Viktor Terpay, LPC

Locations: Virtual Illinois

Pronouns: He / Him / His

We are raised to believe life is simple, safe, and straightforward.

Then there’s a shift: difficult circumstances happen, pain and hurt become a reality. Challenging circumstances threaten our ability to move forward, and now you may be feeling stuck and hopeless. The world no longer seems simple.

We all encounter painful and overwhelming experiences, but it doesn’t make the pain of them any easier to endure. When any situation arises, we create stories and narratives, helping us make sense of those experiences. Sometimes though, the internal story doesn’t always serve us, leaving us feeling empty and disconnected from ourselves and others. The narratives we tell ourselves are supposed to add vitality to our lives, but pain and overwhelm can turn meaning making against us. 

In therapy, we get to collaborate together in order to rewrite the meaning! I’ve experienced that when people are too close to a situation, it can be hard to see the details clearly. I offer a therapeutic relationship where we can uncover and explore the unhealthy stories, so we can give voice to meaning that aligns with your life. It can be hard to search out painful experiences and how they’ve impacted us. Instead of going alone, we can move forward together. 

The meaning you’ve attached to your life matters and impacts the choices you make daily. Let’s make sure you are an active agent in your own life. If you’re looking to strive towards deeper realization, greater autonomy, and increased self-determination, then counseling could be for you. Therapy can be a creative space, so part of our work together will be shaping the environment during our time together to maximize your efforts. Research shows that it isn’t the specifics around circumstances that impact happiness. Instead, it is the meaning we make of our circumstances. My hope is that a deeper developed understanding of your life circumstances will enable you to create a powerful sense of meaning and purpose in your life. 

Immigrating to the United States  I experienced emotional, behavioral, and identity struggles. As a result, I developed habits that  felt too large to overcome. It was supportive relationships that truly helped me overcome challenges and develop into the person I am today. I was able to grow and heal in the context of people who supported, encouraged, listened, welcomed, and ultimately believed in me. It was these relationships that  fueled my desire to seek education and training so that I too could be a relational presence creating a safe and transformative space for individuals to thrive.

There are many factors that impact our development, how we see ourselves, and how we relate to others. And sometimes it may be difficult to know who you are, who you want to be, and how to take the next step. Reaching out for support can be scary and overwhelming. You don’t have to carry the weight by yourself. I believe in the transformative power of therapy and relational presence. Together we can work through painful experiences and begin to embrace the fullness of who you are.