Kathryn Foster, LCSW

Katie serves as Deputy Executive Director at Youth & Family Counseling (YFC), providing strategic leadership across clinical operations, staff development, and organizational effectiveness in support of the agency’s mission. She joined YFC in December 2022 and brings over a decade of experience in behavioral health, clinical supervision, and systems‑level leadership. Katie plays a central role in strengthening clinical quality, advancing professional development, and aligning day‑to‑day operations with long‑term agency strategy. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from UIC’s Jane Addams College of Social Work and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Her clinical background includes trauma‑informed care, 15+ years working with children in the DCFS system, strengths‑based practice, and relational approaches. While her role is primarily administrative, her leadership is grounded in clinical best practices and a strong belief in the healing power of therapeutic relationships. Her greatest professional satisfaction is leading others in their own development and growth.

Outside of work, Katie enjoys things that support balance and well‑being like, going on adventures, near and far, with her wife and little ones, creative projects around the house, and cooking.