Focuses:
Perinatal Mental Health
Depression
Anxiety
Transitioning to Motherhood
Life Transitions
Daily Stressors
Infant and Child Development
Chronic Illness
Therapy for Therapists and Other Helping Professionals
States: Illinois
Katy Parro, LSW (she/her)
ABOUT ME
I am a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Illinois, currently working toward certification in Perinatal Mental Health. My professional background spans over a decade of experience supporting providers, parents, and families of young children across a variety of settings, including childcare classrooms and administration, Illinois’ Early Intervention system, support groups for pregnant and parenting teens, and clinical therapy practice.
I hold two post-graduate degrees from the Erikson Institute in Chicago: a Master’s in Child Development and a Master’s in Social Work with a specialization in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health. This training has shaped my deep understanding of how early relationships, development, and environmental stressors impact both children and caregivers. My passion for perinatal mental health grew from witnessing firsthand the complex and often invisible challenges adults face as they navigate parenthood and identity shifts.
My approach is warm, reflective, and collaborative. I strive to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and valued as an active partner in your healing. I use a strengths-based, individualized approach that honors your unique experiences, beliefs, and readiness for change. Together, we may incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, and practical coping strategies tailored to support your goals.
THERAPEUTIC FOCUS: EARLY PARENTHOOD, ATTACHMENT & INFANT MENTAL HEALTH
The transition into parenthood is both beautiful and overwhelming. For many individuals, this stage brings unexpected emotional challenges, like feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, identity shifts, and questions about how to connect with and care for your child. These experiences are incredibly common, yet often feel isolating.
Parents of infants and young children may find themselves navigating sleep deprivation, feeding challenges, sensory overwhelm, or the mental load of caregiving. For some, past experiences or trauma can resurface during this stage, impacting confidence and connection. Together, we can explore these challenges with curiosity and compassion, while building tools to support emotional regulation, strengthen attachment, and increase confidence in your role as a parent.
With my background in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, I bring a developmental and relational lens to our work together. This means our therapy focuses on your emotional well-being, and also on the evolving relationship between you and your child. You will begin to understand that early experiences shape patterns of attachment, regulation, and connection. When you are supported, your child benefits too. If you did not get this growing up, we will work backwards to make sure that you have healthy, attached and supportive relationships.
Whether you are navigating pregnancy, early parenthood, or broader life transitions, our work will center on helping you feel more grounded, capable and connected. I will meet you with empathy, curiosity, and care. You don’t have to carry it all alone—I look forward to walking alongside you.
I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to see how I can help you.
Still feeling unsure? This complimentary screening tool is the quickest and easiest way to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.