Dr. Wende Pannell

Dr. Wende Pannell is an Illinois-licensed clinician with 22 years of experience. She helps people who are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or low self-esteem. Her style is calm and direct, aimed at helping someone feel steadier and more able to cope day to day.

She builds a space where people can talk through painful events and current struggles. Conversations often focus on improving communication, managing strong emotions, and finding practical ways to handle stress. Dr. Pannell draws on Trauma-Focused Therapy alongside other approaches to address the effects of past harm.

Her work blends methods that help change unhelpful thinking and strengthen present-moment skills. She uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice patterns and try different responses. Attachment-Based and Client-Centered ideas shape how she pays attention to emotional needs and relationships.

Many clients come with concerns such as relationship strain, grief, compassion fatigue, ADHD challenges, chronic illness stress, or career and life-transition questions. Sessions focus on concrete tools for coping, clearer communication, and rebuilding a sense of agency.

Dr. Pannell aims to support each person’s goals rather than follow a one-size-fits-all plan. She works collaboratively to set priorities, practice new skills between sessions, and track progress over time.

How these approaches work for online therapy

Trauma-Focused Therapy focuses on the impact of past harm and on reducing current symptoms that come from those experiences. It helps people process difficult memories and learn strategies to manage triggers and intense emotions.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT, helps people notice unhelpful thoughts and decide what matters most before taking action. It is often used for anxiety, stress, and life-change decisions where values-guided steps matter.

Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early relationship patterns shape current reactions. It can help clients understand why they repeat certain behaviors in close relationships and try new ways of connecting.

Finding the best approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss goals, try different methods, and adjust the plan based on what helps. Clients and therapist work together to choose exercises and homework that fit daily life and recovery goals.

Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy routine and reduce travel time. It can allow for shorter check-ins when needed, or regular weekly sessions that match a person’s schedule. Confirm current session formats before booking so you know how sessions will be held and can pick the option that fits your needs and daily life.