Sydney McRay, M.A.

Sydney McRay, M.A., earned her masters degree in clinical psychology from Wheaton College in 1998. Prior to joining Alliance, she worked for over 10 years in cross-cultural counseling and higher education. Her practice includes individual, couple and family therapy. She enjoys helping those facing diverse challenges, including problems of anxiety and depression, trauma, struggles with loss and grief, cross-cultural adjustment difficulties, relationship and family conflict, and spiritual struggles related to mental health.

"Clients seek help for a variety of reasons. Many times it takes great courage to work through their difficulties—through their places of pain and suffering. In working with clients, I strive to create a free and fearless space where mental and emotional healing can take place. As Henry Nouwen writes, ‘Our most important question as healers is not, “What to say or to do?” but, “How to develop enough inner space where the story can be received. Healing is the humble and demanding task of creating and offering a space where others can reflect on their pain and suffering without fear and find the confidence that makes them look for new ways right in the center of their confusion."

Therapy offers an opportunity for reflection that often inspires a greater sense of hope, insight and courage. I count it a privilege to be able to share in my clients individual journeys as they grow and make positive long lasting changes for their life.

Sydney loves to cook and enjoys time with her family biking, traveling and exploring the North woods of Wisconsin. She also is an avid reader and has been involved in the same book club for over fifteen years. In her work with college students she has visited interns in over 20 countries around the world. Sydney is active in her church community and enjoys leading small groups of high school and college-aged students.

Sydney can be reached at
630-653-2300 ext. 600.