Lotus Bloom Psychology: Jacob Borge

Hi, thank you for taking the time to visit this page!

It is understandable and valid to feel overwhelmed, unfulfilled, and upset as we navigate our lives. We do not have unlimited amounts of time, resources, or energy, and it is natural that life will bring challenges and experiences that cannot be addressed alone. I believe it is a sign of strength and self-love to know when to seek support, and I am committed to giving space and support to concerns throughout all ages and areas of life. I also strive to continually learn and grow in order to best support and accommodate your preferences, goals, and needs.

When working with me, you can expect an empathetic, attentive, authentic, advocating, and safe space. I am passionate about helping people foster and find their happiness and peace. I also believe your personal experiences are important, and I am dedicated to understanding and respecting your background and perspectives.

To best assist you, I use an integrative style that applies various approaches, as no two situations, people, or solutions are the exact same. I also utilize a holistic view of health that supports mindfulness, self-fulfillment, and the well-being of the whole person. Regardless of the issue or concern, I believe in your strengths and inherent abilities, and that therapy is a collaborative journey. Everyone struggles with their feelings and I believe it is a sign of strength to know when to seek support! I am grateful and excited about the opportunity to work with you!

Adolescents and Young Adults
Growing up can be exciting and fun at times, but it also brings new responsibilities, expectations, and unknowns. I understand how challenging it can be to navigate your individuality and growth while also balancing all the other areas of your life, and there were plenty of times when I felt overwhelmed and unsure. As someone who experienced racism and bullying for being and looking different, I can also relate to how the messages and comments you receive growing up, both positive and unsupportive, can be impactful. I will work hard to foster a safe and understanding space that empowers your voice, strengths, identity, perspectives, and self-love!

Adults
Contrary to what we might have expected or been told growing up, life usually does not get “figured out” in adulthood, and new challenges, stressors, dynamics, and unknowns continue to arise. I am dedicated to supporting people of all ages, and I have worked with adults across the lifespan. I also have a deep understanding and experience regarding family planning, grief, housing dynamics, terminal illness, neurocognitive disorders (Alzheimer’s and Dementia), cancer, and hospice care. However, with any person, there will be areas or concerns that I lack direct experience with, and I will strive to respect, offer space, empathize, and continually educate myself regarding these areas!

LGBTQIA+, Identity, and Culture
My therapeutic approach and values are also deeply rooted in affirming and supporting individuals from all diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. As an adopted Korean American who is a part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I empathize with and understand that identity and social messaging can impact one’s life and concerns. Respecting and holding space for people’s unique narratives and perspectives is very important to me, and I strive to be creative and open-minded. I was given the Distingushed Graduate Award at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology due to my commitment to diversity, multicultural competence, and social advocacy.

Education and Career
After graduating from Loyola University of Chicago, I attended the University of Chicago in a doctoral program where I studied and researched cancer immunology. However, I decided to leave the program after my first year due to feeling unfulfilled and unaligned. While this choice allowed for personal growth and helped me find my dream career, I deeply understand how daunting, challenging, and stressful the process can be. I also have experience regarding study habits, focus, performance anxiety (educational or athletic), mindfulness strategies, and holistic support. Regardless of where you are in your educational and/or occupational journey, I am here to work with you and offer support!

Couples and Families
While couple and family dynamics can be navigated and supported in individual therapy, it is natural that there are also times when concerns are better addressed and navigated with multiple people coming and collaborating in session. During my time in grad school, internship, and as a therapist, I have gained experience and education with couples and families support, and I have empathy and direct knowledge regarding the importance of these areas. I work hard to foster a welcoming, understanding, respectful, advocating, and open-minded space for everyone coming to the session!

About Me
While I was born in South Korea, I was adopted and raised in Fargo, ND for most of my childhood. When I was 18, I moved to Chicago to attend Loyola University of Chicago, where I earned my Bachelor’s in Molecular Biology. After graduating and entering the biomedical research field, I went through a career change and decided to attend The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where I received my Master’s in Counseling Psychology. In my free time, I love trying new things and have a bunch of different hobbies! I enjoy basketball, football, baseball, rollerblading, skiing, playing or listening to music and drawing. I also love exploring the city and hanging out with friends! When it’s time to relax, I’ll be at home playing with my cat Momo and watching Abbott Elementary