Erika Olandese

Erika Olandese is a counselor in training at The Lighthouse Emotional Wellness Center. She is a graduate student at Northeastern Illinois University studying clinical mental health counseling. She specializes in working with women, adolescents, and children who present with anxiety, depression, and ADHD or are currently experiencing life or relationship challenges.

Erika enjoys working at The Lighthouse because there is a unique approach to counseling. She feels we help people learn and grow both individually and together. There is a strong focus on psychoeducation, and she believes it is extremely important to teach people tools and skills to cope with life and improve our relationships.

Erika’s personal experiences of overcoming obstacles inspired her to work in this field. She cares deeply about supporting people through their life’s challenges and finds meaning in her life through helping others.To anyone considering counseling, Erika wants you to know how brave you are for taking this step. Therapy is a safe space to express your feelings or concerns, and we are here to help and support you.

Erika is also an artist and musician. Her bachelor’s degree was in studio art, and her concentration was in ceramics and metalsmithing. Her work was functional, and she created sterling silver jewelry and wheel thrown ceramics. She also sings and plays guitar in a punk band and enjoys writing music.