Erin T. Patel, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Staff Psychotherapist
Erin Patel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and staff psychotherapist at The Aspen Center. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Communications from Rutgers University in New Jersey. As an undergraduate, Erin was a Research Assistant in the Psychology Department, where she worked on a romantic relationship study that used video testimonies to assess couples’ interpersonal comfort level and behavior patterns. She was also involved in the Association for Women in Communications.
After a brief stint in Public Relations in New York City, Erin realized that her true passion lay in the field of Social Work and Therapy. She returned to Rutgers, earning her Masters in Social Work. During her graduate studies, Erin worked as a therapist at a non-profit organization, providing individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as case management to low-income families and children. Erin also worked as a middle school social worker, interacting with students on an individual basis to discuss goals specified in their Individualized Education Plans. She also conducted small weekly group sessions, teaching social skills to students with special needs.
After receiving her Master’s degree with honors, Erin moved to Chicago and began working at Thresholds, one of the oldest and largest providers of social services for persons with mental illnesses and substance use disorders in Illinois. Starting as a Community Support Specialist, Erin became a Team Leader, managing a team of four case managers. On a daily basis, she provided case management and therapy, helping her patients manage severe mental illness, and reach their physical, interpersonal, and financial goals, while maintaining a peaceful and positive life in the community.
Erin is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families overcome their battles with anxiety, stress, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, relationship/communication management, and interpersonal issues.
