McKenna Jerger

MA, ALMFT

(she/her)

Practice Operations Coordinator & Psychotherapist

I am a psychotherapist and the Practice Operations Coordinator at Wildflower. In my coordinator role, I am responsible for a variety of administrative, HR, billing, and insurance-related operations. Collaborating closely with other members of the leadership and administrative team, I work to achieve organizational goals, foster effective internal and external communication, and support the overall mission of Wildflower. Central to my responsibilities is ensuring a seamless and positive experience for both clients and Wildflower staff. I am dedicated to creating an environment where clients feel welcomed, valued, and supported throughout their time at Wildflower. Additionally, I prioritize the well-being and professional development of our clinicians, striving to provide them with the resources and support they need to excel in their roles.

I believe that everyone deserves to have the space to process their thoughts and emotions with someone they trust. In my role as a psychotherapist, my style is warm, empathic and
strengths based. Rather than focusing solely on challenges, I work with my clients to identify and amplify their inherent strengths. My approach is rooted in genuine empathy, with the intention to provide a haven for clients to explore their feelings without judgment. As someone that works with people from all walks of life, I know that everyone’s journey is unique, and I tailor my practice to meet individual needs with the utmost sensitivity. To do this, I draw from a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Solution Oriented Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy. My advanced training includes Gottman Methods Couples Training Levels 1 and 2, enriching my ability to support couples using Gottman’s techniques.

My areas of clinical interest include helping individuals navigate mood disorders and anxiety, relationship issues, and life transitions, which include marriage and divorce, parenthood, career changes, and loss, among others. I also work with couples to support them in strengthening their communication and intimacy during life’s stressors. I firmly believe that every couple deserves access to tools and resources to nurture their relationship, with therapy serving as a valuable avenue for growth and healing. I find fulfillment in working with both couples and individuals addressing perinatal and reproductive mental health concerns.

My educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in psychology and leadership studies from the University of San Diego, followed by a master’s degree in marital and family therapy from the same institution. Before joining Wildflower, I gained invaluable experience in an intensive outpatient program, where I delivered empathetic, culturally competent, and evidence-based care to clients of all ages grappling with severe mood and anxiety disorders. My focus extended beyond individual well-being to encompass supporting the loved ones of my clients, ensuring they felt heard, supported, and empowered throughout the therapeutic journey. Subsequently, I transitioned into private practice where I have primarily worked with adults and couples navigating issues related to anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns.

  • IL ALMFT License Number: 208001043
  • Supervised by: Danelle Rhoades, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
  • NPI Number: 1043868664
  • Accepts: BCBS PPO and Blue Choice Plans, self-pay and out of network clients

Selected Training & Affiliation

  • Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1Training
  • Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 2 Training
  • Emotion Focused Therapy
  • Solution Oriented Therapy
  • Internal Family Systems Therapy
  • Member of Postpartum Support International

Key Beliefs

  • As a marriage and family therapist, I believe that all work is relational in some capacity, and that diving into relationships––even in individual therapy––can provide insight and growth.
  • Regardless of how simple it may sound, being reminded that we are human, and we are allowed to make mistakes as we navigate life for the first time can profoundly enhance our sense of self.

More About Me

  • My hobbies include running, hiking, and spending time with friends & family.
  • I love traveling and experiencing new places with the ones I love.
  • My favorite things to do in Chicago are going on walks by the lake, trying new coffee shops and restaurants, and game nights with friends.