Working with Adults with Disabilities

Our Philosophy

Counseling for Special Needs Adults believes that all people with physical, intellectual or developmental disabilities should have opportunities to experience independence, gain insight into who they are, and be filled with inspiration so they may achieve their dreams and goals. To provide such opportunities, we use a variety of tools in the counseling process, such as technology, art, writing, games, and role playing. These tools help to form trusting, therapeutic relationships so clients can meet their individualized treatment goals.

Our Story

While some adults with disabilities have opportunities to access mental health services through a day program or residential placement, there is a substantial number who do not have this opportunity. Finding mental health professionals with expertise in the field of disabilities can be an overwhelming task for these individuals. Counseling for Special Needs Adults was formed to bridge this gap.

Meet the Founder

Christine Santini, LCPC

Christine Santini, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, holds a Masters degree in Communications from the University of Pennsylvania and a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Counseling.

She has 25 years of experience as a counselor and has worked in a variety of settings, such as community mental health, hospice, elementary education, and residential care. For the past 13 years, her passion has been treating children and adults with physical and developmental disabilities.

Christine is currently a member of the American Counseling Association, the Illinois Counseling Association, the Illinois Mental Health Counselor Association, and the National Association for the Dually Diagnosed.