Dr. Desirée Wilkinson is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and founder of Anchor Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Wilkinson completed her bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas at Austin and earned a joint doctorate degree in the areas of Clinical Psychology and Developmental Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Wilkinson’s graduate training followed a scientist-practitioner model, providing her with a strong foundation in both research and scientific practice. She continued her training at McMaster Children’s Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario, where she gained further expertise in the treatment of children and adolescents, as well as specialized training related to autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Upon moving to Chicago, Dr. Wilkinson worked at a group private practice for several years before starting her own, outpatient therapy practice.

Dr. Wilkinson believes strongly in the importance of using evidence-based or scientifically supported treatments. She has undergone extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), including training related to specific interventions that fall within the CBT umbrella: acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), behavioral activation, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), habit reversal training, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing. Dr. Wilkinson also regularly attends national conferences to ensure that she is always advancing her knowledge base.

Dr. Wilkinson enjoys working with individuals of all ages. Her approach to treatment is marked by compassion, curiosity, and humor and she aims to support others in making changes based on their unique values and goals.

Dr. Wilkinson is accepting new clients, and she currently has availability on Tuesdays and Thursdays.