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.

Amanda Huffman

Amy Taucher, MA, MS, LPC

Ana Mejia, MA, CPAIP

Andrew Sarwark, MSW

Angie Jurek

Anthony Fasano, MSW

Araceli Corral, MSW

Benjamin Lambert, BA, MHP

Brittany Gruver, MSW, LCSW, CADC

Bryce Goll

Carlos Ulises Guillen, MS

Cherie Borkorm, APN, FNP-c, PMHNP

Cheryl Banasiak

Chrissy Canty, MA

Dr. Craig Kestenberg, DO

Cristie Fry, MSW, LCSW, CADC

Dacia Franks, MA, LCPC

Danielle Anderson, MSW, LCSW, CADC

Dara Karlov, APN

Erica Lopez, MSW, QMHP

Erin Carlson, MS, LCPC

Frances Maxwell, MSW, LSW

Hank Exline, MSW, LCSW, CADC

Heather Lane, MA, LPC

Jackie Anonles, M.Ed., QMHP

Jason Andrade, MS, LCPC

Jennie Hegwood, MA, LPC

Dr. Jennifer Stafiej, PsyD

Jennifer Suaste

Jessica Terrell, MS, LPC

Joe Cabo, MA

Jordan Carlson, MS, LCPC

Josie Carollo, MA, LCPC, CPAIP

Julie Grohmann, MSEd, LCPC

Karina Alcantara

Katrina Dolle, MSW, LCSW, CADC

Kyle Jennings, MS

Lea Henderson, BS, MHP

Leigh Condon, MSW, LSW

Lisa Junger, MA, LPC

Maria Sifuentes, MSW, QMHP

Michelle Singer, LCSW, MSW, CADC

Mary Ihnenfeld, MSW, LCSW

Megan Erhart, MSW, LSW, QMHP

Miriam Wade, MSW, LCSW

Dr. Natalie Pamphile, PsyD

Nora Curtin, BA, QMHP

Ruth Waters, M.Ed., M.A., LPC

Sarah Zahid, MS

Shavonna Peterson, MA, CDVP

Shay Ward, APN

Stephanie Lilly, MA, LCPC, RPT

Suzanne Goering

Tony Dattomo, MS, LCPC

Trish Hibben, CNA

Vannia Herrera, MSW, LSW, CADC

Restorative Practice Coach
Amanda Huffman
A member of the FCS team since:2017
Language(s) Spoken:English

Therapist
Amy Taucher, MA, MS, LPC
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
Ana Mejia, MA, CPAIP
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).

Care Coordinator
Andrew Sarwark, MSW
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English

Behavioral Health Intern
Angie Jurek
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Angie:With a bachelor’s degree in psychology, Angie utilizes a Person-Centered therapy approach, valuing genuineness, curiosity, and humor in-session. She works with individuals of all identities and ages, and is available to meet via Zoom as well as in-person.

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.

Behavioral Health Intern
Benjamin Lambert, BA, MHP
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Benjamin::Benjamin is a graduate-level intern at Family Counseling Service. He is currently completing his Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Benjamin is interested in working with child, adolescent, and young adult clients – especially those who struggle with impulse control and executive functioning. He is also interested in studying sensory sensitivities, somatic psychotherapies, and mindfulness-based therapies. Benjamin strives to create a space where clients will feel safe and in control. He draws heavily from narrative and existential models of psychotherapy, which focus on centering the client as the primary agent within their own story. Ultimately, Benjamin’s goal is to help his clients build the resilience and sense of purpose they need in order to weather the stresses of life.

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.

Behavioral Health Intern
Bryce Goll
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English

Therapist
Carlos Ulises Guillen, MS
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Carlos Ulises:Carlos Ulises received his Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from National Louis University. Carlos Ulises enjoys working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. Carlos Ulises creates a nonjudgmental space for clients to feel supported and heard, with a focus on building a trusting, therapeutic relationship with clients to provide the optimal environment for positive change. Carlos Ulises utilizes a client-centered approach, Cognitive Behavioral approach, as well as various other approaches depending on the conceptualization of the client.

Psychiatric Services Nurse Practitioner
Cherie Borkorm, APN, FNP-c, PMHNP
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.

CSP Case Manager
Cheryl Banasiak
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Cheryl:Cheryl is well versed in navigating public entitlement programs as well as linking individuals to community resources. Cheryl has experience working with individuals with severe mental illness, co-occurring disorders and individuals who need case management support. Cheryl has provided services in a variety of treatment levels, including supervised residential, community based supportive living, and outpatient programming. In her free time, Cheryl enjoys watching movies, simple nature walks and sending snail mail.

Therapist
Chrissy Canty, MA
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Chrissy:Chrissy is an experienced School-Based Therapist who has worked with youth and adolescents for over five years. Chrissy utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches that may include aspects of client-centered, strengths based, play therapy, CBT, and DBT to best meet the needs of the children and families she works with. Chrissy is passionate about creating a safe and welcoming environment to help those struggling to navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and everyday life challenges.

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
Cristie Fry, MSW, LCSW, CADC
A member of the FCS team since:2017
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Cristie:Cristie is a member of NICISM (Northern Illinois Critical Incident Stress Management) Team and 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, LCPC
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
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.

Therapist
Erica Lopez, MSW, QMHP
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Erica:Erica graduated from Aurora University with a master’s degree in Social Work specializing in addictions counseling. She is a bilingual Social Worker who works with individuals from all different backgrounds. Erica primarily works with children and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, eating disorders, and everyday stressors. Erica utilizes a client-centered therapy approach in combination with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). When working with children, Erica incorporates play therapy. She believes in the importance of a healthy family dynamic and providing children with a safe space to process their concerns. Erica loves to witness her clients meet their goals and grow into a more confident, healthier version of themselves.

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
Frances Maxwell, MSW, LSW
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Fran:Fran specializes in the areas of anger issues, anxiety, depression, grief, personality disorders, suicidal ideation, self-injury, trauma and terminal illness. Fran works with individuals of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientation and cultures to reach their mental health goals through individual therapy. Fran has a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Aurora University. Fran utilizes both a solution focused and a client-centered approach in combination with Adlerian Principles of Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Therapist
Hank Exline, MSW, LCSW, 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
Jackie Anonles, M.Ed., QMHP
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Jackie:Jackie graduated from Loyola University with her Master's Degree in Community Counseling. She is a Spanish and English-Speaking Therapist who enjoys working with clients of all backgrounds using a multicultural approach. Jackie provides services to children, adolescents, and adults using a client-centered framework while incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, as well as play therapy when working with small children. She works with clients facing challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, and everyday stressors. Jackie recognizes the expertise of all clients in their own lives and works alongside them as they work toward achieving their goals.

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
Jennie Hegwood, MA, LPC
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.

Care Coordinator
Jennifer Suaste
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Jennifer:Jenny received her Bachelor´s degree in Rehabilitation and Disability Services with a minor in Psychology from Northern Illinois University. After graduating in 2018, she spent two years working as a Sexual Assault Legal Advocate in DeKalb County where she assisted survivors of domestic and sexual violence to obtain Orders of Protection as well as providing support in navigating the civil and criminal justice systems. Jenny is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree with a focus in Forensic Social Work at Aurora University. She is passionate about helping and empowering others by providing a safe space to allow clients to express themselves in a judgement-free environment. Jenny has experience with all ages/demographics and is fluent in the Spanish language. In her free time, Jenny enjoys watching the Chicago Blackhawks, traveling, spending time with friends/family and cuddling her dog.

Therapist
Jessica Terrell, MS, LPC
A member of the FCS team since:2022
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Jessica:Jessica has a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She enjoys working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. Jessica utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches, which may include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and play therapy. Jessica is passionate about creating a safe, welcoming environment to help clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, and family dysfunction.

Therapist
Joe Cabo, MA
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Joe:Joe provides therapy to a wide variety of individuals but has a particular interest in individuals who are involved with the judicial system. Joe utilizes a Rogerian theoretical approach (Person-centered) by incorporating authenticity and providing a non-judgmental environment for his clients. Due to versatility of this approach, he is able to adapt this therapy style to treat a plethora of mental and emotional issues including but not limited to anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, addictions, and mood disorders.

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, CPAIP
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.

Psychiatric Case Manager
Karina Alcantara
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Karena:Karina received her B.A in Psychology from Northern Illinois University, double minoring in Spanish and Gender Studies. Karina has experience working with individuals in community-based mental health services and medication dispensing. Karina aims to provide a safe, client-focused, cultural-focused, and judgement free space to provide individuals with the assistance that they need, specifically with Spanish speaking communities. In her free time, Karina enjoys drawing, playing piano, and traveling.

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
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.

Manager of Care Coordination Services
Lea Henderson, BS, MHP
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Lea:Lea earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Indiana State University, where she still volunteers as an advisor. She began her career in the mental health field by being a lead staff member in a juvenile psychiatric residential facility and transitioned to the child welfare services for her home state prior to joining the FCS team. Lea has worked with children, adolescents, and young adults for the last five years and continues to build positive relationships with the individuals she works with through FCS. In her free time, Lea enjoys hiking, kayaking, watching baseball, reading a good book and spending time with her three cats.

Restorative Practice Coach
Leigh Condon, MSW, LSW
A member of the FCS team since:2022
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Leigh:Leigh Condon received her master's degree in Social Work from Aurora University. Leigh has several years of experience working in the community. This includes working with a diverse population of people with a variety of issues as well as experience assisting veteran's experiencing housing loss and connecting them with community and VA resources. She has also worked with adolescents and teens by providing them a supportive environment that can help foster increased self-esteem and the development of healthy peer relationships. Leigh uses a client-centered approach to build a trusting relationship with clients in a non-judgmental environment. She prefers a holistic approach to help people identify their strengths and achieve their goals.

Therapist
Lisa Junger, MA, LPC
A member of the FCS team since:2022
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Lisa:Lisa has a master’s degree in Clinical Professional Psychology from Roosevelt University and School Counseling Certification from Middle Tennessee State University. Lisa is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Lisa uses a person-centered approach, Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy when working with clients. Lisa works to help clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma as well as other needs within a trusting and safe environment.

Therapist
Maria Sifuentes, MSW, QMHP
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English, Spanish
About Maria:Maria graduated from Aurora university with a master’s degree in social work. She is fluent in both Spanish and English and works with clients from all different cultures and backgrounds. Maria provides services to children, adolescents, and adults using a client-centered approach in combination with Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT). Maria works with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, eating disorders and everyday stressors. Maria enjoys seeing and working alongside clients on bettering themselves and achieving their goals.

Therapist
Michelle Singer, LCSW, 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.

Therapist
Megan Erhart, MSW, LSW, QMHP
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Megan::Megan has her Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Forensics. She believes therapy is a collaborative process. Megan enjoys working with individuals of all races, genders, sexual orientation and cultures from adolescents to adults. She is experienced in working with domestic violence, severe mental illness, depression, anxiety, PTSD and mood disorders. Megan has training in crisis intervention, mental health first aid and motivational interviewing. She believes in a strength-based and holistic approach to therapy. Megan uses a variety of therapeutic techniques based on client needs such as person-centered, mindfulness-based, CBT and DBT.

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
Nora Curtin, BA, QMHP
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

Therapist
Ruth Waters, M.Ed., M.A., LPC
A member of the FCS team since:2020
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Ruth:Ruth's approach to therapy treats the whole person. Since everyone is made up of mind, body, soul, interpersonal relationships, and environment, it’s only through assessing all these aspects of your life that long-lasting therapeutic change can take place. Even if change has failed in the past, there is still hope. In therapy, Ruth offers you her foundational values of compassion, trust, authenticity, knowledge, warmth, and empowerment. By coming to counseling, you’ve taken the first step toward your own greater health and well-being. Ruth works with adolescents, adults, and couples in a non-judgemental practice of combining humanistic, person-centered therapy along with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT). Ruth received her Master's of Education from Cleveland State University and a Master's of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

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.

Therapist
Shavonna Peterson, MA, CDVP
A member of the FCS team since:2021
Language(s) Spoken:English
About Shavonna:Shavonna is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional and specializes in working with victims of domestic violence. She utilizes both Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, helping her clients break the cycle of abuse. She is experienced in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families dealing with trauma including but not limited to domestic violence, toxic relationships, community violence and incarceration.

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
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.

Behavioral Health Intern
Suzanne Goering
A member of the FCS team since:2021

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
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.
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