Colleen R McClory
Colleen McClory is a dedicated mental health advocate with more than three decades of experience supporting individuals on their wellness journeys. A graduate of North Park University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, she discovered her calling early, beginning her work in mental health at age 28. Her career started in a residential home in Uptown Chicago, where she managed a caseload of more than 40 clients living with chronic schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Though she advanced quickly, the intensity of the work led to early burnout—an experience that shaped her lifelong commitment to education, self-care, and sustainable advocacy.
Throughout her 33 years in the field, Colleen has become known for her empathy, resilience, and ability to connect deeply with others. She is QPR certified in suicide prevention, a WRAP 1 graduate, and an active facilitator with NAMI Northern Illinois, where she regularly speaks to peers about mental health, recovery, and reducing stigma. Colleen is involved with CORE (Community Outreach Advocacy Recovery) and uses social media and community engagement to raise awareness, share personal insights, and encourage open conversations about mental illness. Having lived experience with Bipolar I—diagnosed at age 28—she channels her story into advocacy, offering hope and perspective to those navigating similar challenges.
Continuing to expand her professional and personal growth, Colleen plans to attend Elgin Community College to become both a Certified Recovery Support Specialist and a Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist through Illinois boards. She remains passionate about helping others build resilience by following SAMHSA-aligned wellness strategies, emphasizing the importance of self-care, boundaries, and supportive community environments. Outside her work, Colleen enjoys live music, dancing, and art—creative outlets that enrich her life and reinforce her belief in holistic healing. Today, she stands as a champion for mental wellness, dedicated to fostering understanding, compassion, and positive change in her community.
• WRAP 1 certification
• North Park University - BA
• CORE
• Boone County Drug Prevention Coalition
• Boone County Health Department
• St. James Catholic Church
• Senior Connections
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my tenacity and my willingness to confront and understand my own mental health. Embracing that journey—and openly sharing it with others—has strengthened my resilience and shaped the way I lead, connect, and grow both personally and professionally.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never throw in the towel. Staying committed, even when challenges arise, has helped me persevere and keep moving forward with purpose.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to empower one another. When we lift each other up, we help reduce stigma, create safer spaces, and foster a more supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The opportunities in my field are truly endless—there is constantly room to grow, innovate, and make an impact. The challenges, however, often come down to the grind and earning respect, both of which require dedication, consistency, and resilience.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me, both in my work and personal life, are respect, strong listening skills, and the ability to speak openly within my community about my journey. These principles guide how I show up for others, build connections, and contribute meaningfully to the spaces I’m part of.
Locations
Belvidere,IL
Private practice
803 Becky Court, Belvidere, IL, 61008