Empowering Change, One Connection at a Time
Our Mission and History
The Center for Contextual Change (CCC) is a renowned mental health organization that has been serving the Chicago area for over three decades. Founded by Mary Jo Barrett, CCC has established a reputation for providing compassionate and effective therapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities to overcome trauma, abuse, and interpersonal violence by providing a safe and supportive environment.
Our Services
At CCC, we offer a wide range of counseling services, including individual, group, couple, and family therapy. Our experienced and trained therapists are committed to delivering evidence-based treatments, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Body Inclusive/Yoga work. We cater to individuals of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds, providing services in three locations throughout the Chicago area.
The Collaborative Change Model (CCM)
Our core philosophy is centered around the Collaborative Change Model (CCM), a comprehensive approach developed by our founder, Mary Jo Barrett. The CCM emphasizes the importance of collaboration and mutual understanding in healing and personal growth. By focusing on the complex relationships within families and communities, we empower individuals to break free from patterns of trauma and build resilient bonds.
Training and Consultation
As a leading training center, we offer a variety of workshops and training programs for mental health professionals and educators. Our comprehensive curriculum covers topics such as trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and cultural competence. We provide learning opportunities for schools, churches, and community organizations, promoting a culture of collaboration and social change.
Our Staff
Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists is dedicated to providing exceptional care. Each therapist is trained in multiple therapeutic modalities, allowing us to tailor our services to meet the unique needs of each individual. Our clinicians are committed to ongoing education and professional development, ensuring that our clients receive the most effective and evidence-based treatments.
New Directions
In recent years, CCC has undergone significant changes in response to the evolving needs of our community. As we adapt to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are committed to providing secure video or phone sessions, ensuring that our clients can continue to receive the care they need during these unprecedented times.
Our Commitment
At CCC, we believe that every individual deserves access to respectful, compassionate, and effective therapy services. We are committed to treating all clients, regardless of economic status, race, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, survivor history, or offending behaviors. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities to heal, grow, and thrive.
Therapeutic Experience
The reviews highlight a significant difference in the therapeutic experience provided by the Center for Contextual Change. On one hand, Susan Klyber's review praises the life-changing breakthroughs she achieved while working with Ron Pestana, citing his intuitiveness and insight as key factors in her progress. She appreciates the safe and secure setting, which allows her to make healthy changes with actionable steps to continue her growth.
Allegations of Unethical Behavior
On the other hand, B. C.'s review raises serious concerns about the Center's ethics and integrity. Specifically, they accuse Peg Duros of lying under oath in a divorce trial, allegedly testifying against men and making false claims about a father's behavior. The reviewer claims that Peg Duros never observed them with their son, yet still made damaging accusations.
