Clinical Staff
Our staff are your biggest asset! Our team of counselors, social workers, nurse practitioners and physicians has a wealth of experience, and we are equipped to deal with any issues you or your loved ones may be facing.
Amy Taucher, MA, MS
Amy Zepeda, MSW, LCSW
Ana Mejia, M.A.
Anisha Clay, BA, MHP
Antonio Rojas, BA, MHP
Anthony Fasano, MSW
Araceli Corral, MSW
Ashley Ullyot, MA, ALMFT
Brittany Gruver, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Carly Nevarez, MA, LMFT
Cherie Borkorm, APN
Dr. Craig Kestenberg, DO
Christopher Beamsley, MAPCC, MDiv, LCPC
Cristie Fry, MSW, CADC
Dacia Franks, MA
Daina Pakalnis, MA, LPC
Danielle Anderson, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Dara Karlov, APN
Elivia Medina, BSW
Elsie Rojas, MS
Erin Carlson, MS, LCPC
Gina Tomich, MSW
Hank Exline, MSW, LSW, CADC
Heather Lane, MA, LPC
Jason Andrade, MS, LCPC
Jason Redelman, MSW, LSW
Jennie Hegwood, MA
Dr. Jennifer Stafiej, PsyD
Jennifer Stewart, MS
Jordan Carlson, MS, LCPC
Josie Carollo, MA, LCPC
Julie Grohmann, MSEd, LCPC
Kara Kroculick, MSW, LCSW
Karina Resendez, MSW
Katrina Dolle, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Kimber Lubert, LPC
Kristen Barlow, MSW, LCSW
Krystina Haas, MSW
Kyle Jennings, MS
Lilian Contin, BA, MHP
Linda Long, LPC
Michelle Singer, MSW, CADC
Mary Ihnenfeld, MSW, LCSW
Megan Blum
Michael Walters, MA, LCPC, NCC
Miriam Wade, MSW, LCSW
Dr. Natalie Pamphile, PsyD
Nicole Nielson, BA, MHP
Nora Curtin, BA, MHP
Ruth Waters, BA, M.Ed., MHP
Sarah Nicolson, MS
Sarah Zahid, MS
Shay Ward, APN
Sonia Borjon
Stephanie Lilly, MA, LCPC, RPT
Stephanie Ochoa, MSW, LSW
Tony Dattomo, MS, LCPC
Trish Hibben, CNA
Valeria Walsh, MS, ALMFT
Vannia Herrera, MSW, LSW, CADC
Victor Aderangi, BA
Vivian Sierra, BA, MHP
Therapist
Amy Taucher, MA, MS
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Amy:Amy specializes in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and a person centered approach when working with adolescents and adults. For younger adolescents she utilizes interactive therapy games in telehealth and in office sessions. Amy creates a nonjudgmental space for clients to feel supported, heard and valued. She believes an integral dynamic of therapy is helping clients identify and execute manageable goals by supporting the development of new skills and strengthening current skills to manage emotions during difficult times. Amy received a master’s degree in school counseling from Roosevelt University and a master’s degree in mental health counseling from The University of the Southwest. Amy has extensive experience working in K-12 schools and navigating the educational system since 2002.
Therapist
Amy Zepeda, MSW, LCSW
A member of the FCS team since:2015
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Amy:Amy is a bilingual, Spanish speaking, licensed clinical social worker with five years of experience as a mental health professional. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and interpersonal stressors. Amy incorporates a client centered approach and cognitive behavioral therapy in her therapeutic treatment. In her work with children and adolescents, Amy works together with parents and families to provide support and skills to help navigate challenging times within the family system. She is also trained in crisis intervention, domestic violence, and anger management. Amy seeks to empower and guide clients in a positive direction by utilizing effective communication and listening skills, social and emotional intelligence, advocacy skills, and collaboration between interdisciplinary teams.
Therapist
Ana Mejia, M.A.
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Ana:Ana specializes in the areas of anxiety, depression, domestic violence, and parenting. Ana works with individuals of all races, genders, sexual orientation and cultures from the age of 13 through 55, to reach their mental health goals through individual, couple’s and family therapy. With a master’s degree in Art Therapy, Ana utilizes a client-centered approach in combination with Adlerian Principles of Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Clinical Intern
Anisha Clay, BA, MHP
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Anisha:Anisha is pursuing a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Midwestern University, with an anticipated graduation date of 2024.
Care Coordinator
Antonio Rojas, BA, MHP
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Antonio:Antonio provides service in FCS's Care Coordination department.
Therapist
Anthony Fasano, MSW
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Anthony:Tony is an MSW graduate of Aurora University and is experienced working with the elderly community. Specializes in client focused interventions with adolescents, adults, older adults, and couples who suffer from anxiety, depression, grief, anger management, communication and intimacy issues, and vocational stress/job loss.
Therapist
Araceli Corral, MSW
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Araceli:Araceli has a Master's Degree in Social Work from Aurora University. She has experience assisting older adults in finding and applying for resources that address their needs. She has also worked with kids and adolescents to help them develop social skills and the ability to emotionally regulate. Araceli currently works with adolescents, adults, and older adults. She specializes in issues like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and grief. Araceli utilizes a client-centered approach, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and other approaches depending on the conceptualization of the client.
Therapist
Ashley Ullyot, MA, ALMFT
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Ashley:Ashley is an Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who received her degree in Couple and Family therapy from Adler University. She specializes in working with individual, couples, and families who have been impacted by major life events. Ashley facilitates playful activities that foster new interactions between people, their loved ones, and their community. She works with people to provide them with support and skills that they can use to navigate through difficult situations. Ashley values each person’s strengths and encourages people to empower one another within their relationships. She has completed various clinical trainings on Systemic Therapy models, Play Therapy, Trauma therapy models, and Attachment therapy models.
Therapist
Brittany Gruver, MSW, LCSW, CADC
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Brittany:Brittany is experienced in working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance use disorders, process addictions including sexual addictions and gambling, eating disorders, personality disorders, and relationship issues. Brittany is trained in EMDR and specializes in working with individuals who have experienced a vast array of traumatic experiences including but not limited to, first responders, military-related trauma, sexual trauma, incarceration, and domestic violence. Brittany utilizes a non-judgmental, trauma-informed approach as well as EMDR, CBT, and DBT techniques that allow clients a space to process, heal, and grow from life's challenges.
Therapist
Carly Nevarez, MA, LMFT
A member of the FCS team since:2017
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Carly:Carly is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Wheaton Graduate School. She is trained in domestic violence prevention and anger management. Carly specializes in working with individuals and couples wrestling through family of origin, relational and contextual issues. Using a variety of systemic modalities, Carly approaches individuals and couples through a relational framework, holding a strong belief that in relationship, both within ourselves and with others, we find healing. Carly also holds a passion for working with those in the context of faith and those who have experienced spiritual abuse.
Psychiatric Services Nurse Practitioner
Cherie Borkorm, APN
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Cherie:Cherie Borkorm is an advanced practice nurse practitioner that specializes in providing psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults. Cherie has over 17 years of experience working in different healthcare settings where she provides excellent care to diverse clients. Cherie is focused on providing quality care to patients from diverse backgrounds, guided by her belief and commitment that all patients deserve quality care. Cherie grew up in the western suburbs, of Chicago, Illinois. She believes in evidence-based care that is collaborative and patient-centric. Cherie is married with three children. She likes the outdoors, research, reading, walks and spending time with her family.
Psychiatrist
Dr. Craig Kestenberg, DO
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Dr. Kestenberg:Dr. Kestenberg has been a practicing physician since 2001. He is board certified in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Kestenberg serves as the Medical Clinical Director for Family Counseling Service’s Psychiatric Service program, collaborating with FCS’s advance nurse practitioners to help them provide the best care for our clients.
Therapist
Christopher Beamsley, MAPCC, MDiv, LCPC
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Chris:Chris is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who enjoys working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. Before becoming a therapist, Chris earned a Master of Divinity degree from the Lutheran School of Theology of Chicago served as an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America for over 20 years. He returned to school in 2014 and earned his Masters of Counseling from Garrett Seminary and the Center for Religion and Psychotherapy at Chicago. The foundation of Chris’ approach to counseling is Self-Psychology and psychodynamic psychotherapy, but he incorporates techniques from many types of therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, grief therapy and positive psychology . Chris also welcomes and respects clients’ spirituality and religious beliefs, whatever the faith. Chris’ specialty areas include working with adolescents and adults with ADHD, PTSD, or who are struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, or relationship issues. Chris enjoys camping and canoeing and considers the Boundary Waters in northern Minnesota his ‘holy place’.
Therapist
Cristie Fry, MSW, CADC
A member of the FCS team since:2017
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Cristie:Cristie specializes in PTSD, trauma, domestic violence, anger management, parenting, and substance abuse. Cristie also extends an invitation to first responders/Veterans and their family members. Cristie's prior law enforcement experience is helpful in relating to their work and home life and the variety of stressors that affect them, including PTSD, anxiety, addiction, depression and grief.
Therapist
Dacia Franks, MA
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Dacia:Dacia is a nationally certified counselor who hold a Masters Degree in Counseling and a post Masters certification in School Counseling. Dacia has been in the public-school setting since 2008, working as a behavior interventionist, trainer, and counselor throughout the past 12 years. Dacia utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral approach in her work with children and youth to address a variety of home and school- based needs. Dacia specializes in working with parents of children and youth who struggle with emotional/behavior concerns, Autism, and ADHD.
Therapist
Daina Pakalnis, MA, LPC
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Daina:Daina is an integrative counselor working from a strength based, positive and affirming perspectives. Specializes in working with children and adults struggling with trauma, eating disorders, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Daina uses a combination of therapeutic methods including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, Yoga and Somatic Experiencing (SE). These therapeutic methods and practices can work together to help support awareness of self, guiding individuals to identify innate strengths for growth and a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Therapist
Danielle Anderson, MSW, LCSW, CADC
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Danielle:Danielle specializes in working with teens and adults dealing with addictions, and with co-occurring disorders of addiction and another mental illness. She incorporates a variety of treatment modalities in order to assist individuals with gaining insight into their symptoms and the changes they want to make, and to assist them in feeling empowered to make those changes and achieve an improved quality of life. She is a trained SMART Recovery facilitator and has a background in working in the addiction field. Danielle also utilizes client-centered play therapy, and other expressive techniques, in her work with children to help them to feel comfortable with the counseling process, and to communicate and resolve their stressors through play. She uses the strength-based perspective in her work with all age groups and believes that everyone has unique, positive qualities that can help them in their time of need, but just sometimes just need to be reminded of them.
Lead Psychiatric Services Nurse Practitioner
Dara Karlov, APN
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Dara:Dara Karlov is an advanced practice nurse (APN). Dara graduated from the University of Iowa with her Bachelor of Science, in Nursing and Governors State University with her Advanced Practice Degree. She brings 30 years of nursing experience in varying healthcare settings, always providing excellent client and family centered care. She strongly believes every person from any walk of life deserves the opportunity for quality healthcare. She embraces all clients wherever they are in their journey to mental health and sees it as her role to serve as a guide for that journey. Dara is raising 3 wonderful children and understands the challenges that adolescents face in today’s world. She enjoys spending time with her children, her fur babies, fishing and waterskiing.
Care Coordinator
Elivia Medina, BSW
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Elivia:Elivia earned a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Aurora University and is currently in the process of earning her Master's Degree in Social Work. Elivia was an intern at Family Counseling Service during her undergraduate studies and now serves as a Care Coordinator. Elivia has experience with children and adolescents in group therapy. Elivia specializes in child, adolescent and adult mental health
Therapist
Elsie Rojas, MS
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Elsie:Elsie earned her Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University. Elsie is a bilingual, Spanish speaking therapist with interests and experience working with children and adolescents but also expanding her work with young adults. She strives to provide a safe and welcoming space through a client centered approach, combined with a mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy model. Elsie’s goal is to help client’s fine tune and or learn new skills necessary to navigate stressors, anxiety, depression, and emotions related to obstacles faced on a daily basis.
Therapist
Erin Carlson, MS, LCPC
A member of the FCS team since:2015
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Erin:Erin specializes in working with children, teens and young adults dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and self-harm. Erin incorporates a variety of play therapy and expressive treatment modalities in order to assist children and teens process big emotions. Erin believes in partnering with parents to assist them in developing tools and skills to best support their children. Erin hopes to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for children and adolescents to feel empowered to navigate through their mental health concerns in today’s always changing world.
Therapist
Gina Tomich, MSW
A member of the FCS team since:2016
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Gina:Gina received a Master of Social work from Aurora University. She received training in various modalities to guide change and believes her own learning is lifelong. Gina supports each individual from a client centered, strength-based approach; with a compassionate awareness of the client/therapist relationship. Gina enjoys creating a peaceful, safe, therapeutic space to support healing and growth to obtain health and mental wellness in times when a child, parent, father, or mother may be faced with the most challenging time in life.
Therapist
Hank Exline, MSW, LSW, CADC
A member of the FCS team since:2016
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Hank:Hank Specializes in adult mental health and substance use disorders. Hank uses an existentially oriented person centered therapy style to treat a variety of mental and emotional issues including but not limited to anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, addictions, and mood disorders.
Therapist
Heather Lane, MA, LPC
A member of the FCS team since:2014
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Heather:Heather is a wife, mother and compassionate team-member who joined FCS in 2014. She works with adolescents, adults, and couples experiencing difficulties with grief, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anger, and sleep hygiene.
Therapist, VP of Clinical Services
Jason Andrade, MS, LCPC
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Jason:Jason has over 20 years of experience in diverse behavioral health programming. Jason earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychology and the Administration of Justice from Southern Illinois University and his master’s degree from Northern Illinois University in counseling. Jason has clinical experience working with clients across the life span. Jason has unique experience working with local law enforcement in the development and implementation of police Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) services. Jason takes a person-centered approach in all service endeavors to ensure the provision of meaningful behavioral health treatment for those in need.
Therapist
Jason Redelman, MSW, LSW
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Jason:child, adolescent, and adult mental health
Therapist
Jennie Hegwood, MA
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Jennie:Jennie received a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University in Chicago. Since joining the FCS family in 2018, Jennie has specialized in providing compassionate clinical and supportive counseling for older adults across Kane County. Jennie utilizes a person-centered approach, focusing on creating a nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Jennie is experienced in dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma and believes everyone deserves to be heard.
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer Stafiej, PsyD
A member of the FCS team since:2017
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Jennifer:Dr. Stafiej’s approach to therapy is to establish an excellent therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. She works together with families on identifying and monitoring goals for maximizing personal success. Dr. Stafiej’s experience as a school psychologist has allowed her to gain procedural knowledge that has been useful in guiding parents through the steps of receiving special education support. She has extensive experience working with various issues that include ADHD, anger management, anxiety, Autism spectrum disorders, executive functioning, depression, learning disabilities, oppositional and defiant behaviors, Selective Mutism, self-esteem, school refusal, and social thinking. She is dedicated to ensuring children and their families thrive in school, at home, and in their daily lives.
Therapist
Jennifer Stewart, MS
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Jennifer:Jennifer has a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University. Jennifer specializes in LGBTQ issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD & trauma. Using a Client Centered approach along with mindfulness and meditation to assist the clients in connecting the mind and body within the therapy experience.
Therapist
Jordan Carlson, MS, LCPC
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Jordan:Jordan enjoys working with clients from all ages and backgrounds. He believes in developing a strong relationship with clients to help facilitate change. Jordan specializes in working with autism and cognitive impairments to help develop social skills and awareness. Jordan also has extensive experience in working with ADHD.
Therapist
Josie Carollo, MA, LCPC
A member of the FCS team since:2008
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Josie:Josie has a Masters Degree in Community Counseling and is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She utilizes both Cognitive Behavorial Therapy and person-centered therapy, and specializes in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, and anger management.
Therapist
Julie Grohmann, MSEd, LCPC
A member of the FCS team since:2012
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Julie:Julie has a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Julie's approach to therapy is integrative, utilizing person centered and cognitive behavioral therapy in addition to other modalities. Julie strives to provide a trusting, therapeutic relationship to engage clients and to promote lasting change. She believes clients are an essential part of their own treatment team. She meets clients where they are and collaborates with clients to incorporate a variety of therapeutic interventions to empower clients to work toward their personal goals. Julie enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, relationship issues, life changes, and overcoming various obstacles. She has training in play therapy, anger management, and domestic violence. Julie is passionate about helping clients thrive and is privileged to share in the lives of her clients.
Therapist
Kara Kroculick, MSW, LCSW
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Kara:General mental health
Therapist
Karina Resendez, MSW
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Karina:Karina received her Master’s in Social Work from Aurora University in 2017. Karina provides services to children, adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and anger management. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy to assist individuals in processing their feelings and creating healthy coping mechanisms. Karina has prior experience in working with all age groups, the refugee community, and forensic interviewing for the purpose of child abuse investigations.
Therapist
Katrina Dolle, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Team Member Since:2014
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Katrina:Katrina specializes in addictions evaluation and treatment treating clients with dual diagnosis, and trauma
Therapist
Kimber Lubert, LPC
A member of the FCS team since:2016
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Kimber:Kimber received her Master of Art in Community Counseling and School Counseling from DePaul University. Kimber works with children, adolescence, young adults, parents, and families with issues regarding: anxiety, depression/mood disorders, suicidal/crisis intervention, disruptive behaviors/conduct disorders, impulse-control, peer relationship issues, family conflict, and trauma. It is my hope as a counselor to provide a safe and supportive environment for the client and their family to work through challenges and make changes to achieve a healthy, well balanced life.
Therapist
Kristen Barlow, MSW, LCSW
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Kristen:Kristen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes we are all doing our best and we can all use a little help along the way. Kristen works with adults and children using primarily Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Kristen has a background in working with individuals who experience depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating and addiction, and provides support to those going through life transitions. As a graduate of the University of Michigan School of Social Work, she has worked in a variety of settings with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families and has a background in working with adults with developmental disabilities. Kristen uses humor and empathy, while helping her clients integrate self-compassion as part of their therapeutic experience.
Therapist
Krystina Haas, MSW
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Krystina:Specializes in child and adolescent mental health
Therapist
Kyle Jennings, MS
A member of the FCS team since:2015
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Kyle:Kyle specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), CBT, and person-centered therapy for adults and older adolescents. Kyle received a master’s degree in Clinical-Counseling Psychology from Illinois State University and has been with Family Counseling Service as a mental health therapist for more than 5 years. In addition to individual therapy, Kyle facilitates the agency’s DBT Skills Training Groups for adults.
Clinical Intern
Lilian Contin, BA, MHP
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Lilian:Lilian is pursuing a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology Counseling Practice from Roosevelt University, with an anticipated graduation date of 2021.
Therapist
Linda Long, LPC
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Linda:Linda provides services to adolescents and adults who are experiencing mental health concerns, with a focus on supporting parenting skills, couples/relationship management, young adults on the Autism Spectrum, and coping with life transitions. In addition, Linda has many years of experience working with active duty military and their families and supporting their unique needs.
Therapist
Michelle Singer, MSW, CADC
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Michelle:Michelle specializes in adult mental health, substance abuse and domestic violence. Michelle believes in a working partnership with clients utilizing their strengths to help them improve their mental health and to adjust to challenging life changes. Michelle views therapy as a joint venture between client and therapist where their combined knowledge and skills create an authentic therapeutic relationship, solutions, and positive outcomes.
Therapist
Mary Ihnenfeld, MSW, LCSW
A member of the FCS team since:2008
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Mary:Mary is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Linehan Board Certified DBT Therapist with more than 24 years of exper the mental health field. Mary completed her master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University in 1996. She is currently pursuing her DSW at Aurora University, where she is also a member of the adjunct faculty. Mary completed DBT (Dialectic Behavioral Therapy) training in 1998 from the Linehan Training Group and is the past president of the Illinois DBT training team. DBT is a cognitive and skill-based treatment targeting various symptoms. Her area of specialty is working with men and women who suffer from depression and have a history of self-mutilation, destructive and/or addictive behaviors.
Care Coordinator
Megan Blum
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Megan:General mental health
Therapist
Michael Walters, MA, LCPC, NCC
A member of the FCS team since:2016
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Michael:Michael Walters has been practicing counseling since 2015. He specializes in helping adolescents and adults who are suffering from anxiety, depression, and difficult life adjustments, by offering individual, couples, and family therapy. His therapeutic style is a well-received mix of psychological and counseling models combined with faith-based therapeutic principles.
Therapist
Miriam Wade, MSW, LCSW
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Miriam:Miriam enjoys working with people of all age levels. She spends time with individuals who are dealing with anxiety and depression as a result of trauma and/or other life challenges. Her background is in schools and she has a good understanding of the educational system and can help teens and parents navigate some of the complicated parts of school.
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Natalie Pamphile, PsyD
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Natalie:Dr. Natalie began her career in South Florida as a case manager, coordinating care for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. After obtaining her Master’s degree in counseling psychology at Trinity International University in Miami, she worked at a residential substance abuse treatment facility. She obtained her doctorate in clinical psychology at Wheaton College. Since becoming licensed as a psychologist, Dr. Natalie has provided psychological evaluations and testing for the state of Illinois and been part of a team that wrote a curriculum for a day- long seminar for first responders. Dr. Natalie is currently the manager of the psychological testing department at Family Counseling Service. She especially enjoys working with adolescents and adults, and continues to develop her expertise in trauma treatment, issues related to transracial adoption and adolescent mood disorders.
Clinical Intern
Nicole Nielson, BA, MHP
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Nicole:Nicole is pursuing a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northern Illinois University, with an anticipated graduation date of 2021.
Clinical Intern
Nora Curtin, BA, MHP
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Nora:Nora is completing her Master's internship at FCS; she will graduate from Bradley University in 2021 with a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Clinical Intern
Ruth Waters, BA, M.Ed., MHP
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Ruth:Ruth is pursuing a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, with an anticipated graduation date of 2021.
Therapist
Sarah Nicolson, MS
A member of the FCS team since:2015
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Sarah:Sarah specializes in domestic violence and parenting support in addition to issues surrounding traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and adjustment to disability. Sarah's experience in acute and subacute TBI rehabilitation is helpful in navigating emotional and cognitive changes as well as family dynamics after any traumatic event.
Therapist
Sarah Zahid, MS
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Sarah:Sarah graduated with a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Practice from Roosevelt University. Sarah specializes in individual therapy for adolescents and adults. Her therapeutic style incorporates elements from person-centered therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Sarah has experience working with trauma, anxiety disorders, mood disorders and substance abuse. She strongly believes in advocating for mental health, especially in the marginalized or minority communities.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shay Ward, APN
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Shay:Shay is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in child, adolescent, and adult medication evaluation and treatment.
Therapist
Sonia Borjon
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Sonia:General mental health
Therapist
Stephanie Lilly, MA, LCPC, RPT
A member of the FCS team since:2008
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Stephanie:Stephanie Lilly has a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling and is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Stephanie’s approach is holistic, allowing for individualized treatment plans that are supported by evidence-based techniques. She focuses on building a trusting, therapeutic relationship with clients to provide the optimal environment for positive change. She is a registered play therapist and has training in behavioral modification that brings excellent results while working with young children and their parents. She also works with adolescents and young adults struggling with self-injury, suicidal ideation and mood disorders. Stephanie also enjoys working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
Therapist
Stephanie Ochoa, MSW, LSW
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Stephanie:Stephanie received her Masters in Social Work from Aurora University and has been with Family Counseling as a mental health therapist since 2019. Stephanie is an enthusiastic clinician, eager to become a part of your support team! She is passionate about working with both individuals and couples. She utilizes a person-centered and CBT approach to promote positive personal growth and healthy communication.
Therapist
Tony Dattomo, MS, LCPC
A member of the FCS team since:2009
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Tony:Tony has a Master's in Counseling Education from Northern Illinois University and has been practicing for more than 25 years. He works with adolescents and adults, specializing in change-focused counseling.
CNA
Trish Hibben, CNA
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Trish:Psychiatric Services
Therapist
Valeria Walsh, MS, ALMFT
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Valeria:Valeria specializes in Marriage and Family therapy. She welcomes couples, families, and individuals who are experiencing a variety of mental health and interrelational issues. Valeria is also certified in Gottman I and Gottman II relationship counseling, Prepare-Enrich, and trauma treatment
Therapist
Vannia Herrera, MSW, LSW, CADC
A member of the FCS team since:2019
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Vannia:Vannia graduated from Aurora University with a master’s degree in social work specializing in child welfare and addictions counseling. She is a Spanish and English speaking licensed social worker who is experienced working with children, adolescents, and domestic violence victims and perpetrators. She utilizes a Rogerian therapy approach when working with adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder; She incorporates play therapy when working with children. Vannia believes in the importance of a healthy family dynamic and providing children with a safe environment. She loves to witness her clients grow into a more confident and healthier individual.
1-2-1 Mentor
Victor Aderangi, BA
A member of the FCS team since:2018
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Victor:Victor is a mentor in FCS's 1-2-1 Mentoring program. He works with children and adolescents both at the FCS offices and in the community.
Clinical Intern
Vivian Sierra, BA, MHP
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Vivian:Vivian is pursuing an MA degree in Counseling Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, with an anticipated graduation date of July, 2021
Our Services
Professional and innovative services for all ages.
FCS’s professional seminar series for counselors, social workers, and other behavioral healthcare professionals.
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