Janell Larson, MSW, LCSW

About Janell:

Janell has worked as a social worker since 2011, with experience in psychiatric assessment and referral and school social work. She specializes in working with adolescents and young adults working to manage anxiety, adhd, Level 1 autism, mood disorders and coaching and education for parents of children aged 3+. Janell also has experience working with children and adolescents who are found to be twice exceptional. 

Janell utilizes a cognitive behavioral approach while incorporating aspects of polyvagal theory, a theory rooted in the neuroscience of our fight/flight/freeze response. She works in conjunction with families, enacting psychoeducation and building a treatment plan collaboratively, towards improved life satisfaction for the entire family. She is certified to administer the Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP), a compliment to therapy developed by psychiatrist Dr. Steven Porges to aid in nervous system regulation. In addition to SSP, Janell has received training in Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy practices through The Embody Lab LLC.  Her trauma-responsive approach utilizes applied polyvagal theory, somatic psychology, and parts work.

Janell earned her Bachelor's degree in both Psychology and Sociology at Northern Illinois University and her Master of Social Work degree from Aurora University with a specialization in both clinical and school social work. She is an active school social worker at a middle school in the northwest Chicago suburbs, and has been a member of the DuPage County Mental Health Subcommittee since August 2023. During her free time, Janell enjoys spending time with her family and friends, time outdoors, reading and being active.