About Kim Neilson, LSW

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Kim earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Loyola University and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois. Kim’s approach is strength-based and goal-oriented, blending evidence-based therapies with compassion and practical solutions.

Kim brings 22 years of experience specializing in supporting children, teens, and young adults facing anxiety, trauma, behavioral challenges, academic stress, and family transitions. Currently, Kim is the Lead Social Worker for Illinois’ second-largest school district, overseeing 120 social workers and collaborating with educators to enhance mental health systems. She also has deep expertise in crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and leads district-level crisis response teams. She’s knowledgeable about special education law, IEP/504 processes, and legal issues affecting school-aged children. Additionally, Kim supports student-athletes in managing sports-related emotional challenges, performance anxiety, team dynamics, and identity development—helping them succeed on and off the field.