mindfulness, meditation, getting a workout in, preparing healthy food, socializing remotely with loved ones, cleaning or organizing your space. Try to truly enjoy the time you have.
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Co-authored Articles (66)

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Tell if a Girl Is a Sex Addict

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How to Comfort a Sick Person over Text

You want to comfort a friend or family member who’s sick, but how can you make them feel better over text? It turns out that even just a short, uplifting message can do wonders for their mood and make them feel support...

Where Can You Find Friends Online? (& How to Make Those Friendships Last)

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How to Stay Away from Porn

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90+ Things to Say to Someone Who’s Grieving (& What Not to Say)

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Make Up with Your Boyfriend After Hurting Him

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Get Someone Who Hates You to Like You

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12 Things to Do When You Need to Make a Choice

Life is full of decisions, but what do you do when you don’t know what choice to make? No matter what choice you’re struggling to make, take a deep breath. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of useful strategie...

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Tell Work About a Death in Your Family

Losing a family member is incredibly difficult, and the last thing you probably want to think about is your work schedule. Loss is a big mental and emotional stressor, so it’s completely understandable that you’ll ne...

What to Say to a Loved One with Anxiety: Sample Texts & Phrases

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