Individual journeys, team approach

Avery Desy is the coordinator for adolescent residential services at Rosecrance Jackson Centers in Sioux City, Iowa. She earned her Bachelor of Art with a focus in counseling psychology from Morningside University and Master of Social Work from the University of South Dakota. Desy holds a Master of Social Work license and is working to become a Licensed Independent Social Worker. Desy has utilized her time as a coordinator to focus on consistent program structure, as well as implementing additional evidenced-based practices for best quality client care. She has worked in various aspects of the behavioral health field, including case management, individual and family therapy, behavioral management with youth and families, work with homeless individuals, veteran-focused care in various forms, crisis and stabilization for adults, and with individuals who have mental and/or physical disabilities. Desy specializes in working with youth, adolescents, and families, and has experience working with various conditions and challenges such as mood disorders, self-harm and suicidality, ADHD, and behavior management. Her main treatment modalities include DBT, CBT, Seeking Safety, motivational interviewing, active listening, and a person-centered approach.

Brianna Steffe is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who has worked in the behavioral health field since 1996 and has extensive experience working in a residential/inpatient setting for most of her career. Steffe received her certification in 2008 from the Iowa Board of Certification and is continuing to further her higher education in addiction counseling/prevention and health services administration. Steffe has worked with various populations, including adolescents with behavioral health disorders and primarily women with substance use disorders. She also has served on the Woodbury County Family Treatment Court panel for over 15 years. Her passion to help women recover and develop her staff professionally is displayed in her compassionate leadership.

Caren Cohen-Heath has over 16 years of experience in the social work field. She joined Rosecrance as an addiction counselor and is now the Team Leader of Criminal Justice in Rosecrance Central Illinois. She has a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Cartise Jones is the Rosecrance Quad Cities Team Lead and oversees locations in Davenport, Iowa, and Moline, Illinois. Jones joined Rosecrance in 2019 as an addiction counselor in Davenport before taking on his current role. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Purdue University and has over a decade of experience in the substance use field. Jones is proud to work with the community to provide support to all people in need. His passion carries through his service to the Committee for Quad Cities Youth Conference, Tobacco Free QC Coalition, and as a coach for Dads Club. He currently serves as a board member at HOH ministries, which educates the community on life skills, prevention, and community resource referrals. In his free time, Cartise enjoys spending time with his family, playing basketball, listening to music, and reading. Growing up, his heroes were Harold Washington and Malcolm X. He believes the best way to define who you are is to lose yourself in the service of others.

Cate Marinaro has more than 30 years of experience in healthcare and oversees an interdisciplinary team treating individuals with psychiatric and medical illnesses. The goal of the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program is to help clients learn/improve independent living skills, reduce recidivism, and increase overall life satisfaction. Marinaro earned her associate degree in science/nursing from Rock Valley College and joined Rosecrance in 2023. She previously worked in an emergency department, a residential and inpatient setting at a psychiatric hospital, and a home for children with developmental disabilities. Her treatment philosophy focuses on getting to know her clients, sharing a laugh, and supporting them to achieve improved health through medication management and education. When she isn’t at work, Marinaro enjoys being a grandmother to seven grandchildren, spending time with her two cats, and walking outside with her favorite song playing while taking photos of the beauty around her.

Christa Jennings-Foat is a mental health professional and the Homeless Program Team Lead in Rockford, Illinois, with over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations in a struggling community. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in human services. She is a certified domestic violence professional and has a passion for helping clients from all walks of life, providing services for individuals who are unhoused or at risk of homelessness. She has experience working with women and children, and adults and has provided outreach, case management, referrals to community mental health, substance use treatment, primary health care, job training, education services, and housing. Jennings-Foat uses a trauma-informed approach when working with clients and has experience working in community-based housing and clinical teams. She joined Rosecrance in 2016 as a mental health case manager and has worked in various programs. She volunteers for Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois and believes that empowering one another builds a caring, equitable community.

Christopher Druce Jones provides spiritual leadership to individuals in treatment for substance use and mental health disorders at Rosecrance Behavioral Health. He provides spirituality care services through weekly spirituality lectures, individual spiritual counseling, special worship services, and spiritual support to staff. Druce Jones also facilitates groups on grief and loss and vicarious trauma. He has extensive experience in administration, organizational management, and leadership, as well as leadership development and group facilitation. Druce Jones is a former United Methodist clergy of 20 years and pastored churches within the Northern Illinois Conference. He is a United States Army/Army Reserve veteran. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and religion from Dillard University in New Orleans and a Master of Divinity from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa. He joined the Rosecrance staff as chaplain of the Rosecrance Harrison Campus in July 2017.

Christopher Nichols is a Shift Supervisor with the Rosecrance Rockford Region’s Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCR) in Rockford, Illinois. He currently works with individuals of all ages who have been called in through the Crisis and Referrals Entry System (CARES) or through hospital emergency rooms. Nichols held various positions at Rosecrance before stepping into his current role, and he primarily uses dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) as his specialty treatment method. He is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who joined Rosecrance in 2015.

Colleen Fry is the Director of Alumni Relations for Rosecrance. She establishes relationships with clients and families during treatment and in their recovery. Once clients leave treatment, she works to ensure they stay connected to Rosecrance through recovery support groups, newsletters, workshops, reunions, and other alumni-related events. She serves as a recovery role model for staff and clients and is passionate about seeing our alumni thrive once they leave treatment.

Craig Riehle is the Director of Admissions, overseeing all first contact activity, assessments, and admissions for Illinois. Riehle earned his Bachelor of Arts from Northern Illinois University and a master’s degree in social work from Aurora University. He joined Rosecrance in 2004.

Craig A. Stallings is the Regional Vice President of Operations for Rosecrance Illinois. He received his bachelor’s degree in social work from Southern Illinois University and a master’s degree in education with an emphasis in counseling from Northern Illinois University. With more than 25 years of experience in behavioral health, he is both a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Additionally, he has extensive experience working with first responders and young adults as well as individuals and families seeking treatment for opioid use disorders and medication-assisted treatment. He joined Rosecrance in 1997.

Crystal Monyak supervised the Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA) homes in Rockford, Illinois. She supervises staff and clients and provides services such as case management, money management, medication education, coping skills, social skills, and community integration. Monyak takes a holistic approach and works with clients based on their needs. She has experience serving clients with autism, developmental delays, Down Syndrome, traumatic brain injury, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety, depression, and hoarding. She has a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater and a master’s degree in generalized studies in human behavior from Capella University. She joined Rosecrance in February 2022 as the Team Lead for the adult Community Support Team (CST).

Dave Kellerhals oversees and leads clinical services and the clinical team at Rosecrance Central Illinois, which includes locations in Champaign, Danville, and Kankakee. He previously was the Director of Mental Health Services and has more than a decade of experience providing mental health services in a variety of settings to all ages. Kellerhals began his career as a mobile crisis clinician in 2010 and then transitioned to an inpatient psychiatric setting in 2016. He began providing part-time outpatient therapy services to the community in 2020. He has a master’s degree in clinical counseling and is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois.

Dawn Beckwith provides clinical supervision for substance use counselors in both individual and group settings at Rosecrance Jackson Centers in Iowa. She also ensures documentation standards are being met and facilitates training for clinicians to enhance clinical skills. Beckwith earned her Bachelor of Science in psychology from Iowa State University and her Master of Science in mental health counseling from Capella University. She also obtained her independent license for mental health counseling in 2019. Beckwith began working in the behavioral health field in 2001 at an inpatient facility for adolescents with both mental health and substance use issues. She joined the Rosecrance team in 2011 as an outpatient counselor and moved into her current role as clinical supervisor of that program in 2016. Beckwith enjoys that her current role impacts the lives of all clients seen in outpatient services through the counselors that she supervises.

Debra McGuire is a unit coordinator at Rosecrance Harrison Campus in Rockford, Illinois, with almost two decades of experience in behavioral health. She supervises a team of clinical staff, implements evidence-based treatments, and works with a multidisciplinary team to provide the best care possible to clients seeking treatment in residential care. She has worked with youth, older adults, and co-occurring populations and specializes in women’s health needs. She holds a Master of Science in Psychology from the University of Phoenix and joined Rosecrance in 2008.

Denita Lynde directs operations at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus. She completed her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Walden University and has more than 30 years in the behavioral health field with both clinical and administrative experience. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Denita is responsible for the development and oversight of programming for adolescent and adult residential services, and the adolescent recovery home at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus. Her approach is focused on implementing evidence-based programming and counseling interventions that build upon clients’ strengths and enhance their resilience through a holistic approach.

Dionne Gooden is a dedicated social worker with a passion for improving the lives of individuals and communities. She earned a Master of Social Work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and then began her professional career as a mental health counselor at Rosecrance. Driven by her desire to expand her impact and address the systemic issues affecting vulnerable populations, Gooden transitioned into a supervisory role as a Mental Health Housing Supervisor for Rosecrance Central Illinois.

Dominique Nagel is the Regional Crisis Supervisor for McHenry and Boone counties in Illinois where she oversees and assists in implementation of services through our Mobile Crisis Response (MCR) team, Youth Community Support Team (CST), Family Support Program (FSP) Coordinator, Pathways to Success team, and engagement specialist team. She supports the leaders of these various programs to ensure excellent client care throughout the crisis continuum. Nagel collaborates with community partners to strengthen our relationships and provide collaborative care to clients in McHenry and Boone counties. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a master’s degree in forensic psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She joined Rosecrance in January 2020.

Drew Farr is the Supervisor of Substance Use Services for Rosecrance McHenry County, located in Illinois. He oversees all McHenry County outpatient substance use and recovery home programming. He completed his undergraduate degree in psychology at Elmhurst College, earned his master’s degree in social work at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He has over a decade of experience with Rosecrance, during which he has served in several roles, including unit technician, primary counselor, recovery home supervisor, and clinical coordinator.

Elizabeth Ellison facilitates, coordinates, and supervises all clinical components of Rosecrance Chicagoland outpatient programs and the Rosecrance Lakeview recovery home. She also evaluates clinical competencies and creates training plans for new and existing clinical staff. Ellison has over a decade of experience with Rosecrance, in which she has advanced from an addiction counselor to clinical coordinator, then to Director of Rosecrance Lakeview prior to her current role. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in mental health counseling from Florida Atlantic University.

Liz Miner-McIntyre currently serves as the Director of Crisis Services for Rosecrance Central Illinois. She specializes in addiction and mental health treatment and has eight years of experience in behavioral healthcare. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois. She joined Rosecrance in 2020.

George Gibson is a Crisis Residential Center Team Leader for Rosecrance Central Illinois. He has over 14 years of experience in mental health and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Eastern Illinois University. His expertise lies in providing therapeutic groups and individual sessions that focus on coping strategies. He is also known for teaching mindful meditations to help clients cope with stress. In recent years, Gibson’s favorite approach to therapy has been Dialectical Behavior Therapy. He joined Rosecrance in 2016

Dr. Greg Tierney is the Vice President of Clinical Operations for Rosecrance Illinois. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, he came to Rosecrance with over 20 years of experience in direct service and clinical leadership. Prior experience in both direct service and leadership has included working with clients with substance use disorders and mental health disorders in residential, outpatient, in-home, and crisis treatment settings. His approach to serving clients is intensely focused on building confidence, understanding, and skills to successfully approach stressors in a manner that respects and rebuilds personal values. His leadership approach aims to provide continual opportunities for professional growth and expertise to serve client welfare and support staff values for working in behavioral health. Dr. Tierney received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a master’s degree in community counseling from Loyola University Chicago, and his doctorate in counseling/clinical psychology from the University of North Dakota.

Greg Brighton has over 12 years of experience in mental health, working in various clinical environments. He began his career working in inpatient psychiatric and residential units, serving adolescents and adults. Later, he joined Rosecrance’s Mobile Crisis Response team and is the current Team Lead for Rosecrance Central Illinois Mental Health Outpatient Counseling. He holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Illinois.

Heather Fisher joined Rosecrance in 2016 as an outpatient child and family therapist before transitioning to her current role as the Outpatient Supervisor for Mental Health Services in McHenry County, located in Illinois. She has worked in various roles at not-for-profit mental health agencies since 2008 and became a licensed therapist for children and adults in 2013. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in community counseling from Argosy University in Chicago. Her person-centered therapy style incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and play therapy. While always practicing through a trauma lens. She also strives to be an ally to LGBTQ+ individuals and provides a gender-affirming environment. She enjoys painting and spending time with her family in her free time.

Hillary Schraufnagel coordinates care—including supervising counselors, creating treatment schedules, and working closely with site leaders—for adolescents in treatment for mental health and substance use disorders at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus in Rockford, Illinois. She joined Rosecrance in 2019 as a primary counselor. She earned her bachelor’s degree in family social services and her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Northern Illinois University. She is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor, Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Qualified Mental Health Professional. She has a strong background in family therapy and works to incorporate dialectical behavioral therapy in family relapse prevention planning to reinforce lessons and skills for parents and families in the home environment.

Jaime Motos is a Licensed Professional Counselor who received her Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Northern Illinois University and Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling from Walden University. Before joining Rosecrance, Motos was a social service director/discharge planner in a rehabilitation center and the director of an Alzheimer’s and dementia unit. In 2018, she joined Rosecrance as the Assessment Counselor for the 17th Judicial Circuit Problem Solving Courts before becoming the TIP Team Leader for the 17th Judicial Circuit Court in Winnebago County, Illinois. She uses a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing when working with clients. She is very passionate about physical fitness as it is important to overall wellness. In her free time, she loves spending time with her two sons, hiking, going to museums, and attending car shows.

Jaser Abdallah is the Team Leader for Rosecrance Woodstock Recovery Home in Woodstock, Illinois. He is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who completed his undergraduate degree in substance use counseling at Elgin Community College with high honors. He majored in psychology at Columbia College and obtained a master’s degree in mental health counseling from Judson University, where he graduated at the top of his class. He joined Rosecrance in 2013 and has worked at multiple Rosecrance-operated recovery homes and as an addiction counselor at the Rosecrance Outpatient office in Crystal Lake. The combination of CBT, evidenced-based education and theory, motivational interviewing, and the 12-step community-based traditions and suggestions are among the many approaches he uses to support clients’ growth and potential to move forward in a manner that is congruent with their vision of recovery.

Jason Relle is the Director of Crisis Services, overseeing Mobile Crisis Response, 988, the Crisis Co-Response Team, and the Pathways to Success wraparound program in northern Illinois. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Miami University and his master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. Relle is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has worked with children, adolescents, families, and adults in various roles within Rosecrance, including within the school, community, outpatient, and residential treatment settings. He takes a strengths-based approach to his clinical interactions, supervision, and training style. He has been with Rosecrance since 2011.

Jennifer Crew is a Licensed Independent Social Worker at Rosecrance Jackson Centers in Iowa with nearly 30 years of experience providing mental healthcare in a variety of settings. She works primarily with adults and specializes in treating mood disorders, trauma, relational issues, and stages of life transitions. In addition to her direct work with clients, Crew provides clinical supervision to the staff at Rosecrance’s halfway houses (Chad’s on Grandview and Cynthia House) in Sioux City and to graduate-level practicum students and clinicians seeking independent licensure. She earned her Master of Social Work at the University of Nebraska-Omaha and is experienced in providing individual and group therapy in community mental health settings, as well as in private practice. Crew has been trained in a variety of therapy modalities, including prolonged exposure therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and rational emotive behavior therapy. She believes the best therapy outcomes are generated from not only using evidence-based practices but also by building a collaborative, compassionate, and respectful relationship with each client. Crew joined Rosecrance in 2014.

Jessica Sempek is the Unit Coordinator for the residential substance use services program with Rosecrance Central Illinois at the Rosecrance on Moreland campus. She earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Eastern Illinois University in human development. Jessica is a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor. Before joining Rosecrance in 2022, Sempek provided counseling services to those with substance use disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She is passionate about fostering a clinical milieu that allows clients to achieve and maintain their sobriety with compassion, care, and understanding.

Jill Blake oversees access services for Rosecrance Iowa. Blake joined the Rosecrance team in 2006 and has over 30 years in the behavioral health field. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Wayne State College and is certified as an International Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Prior to her current role, she held both clinical and administrative roles at Rosecrance, including access counselor, access supervisor, and admissions coordinator.

Jim Noe has over 30 years of experience in the behavioral health field. In his current role, he leads teams in providing behavioral health services to men, women, adolescents, criminal justice involved, and DCFS-involved clients. Noe joined Rosecrance in 1994 as a unit coordinator, providing residential substance use disorder services to men involved in the criminal justice system. Since joining Rosecrance, he has overseen programming across the Rockford, Illinois, region that provides behavioral health services to clients in recovery in inpatient and outpatient settings. He earned a master’s degree in public health from Northern Illinois University and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor certification to provide substance use counseling services to individuals in need. Noe joined Rosecrance in 1994 as a unit coordinator, providing residential substance use disorder services to men involved in the criminal justice system.

John Tumino oversees residential programming for adults and provides clinical supervision for clinicians and recovery specialist staff at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus in Rockford, Illinois. He joined Rosecrance in 2016 as a counselor, helping adolescents gain skills and knowledge to overcome mental health and substance use challenges. He has also helped develop specialized service programs addressing more severe mental health issues, including bipolar disorder, self-harm, suicidal ideations, and newly diagnosed schizophrenia. John earned a master’s degree in professional clinical counseling from Roosevelt University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. He continues to work directly with clients and families, championing the use of DBT informed interventions and 12-Step recovery principles in supporting clients in their development of lifelong recovery.

Joe Kreul leads Rosecrance’s efforts to create a crisis system of care for children and adults throughout Illinois that fosters collaboration across behavioral health and community organizations. He has more than 20 years of experience as a counselor working with adults and youth in outpatient settings, residential homes, psychiatric units, and through the school system. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and completed his master’s degree in marriage and family therapy at the Adler School of Professional Psychology.

Keri Fager oversees Rosecrance Behavioral Health services in the Quad Cities region in Illinois and Iowa, and in Stephenson, and Jo Daviess counties in Illinois. Fager has been in the behavioral health field for over 20 years and has served in direct care, counseling, and clinical leadership roles. She earned her bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation from East Carolina University and her master’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University. Fager is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), as well as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Her professional background and passions lie mostly in evidence-based practices program development, including the marrying of complimentary therapies such as therapeutic recreation/experiential therapies, DBT, ACT, mindfulness, and trauma-focused care.

Kim Niemeier leads services for Rosecrance Iowa outpatient locations and the Prevention Program. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work and master’s degree with a focus on social work, counseling, and addiction from the University of South Dakota. Niemeier joined Rosecrance in January 2003 as an adult outpatient counselor, then transitioned to coordinator for the Access to Recovery grant. She also supervised Iowa satellite offices and the access department before becoming program manager for outpatient services and halfway houses. Through those additional supervisory roles, Niemeier has worked to increase programming, including Spanish-speaking services, children’s therapy, and treating process addictions.

LaShonda Walker oversees client care and the team at the Rosecrance Harrison Campus in Rockford, Illinois. She also manages the campus’s health center that offers detox/withdrawal management services, supports the nearby Greendale Recovery Home, and partners with the medical/nursing team to ensure the campus is providing premium services aligned with the Rosecrance mission. Walker earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northern Illinois University and her Master of Science in clinical counseling from National Louis University. She has two decades of experience in the behavioral health field working with adolescents, adults, and co-occurring substance use and mental health populations. Walker joined Rosecrance in June 2004 at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus working with adolescents as a direct care staff. She then joined the clinical team as an addiction counselor and became a coordinator in 2017. Walker was actively involved in many projects at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus, including the rollout of serving adolescents with primary mental health diagnoses and implementation of the Butterfly Project, Emotions Anonymous, and Codependency Anonymous. Her treatment philosophy includes the use of DBT, CBT, reality therapy, and a trauma-informed approach.

Leah Scanlan is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field as a case manager and clinician. She earned her Bachelor of Science in psychology at Elmhurst College and her Master of Arts in clinical professional psychology from Roosevelt University. Scanlan relocated to Rockford in 2013 from the Chicagoland area and joined Rosecrance as supervisor for a community outreach team of clinicians serving those with complex mental illness. She joined Aspen Counseling in 2017 as director, where she is responsible for the operation and development of accessible outpatient behavioral health services. Scanlan is passionate about delivering innovative, evidence-based therapies at Aspen that adapt to the diverse needs of our community. She has been an advocate for the growth and implementation of advanced treatments such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and Spravato, resulting in expanded use within Rosecrance Therapies. Scanlan is grateful for the opportunity to lead a talented and dynamic team of clinicians and support staff who share this dedication and commitment to supporting the whole person in their recovery journey.

Lia Donato is the Team Lead for the Greendale Recovery Home in Rockford, Illinois. Her primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. She also plays a vital role in fostering a healthy sense of community and social network among the residents. Donato holds a bachelor’s degree in interpersonal communication and a minor in criminal justice from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She has been serving in various roles since joining Rosecrance in 2016.

Lisa Espig is a unit coordinator who helps lead behavioral health residential treatment for adolescents with mental health, substance use, and co-occurring disorders. She joined Rosecrance in 2019 as an addiction counselor at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus in Rockford, Illinois, working with adolescent boys. She helped develop several programs, including for clients just starting treatment and for those with primary mental health diagnoses. She earned her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from National Louis University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Qualified Mental Health Professional. She is passionate about promoting empowerment, increased self-esteem, and emotional regulation using DBT skills.

Lisa Harris is the Adult Community Support Team Leader. She oversees a team of case managers who provide services to clients living with mental health disorders and assists in helping to improve their independent living skills through a variety of recovery efforts. Originally from Chicago, she earned an associate degree in applied science from Rock Valley College while working as a CNA and caring for her elderly parents. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in human services and criminal justice from Judson College and spent the earlier years of her career in violence prevention. From gang/gun violence and prison re-entry to teen dating and domestic and community violence to human trafficking and sexual assault, she has faithfully served in the Rockford, Illinois, community. Harris completed her Master of Arts in organizational leadership at Judson University. Her approach connects key philosophies to clients receiving care specific to their needs, diagnosis, cultural background, and strengths. She also serves as a leader in ministry at her church. She enjoys cooking, dancing, and spending time with friends and family in her free time.

Maggie Bianchi oversees community-based mental health services in McHenry and Boone counties, Illinois, with much of her time and focus spent on Rosecrance’s expanding crisis continuum of care. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Western Illinois University and her master’s degree in forensic psychology from Argosy University. She joined Rosecrance in 2019 as a clinician for the Mobile Crisis Response (MCR) Team and has since had the pleasure of supervising various community-based programs, including MCR, the Community Support Team (CST), and Student Assistance Professional (SAP) Team, with the goal of providing accessible care to those we serve and meeting them where they are.

Mary Hendrickson provides oversight and direction to the community-based intervention and support team, as well as clinical supervision to team members and disposition consults on crisis assessments. She earned her Master of Art in forensic psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and started working in the behavioral health field as an outpatient counselor in private practice that worked exclusively with DCFS or court-ordered individuals, which helped with her ability to build rapport quickly. Hendrickson also facilitated several psychoeducation groups like Partner Abuse Intervention Programming (PAIP), DBT, and parent coaching. She also is certified in EMDR and The Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R). From there, Hendrickson worked in another crisis intervention clinician role and found her passion in high-paced, high-fidelity-driven roles. She joined Rosecrance in 2019 as a primary counselor at the Rosecrance Griffin Williamson Campus and started leading the Mobile Crisis Response Team in summer 2022. There is a psychology quote by Carl Jung that captures her philosophy on working with clients: “Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be just another human soul.” Her approach is very existential, humanistic, and client centered.

Matthew Quinn leads all clinical components of Rosecrance, Illinois’s outpatient clinics and recovery homes in the Chicago area as Rosecrance’s Director of Chicagoland. Previously, he served as a Community Relations Coordinator in DuPage, Kane, and Kendall counties. He is a member of the Community Alliance for Prevention in Naperville, the Juvenile Justice Council in Kane County, and a consultant for the Connect For Life program through the Naperville Police Department. Quinn joined Rosecrance as an outreach counselor in 2015. He led the Parent Café parent support group, conducted regular prevention and early intervention (PEI) classes, and conducted substance use assessments in the Naperville office before moving into a community relations role. He completed his bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Notre Dame and his master’s degree in clinical psychology at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. Quinn is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois. He was the program coordinator for the adolescent intensive outpatient program (IOP) at Linden Oaks at Elmhurst for eight years before coming to Rosecrance. Previously, Quinn had been a therapeutic mentor for troubled teens and a member advocate for an employee assistance program (EAP). He has been counseling adolescents and adults in individual, couples, and family counseling for the past 15 years.

Megan Burnett oversees programming for the Marlowe Recovery Home in Rockford, Illinois, for adolescents with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. She joined Rosecrance in 2016 as an addiction counselor for the recovery home providing individual, group, and family counseling. Burnett earned her master’s degree in clinical psychology from Roosevelt University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor. Burnett continues to work directly with clients and values embracing a recovery-oriented systems of care approach to empower adolescents to build upon their resilience, achieve goals, and improve their wellbeing in their development of lifelong recovery.

Meghan Connors oversees the triage and crisis residential programs at the Rosecrance Mulberry Center in Rockford, Illinois, that serve adults experiencing a mental health crisis. Connors supervises staff and works with community partners and medical professionals to ensure clients receive appropriate care. She has a solution-focused approach to caring for her clients, believing it is the best method to address needs in the crisis and stabilize the individual so that they can be integrated back into their community. Connor joined Rosecrance in 2022.

Meghan Cook is the Director of Access. She has been with Rosecrance Behavioral Health for over a decade and has been an integral part of access, admissions, client accounts, and utilization review. She holds a master’s degree in applied child and family studies and a License in Social Work and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor credentials.

Melissa Crowell is the Director of the Mental Health Housing and Homeless Programs in Rockford, Illinois, overseeing the CILA-supervised housing homes, Supported Housing, Shelter Plus Care Permanent Supportive Housing Program, the Veteran’s Grant Per Diem Program, and the PATH team serving people experiencing homelessness. Her team provides case management and community support services to help individuals manage their behavioral health and medical needs, learn social skills, achieve economic self-sufficiency, and integrate into the community. She takes a person-centered approach to treatment, addressing basic needs and housing first while also helping with behavioral needs. She has experience working with clients with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar, trauma, and PTSD. Crowell has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Rockford University and a Master of Social Work degree from Aurora University. She joined Rosecrance in 2009.

Melissa Lee is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and the Youth Community Supervisor in Rockford, Illinois. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and criminal justice from Quincy University and a master’s degree in clinical mental health from Argosy University. She works with children and adolescents who experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, and life transition and interpersonal relationship concerns. She has worked with various socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, races, religions, and cultures. She utilizes person-centered therapy and incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and play therapy.

Melissa Loesch oversees and leads client care and team operations in Boone County and McHenry County, Illinois. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with an undergraduate degree in criminal justice from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a master’s degree in forensic psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Loesch has more than a decade of experience in McHenry County social services. She has honed her leadership skills as a team lead, substance use coordinator, and clinical supervisor for mental health and substance use.

Melissa Pappas is the Executive Director of Rosecrance Central Illinois, overseeing behavioral health programming in over six different counties. She has over a decade of experience working within the behavioral health field and began her career as an addiction counselor in southern Illinois. Much of her direct service career was as a clinical therapist within the state criminal justice system before becoming a clinical supervisor for a residential treatment program serving youth sex offenders. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who holds a Master of Science Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Mika Leinonen is the Unit Coordinator for the health center and men’s units at Rosecrance Jackson Centers in Sioux City, Iowa. He earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology with a focus on criminology from the University of Iowa and is working on his master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling through Walden University. Leinonen joined Rosecrance in 2017. Prior to his current role, he worked as an addiction counselor in the adult outpatient program and as a unit specialist in the adolescent residential program. He is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of Iowa.

Nicole Ball is the shift supervisor for the Mobile Crisis Response team in Rockford, Illinois. In her role, she manages and oversees the staff during the evening and provides them with the necessary assistance and support to ensure they and their clients receive the support they need. Ball has worked in behavioral health for a decade in Illinois and Texas and has nearly 20 years of experience working with children. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in social and criminal justice, a minor in sociology from Ashford University, and a Master of Science in forensic psychology from Purdue University. She joined Rosecrance in 2023.

Nichole Davidson is the Youth Community Support Team Leader in Rockford, Illinois, leading the youth community support team in providing therapeutic services to clients and their families to help them move through their recovery journey. When working with clients, her treatment philosophy is that all young people deserve support and the opportunity to improve their quality of life and well-being. She believes everyone has strengths and might need more support in identifying them. Her goal is to assist clients in learning and developing coping strategies and techniques that will help them improve their mental health symptoms and quality of life. She has experience working at a juvenile detention center with female adolescents, providing case management services to adults with disabilities and mental illnesses, and working as a school-based clinician in the Rockford community. She graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and received her master’s in social work, specializing in clinical mental health. She joined Rosecrance in 2021.

Nikolas Bertucci is a Licensed Social Worker and the clinical supervisor of Rosecrance Kankakee where he oversees the team and treatment programs. He has experience and passion for working with young children and adolescents. Nikolas received his Master of Social Work from Lewis University after receiving his Bachelor of Liberal Arts in psychology from Benedictine University. Before joining Rosecrance, Bertucci worked with older adults in different group homes, hospitals, and nursing homes as a mental health support specialist.

Paul Gilmet oversees and leads Rosecrance Therapies locations in Chicago and the Rosecrance Lakeview recovery home and outpatient center. He previously was the Director of Access for Rosecrance Lakeview and has worked in the fields of development and sales since graduating from Loyola University Chicago in 1999.

Patricia Mubirigi oversees a team of case managers who provide specific, measurable, and individualized mental health recovery interventions to each person served through the reduction and management of symptoms and the development of stability and independence. Mubirigi was born and raised in a close-knit, family-oriented Congolese household, where the values of community, support, and compassion were deeply instilled from an early age. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology with a concentration in clinical counseling and a Master of Arts degree in human developmental counseling with a specialization in clinical mental health. Mubirigi’s education equipped her with a deep understanding of human behavior, mental health challenges, and effective therapeutic practices. She is dedicated to a client-centered approach, working collaboratively with individuals to ensure that their unique needs are understood and met with care, respect, and empathy. Mubirigi is passionate about serving underserved and diverse communities, where access to quality mental health care is often limited. Her work is driven by the belief that mental health support should be available to all, regardless of background or circumstances. In addition to their counseling work, she is actively involved in her church, where she serves as a Sunday school teacher, nurturing young minds and fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth. She is committed to personal and professional development; Mubirigi continues to strive toward making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.

Peter Mowris works with families of adult clients in residential treatment for substance use disorders. He has a Ph.D. and has taught nationwide before coming to Rosecrance. His work on the young men’s residential unit and the traditional men’s unit ignited an inner passion for the Rosecrance mission, which continues to grow in his current position. He also runs groups for clients in treatment to help them learn how to make amends with their families.

Raechal Carroll oversees daily operations of The Living Room Program, which employs individuals with lived experience to provide nonclinical crisis intervention services and support to adults in Rockford, Illinois. She supports alumni programming for mental health clients, bridging the gap from substance use and mental health to a single behavioral health model. Carroll is involved in several internal recovery enhancement groups because she believes that promoting physical wellbeing, emotional balance, and enhancing creativity are essential for our workforce and those we serve. She also serves on the boards for Stars of Light (Stepping Stones) and Marshmallow’s Hope and on the Boone County Behavioral Health Taskforce. Carroll earned a master’s degree in psychology with a focus on criminal justice studies and is also a Certified Recovery Support Specialist. She has worked in community mental health services since 2011 and is passionate about empowering others in their recovery.

Rhonda Archibald-Seidu is a master’s-level clinical and counseling psychologist with over 15 years of counseling at-risk youth and more than two years in private practice doing pandemic recovery counseling. She is skilled in evaluation, therapy, and coaching. Archibald-Seidu specializes in child and adolescent developmental and school psychology. She is hard-working and compassionate, and a team player who guides youth and adults to meet their personal goals.

Sadie Cobio is instrumental in the strategic development and enhancement of behavioral health services in northern Illinois to continue meeting evolving community needs. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and behavioral health leader who believes in the transformative power of behavioral health advocacy. With over 10 years of experience spanning therapy, program administration, and academia, Cobio’s mission is to foster environments where individuals can confront their challenges, learn, and grow. Away from work, she’s an avid fan of Georgia Bulldogs football and has a soft spot for new adventures and exploring new cuisine. Cobio believes that growth, while sometimes painful, signals progress, and she looks forward to helping others navigate their journeys.

Sheila Marcial leads the Pathways to Success and Family Support programs that provide wraparound case management for people younger than 21 with complex behavioral health needs in northern Illinois. The Family Support Program is for children younger than 18 and offers community-based and residential services to meet their needs. With over 20 years of experience in case management and supervision, she has worked with youth and adults with developmental disabilities in programs such as home-based and independent living support and a day training center. She has also provided career-planning services for unemployed and underemployed adults. She earned a Bachelor of Science in child development and a Master of Science in mental health and wellness from Northern Illinois University.

Susan Garro leads clinical operations for Rosecrance Jackson Centers outpatient centers in Spencer, Sheldon, Cherokee, Le Mars, and Estherville, Iowa. She is an International Alcohol & Drug Counselor in Iowa and a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor in Minnesota. She earned a Bachelor of Science in education at Black Hills State University and a Master of Arts in addiction counseling at Hazelden Betty Ford’s Graduate School of Addiction Studies. Garro has experience in both residential and outpatient settings, treating primarily adults with substance use disorders. She approaches treatment with a trauma-informed approach and a focus on building healthy coping skills through CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based techniques, 12-Step facilitation, and the mind/body/spirit connection. Garro joined Rosecrance in 2016.

Traci Merchant oversees residential programs at Rosecrance Jackson Centers in Sioux City, Iowa. She joined Rosecrance in 2001 and has over 20 years of leadership experience. Merchant earned her bachelor’s degree in addiction studies and psychology and Master of Public Administration with an emphasis in nonprofit leadership from the University of South Dakota. She is an Advanced Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of Iowa and previously served as a board member for the Iowa Board of Certification. Prior to her current role, Merchant held both clinical and administrative roles within the organization, including therapist, access counselor, access supervisor, administrative director of prevention and adolescent operations, and performance improvement and accreditation coordinator.

Vicki Malinowski provides clinical guidance and direction to staff while partnering with agencies in northern Illinois to meet clients’ needs and achieve their mental health treatment goals. She earned her bachelor’s degree in child and family studies and family and individual development, then obtained her Master of Social Work in clinical and medical social work. She joined Rosecrance in October 2020 as an outpatient mental health clinician at the Rosecrance Ware Center. Before joining Rosecrance, she was an assessor for a behavioral health unit, permanency enhancement project coordinator, and a licensed child welfare specialist. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, going to concerts and sporting events, walking her dogs, reading a good book, and relaxing on the beach.

Leah Scanlan is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field as a case manager and clinician. She earned her Bachelor of Science in psychology at Elmhurst College and her Master of Arts in clinical professional psychology from Roosevelt University. Scanlan relocated to Rockford in 2013 from the Chicagoland area and joined Rosecrance as supervisor for a community outreach team of clinicians serving those with complex mental illness. She joined Aspen Counseling in 2017 as director, where she is responsible for the operation and development of accessible outpatient behavioral health services. Scanlan is passionate about delivering innovative, evidence-based therapies at Aspen that adapt to the diverse needs of our community. She has been an advocate for the growth and implementation of advanced treatments such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and Spravato, resulting in expanded use within Rosecrance Therapies. Scanlan is grateful for the opportunity to lead a talented and dynamic team of clinicians and support staff who share this dedication and commitment to supporting the whole person in their recovery journey.

Rob McCreadie is a licensed Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, Clinical Supervisor, and a trained Brainspotting practitioner at Connections Counseling, a behavioral health group of Rosecrance Therapies, in Madison, Wisconsin. He has nearly two decades of experience helping adults develop coping skills and expand support systems that foster growth, positive change, and healing. McCreadie performs in administrative, supervisory and clinical capacities, but his passion is direct client care in both the individual and group setting. He has facilitated inpatient, residential, and outpatient groups and continues to facilitate intensive outpatient groups, aftercare groups, and relapse prevention groups. McCreadie has years of experience working with medication-assisted treatment as a tool to help clients achieve their goals. He enjoys working with individuals experiencing substance use disorders, self-destructive thinking and behavior, and trauma. His approach is that of a fellow traveler, who meets clients where they are, walks alongside them, and guides them to achieve their goals through the use of evidence-based practices such as crisis intervention, motivational interviewing, systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, Brainspotting, and other modalities. McCreadie does not believe that recovery is a one-size-fits-all proposition and is dedicated to helping each of his clients identify and follow the path that best meets their needs. It is also a pleasure to work with affected family members to provide support and education on the physical and behavioral consequences of substance use disorders. He sees himself as an advocate for positive change, healing, and recovery.

Dr. Leslie Taylor is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mood disorders, addiction, clinical research, and medication management of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Taylor is a pioneer in guiding FDA-approved TMS treatment at Connections Counseling, a behavioral health group of Rosecrance Therapies, in Madison, Wisconsin. She has over 25 years of experience treating adults and adolescents.

Dr. Yee Xiong is a board-certified psychiatrist with an addiction specialty who earned her medical degree during an addiction MD fellowship at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Xiong provides psychiatry via telehealth only.

Debra Corrigan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Aspen Counseling, a behavioral health group of Rosecrance Therapies, in Rockford, Illinois, with training and experience using evidence-based practice guidelines in treating children, adolescents, and adults with mental health needs. Her education includes a master’s degree in nursing with a psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization from the University of St. Francis, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from St. Anthony College of Nursing. Corrigan has an extensive and diverse nursing background primarily in the outpatient setting. She previously worked in primary care and served administrative nursing roles at the Rosecrance. Through these experiences, she recognized her passion for serving individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. The desire to utilize her skills to provide access to quality psychiatric care led her to the expansion of her nursing role. Corrigan values the uniqueness of each individual and will collaborate to recognize strengths, set client-directed goals, and create hope for achieving optimal wellness.

Abbey Lake is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with doctoral-level training and experience using evidence-based practice guidelines in treating children, adolescents, and adults with severe mental illness and substance use disorders. She earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice, specializing in psychiatry across the lifespan, from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Rockford University. Lake is nationally recognized through the American Nurses Association as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is a part-time assistant professor for Chamberlain University, educating the next generation of registered nurses to provide optimal mental health and fundamental skills of nursing. Lake has over 12 years of experience working with patients and families in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic psychiatric settings. She previously worked in adolescent and adult detoxification programs and served administrative nursing roles at Rosecrance. Psychiatric and substance use nursing has been a long-lasting passion of hers, as she strongly believes that this population is vulnerable to stigma and is often overlooked and undertreated in the healthcare system. Lake works collaboratively with Rosecrance Chief Medical Officer Dr. Raymond Garcia, therapists, primary care providers, and family members/loved ones to advocate for individuals, develop patient-directed and specific goals, and to instill hope in every case. Her core values include individuality, autonomy, advocation, and humor, when appropriate. Through collaboration with the patient and their loved ones, setting patient-specific goals and instilling hope are necessary to achieve optimal wellness and recovery.

Lynn Wheeler has worked in psychiatry for nearly 40 years, primarily in direct patient care but also in nursing administration, beginning as a registered nurse and later as an advanced practice nurse. Her education includes a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Science degree in nursing with a psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She received her American Nurses Credentialing Center board certification as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in 2010. She has worked in the Rockford area through the years providing mental health care across the lifespan in multiple clinical settings: inpatient, outpatient, residential substance use treatment, and private practice. She has experience working with individuals ages 5 to 65+ with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), trauma, OCD, behavior disorders, and more. Wheeler embraces a comprehensive and collaborative partner-with-patients approach to healthcare with an emphasis on health promotion and risk prevention. She incorporates evidence-based practice with a holistic biopsychosocial approach to clinical management. In her free time, Wheeler enjoys being with her family, friends, and her menagerie of pets. She also enjoys road trips with her husband, especially cross-country touring on their Harley-Davidson.

Melinda Holt works with clients at Connections Counseling, a behavioral health group of Rosecrance Therapies, in Madison, Wisconsin, to provide in-person medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use and alcohol use disorders. She also provides support to the larger medical team, and assists with medication refills and prior authorizations. Holt earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and is a Certified Addiction Registered Nurse (CARN). Most of her career has been spent in behavioral health and mental health, and she joined the Connections team in December 2016. Her recent areas of continued education focus have included trauma, LGBTQ+ treatment, EMDR, and internal family systems (IFS). Away from work, Holt loves to read, do yoga, and spend time with her husband of nearly 40 years, two sons, and grandchildren.

Steve Bloomfield is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in psychology and his Master of Science in educational psychology from Duquesne University. His background also includes a certification in clinical hypnosis from Adler University. Bloomfield has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families experiencing mental health and substance use disorders. His approach is to treat each client as an individual, utilizing a holistic approach to treatment that is tailored to the individual’s needs and pace. The key therapies that Bloomfield employs are CBT and DBT. He also integrates exercise, mindfulness, and coping strategies into the treatment process. Clients also learn tools to manage pain, manage their weight, and become nonsmokers. Bloomfield uses a collaborative therapeutic structure working with the client to identify the treatment goals and life changes that the client is willing to work toward and achieve. Educating the client on their mental health issues as well as the neuroscience affecting their mental health is a cornerstone of his treatment. Bloomfield seeks to assist clients in developing healthy coping strategies to manage their symptoms in day-to-day life settings such as relationships, parenting, and occupational and financial stressors. “I enjoy teaching a large set of mental health tools that the client can use to self-regulate their emotions, set boundaries, and manage their interpersonal relationships effectively.” His approach is practical as well as therapeutic, focusing on the present life issues that are challenging for each client. “Therapy, like life, is a journey that we travel at the speed set by the client.”

Locations: Rosecrance Northbrook and Rosecrance Virtual

Carson Borbely earned a Bachelor of Arts in anthropology/global health and environment from Washington University in St. Louis and a Master of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a concentration in clinical mental health. She is a Certified Advanced Practice Social Worker (CAPSW). Borbely is passionate about using a strengths-based approach and meeting clients where they are in the present moment. She especially appreciates working with fellow members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Borbely utilizes a blend of modalities, including aspects of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to encourage self-compassion and self-regulation. She also cherishes the opportunity to work with adolescents, couples, and families. Her central values are compassion, balance, community, and peace.

Kylee Britton grew up in Madison, Wisconsin, and went on to earn dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in psychology and sociology from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Her educational background is rooted in the importance of understanding the whole person, not only on an individual level, but also through socioeconomic and intersectional understanding. She has spent her career focusing on interacting with as many demographics of people as possible to create a well-rounded, care-centered clinical approach. Britton has worked with all ages and ability levels. She has professional experience in education and career mentoring, respite care, inpatient and emergency behavioral health, and most recently developed a passion for TMS technology and the notable difference it can make in people’s lives. She has an unfaltering desire to learn as much as she can about all things human and believes in the healing power of music, art, and language. Working at TMS Center of Madison allows her to watch as depressed individuals reinvest in themselves and meet tangible goals through the neuroplasticity that TMS treatment provides.

Holly Brun is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Marquette University. She has worked in the behavioral health field since 2010 and has experience treating individuals throughout the lifespan in various settings, including jails, hospitals, residential facilities, outpatient centers, and crisis centers. Brun is experienced in providing individual, group, and family therapy, as well as crisis intervention services. She has specializations in trauma-focused therapies and pediatric mental health and has many years of experience working with children and adolescents who deal with trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, ADHD, and autism. Brun enjoys utilizing art and play in therapy to foster connection and teach therapeutic principles. She acknowledges each client as their own unique self and, while always leading with compassion, empathy, and a bit of humor, tailors an integrated therapeutic approach to each person’s individual needs. Brun believes in empowering each client to identify what positive change and growth looks like for him/her/themselves and supports her clients to embrace this change to truly bloom wherever they are planted.

Greta Carlsson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Training (LPC-IT). She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English/communications from Southern New Hampshire University and a Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling from Lakeland University. Carlsson utilizes techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectal behavioral therapy (DBT), attachment theory, and internal family systems therapy. She aims to provide an honest and safe space for clients to be vulnerable, gain confidence, and heal. Her clinical areas of focus include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, and relationships. She provides individual therapy to adults and adolescents (16+) in person and via telehealth.

Locations: Connections Counseling and Rosecrance Virtual

Alice Daniels enjoys working with adults and adolescents from a variety of backgrounds who present with mental health, substance use, trauma, and interpersonal concerns. She utilizes a person-centered approach to counseling to support clients and their goals in the context of their culture, needs, and strengths. Daniels incorporates elements of narrative therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in her counseling sessions. She believes that healing often starts with developing greater understanding of ourselves and the systems we live in. Daniels earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from UW-Madison and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Capella University. She values inclusion, compassion, mindfulness, and authenticity.

Cindy Fisher is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over a decade of experience helping adults and adolescents. She is experienced in providing individual and group therapy through private practice and working with individuals experiencing issues concerning anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, grief, stress management, anger management, and substance use. She leads individual and group sessions, as well as intensive outpatient therapy and other group therapy with special issue focus. “My approach is rooted in the belief that each person comes to me with a unique set of beliefs and life experiences. Effective therapy must embrace those individual needs. I enjoy developing a strong rapport in a safe, nurturing environment that helps each person focus on goals for positive life change.”

Locations: Rosecrance Frankfort and Rosecrance Virtual

Caroline Golko is a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for the first responder and military population stemming from lived experiences coupled with her previous training. She earned a bachelor’s degree in criminology/sociology with a minor in psychology and a master’s degree in social work and a specialization in military culture and military mental health/trauma from Dominican University. She has experience working with several different therapeutic issues, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, suicidality, ADHD, and substance use. Before joining Rosecrance, she served homeless veterans by aiding them in securing housing and employment at a not-for-profit agency. She completed an internship at an inpatient behavioral health hospital serving families, adolescents, and adults with various mental health barriers. Golko approaches therapy from a client-centered approach and welcomes her clients to lead their therapeutic journey. She offers a judgment-free space to unload raw emotions and process them in a safe environment while utilizing various therapy modalities (cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), DBT, cognitive processing therapy, motivational interviewing, and grounding work) to guide the client’s unique healing. Each individual presents with distinctive and complex biopsychosocial issues, and she believes that approaching therapy from a holistic approach is crucial to moving forward. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her first responder family, being outdoors, raising her daughter, and traveling to her stepson’s college football games.   

Locations: Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-Norwood Park and Rosecrance Virtual

With over 15 years of experience, Marqueeta Harrington has worked with individuals recovering from mental illness, behavioral problems, sexual abuse, and substance misuse. She earned her bachelor’s degree in administration of justice and master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling and training from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Harrington is a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC) and is working toward becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She has worked in various settings, including inpatient, outpatient, Illinois Department of Corrections, group homes, and transitional living. Harrington joined Rosecrance in 2014 as a therapist in McHenry County and has since held several positions. As an Addiction Counselor, she provides high-quality behavioral health services to adults.

Locations: Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-Norwood Park and Rosecrance Virtual

Toya Hodges is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a decade of experience providing case management and therapy to a diverse population of individuals. Her background includes working with unhoused individuals, children and families, adolescents, teens, adults, and the LGBTQIA+ communities. Hodges earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Northeastern Illinois University with a specialization in addiction studies and her Master of Social Work from Aurora University with a specialization in child welfare. She believes in providing a client-centered, solution-focused holistic therapeutic approach to treatment in the least restrictive environment conducive for the client. Areas of expertise are mood disorders, substance use disorders, grief/loss, and anger. Hodges utilizes various therapeutic modalities (CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing) to guide the client’s overall path to wellness and freedom. In her free time, she spends time with family and friends, engaging in community service work with her sorority, grilling, baking, doing karaoke, traveling, and being outdoors, specifically around water.

Locations: Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-Beverly and Rosecrance Virtual

A graduate of Aurora University, Teisha Hoppe is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who currently splits her time between the school setting and private therapy. She has experience working with preschool-aged children through adolescence, adults, families, and couples who deal with anxiety, major depression, trauma, oppositional defiant disorders, ADHD, bipolar, and Autism. Hoppe utilizes various therapy modalities in her work, including CBT, REBT, EBT, play therapy, mindfulness, and grief therapy. She helps her clients develop coping skills and mindfulness techniques to self-regulate and find calm in difficult situations. She also has experience as an adjunct professor in Aurora University’s graduate social work program. In her spare time, Hoppe loves hanging out with her puppies while training them to become therapy dogs.

Locations – Rosecrance Virtual and Aspen Counseling, a division of Rosecrance Therapies, Rockford, IL 

Elizabeth Johansson is a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her master’s degree from Wheaton College. As a therapist certified in neuropsychotherapy and trauma, she brings specialized training and a profound interest in supporting adolescent (ages 16 and older) and adult clients impacted by trauma, substance use, complex PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Johansson guides individuals through their healing journey with a focus on employing EMDR therapy as an effective tool. She recognizes the inherent complexities of trauma as well as recovery from substance use disorders. Johansson implements neuropsychotherapy to customize treatment strategies to address the specific neural pathways affected by various mental health conditions.

Locations: Rosecrance Naperville/Warrenville and Rosecrance Virtual

Donnetta A. Jones is a therapist at Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-Beverly where she provides individual and couples therapy and facilitates an evening weekly intensive outpatient program (IOP) group for individuals with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. She earned a Master of Science degree in clinical mental health counseling from National Louis University and is a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC). Jones joined Rosecrance in September 2024 and previously oversaw and provided clinical activities in recovery homes, sober living apartments, and residential programs. Her treatment specialties are CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based CBT, the Gottman Method, and motivational interviewing. She enjoys working with adults and couples and specializes in treating substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Fun fact: Jones is a 1^st Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo.

Locations: Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-Beverly and Rosecrance Virtual

Kathleen Kruse is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers. She graduated with her master’s degree in social work from the University of Illinois, where her education emphasized mental health services and program administration. Kruse began her career with high-risk adolescents who had behavioral and psychiatric issues. She has served as the clinical director in two residential facilities, providing services to adolescents and their families. In the last 15 years, she has worked in private practice with adolescents and adults. Kruse has extensive experience and is trained to provide individual, group, family, and couples therapy. She is also a Qualified Substance Abuse Provider (SAP) for DOT client and a Medicare provider. She enjoys the diversity of her work and the opportunity to help her clients address their specific needs. “I consider it an honor to assist others in improving their emotional/mental health, relationships, and quality of life.

Locations – Rosecrance Virtual and Aspen Counseling, a division of Rosecrance Therapies, Rockford, IL

Robert Laib is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Trinity International University. He has provided office-based mental health therapy services for adolescents and adults for two decades to assist with a range of personal difficulties, including depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, stress, sex addiction, and relational conflict. Laib seeks to create a friendly, insightful, and comfortable environment to pursue a client’s objectives, drawing from an array of clinical foundations such as attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavioral therapy, emotional intelligence, and integrating the client’s faith background where appropriate. His perspective is holistic, searching for ways to bring all life’s highs and lows into balance for greater fulfillment. In addition to enjoying his work with clients, Laib enjoys hanging out with family and outdoors.

Locations: Rosecrance Frankfort and Rosecrance Virtual

Greg Love is a licensed therapist with experience providing individual, couples, group, and family therapy. He earned his master’s degree in mental health counseling from Northwestern University and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He has worked as both a private practitioner and at a community health center. These settings provided him with navigational techniques to meet clients where they are in their lives. His s experience includes working with adults, families, and adolescents with a variety of diagnoses, from generalized anxiety and adjustment disorders to mood disorders. Love understands that most people need a space where they can feel comfortable and not judged to share their journeys. He is honored and enthusiastic to be the person to share that space and navigate that journey together.

Locations: Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-River North and Rosecrance Virtual

Lori Martineau is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. She employs such therapeutic interventions as CBT, DBT, grief counseling, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness techniques. Martineau is experienced in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, anger, and stress management issues; she also supports individuals and families in hospice care. She is a graduate of Aurora University. “My goal is always to empower clients and focus on their strengths to help them live their best lives.”

Locations – Rosecrance Virtual and Aspen Counseling, a division of Rosecrance Therapies, Rockford, IL

Danielle Murphy takes a relational and collaborative approach to working with clients and enjoys using treatment modalities such as DBT, CBT, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Murphy earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Governors State University and a master’s degree in social work with a concentration in mental health from the University of Illinois at Chicago. During her master’s program, she participated in the Integrated Behavioral Health Treatment Program, helping with the incorporation of behavioral health and substance use services in hospital settings and MAT programs. She joined Rosecrance in 2015 as a clinical intern for outpatient services in Frankfort, Illinois, and completed multiple internships providing both case management and clinical services to clients in a wide variety of settings. Murphy joined the Rosecrance Lakeview team in June 2016 when the location opened its doors. She enjoys working with folks of the emerging adult age and all that comes with it. As a leader, she has a passion for empowering those in the helping field to grow and reach their full potential. Away from work, Murphy is a huge Chicago sports fan and loves to catch a game or talk about fantasy football in her free time.

Locations: Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-River North and Rosecrance Virtual

Maria Nadupparambil is a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes that healing consists of creating partnerships with clients to work toward empowerment. She is passionate about encouraging adults and adolescents to embrace diversity in all its forms, including ethnicity, religion, culture, and sexual orientation. Maria strives to create a safe therapeutic environment in each setting while working with mood disorders, multicultural issues, relationship conflicts, communication issues, ADHD, women’s issues, self-esteem, and life transitions. Nadupparambil’s therapeutic approach is solution-focused; she helps clients overcome life’s obstacles by teaching coping skills, improving self-esteem, and encouraging clients to live a life aligned with their values. Her background greatly influences her work in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), behavior modification, and positive psychology. She uses her knowledge of therapeutic modalities, experience in a variety of mental health settings, and her own cultural experiences to destigmatize mental health and provide effective services to underserved communities. When not meeting with clients, she spends time with family and friends, trying local restaurants, relaxing outdoors, or traveling to learn about different cultures.

Locations: Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-River North and Rosecrance Virtual

Ellie Nicol is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly a decade of experience working primarily with children and families. Nicol earned her Bachelor of Arts in social work at Carthage College. She later went on to earn her Master of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago with a focus on children and families. Nicol started her career working with families involved in the child welfare system, working both individually with children and adults, as well as families as a whole. She has experience working with both youth and adults who have experienced significant trauma. Nicol uses mindfulness and strengths-based approaches in her sessions. She believes in the partnership of the client and the therapist working together to identify the client’s goals. While she uses a variety of methods, she understands that each client is different and each session will be unique to their needs. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, hiking, traveling, and walking her dog.

Locations: Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-Beverly and Rosecrance Virtual

Jennifer Olson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR). She earned her master’s degree in applied family and child studies with a specialization in marriage and family therapy from Northern Illinois University. Olson has experience working with children, adolescents, families, couples, and adults in crisis and with less acute symptoms. She works with clients from a strength-based and systemic perspective. She acknowledges the power of the mind-body connection and incorporates this into her work. Olson works with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders and other mental health diagnoses, self-esteem/self-empowerment, grief and loss, and relationship/family concerns. Her creativity, compassion, and sense of humor help her connect with the people she works with, and she partners with them on their journey of healing, change, and self-expression.

Locations: Rosecrance Virtual and Aspen Counseling, a division of Rosecrance Therapies, Rockford, IL

Keo Phasouk is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with clients of all ages in many different settings, such as hospitals, clinics, crisis centers, group homes, and classrooms. She has a master’s degree in social work from Aurora University. Phasouk has extensive experience and training in individual and group therapy using many different modalities, such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness, solution-focused, and grief therapy.  Currently, she works with adults struggling with various mental health concerns and enjoys educating her clients about their mental health diagnosis. She seeks to assist clients in developing healthy coping strategies to manage their symptoms in day-to-day life settings such as relationships, parenting, and occupational and financial stressors. “I enjoy teaching DBT skills individually and helping clients learn to self-regulate their emotions, set boundaries, and manage their interpersonal relationships effectively.”

Locations: Rosecrance Virtual and Aspen Counseling, a division of Rosecrance Therapies, Rockford, IL

“Wellbeing is fundamentally no different than learning to play the cello. If one practices the skills of wellbeing, one will get better at it.” –Dr. Richard Davidson

Connecting with another person, addressing your feelings, and focusing on skills that can produce greater life satisfaction is what this therapeutic experience is ideally all about. Jason Plesh’s style is person-centered and solution-focused, and he strives to be a trusted support while collaborating to identify areas in your life that can be improved with practice. Although difficult, if you want to realize change (or play the cello), you can.

Christina Schneider is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience and passion for working with pediatric and adult populations. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Northeastern Illinois University and her Master of Social Work from Aurora University with a specialization in healthcare. Schneider previously worked with adult and adolescent clients in outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient program settings. She has treated clients with mood disorders, anxiety, low self-esteem, school refusal, autism spectrum disorder, social (pragmatic) communication disorder, adjustment disorder, trauma, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, gender dysphoria, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. Her therapeutic style is client centered, and she works with each client to create a custom treatment plan tailored to their needs and goals. Schneider uses the following modalities in sessions with clients based on age and treatment objectives: CBT, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, play-based therapy, and art interventions.

Locations: Rosecrance Therapies | Chicago-Norwood Park and Rosecrance Virtual

Megan Steinhoff is an adolescent and adult counselor at Rosecrance Naperville/Warrenville. She has a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University. Steinhoff has a wide range of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She has experience treating adjustment disorder, anxiety, depression, substance use, mood disorders, PTSD, life transitions, and relationship, communication, boundary, and self-esteem challenges. Steinhoff provides a comfortable, honest, and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship for her clients. Clients are encouraged to speak their minds, work toward goals, and address issues that are causing barriers in their personal lives. She utilizes a broad set of modalities based on client needs, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Gestalt, Adlerian, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and person-centered theory. Steinhoff also employs play, art, music, and nature to enrich the therapeutic relationship. She is an LGBTQIA+-affirming therapist and fluent in Polish.

Locations: Rosecrance Naperville/Warrenville and Rosecrance Virtual

Kathy Terzinski is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), National Certified Counselor, and a fully trained eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapist. She earned a master’s degree from Roosevelt University. Terzinski specializes in trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, addictions, fears, guilt, and a range of life adjustment issues. She works with individuals to help make sense of the past and to understand and neutralize the negative influence it has on present functioning and relationships. By clearing up the “debris” from the past, we can fully focus on being our best in the present and in the future. Inspired by experiences with trauma, Terzinski focuses on learning effective interventions for those traumatized by nature or by other people. EMDR is the foundation on which she helps survivors of child abuse, sexual abuse, guilt, and negative beliefs. She strives to help people fully process and definitively overcome the past.

Sydney Turner’s goal is to create a therapeutic relationship that promotes growth, wellness, and empowerment. She believes you are the expert of your life experiences, and her goal is to assist you in meeting your identified goals in a way that feels natural to you. Turner aims to have an approach that is both culturally sensitive and trauma informed. She hopes to provide a safe space to be able to process difficult emotions, improve communication, and make behavioral changes to foster a healthier way of living. As a therapist, Turner provides an authentic and compassion-focused approach. She utilizes components from cognitive behavioral therapy, relational-cultural therapy, family systems, and attachment-based theories. Turner has experience working with substance use, trauma, anxiety, depression, and body image-related concerns. She provides individual therapy services to adults (18+) via video telehealth and in person.

Nathan Whinnery is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who earned his Bachelor of Arts in psychology at Northern Illinois University and his Master of science in mental health counseling from Walden University. He has been in the behavioral health field since 2002 and has extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, and their families experiencing mental health and substance use disorders. Whinnery approaches each client as an individual but always leads with compassion and empathy while utilizing an integrated theoretical approach to fit individual needs. He believes in empowering individuals to embrace their ability to change from within and enjoys using humor and metaphors to bring normalcy and enjoyment to the counseling process. He also serves families in Rockford, Illinois, as a photographer with the Haven Network, an agency that serves families experiencing perinatal loss.

Locations: Rosecrance Virtual and Aspen Counseling, a division of Rosecrance Therapies, Rockford, IL

Rachel Wurth helps oversee medical services, including medication-assisted therapy (MAT) as the Assistant Medical Director for clients in treatment for substance use and mental health disorders at Rosecrance Jackson Centers in Iowa. Wurth earned her nursing diploma degree from St. Luke’s School of Nursing in Sioux City, Iowa. She earned both her Bachelor of Nursing Science and Master of Nursing Science from Briar Cliff University in Sioux City. Wurth is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center, as well as a certified Advanced Practice Addiction Nurse through the Addiction Nursing Certification Board. She is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the American Society of Addiction Medicine, and the International Nurse Society of addiction Medicine. Wurth joined Rosecrance in 2011 and is passionate about addiction-informed integrated care.

Amy Young is an advanced practice nurse who provides high-quality care for adults and adolescents and leads nursing care for Rosecrance Illinois. Her responsibilities include thoroughly assessing, diagnosing, and treating all illnesses, providing education for staff and clients on medical conditions and substance abuse, and working independently as well as functioning as a member of the medical team.

Dr. Jorge Fernald is a psychiatrist for Rosecrance Behavioral Health, providing oversight of client care services at the Rosecrance Frankfort outpatient center in Illinois. He earned his medical degree from Rush Medical College and completed his psychology residency at Loyola University and a child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Northwestern University. Dr. Fernald has more than 30 years of experience working in behavioral health and primary care settings, in private practice, and for hospitals and health systems. He is board-certified in general psychiatry and adolescent psychiatry, and he also provides care for Rosecrance adolescent and young adult clients through residential programs.

Dr. Shahina Jafry is a psychiatrist for Rosecrance Behavioral Health. Her areas of expertise include managing premenstrual dysphoric disorder and psychiatric disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period. She treats adolescents and adults for PTSD, ADHD, depression, psychosis, anxiety, bipolar disorder, dementia with behavioral disturbances, and other chronic psychiatric disorders.

Dr. Therese Lucietto-Sieradzki is dedicated to providing the proper healthcare services to address her patients’ concerns and never stops seeking solutions. Dr. Lucietto-Sieradzki spent the first years of her career using skills she gained through her Bachelor of Science in materials science engineering from Northwestern University. She then followed her passion and graduated from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. She focused on family medicine and completed training at St. Francis Hospital and Ravenswood-Illinois Masonic Hospital in the Chicago area. Dr. Lucietto-Sieradzki has practiced throughout the region and is licensed in Illinois, Wisconsin, Louisiana, Kansas, and Washington. She became certified in homeopathic medicine in 2015 as part of her dedication to lifelong learning. Dr. Lucietto-Sieradzki is board certified in family medicine, addiction medicine, and homeopathic medicines. She was honored with the Rural Physician of Excellence Award in 2006, recognized for providing care to underserved patients in areas that have limited access to complete healthcare.

Dr. Joseph Neubauer provides care for clients with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders both in detox and residential settings at the Rosecrance Harrison Campus in Rockford, Illinois. He also administers medication-assisted therapy (MAT). Additionally, he oversees care plans for clients at Rosecrance Lakeview in Chicago. Dr.  Neubauer earned his medical degree from Rush Medical College and is board-certified in addiction medicine.

Dr. Ian Powell is the medical director for Connections Counseling, a behavioral health group of Rosecrance Therapies, and helps manage outpatient treatment services, including medication management, for clients seeing treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. He earned his medical degree at the Medical College of Ohio and completed his residency and fellowship at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Powell has worked in the mental health and addiction medicine field since 2001 in settings such as medical hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, residential facilities, and outpatient clinics. He joined Rosecrance in 2022 and enjoys helping clients achieve recovery from substance use disorders with the aid of recovery medications. Dr. Powell is also passionate about reducing the stigma associated with mental health problems and substance use disorders and helping bridge the gap between mental health problems and substance use disorders when they co-occur. Away from work, he enjoys spending time outside, beekeeping, and coin collecting.

Dr. Leslie Taylor is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in mood disorders, addiction, clinical research, and medication management of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Taylor is a pioneer in guiding FDA-approved TMS treatment at Connections Counseling, a behavioral health group of Rosecrance Therapies, in Madison, Wisconsin. She has over 25 years of experience treating adults and adolescents.

Dr. Chandragupta Vedak is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) and has practiced psychiatry for over 30 years. Dr. Vedak graduated from Grand Medical College affiliated with Bombay University and received his training in psychiatry at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science/Chicago Medical School. During his residency, he served as a chief resident for two years, subsequently joining the medical school faculty and serving as a co-director of residency training for 10 years and as a Learning Community Mentor for four years. He was appointed Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry in 2007 and continues to be actively involved in teaching and supervising resident physicians in training. Dr. Vedak is passionate about mental health advocacy and has been named an Exemplary Psychiatrist twice by the Illinois chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). He is also the recipient of Department of Veterans Affairs Hands and Heart Award and McHenry County Behavioral Health Foundation’s Visions of Hope Award. He has served as a board member of A Safe Haven, a philanthropic organization serving the homeless and the less fortunate. Dr. Vedak has published several articles in peer-reviewed journals and has given many continuing medical education (CME) presentations to medical professionals. He has received numerous awards from medical students and residents for his teaching and educational activities. Dr. Vedak is also a member of several professional organizations, including the American Psychiatric Association, Illinois Psychiatric Society, and the Indo-American Psychiatric Association. He has served as Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Advocate Aurora Good Shepherd Hospital since 2014.

Dr. Yee Xiong is a board-certified psychiatrist with an addiction specialty who earned her medical degree during an addiction MD fellowship at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Xiong provides psychiatry via telehealth only.

Kelsey Bauer is a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who evaluates and provides medication management services for clients living with mental illness and substance use disorders at Rosecrance Jackson Centers in Sioux City, Iowa. She walks alongside both adolescents and adults in their journey of finding emotional wellness and recovery. Bauer earned her nursing degree from Mount Marty University and worked as a Registered Nurse at a psychiatric hospital. She earned her nurse practitioner degree from Briar Cliff University and joined Rosecrance in 2021. In her free time, Bauer enjoys being immersed in nature, baking, or spending time with family.

Kristie Brokaw proudly became a member of the Rosecrance family in 2017. She earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Chamberlain University. Brokaw is board-certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). With a decade of nursing experience, she has excelled as a Registered Nurse in emergency medicine and possesses valuable experience in the intensive care unit. Outside of her professional life, Brokaw passionately enjoys spending time with her two children and embraces hobbies like hiking, boating, and traveling. she is deeply committed to the clients she serves, ensuring they receive exceptional care.

Debra Corrigan is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Aspen Counseling, a behavioral health group of Rosecrance Therapies, in Rockford, Illinois, with training and experience using evidence-based practice guidelines in treating children, adolescents, and adults with mental health needs. Her education includes a master’s degree in nursing with a psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization from the University of St. Francis, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from St. Anthony College of Nursing. Corrigan has an extensive and diverse nursing background primarily in the outpatient setting. She previously worked in primary care and served administrative nursing roles at the Rosecrance. Through these experiences, she recognized her passion for serving individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. The desire to utilize her skills to provide access to quality psychiatric care led her to the expansion of her nursing role. Corrigan values the uniqueness of each individual and will collaborate to recognize strengths, set client-directed goals, and create hope for achieving optimal wellness.

Andrea Harris is a board-certified Family Practice Nurse Practitioner with more than 30 years of healthcare provider experience. Harris is a Sioux City native who earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of Iowa and her master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Briar Cliff University. Since 2015, she’s been privileged to serve the medical and addiction recovery needs of adolescents and adults across all programs at Rosecrance Jackson Centers in Iowa. With compassion, education, and resources, Harris strives to illuminate the path of recovery for her patients to achieve and sustain healthy, drug- and alcohol-free living.

Jamie Karstens provides psychiatric services to our clients in residential treatment at Rosecrance Jackson Centers in Sioux City, Iowa. She earned her master’s degree from Briar Cliff University. She joined Rosecrance in November 2023 and brings previous comprehensive experience in nursing leadership in human services. She uses a holistic approach to treatment and believes that mental health and substance use goes hand in hand.

Abbey Lake is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with doctoral-level training and experience using evidence-based practice guidelines in treating children, adolescents, and adults with severe mental illness and substance use disorders. She earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice, specializing in psychiatry across the lifespan, from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Rockford University. Lake is nationally recognized through the American Nurses Association as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She is a part-time assistant professor for Chamberlain University, educating the next generation of registered nurses to provide optimal mental health and fundamental skills of nursing. Lake has over 12 years of experience working with patients and families in inpatient, outpatient, and forensic psychiatric settings. She previously worked in adolescent and adult detoxification programs and served administrative nursing roles at Rosecrance. Psychiatric and substance use nursing has been a long-lasting passion of hers, as she strongly believes that this population is vulnerable to stigma and is often overlooked and undertreated in the healthcare system. Lake works collaboratively with Rosecrance Chief Medical Officer Dr. Raymond Garcia, therapists, primary care providers, and family members/loved ones to advocate for individuals, develop patient-directed and specific goals, and to instill hope in every case. Her core values include individuality, autonomy, advocation, and humor, when appropriate. Through collaboration with the patient and their loved ones, setting patient-specific goals and instilling hope are necessary to achieve optimal wellness and recovery.

Sophie Mbua is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Rosecrance Behavioral Health where she oversees care, including diagnosing conditions and managing medications, for individuals living with mental health and substance use disorders. She earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing from Lakeview College of Nursing and her Master of Science in nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. Mbua has worked with individuals in inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings. She joined the Rosecrance team in June 2023 and specializes in treating mental health disorders such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, schizoaffective disorder, and psychosis. Away from work, she loves watching HGTV in her spare time.

Lynn Wheeler has worked in psychiatry for nearly 40 years, primarily in direct patient care but also in nursing administration, beginning as a registered nurse and later as an advanced practice nurse. Her education includes a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Science degree in nursing with a psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She received her American Nurses Credentialing Center board certification as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in 2010. She has worked in the Rockford area through the years providing mental health care across the lifespan in multiple clinical settings: inpatient, outpatient, residential substance use treatment, and private practice. She has experience working with individuals ages 5 to 65+ with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), trauma, OCD, behavior disorders, and more. Wheeler embraces a comprehensive and collaborative partner-with-patients approach to healthcare with an emphasis on health promotion and risk prevention. She incorporates evidence-based practice with a holistic biopsychosocial approach to clinical management. In her free time, Wheeler enjoys being with her family, friends, and her menagerie of pets. She also enjoys road trips with her husband, especially cross-country touring on their Harley-Davidson.

Kelly J. Epperson is Chief of Staff and General Counsel at Rosecrance Behavioral Health. Epperson joined Rosecrance in 2015 and is currently responsible for the legal, compliance, public policy, grant management, strategic planning, and performance improvement functions at Rosecrance. As General Counsel, Kelly provides comprehensive legal services to Rosecrance and its affiliates, including directing corporate activities to protect Rosecrance’s legal interests; assisting with mergers and acquisitions; analyzing novel legal issues that uniquely impact behavioral healthcare providers; researching and influencing legislative changes at the state and federal levels; and positioning Rosecrance to be a legally sound not-for-profit so it can continue to fulfill its mission. Epperson is a 2008 graduate of the Northern Illinois University College of Law, where she was Symposium Editor of the Law Review and received the Outstanding Woman Student Award. She was also the Chief Justice of the Moot Court Society and placed first in the 25th Annual NIU Moot Court Competition. Prior to law school, she received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Dr. Raymond Garcia oversees all medical operations for Rosecrance Behavioral Health and is the Medical Director for Rosecrance Therapies at Aspen Counseling in Rockford, Illinois. He is board-certified in psychiatry and neurology, licensed in Illinois, a member of the Illinois Psychiatric Society, and a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Garcia is also a board-certified Addictionologist by the American Board of Addiction Medicine, ABAM. Dr. Garcia is on faculty at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, where he has received the Golden Apple, Mentor of the Year, and Distinguished Teaching Awards. He joined Rosecrance in 2009.

Kristin Hamblock is the Chief Human Resources Officer for Rosecrance Behavioral Health. Since joining Rosecrance in 2010, Hamblock has streamlined and improved the employee experience to solidify Rosecrance as the employer of choice. Hamblock has a Master of Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northern Illinois University. She holds the Senior Certified Professional designation from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Hamblock is pursuing her Ph.D. in management with a focus on leadership and organizational change. She focuses on philanthropic work in the community and throughout the region by actively volunteering and serving on numerous non-profit boards. Hamblock has been awarded the Workforce Game Changer Award in 2017 and the YWCA Women of Achievement Award in the Promise Category in 2019.

Michael Vick has executive responsibility for Rosecrance Behavioral Health’s finance, facilities, and information technology departments. He has over 30 years of experience, with the past 15 in healthcare leadership. Vick is a certified public accountant with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from DePaul University and a Master of Business Administration from the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management.

Janis Waddell oversees the Rosecrance Behavioral Health’s local, regional, and national marketing efforts, including working with private and public-sector referral sources. She has more than 30 years of experience in the addiction field, including 10 years of providing direct clinical services to adolescents. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Western Illinois University and a master’s degree in counseling/education from Northern Illinois University. Waddell’s areas of expertise include behavioral healthcare marketing, insurance managed care contracting, adolescent and adult substance use treatment, and current trends. She joined Rosecrance in 1984.

Ann Bown works closely with the Rosecrance Behavioral Health CEO and Foundation Executive Director to maintain a critical connection between board members and the organization. She is responsible for developing and implementing board engagement to ensure ongoing leadership of more than 75 Rosecrance board members. Bown provides governance and administrative guidance to support the Boards and each Board’s committees. She has 25 years of experience with the organization and serves on several community nonprofit boards and committees.

Natalia Mayer is the Executive Assistant to the President/CEO of Rosecrance Behavioral Health. She communicates directly and on behalf of the CEO and with the Rosecrance executive team and others on matters related to the CEO’s initiatives. She manages special projects and provides leadership for all Rosecrance support staff in establishing office practice standards. She holds a bachelor’s degree in pre-medicine and a minor in psychology from MacMurray College, as well as an executive assistant certification, and has more than 14 years of experience working as an executive assistant. Mayer is originally from Chile and is trilingual (Spanish, English, Italian) and very active in the Rockford, Illinois, community.

Mary Egan is the Director of Outreach and Community Relations for Rosecrance.  She oversees the Community Relations team with staff in several markets and manages school-based teams that provide services onsite at contracted schools.  She has experience managing a clinical intake team and performing marketing outreach with referral sources.  She speaks to professionals and parents on topics of drug trends, parental influence, and adolescent behavioral health.

Before Rosecrance, Egan was the Student Assistance Program Coordinator at a high school. She developed the school’s student assistance program, delivered services to students, parents, and staff, and created a community coalition to address youth substance use prevention. She has a master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Springfield, and a Bachelor of Science in Alcohol Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Quincy University. She is also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and has served on the Board for Serenity Academy, along with receiving several recognition awards during her 40 years of service in the addictions field. She is committed to helping teens, adults, and families access resources for a healthy life because everyone deserves hope and recovery.

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Austin Gross is the Professional Relations Coordinator for eastern Iowa and western Illinois. He has been with Rosecrance for over 12 years and in the behavioral health field for over 20 years, working in inpatient and outpatient settings. After completing his master’s degree from the University of Western Illinois, he has dedicated his career to the mission of Rosecrance. Gross is an Internationally Board-Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Health Facilitator. He is experienced with multi-faceted interventions and therapeutic modalities, has worked with many diverse populations, and understands that addiction and substance use disorders do not discriminate. He has a vision to expand services to greater areas throughout the region where Rosecrance can continue to provide help, hope, and recovery to children, youth, adults, and families.

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Jennifer Hahs is the Director of National Professional Relations, managing national referral relationships and overseeing the professional relations team. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Pre-Professional Psychology and a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology from Ball State University. She has worked in residential treatment for numerous years at both adolescent and adult treatment facilities, as well as with women and children at a crisis center for domestic violence. She has clinical and administrative experience, knowledge of policy and procedure within residential treatment, and years of experience working with referral sources. She is passionate about connecting adults, adolescents, and families with the resources they need for help, hope, and lasting recovery.

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Crystal Hartranft is the Professional Relations Coordinator for the Milwaukee area and surrounding counties in southeast Wisconsin. She has over a decade of experience working with programs treating a diverse range of diagnoses and ages. She is passionate about eliminating the stigma attached to seeking support for behavioral health needs. After working with programs across the nation, she settled into her new home in Wisconsin and is grateful to work with this remarkable group of dedicated providers. Before entering the behavioral health field, she earned a degree in Culinary Arts in Chicago and worked as a professional chef.

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Michelle Hibbard is the Community Relations Coordinator for Rosecrance Central Illinois, covering nine counties, including Rosecrance locations in Champaign and Danville. Hibbard was born and raised in central Illinois and earned her bachelor’s degree in liberal arts and sciences and speech communication at the University of Illinois. She has done business outreach, education, and marketing for over 20 years, including nearly a decade in behavioral health before coming to Rosecrance. She enjoys connecting with people and developing relationships with individuals and community organizations. She was drawn to Rosecrance’s important, long-standing work as a behavioral healthcare leader for clients and families seeking help for mental health and substance use.

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Omar Johnson is the Professional Relations Coordinator for the greater Chicagoland region, including Rosecrance Therapies locations in Beverly, Norwood Park, and River North, and Rosecrance Lakeview. He has nearly a decade of experience working in the behavioral health field with children/adolescents and adults. Johnson has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Columbia College Chicago and had been an integral resource for behavioral and substance use support for hospitals, governmental agencies, community-based organizations, and others in need of a higher level of care. His passion is supporting and ensuring that all families regardless of social standing, income, and status have access to behavioral health and residential support services in times of need.

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Mike Reynolds is the Professional Relations Coordinator for Rosecrance Jackson Centers, western Iowa, eastern Nebraska, and southeast South Dakota. He received his Bachelor of Arts in human relations and management from Doane College in 1990.  He holds his CADC certification in Iowa and was most recently a program manager for Jackson Recovery Centers. He has worked in the field of substance use disorders and mental health since 1979, serving in various capacities.

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Becky Sadler is the Professional Relations Coordinator for DuPage, Kane, and Kendall counties. She has over a decade of experience working in the behavioral health field in Illinois. She earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Saint Joseph’s College. Sadler is dedicated to maintaining and developing new professional relationships to help connect individuals to quality levels of care. She is also passionate about helping families in the community gain access to and navigate the behavioral health system. She is extremely grateful to work with the community to help individuals find lasting recovery.

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Andrea Shales is the Professional Relations Coordinator for Lake and northern Cook counties. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business management with a minor in social work from National Louis University. She has over two decades of experience in healthcare marketing and outreach, working directly with hospitals, community groups, and behavioral health organizations to develop long-lasting professional relationships. She is passionate about connecting adults, adolescents, and families with resources they need for lasting recovery, and she strives to bring awareness of mental health and substance use by partnering with local leaders, businesses, and organizations that offer support and education. She is a member of several Lake County task forces focusing on prevention and awareness.

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Allison Thomas is the Professional Relations Coordinator for northwest Indiana and southern Cook, Will, Grundy, and Kankakee counties. She earned a bachelor’s degree in management from Purdue University and has over 20 years of experience in marketing and communications, including over ten years in behavioral health marketing in Illinois. She enjoys building and maintaining professional relationships based on strong communication and mutual trust and is passionate about connecting individuals in need of treatment to quality programs. She is proud to partner with the community on behalf of Rosecrance to provide hope and lasting recovery to people in need.

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Lindsey Vass is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in clinical social work and business development within the behavioral health sector. She earned her Master of Social Work from Loyola University Chicago, specializing in clinical social work and substance use disorders, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies & Business from the University of Iowa.

She has spent over 13 years as a clinician, nine of those dedicated to Rosecrance clients. She has experience in direct care, supervising a team of clinicians, crisis intervention, utilization review, conducting clinical presentations and training for professionals, and business development, representing companies nationwide and expanding access to quality behavioral healthcare across the United States. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, clinical excellence, and enhancing access to quality behavioral health services.

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