Elizabeth Turek's journey into mental health counseling stems from a profound desire to understand the human experience. "I have always been drawn to understanding people's inner worlds—why they think, feel, and act the way they do—and I wanted to turn that curiosity into a meaningful career," she explains.

For Elizabeth, mental health isn't just an academic interest—it's personal. Through her own experiences and observations, she has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of having the right support during life's most difficult moments. "I want to be part of that support system for others, especially those who may feel unheard, misunderstood, or alone in their struggles," she shares.

Her approach is rooted in empathy, non-judgment, and ongoing personal growth. Elizabeth is particularly passionate about helping people navigate anxiety, depression, grief, and identity issues, with a special focus on creating safe spaces where clients feel empowered to change and heal.

When searching for the right graduate program, Elizabeth found everything she was looking for at National Louis University. The CACREP-accredited counseling program offered the rigorous, clinically focused education she sought, while the flexible evening course options made it possible to pursue her dreams while managing other commitments. "What convinced me that NLU was the right place for me was the combination of the quality of the program and the university's deep commitment to accessibility," Elizabeth says. The decision has proven to be transformational.

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Elizabeth's career aspiration is clear: to become a licensed mental health counselor specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and identity issues among adults and young adults. She has a particular passion for working with individuals from Eastern European backgrounds who often face cultural stigma around mental health and challenges adjusting to life in the United States.

This focus isn't arbitrary—it's deeply informed by her own background and the gaps she's observed in culturally sensitive mental health care. Looking ahead, Elizabeth plans to integrate hypnotherapy and Gestalt techniques into her practice, embracing a holistic, client-centered approach that addresses not just symptoms but deeper patterns and unmet emotional needs. "My experiences have taught me that healing occurs when people feel truly seen, and that is what I strive to offer in my work," she reflects.

One of Elizabeth's most transformative experiences at NLU came through her internship and practicum in Integrative Family Counseling and Psychology. Working with diverse clients facing challenges ranging from anxiety and depression to cultural adjustment and grief, she learned to meet each person exactly where they were with both empathy and clinical skill.

"What changed my perspective was how much clients value authenticity and connection over having all the 'right' answers," Elizabeth shares. "I began to trust my instincts, lean into presence and curiosity, and release the pressure to be perfect."

Elizabeth's path hasn't been without obstacles. Balancing a full-time job, an internship, and graduate school simultaneously pushed her to her limits. "There were days when I felt physically and emotionally drained trying to meet deadlines, be present for clients, do my job well, and still be a dedicated student," she admits.

What carried her through was her unwavering determination and a clear sense of purpose. She reminded herself daily of why she started—her passion for helping others and commitment to personal growth. Through discipline, intentional self-care, and learning to ask for help, she not only survived but thrived. "Looking back, I am proud of how I persevered, even on the hardest days," Elizabeth says. "This experience strengthened my resilience and showed me that I was capable of more than I thought, not only academically, but also professionally and personally."

When asked to describe National Louis University in one word, Elizabeth doesn't hesitate: transformative. "My time at NLU fundamentally changed how I see myself, both as a person and as a future clinician," she explains.

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What makes NLU special, according to Elizabeth, is the genuine care woven into every interaction. She recalls a particularly stressful week when she reached out to a professor about a deadline, expecting a quick logistical response. Instead, the professor took time to check in on her as a person, not just a student. "This simple gesture reminded me that NLU professors truly care about our well-being and success, both academically and professionally," she says. "Whether it's through thoughtful feedback on papers, engaging class discussions, or a willingness to share personal clinical experiences, NLU professors embody the kind of advisor I aspire to be: present, knowledgeable, and deeply human."

For students considering NLU, Elizabeth offers this encouragement: "Trust the process and know that you will be supported every step of the way. This program isn't just about academics—it's about personal growth, professional development, and learning how to truly connect with others as a future advisor."

She acknowledges that challenges will come, especially when juggling work, school, and internships, but emphasizes that students won't face them alone. "The professors genuinely care, your peers will become part of your support system, and the program is structured to help you succeed, even when life gets overwhelming."

Her advice? "Stay open, ask questions, embrace the discomfort of growth, and take pride in every step you take forward. If you are passionate about helping others and want to become the best version of yourself, NLU is the place to truly transform yourself, not just into an advisor, but into a more grounded, resilient, and confident person."