Our Therapists

Alison McGannon, LCPC

LCPC

About: Alison is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, youth, couples, and families struggling with a variety of issues. Her perspective is a solution focused one that views individuals as the experts on their own lives. She provides goal-directed treatment focusing on a person’s strengths. Alison believes that the relationship, connection, and trust between a client and counselor is the true measure of how helpful the counseling experience will be for an individual. She has worked in outpatient mental health settings, residential treatment settings, social service settings, employee assistance firms, and private practice.

Alison earned a Bachelor of Arts from Ohio Wesleyan University in 2001 with a major in Sociology, and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University in 2005.

Location: Lakeview in Chicago and Virtual

Anastasia Scangas, LCSW

LCSW

About: Anastasia utilizes a client centered, empowerment-based approach; she believes that the client is the expert on their life, and, while they may know what they want to work on, she can assist in identifying tools they already have, and developing new tools needed to achieve goals. Anastasia believes in the power of the therapeutic relationship, and understands that there is no “one size fits all” modality. Anastasia’s “objective” as a therapist is to help the client move towards self actualization through self-discovery and skill development. Anastasia employs ACT, CBT, DBT, and other modalities as determined by the case and the client. When possible, Anastasia brings neurochemical and neurobiological aspects into the therapeutic space, uniting her two areas of specialization. Anastasia is a licensed clinical social worker; she obtained her master of social work degree from Loyola University Chicago in 2016. Anastasia specialized in working with women, POC, and the LGBTQIA community. Prior to entering the field, she obtained her master of science in organic chemistry from Northwestern University, specializing in neuro-medicinal chemistry.

Anastasia has a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health from Loyola University

Location: Uptown in Chicago and Virtual

Angie Rush, LCSW

LCSW | She/Her

About: Angie Rush, LCSW, provides therapy for children, adolescents and their parents. She has a warm, inviting and casual style of interacting with families. Her approach is to treat the child within the context of the family. She believes that parents are an integral part of the treatment and encourages active participation in the therapy. She utilizes a relational approach that is integrated with other forms of treatment that may be applicable, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy and trauma focused interventions. She believes that change occurs when the child or adolescent feels connected to their family and community and grows individually as their sense of self further develops. Angie truly enjoys helping parents understand their children based on child development and temperament and helping children to regulate their emotions and behaviors in productive ways, resulting in a stronger relationship with more laughter and greater enjoyment.

Angie joined the practice in August 2015 and has over 17 years of experience working with children and families. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign in 1998. She has worked in various outpatient settings, including a children’s hospital focusing trauma focused treatment for victims of abuse and neglect. She has extensive experience working with children and adolescents who have experienced various forms of abuse, trauma and traumatic loss. Angie has particular expertise in addressing anxiety and is trained in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE). She works with parents to reduce parental accommodations related to their child’s anxiety and increase supportive reactions to their child/teenager’s anxiety.
At Rooted Connections, Angie is a therapist and clinical supervisor. Angie provides individual therapy to children, adolescents and their parents. She treats a wide variety of symptoms, including anxiety, depression, grief/loss and trauma. In addition to SPACE treatment, another area of specialty for Angie includes consultation services for parents related to healthy sleep habits and sleep interventions for infants and young children. She provides evaluations of sleep disturbances and interventions to eliminate sleep disturbances, such as frequent night wakings, difficulty remaining in the bedroom and bedtime refusal.

Angie enjoys being outdoors and loves to garden, hike and enjoy the peaceful serenity of nature. She is also a spiritual person and has an immense wonder related to the world and the interconnectedness of all living things. While participating in a spiritual gathering, she was struck by the leader’s discussion about the root system of redwoods. Redwood trees are centered and strong because their roots are robustly intertwined with each other. The roots often go only five or six feet deep, but they extend outward up to a hundred feet from the trunk. Each tree is deeply sustained by the larger, wider system of roots that provides stability, enabling them to grow high in the sky. This example in nature perfectly exemplifies the name of Rooted Connections.

Location: Ravenswood in Chicago and Virtual

Anne Bardo, LCSW

LCSW | She/Her

About: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about providing a supportive, empathetic space for those I work with. I have five years of experience working in community mental health, including residential treatment, where I became passionate about serving those associated with the child welfare system, those formerly incarcerated and individuals across socio-economic statuses. Through this work I have helped individuals with a variety of concerns including chronic mental illness, issues related to the criminal justice system, issues related to child welfare involvement, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, and traumatic events. I am passionate about providing trauma informed services and I am certified in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I am also certified in Triple P (Positive Parenting Program).

I value collaboration and client centered care. I believe in community-based treatment and I work hard to assist my clients in reaching their treatment and life goals. I believe in meeting my clients where they are, and I work to provide a safe space to explore struggles, discover strengths, and guide in self-discovery and personal growth

After graduating with my Bachelors of Science in biology from Beloit College in 2015, I completed two AmeriCorps service years that solidified my desire to help others. As a result, I obtained my Master of Social Work from UIC’s Jane Addams College of Social Work in 2019.

In my free time I love to read, tend to my plants, spend time with my two cats and binge watch all Bravo reality TV shows.

Location: Ravenswood in Chicago and Virtual

Anne Pothour, LCSW

LCSW

About: Anne Pothour is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides individual therapy with a particular interest in helping people heal from trauma. Her approach is attentive and non-judgmental. She will sit with you as you share your pain, listen, and explore with curiosity to encourage a deeper understanding of your emotions. Anne views people as experts in their own lives and will utilize your strengths to work toward change. Anne enjoys assisting people in identifying, expressing, and regulating their emotions.

Anne has a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University

Location: Lakeview in Chicago and Virtual

Artesian Collaborative

Artesian Collaborative can help you navigate pain and tension, turning them into growth opportunities that improve your life and relationships. We’ll provide support that fits your cultural context and unique situation. Artesian Collaborative clinical interns partner with Greenlight Counseling under the supervision of Ben Tudor, LMFT, and Ben Durschlag, LCSW. Please visit Ben Tudor and Ben Durschlag’s Greenlight Counseling profiles to learn more about their experience and specializations.

Location: The Loop in Chicago and Virtual

Ayna Kaur Virk, LPC

LPC | She/Her

About: Ayna provides a listening ear in the midst of a chaotic world. As your counselor, she is committed to creating a safe environment to retreat, explore, and grow. She utilizes a Narrative Therapy approach to help clients understand the story of their lives; who is the narrator, who is staying, and who is leaving. As a South-Asian woman, she understands the strife and complexities of carrying this identity while navigating societal pressures and familial obligations. Ayna has a particular passion for the South Asian community, working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, processing trauma, and identity issues. She offers a judgment-free zone for clients to explore their stories and walk with them through life and its challenges.

Her ideal client is someone wrestling with identity, learning to navigate young adult years, dating, or family concerns. They may come from a strict household or an immigrant family where identities are given, not found. They want to learn who they are and who they are willing to take with them on their journey. They want to heal, face the truth of what happened to them, and be bold enough to find their true selves. They have goals to understand themselves and the world around them.

“I am passionate about mental health, growth, and healing. I care deeply about creating a safe space that will guide you to healing and growth. I offer a judgment-free zone to explore your story and walk you through life and its challenges.”

Location: Virtual and South Loop

Batool Almoshelli, LCPC

LCPC | she/her

About: Batool works with children, adolescents, adults and families specializing in helping those who have experienced trauma and challenging life transitions. She also works with behavioral issues, anxiety, mood regulation, emotional struggles, family and relationship issues, and multicultural/minority clients.

Batool has a BS in Psychology from UIUC and a Masters in Counseling from Loyola University.

Location: Virtual

Ben Durschlag, LCSW

LCSW | he/him

About: Ben’s philosophy of care is grounded in the notion that people do not need to be fixed, but to be able to return to their core self. He collaborates with clients to create a safe and secure environment to be their authentic selves. Ben specializes in many different forms of therapy and can tailor his approach to your treatment based on your personality, needs, and feedback. He is trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Substance Use, and Trauma Informed Care. Whether you yourself are going through a major life transition, an ongoing mental health issue or emerging crisis, or supporting others who are, Ben is ready to provide a courageous, non- judgmental space for you to explore what matters to you and use that as a foundation to create a meaningful life for yourself and those who matter to you most.

“As life ebbs and flows it is natural for us to feel burnt out, hopeless, and helpless. Whether you are going through a major life transition, an ongoing mental health issue or emerging crisis, or supporting others who are, my goal is to be present for you.”

Location: The Loop in Chicago and Virtual

Ben Tudor, LMFT

LMFT | he/him

About: Ben has worked with a diverse range of people and presenting concerns. He is experienced in creating a personalized treatment process for each client while integrating empirically proven interventions. Therapy is a tool to develop the skills and insights necessary to achieve your goals, and actively engage in the relationships and communities you are a part of. Ben specializes in relationship issues, family conflict, self-esteem, trauma-informed work, identity exploration, anxiety relief, depression treatment, existential issues

Location: The Loop in Chicago and Virtual

Carla DePalma, LPC, ATR

LPC, ATR | she/her

About: Asking for help is not always easy, and holding up a mirror to examine our struggles can be challenging and overwhelming. I believe in creating a place of safety for people to express themselves, and I’m humbled and privileged to get to know you and help you on your journey. I use art therapy and traditional talk therapy for adolescents, teens, and adults. I bring a gentle, compassionate, and genuine approach with humor and warmth. My hope is to sit with you and honor your feelings while guiding you toward healing at a pace we set together.

Location: Oswego, IL and Virtual. Equine-Assisted Therapy in Winfield, IL

Cassie Gerr, LSW

LSW | She/Her

About: I believe our world can be hard to navigate, and I am here to help you discover your strength and transform with me through our time together. It is often hard to reach goals alone, so I want to help create a safe space where we can go on your journey to figure it out together. I want to help you spread your wings like a butterfly to heal. In our time together, I will be here to affirm you and offer a nonjudgmental space. Strength comes from putting your mental health first and being willing to open up. If you just want to talk, I will be there. If you want me to hold your pain, that is what I will do. I am here to help you and help you feel comfortable. I cannot wait to meet you!

Location: Oswego, IL and Virtual

Chelly Calandra, LCSW

LCSW | she/her

About: Chelly Calandra, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker and a trauma specialist. She is a certified EMDR therapist, an EMDR consultant in training, and a certified Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) therapist with 10 years of experience working with trauma survivors. In session, she focuses on offering a dynamic therapeutic experience where your goals are centered. She adopts a warm and direct approach, creating a nonjudgmental space where you can freely express your concerns and emotions and it is through this openness where healing and change can occur. Her aim is to empower you, foster resilience, develop coping mechanisms, and support you as you become more self-aware throughout your work together. Chelly specializes in working with survivors of sexual assault, narcissistic abuse, and attachment disruption. Additional specializations include recent traumatic event protocol EMDR, human trafficking, domestic violence, navigating and healing from narcissistic abuse, vicarious trauma healing, navigating systems such as legal or title IX reporting, polyvagal theory and attachment.

Chelly has a Masters in Science of Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin

Location: Virtual

Cherie Lusky, MS, ATR, LCPC, SEP

Art Therapist, MS, ATR, LCPC, SEP | she/her

About: Cherie mainly works with adults experiencing a variety of life transitions and struggles such as a recent move or relationship issues as well as emotional issues such as trauma, mood and anxiety disorders. In therapy, she will work with clients on developing different ways of thinking and being as well as forming new ways to cope with emotions and situations. Her approach to the therapeutic process is holistic. She completed a three year Somatic Experiencing Institute training to enhance the mind-body work that she already does. Being trained as a counselor and an art therapist, she use these modalities to determine what is appropriate for her clients.

Location: Humboldt Park in Chicago and Virtual

Claudia Loza

Pre-Licensed Professional | She/Her

Diane Moncher, LCSW

LCSW

About: As a clinical social worker I have worked in child welfare and mental health. My work has provided experience in assessment and crisis intervention. I have done short-term and long term therapeutic work with clients, including a small private practice. Beyond clinical experience my work has involved problem solving at a macro-level, conducting research, writing training material for child protection workers in evidence based treatment and evaluating approaches to clinical work. I hope to continue to establish means for workers in the field to be able to use evidence based practice in their daily activities, especially in the area of decision-making, problem-solving and family conferencing. I also have an interest in studying resilience.

Diane has a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work

Location: Evanston, IL and Virtual

Dr. Andreya DeLarco, PsyD

PsyD | She/Her

About: Dr. DeLarco views therapy as a journey, where the client is in the driver’s seat and she is alongside providing guidance along the way. Dr. DeLarco strives to create a collaborative environment that supports the development of connection – connection to self, others, and the surrounding world. Dr. DeLarco believes that strains and ruptures in these various connections are the origin of many emotional struggles. She is eager to support her clients in their healing process and developing meaningful connections.

In her therapeutic work, Dr. DeLarco typically utilizes a relational psychodynamic approach with a trauma-informed lens. Through this approach, she supports her clients in the exploration of the ways in which their early development and prior experiences influence how they view themself, and the ways in which they relate to others and the world. She utilizes the therapeutic relationship with each client as a mechanism for exploring challenges that may occur within the client’s various relationships, as well as to model ways to develop healthy, secure, and meaningful relationships.

Dr. DeLarco earned her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2022. She completed her doctoral training in various settings, including an inpatient psychiatric hospital, hospital outpatient, group practice, and community mental health. Dr. DeLarco’s particular areas of interest and specialty are trauma, as well as grief and loss. She has significant experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults who have experienced trauma, including complex trauma. She has also had experience working with anxiety and mood disorders, personality disorders, relational difficulties, and various life transitions. In addition to individual therapy, she has experience utilizing family, couples, play, and group therapy modalities, as well as providing parent training. Dr. DeLarco is also passionate about psychological assessment and believes that this process can be a helpful supplement to therapeutic work by examining the client’s psychological structures that may be contributing to their struggles.

Dr. DeLarco joined the practice in March 2022 as the Testing Services Coordinator, through which she oversees the practice’s provision of psychological assessment services. She also completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the practice, and has continued on since earning her professional license. Dr. DeLarco provides therapy and psychological testing services, and provides supervision to doctoral-level trainees.

Location: Ravenswood in Chicago and Virtual

Dr. Arielle Smith, MSW, DSW, LCSW

MSW, DSW, LCSW

About: You deserve to live your best life. Do you find yourself being good to others, and maybe not so good to yourself? Are you exhausted and emotionally drained from the pressures of life? Has your confidence taken a hit and you don’t know how to recover? With busy lives, pressures of juggling work, relationships, and social life, we all strive to keep it together, but you don’t have to do it alone! You are the expert of your life; however, I am here and willing to help you take those next steps to get back to that person you miss.I provide individual therapy to those who feel that they have lost themselves, are overwhelmed with past trauma, as well as those who often feel anxious and shy away from their potential. Together, we will go on a journey to explore self-worth and purpose. We will create goals, coping skills and necessary boundaries.

Location: Virtual

Dr. Erin Hagerty, PsyD

PsyD | She/Her

About: Dr. Erin Hagerty believes that every person has the capacity for change, wellness, and healing and that human connection is central to this process. She utilizes a strength based relational therapeutic approach to treatment and works with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. Erin began her career working with families, children, and adolescents in a variety of settings including school, inpatient, and child trauma center settings and received specialized training working with individuals who have experienced trauma. Specifically, Erin has received training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma, Attachment Regulation and Competency Framework, and Child Parent Psychotherapy. Erin received her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and her Bachelor’s degree in psychology from West Virginia Wesleyan College.

Erin’s experiences in these settings strengthened her belief in the importance of the integration of healing attachment and human connection in treatment. As such, she pursued additional training in couples and parent work to support this need. Erin has received Level 1 and Level 2 training in the Gottman approach to couples work and is a certified Parent Child Interaction Therapist
Currently, Erin is the Clinical Director at Rooted Connections. She has been with the practice for over five years and works with a wide range of clinical needs. This includes working with individuals struggling with relational and family issues including issues related to divorce and separation, anxiety and stress, depression, life transitions, and behavioral challenges. She also has a particular passion for working with individuals who have experienced trauma including sexual and physical abuse, neglect, and issues with attachment including histories in foster care and adoption. She uses an evidenced-based holistic treatment approach which allows her to appreciate the depth and complexity of each person. Her approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative, and she works closely with parents, schools, and other important entities in an individual’s life to facilitate therapeutic progress. She believes that a strong, supportive therapeutic relationship and feelings of safety in the therapeutic space are of the utmost importance.

Personally, Erin loves nature, reading, games, and trying out new recipes. She also enjoys exploring new places, trying new food and experiences, and meeting people.

Location: Ravenswood in Chicago and Virtual

Dr. Jonathan Spitz, PSYD

PSYD

About: Jonathan Spitz is a licensed psychologist. Jonathan works with his clients in a collaborative nature, emphasizing the development of a unique and genuine therapeutic relationship. His aim is to create an environment where clients feel comfortable, safe, and empowered through your work together. Jonathan uses an integrative approach including aspects of cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and constructivist therapies. As needed, he also incorporates breathing, relaxation, and mindfulness techniques as a means of furthering the connection between mind and body. Prior to full-time private practice, Jonathan worked for almost a decade in different college/university counseling centers.

Jonathan earned a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Location: Virtual

Dr. Merari Fernandez-Castro, PhD, LCSW, CYT

PhD, LCSW, CYT | she/her

About: Merari is a clinical social worker, a yoga teacher and psychotherapist who has developed her career in working with traumatized populations. She has strived to help clients connect with deeper and conflicting parts of themselves as a result of difficult and painful life experiences. She has worked for not for profit organizations and group psychotherapy practices with a focus on trauma, sexual assault and domestic violence. Her passion for this area of work became apparent during her first years in social work school in which she interned in Puerto Rico at a not for profit agency serving domestic violence survivors. Since then, she has developed and diversified her skills integrating psychodynamic and mindfulness practices in working with survivors of trauma. Merari’s specialties include trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, chronic pain, dissociation, intimacy and relationship difficulties, sexual orientation, immigration, race, LGBTQA, and divorce and custody issues. She is a native Spanish speaker.

Merari has a Bachelor and Master in Social Work from the University of Puerto Rico. She received her PhD in Clinical Social Work from the Institute for Clinical Social Work in Chicago.

Location: Evanston, IL and Virtual

Dr. Tamara Rostein, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional

PsyD, Pre-Licensed Prof. | She/ Her

About: Dr. Rostein earned her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2023. She completed her B.A. in Child Psychology at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. She completed her doctoral training in various settings including medical centers, hospital outpatient settings, and community mental health. Dr. Rostein has significant experience and a passion working with infants, children, and adolescents who have experienced trauma, including complex trauma. She has also worked with individuals who experience mood disorders (e.g., anxiety and depression), adjustment disorders, personality disorders, relational difficulties, developmental and intellectual disabilities, and grief and loss. In addition to individual therapy, she has experience utilizing family, play, and group modalities, as well as providing parent training and specialized early-childhood dyadic trauma treatment. While Dr. Rostein has a wide breadth of experience treating a variety of presentations, her particular areas of interest and emphasis are complex trauma and working with children affected by sexual abuse.

In her therapeutic work, Dr. Rostein typically uses a relational psychodynamic and family systems approach with a trauma-informed lens. She aims to help support her clients and families by building an awareness and explore the connection between their early childhood experiences and how it may have influenced who they are and how they interact with themselves and others. In addition, she often includes caregivers into the work as important agents of change for their children. Dr. Rostein places great importance on the therapeutic relationship as a mechanism to build depth and vulnerability to be able to explore challenges a client may have in their life and as a way to collaborate on developing healthy, secure, and meaningful change.

In addition to Dr. Rostein’s work, she is a Qualified Bilingual Staff (QBS) and has been certified to provide services in Spanish.

Location: Ravenswood in Chicago, IL

Dr. Tenisha Phillips, PhD, LCPC, NCC, RYT-200

PhD, LCPC, NCC, RYT-200

About: Tenisha Phillips MS., NCC LPC is currently a Clinical Mental Health Therapist at Norwegian American Hospital on Chicago’s westside, an adjunct professor in Psychology at National Louis University, and Owner/ CEO of PhillipsSims LLC. Ms. Phillips passion and dedication for social justice advocacy and being mentally healthy shows in her ability to participate in these roles and still pursue her education as a Ph.D. Counselor Education and Supervision student at Capella University. Her past experiences have provided her opportunities to focus in the areas of domestic violence, sexual assault, and being a mentor to youth. Ms. Phillips has also participated in various not-for-profit community events with clients such as IDPH for World AIDS Day, Russell Simmons Hip Hop Summit, and was a speaker for UCAN. Along with her work and volunteer efforts she is focused on building her brand, PhillipsSims LLC, centered around mental health. In her spare time she enjoys music, poetry, and spending time with family and friends.

Location: Virtual

Emily Thornton, MSW, LCSW, CYT-200

MSW, LCSW, CYT-200

About: Emily is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified yoga instructor with training in trauma-informed interventions, mindfulness-based approaches to personal growth and healing, and a background in creative arts. Emily brings together her dynamic experience and training to build a collaborative connection with each individual she works with and does her best to develop rapport that leads to a feeling of safety, openness, and willingness to take healthy risks to create desired change. She specializes in yoga-informed psychotherapy, DBT, ACT, trauma-informed services, and body-centered psychotherapy.

Emily has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Fiction Writing, a Master of Social Work Degree, and 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training

Location: Virtual

Empower Family Therapy

Empower Family Therapy clinical interns partner with Greenlight Counseling under the supervision of Tina Shrader, LMFT.

Tina specializes in relational and systemic therapy.

Location: Lincoln Park in Chicago, Oak Park, IL, and Virtual

Francesca Cole Barnes, LCPC

LCPC

About: As your therapist, Francesca’s goal is to help you feel at peace and at ease when sharing your life’s story and to offer a space of empathy and active listening. Together you will journey through your life, whether past or present, in order to get you to the future you so rightfully deserve. And because your mental health is important to you, it’s important to her. What makes her therapy practice unique is her love for transparency and honesty. From day one, the goal is to build a relationship based on trust in order to sustain a strong therapeutic alliance. As a team, you both will work together to create therapy goals that will allow you to live your best life ever.

Location: Virtual

Hannah Auch, LSW

LSW | She/Her

About: You are brave, you are strong, but you don’t have to go on the journey alone. I believe that everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to process their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. If you have been through a hard time or have been feeling the stress of life, I am here to listen non-judgmentally and cultivate a healing space. Through therapy, my goal is to help you learn practical skills so you may enhance your ability to cope with life’s challenges. Additionally, I hope to guide you to better understand your experiences and who you are as a human. I’m grateful and humbled to take this journey together!

Location: Oswego & Aurora, IL and Virtual

Hannah Biggs, LCSW

LCSW | She/Her

About: Do you often feel weighed down by life’s ongoing stressors such as school, work, relationships, etc? If you find it difficult to manage your emotions and cope with challenges, come to talk with me. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your concerns and empower yourself through life’s challenges. I have experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups, working on issues such as anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, oppositional defiant disorder, relationship issues, social skills, and parenting. I have found the use of ACT, CBT, Play Therapy, and/or Solution-Focused Therapy to be highly beneficial for clients. The hardest part is getting started; once the journey begins, there will be support to help you reach your goals. Change is inevitable, so why not make a change for yourself!

Location: Aurora, IL and Virtual

Ivan Gomez, LPC

LPC | He/Him

About: My goal is to provide a safe and warm, nonjudgmental space where I utilize approaches such as person centered, DBT, CBT, strength-based therapy for you to thrive and become the best version of yourself.  I am also an EMDR trained clinician. Whether you want me to be your sounding board,  obtain a different perspective or process some of the deeper-rooted trauma, we can explore in the ways that serve you best. By allowing yourself to be vulnerable with me, I will guide you to see the positive changes. I am here to empower you and validate all your experiences. From me to you: congratulations on this first step, it took a lot of strength and self-awareness to seek out therapy. I look forward to working alongside you.

Location: Aurora, IL and Virtual

Jackie Chavez, AMFT

AMFT | she/her

About: Jackie Chavez’s professional training supports working with individuals, couples, and families. She has experience working with clients who have struggled with challenges including – but not limited to – anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and relationship issues. Jackie works from a client-centered and integrative approach and is passionate about helping her clients cultivate, growth, hope, and community. In her free time, Jackie loves to read, watch Netflix, and take workout classes on her Peloton.

Jackie has a BA in psychology from DePaul University and Masters in Marriage and Family therapy from Adler University.

Location: The Loop in Chicago and Virtual

Jacque Pfeifer, LMFT, MA

LMFT, MA | they/them

About: As a relationship and family therapist, Jacque provides a non-judgmental and affirming space that acknowledges and celebrates the beauty of human sexuality, gender, and relational variance. They help individuals, partnerships, and families to examine and create new patterns, communicate more openly and lovingly, and strengthen the relationships in their lives. Their approach to therapy focuses on helping you to identify, explore, and, if helpful, lift constraints that may be interfering with the ability to live your definition of a healthy, balanced life. They work collaboratively with clients to examine trans-generational patterns, to heal wounds and the effects of past trauma, and to create more meaningful and rewarding relationships. Jacque believes that effective care blends the practical, meaning specific types of therapeutic styles and treatment methods, and the radical, which includes not only the healing power of human connection and social activism, but also holistic, spiritual, and energetic practices that treat the mind and body as one.

Their specialties include LGBTQIA+, Relationship issues, Consensual Non-monogamy & Kink, Complex Trauma and PTSD, OCD, Dissociative Disorders, Neurodivergence, Spirituality, Identity development & exploration

Jacque has a Master’s Degree in Couple and Family Therapy from Adler University.

Location: Lakeview in Chicago and Virtual

Jodi Stelley, MA, MEd, LPC

MA, MEd, LPC | she/her

About: I am a caring professional who strives to see each person as their whole self – mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I draw upon a deep understanding of how identity, difference, justice, and empowerment affect an individual’s mental and behavioral health. I can help you navigate through issues centered around work, relationships, trauma, and addiction.
In my work, I strive to be person-centered and create a safe and welcoming environment for you to work towards their goals. I believe therapy can help you gain a clearer understanding of yourself while providing you with tools to help manage your life more successfully. I am a graduate of Adler University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program and have extensive experience working with emerging adults at various public and private universities throughout the country as a student affairs professional. I believe therapy can help individuals identify unhealthy patterns and adopt positive changes in all aspects of their lives.

Location: Virtual

Kathryn (Katie) Chapman, MA, LCPC, NCC

MA, LCPC, NCC

About: Kathryn (Katie) Chapman is a graduate of the Adler School of Professional Psychology. Katie has developed a broad range of therapeutic specialties, including trauma, domestic violence, human trafficking, trauma informed approach, anger management, group counseling, multicultural counseling, college counseling, crisis counseling, and severe mental illness. She has worked with many populations including LGBTQ+, immigrants and refugees and multicultural clients. Katie collaborates with her clients to create a safe space for self exploration, integrating traumas and finding a path to healing. Katie believes that you are the expert on yourself and encourages clients to take an active role in their own healing journey.

Prior to founding Belle Counseling and Wellness, Katie was the Clinical Director at the City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College Wellness Center. In that role she managed a team of clinicians and interns who provided counseling support to the campus community. This provided opportunities for program development and clinical supervision. She has also taught workshops for faculty and staff on Trauma Informed Classroom and Principles.

Prior to working with City Colleges, Katie helped expand the Project Impact crisis intervention team in the busy Swedish Covenant Hospital Emergency Department and the Welcoming Center located across the street. That program supported psychiatric and substance abuse patients of all ages and from diverse backgrounds. Services included assessment and screening with recommendations for emergency psychiatric hospitalization or connection to community services such as counseling, detox/substance abuse programs, or shelters.

Her specialties include Trauma, Domestic Violence, Human Trafficking, Trauma Informed Approach, Anger Management, Group Counseling, Multicultural Counseling, College Counseling, Crisis Counseling, LGBTQ+, Immigrants, Refugees, and Multicultural Clients.

Location: Horner Park in Chicago and Virtual

Katie Hatches, MA

MA, she/they

About: I am a fellow at Pivot and a mental health counselor (LPC in progress) working towards full clinical licensure under the supervision of Andrew Hazzard (LCSW).

My personal identities as a biracial, queer, and nonbinary person, along with my education in psychology, gender studies, and counseling guides my approach to anti-oppressive practice. I believe in the transformative nature of community, and I value exploring the intersections of identity and the ways they interact with your life and lived experiences. My goal is to encourage the strengthening of your voice and to better understand how various systems impact how we show up. You already have the answers within you, and my role is to collaborate with you in the recalling of them.

I have experience in community-based mental health services and crisis intervention. My clinical background includes individuals with trauma, dissociation, anxiety, depression, gender and/or sexual identity development, personality disorders, life transitions, and relationship concerns, including survivors of intimate partner violence. I enjoy working with adults and relationship structures. I prioritize using trauma-informed and relational approaches and may integrate components of Internal Family Systems Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, harm reduction, and attachment-based interventions. I also believe in the body holding many answers on how to heal and thrive and may incorporate mindfulness and somatic interventions when appropriate.

I look forward to meeting you and walking alongside you.

Location: Virtual

Kristina Long, LPC

LPC | She/Her

About: Everyone has a story to tell and I feel honored to be able to hear yours. I value the therapeutic relationship and feel that through the complete acceptance of who you are in the moment and encouraging openness, this relationship will have the space to grow. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds. I particularly enjoy relationship/family work, behavioral concerns, anxiety disorders, and depression. I employ strategies that will help make a difference in the here and now while making space for future success. I speak from a place of hope when I say I’m so happy you’re here.

Location: Oswego, IL and Virtual

Laura Davis, LCPC

LCPC | she/her

About: Laura has a laid-back yet intentional style, collaborating with clients to move through the process effectively and comfortably. As a team, Laura and her clients will explore relational and societal dynamics, furthering their sense of empowerment to address what brought them in. Ultimately, she works to expand possibility in their life. She is purposeful in helping her clients prioritize what is important to them and feel more connected to others. She has experience in different settings including a domestic violence shelter, serving as a rape crisis counselor in emergency departments throughout Chicago, and at a community college wellness center.

Laura earned her Master’s Degree in Counseling from DePaul University.

Location: The Loop and Lincoln Square in Chicago and Virtual

Mariama Brown-Jeters, MA, QMHP, QIDP

MA, QMHP, QIDP

About: Mariama completed a Master of Arts degree at Roosevelt University in 2019, majoring in Clinical Psychology. Prior to earning her Masters degree, Mariama attended the University of Missouri for her undergraduate studies, where she majored in Psychology and minored in Black Studies and Sociology. Mariama specializes in working with adults and families from diverse populations. Clinically, Mariama follows an integrated approach to therapy, with an emphasis on person-centered and behavioral practices, and a focus on adapting mental health services and reducing mental health stigma for all populations.

Location: Horner Park in Chicago and Virtual

Mary Beth Ryan, LCSW

About: I believe that the first step is to build trust through a therapeutic relationship. This happens in a safe, open and non-judgmental space for individuals, adolescents and families. My approach is warm, compassionate, engaging and collaborative. Together we will explore the struggles you may be experiencing and how to move forward to some functional equilibrium. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families.

Location: Evanston, IL and Virtual

Maryellen Armour, LCSW

LCSW

About: Hi, my name’s Maryellen! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about providing anti-racist counseling to survivors of sexual assault/abuse, domestic violence, and complex trauma from childhood abuse and neglect. I have always been LGBTQ allied and also have experience providing family and individual counseling to adolescents. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where clients who have been traumatized and marginalized are allowed to share their stories and feelings. My therapy office is a judgment free zone where you will receive validation, support, and practical ways to manage difficult thoughts and experiences. I have had success counseling survivors of complex trauma, girls and women of all ages, and those that have felt marginalized and invalidated by their experience in the world. I am real and love to use humor in session when appropriate!

Mendy Bodine, LCSW

LCSW | She/Her

About: My journey in mental health began with a desire to support individuals in their pursuit of well-being. I believe in creating a safe, empathetic space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Whether it’s through CBT, Mindfulness practices, or a person-centered approach, my goal is to tailor sessions to each individual’s unique needs. Together, I am to empower clients on their journey toward mental wellness, fostering resilience, and facilitating positive change.

Location: Oswego, IL and Virtual

Pivot Collaborative

Pivot Collaborative LLC is designed as a collective of experienced trauma-informed therapists who focus on complex trauma. Our goal is to understand the diverse needs of our clients. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group facilitation. We focus our attention on cultural identity, as well as LGBTQ and non-conforming gender advocacy. We are gender-inclusive and strong allies of the LGBTQ community.  Pivot Collaborative clinical interns partner with Greenlight Counseling under the supervision of Kavita Khara, LCPC.

Location: Hyde Park in Chicago and Virtual

Rachel (Boros) Varney, LPC, CCTP

LPC, CCTP | She/Her

About: Emotional vulnerability (i.e., the willingness to acknowledge your emotions, especially those that are painful) is an intrinsic component of a meaningful therapy experience. Therapy elicits change through the exploration of your experiences in the world, to develop insight into how these may be impacting you and those around you. This process is often associated with discomfort, and as your therapist, I hope to provide you with authenticity, empathy, and compassion to support you in this vulnerability. I operate from a client-centered, trauma-informed approach and integrate various therapeutic modalities to empower my clients to improve their intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships. Utilizing a collaborative and nonjudgmental approach, I strive to create an environment where you feel understood, accepted, and safe.

Location: Oswego, IL and Virtual

Roamers Therapy

Roamers Therapy clinical interns partner with Greenlight Counseling under the supervision of Shaysa Villa, LCSW. 

Roamers Therapy works particularly well with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal stressors. We take a culturally sensitive, unique, and creative approach to therapy to help individuals and families achieve mental well-being.

Shaysa specializes in trauma and PTSD, anxiety, and relationship issues.

Location: South Loop and Lakeview in Chicago and Virtual

Rooted Connections Counseling

Rooted Connections clinical interns partner with Greenlight Counseling under the supervision of Dr. Andreya DeLarco, PsyD. Please visit Dr. DeLarco’s Greenlight Counseling profile to learn more about her experience and specializations.

Location: Ravenswood in Chicago and Virtual

Sara Renauer-Reid, LPC

LPC | she/her

About: I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Drama Therapist. I’ve been practicing since 2017 and have worked with clients in schools, clinics, prisons, hospitals, and private therapy offices. I believe in approaching clients from a strengths-based, holistic, and trauma and social justice informed lens. I am passionate about helping clients advocate for themselves and thrive in challenging situations and systems. I like to make space for laughter in the treatment room, even in moments of darkness, and I believe that play is integral to growth no matter our age or background. I work with clients to break down barriers to connection, set healthy
boundaries, and cultivate their inner strength. I believe that most of our suffering stems from feeling disconnected–from our loved ones, from our communities, even from ourselves. I love helping clients work to create relationships that are reparative, restorative, and meaningful. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages struggling with difficult life transitions, processing trauma, challenging relationships, feelings of anxiety and panic, and low self- esteem. I am delighted to help you navigate this journey and work towards a more integrated, peaceful version of you!

Location: Evanston, IL and Virtual

Sarah Ward, MA, ATR

MA, ATR | she/her

About: As a trauma-informed clinical practitioner with over 25 years of experience, I am committed to helping children, teens and adults on their healing journey. I work with clients who have mood/anxiety disorders, OCD, addiction, self-esteem, grief, relationship issues, SA, DV, life transitions, sexuality, trauma and C-PTSD, adjustment challenges and identity exploration. I work with people therapeutically to make desired changes or simply improve well-being and sense of self. My experience includes people from all racial/cultural backgrounds, sexual preferences and gender identifications.

I work from a person-centered, strength based, relational approach, grounded in Family Systems and Attachment Theory, Somatic, and Trauma Informed framework with the hope of empowering my clients to heal the source of their distress, helping them build capacity for emotional expression and self-regulation while supporting their emotional and personal growth.

Being trauma-informed means, I will never push you to open up until you’re ready. This is your space, your time, and I will respect you always. My goal in therapy is to empower you to find your voice, be in control of your life, your emotions and your relationships. Clients have the opportunity to use the creative processes to address issues in their lives.

Specializations include Mood/Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Addiction, Self-Esteem, Grief, Relationship Issues, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Life Transitions, Sexuality, Trauma and C-PTSD, Adjustment Challenges, and Identity Exploration.

Location: Ravenswood and Garfield Park in Chicago and Virtual

Shannon Carlson, LMFT, LPC

LMFT, LPC | She/Her

About: Taking the first step to invest in yourself is not going to be easy, but it will be worth it. I am here to make that first step easier and to help guide you in this journey. Using a compassionate, relatable, and genuine approach to therapy, I will help you look at your life from a different perspective. Whether your therapeutic experience is focused on yourself or a relationship, I will create a safe and authentic space for you to feel comfortable being vulnerable and open to change happening. Life is a dance, and it is important we learn how to move in accordance with it to live our life to its absolute fullest.  I look forward for the opportunity to work with you and help guide you.

Location: Virtual

Sithara Stohr, LSW

LSW | they/them

About: As a clinician, Sithara is strengths-based and person centered. They use their skills to create a plan that suits clients’ individual needs, strengths, and goals. Sithara has extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma and has been trained in multiple modalities including mindfulness and somatic based practices. Their technique focuses on treating individuals as whole persons, exploring the intersectionality of clients’ identities, beliefs, and values. This helps clients understand how to best work toward their goals within their personal framework. No matter where you are in your growth journey, Sithara is ready to help you take the first step.

Specialties include trauma, mindfulness, and somatic-based practices.

Location: The Loop in Chicago and Virtual

Stacy Koumbis, LCSW, CADC

About: Anastasia “Stacy” Koumbis, LCSW CADC is committed to the well-being of her clients and uses a strengths based approach to address the unexpected and regain balance. Having transitioned from a career in media and the arts, she brings a unique perspective to her social work practice. She is experienced working with clients struggling with substance use, and has a broad range of experience having worked with older adults, first responders, private practice, as well as hospital and school-based settings.

Location: Park Ridge, IL and Virtual

Svetlana Pashinskaia, MA, LPC

MA, LPC

About: Svetlana has earned her Master of Arts Degree at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology majoring in Counseling Psychology. Entering the field of counseling was a career change and a realization of a lifelong interest in psychology for her. She strongly believes that a therapist’s help can be life transforming whether you are struggling with a long-standing mental concern or have encountered a distressing situation recently. Oftentimes, when life throws challenges at us, we can bounce back, but sometimes we need someone by our side, who would listen, but not judge; who would be empathetic and curious; who would possibly offer an unexpected perspective or a “bird’s eye view” of the problem; who would acknowledge our strengths and encourage our growth; who would guide through the healing process and equip with skills essential to managing difficult emotions, thoughts, behaviors.

Svetlana firmly believes that we are all born with intrinsic value and innate ability for growth and self-actualization, that is why she adheres to Person-Centered approach in therapy, while utilizing CBT, ACT, DBT, AEDP, Internal Family Systems, and Positive Psychology strategies. Svetlana fully invests herself in providing her clients with all of the professional knowledge she has gained through schooling, while working as an intern at a college wellness center, and as a therapist at a private practice. She has experience in helping individual clients from different age groups (children through adults) and families (parenting) struggling with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Eating disorders, grief, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, academic stressors, acculturation or cultural difference challenges.

Specialties include CBT, ACT, DBT, AEDP, Internal Family Systems, Positive Psychology, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Grief, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem Concerns, Academic Stressors, and Acculturation or Cultural Difference Challenges.

Location: Horner Park in Chicago and Virtual

Tatiana Duchak, JD, LCPC

JD, LCPC | she/her

About: My name is Tatiana and I’m a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), specializing in the treatment of trauma. I work with teens and adults who are currently struggling with the weight and pressures of daily life, as well as those feeling the heaviness of their past, difficult life experiences. I often see survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, violence, and childhood trauma. In addition to providing trauma-informed therapy, I am trained in alternatives to talk therapy, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), which have shown to be powerful, effective, evidence-based ways to address the effects of trauma.

I will take the time to ensure you feel empowered and in control, and that any strategies or interventions are tailored to your individual needs. I consider you to be the expert in your own experience; you get to control your therapeutic process. Of course, we are collaborators. Any unknown answers or uncertainty we can tackle together. Common topics of focus for trauma survivors include coping and stabilization strategies, safety planning, processing and making sense of the experience, as well as other targeted interventions.

Location: Westmont, IL and Virtual

Thamani Counseling Services

Thamani Counseling Center clinical interns partner with Greenlight Counseling under the supervision of Hillary Wildt, PsyD, LCP. 

Hillary’s specialties include posttraumatic stress, relationship difficulties, grief and mourning, marriage and couple’s counseling, and coping with change and transitions. She enjoys working cross-culturally and with international populations.  

Her preferred treatment approach is integrative, combining family systems with cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and empowerment-based models.

Location: Irving Park in Chicago and Virtual

Victoria Hazell, MA, LPC, NCC

MA, LPC, NCC

About: Victoria Hazell is a graduate from Adler University who studied Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Prior to obtaining her Masters degree she studied Women, Gender, and Sexuality. She has a lifelong passion for social justice which she incorporates in her counseling. She is dedicated to advocating for her clients, providing support, and continuously offering a holistic approach that accounts for multicultural factors. She practices person-centered therapy and is always willing to use other orientations to benefit the client. She has experience with CBT, Feminist Therapy, and Mind/Body approaches.

Location: Horner Park in Chicago and Virtual

Yesenia Logan, LSW, PEL

LSW, PEL | She/Her

About: Helping people is my passion! I must admit that I have learned empathy, trust, and kindness from my mother. Family is very important to me, as well as helping others who need the support in all aspects of life. I put my heart and soul into providing a safe and welcoming environment for individuals. As a therapist I thrive in working with adolescents, teenagers, and young adults. I am fond of using mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy, trauma informed therapy, and psychotherapy. As humans, we all have fears, experiences, and traumas that we are afraid to face. Yet, we don’t have to face them alone. Therapy is a great opportunity to connect with someone who understands you, and who you can feel safe with. I aspire to welcome you into my safe place and work hand in hand with you to overcome any obstacle.

Location: Oswego, IL and Virtual