Background 
Andrea Grimes, MA, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC).  She graduated with her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Bradley University in 2013.  Before working at Balanced, Andrea worked for ten years in community mental health agencies, including McLean County Center for Human Services in Bloomington, and the Human Service Center in Peoria.  Andrea works mostly with teens and adults on a variety of topics, including trauma recovery, ADHD, mood management, healthy relationship skills, grief and loss, anxiety and stress management, and organizational skills.  She has a background in substance use group treatment and moved to individual counseling to serve clients seeking a deeper therapeutic connection. 

Approach to Therapy
Andrea started her education in the sciences-she has a BS in Biology- but she found her way to her true calling in mental health when she realized she wanted a real connection to the person under the neuroscience.  She prefers evidence-based approaches, including Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.  She is a listed provider of Cognitive Processing Therapy, one of three treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder recommended by the VA. As of 2025 she is Level 1 Gottman Couple’s therapy trained.  Andrea believes that therapy should have a sense of forward momentum at a pace that matches the client’s needs. Clients interested in working toward specific goals may find Andrea to be a good match. 

About Andrea
As a native of rural central Illinois, Andrea is delighted to be able to serve the communities where she grew up.  Her office is decorated with the colorful works of local amateur artists. She is a parent, an avid gardener, a dog owner, and a science fiction enthusiast.  Each of these requires patience and determined hope for the future.  Her upbringing and education have turned Andrea into a blend of pragmatism and “natural listener,” and she hopes she will continue to grow for the rest of her life.