Principal Therapist:
Associate Therapists:
Associate Therapists who are LCSWs or LCPCs are independent providers of psychotherapy and counseling services at Life Care Wellness.
Rhonda Kelloway
Rhonda Kelloway
LCSW, SEP
Somatic Experiencing Profile
Co-Regulating Touch Profile
Psychology Today Profile
HEAR Rhonda on
the Mind-Money Connection
Internet Radio Show
HEAR Rhonda on
The Theology of Hustle Podcast
HEAR Rhonda present on
Somatic Experiencing
“An interesting mix of professional training, skills and life experience adds a unique richness to what I offer clients. A crossroads experience in my late 20s got me off the fast track and onto a path of self-discovery that led to my present career, which I love and consider my true vocation. My graduate training included stints at a state psychiatric hospital and a community counseling center, and after working at a Christian non-profit agency for several years, I began a private practice in 2005. I love to learn new techniques that can help clients, so I also have been trained as a divorce mediator and received advanced training in EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, gentle and effective treatments for trauma resolution. One of the reasons I connect so well with my clients is that I’ve had such a diversity of experiences. I know the stress of the work and political worlds, a long-distance relationship, disconnection from family, career confusion and change, dealing with a loved one’s addiction, spiritual crisis, infertility, adoption, special needs parenting, divorce after a long marriage, and dealing with aging parents and dementia. I have experienced the healing of therapy, support groups and body-energy work, and can offer hope from my own experience, as well as from my professional training. I help clients create a life of joy despite the challenges. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- EMDR Therapist
- Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP)
- Trained Transformational Touch and NeuroAffective Touch Practitioner
- Divorce and Family Mediator
- Member U.S. Association for Body Psychotherapy
- Member Association of Family and Conciliation Courts
Sarah Bendix
Sarah Bendix
LCSW
“I believe that therapy is a process of learning and experiencing more fully who you are. Often therapy is sought in the face of injuries, loss, beliefs, and fears that have made it difficult to engage with the sense of possibility you feel when most fully alive. The seeds of that felt sense of aliveness already exist within you, and therapy can provide the opportunity and safe container to nurture those seeds. My work is informed by a background in the creative arts, advanced training in the feminist relational model of treating trauma, behavioral and psychodynamic schools of thought, and my current studies in Somatic Experiencing. I use an eclectic approach based on these trainings to explore how your history, thoughts, actions, and mind/body experience support or detract from your goals. Fundamentally, I believe that healing takes place within the framework of a safe, collaborative, and connected relationship that is the foundation of my work as a therapist. I see clients in the Jefferson Park office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Masters of Arts (MSW equivalent), University of Chicago
- Natalie Haimowitz Postgraduate Fellow, Womencare Counseling, Evanston, IL
- Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, in training
Erika Berg
Erika Berg
MAT, LCPC
“As a trained counselor and art therapist, I believe that there is an innate creativity in each and every one of us. Sometimes life puts bumps on our path and being able to explore these experiences with safety, compassion, and curiosity help to reintegrate us back into wholeness. My favorite part of being on this journey alongside my clients is being able to bear witness to the re-connections to those parts of themselves that may have gotten buried or disconnected. I adapt my therapeutic approach through the lens of a client-centered and strengths-based perspective, often using not only art therapy, but Somatic Experiencing and EMDR, as well. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is founded on nurturing a safe and supportive environment, fostering creativity and collaboration, and building the capacity for the full spectrum of expression and resiliency. I have experience in working with mood disorders, substance abuse disorders, and trauma. I trust in the mind-body-spirit connection and have the utmost regard for the intrinsic ability each one of us possesses to grow and create lasting change in our lives. I am truly honored to have the privilege in witnessing the strength, vulnerability, and courage embedded within each individual’s personal journey blossom and flourish. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Master of Counseling Psychology and Art Therapy, Adler School of Professional Psychology
- Bachelor of Fine Arts, Northeastern Illinois University
- 40-Hour Domestic Violence Training
- EMDR Therapist
- Somatic Experiencing Practitioner in Training
Stephanie Caballero Novak
“There is no correct or easy path through trauma and the problems it creates in our lives. It is true when they say that the, “only way out is through”. As someone who personally and professionally has experience with trauma, I am able to therapeutically guide individuals through the healing process without judgment. I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach, which are just fancy ways of saying that I create space for self-discovery and highlight the positive qualities we often ignore or can’t see in ourselves. I also utilize mindfulness techniques such as breathing, grounding, and meditation. I identify as biracial and multicultural and understand issues pertaining to race and identity of self within the larger context of society. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am also a Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS). Being a CRSS allows me to use my own personal recovery experience as a way to empower, instill hope, and assist individuals with improving their lives. I have followed my own healing path, have walked through the darkness, and came out on the other side towards a life of joy. I aim to accompany you on your own path.I have experience working in recovery of trauma, mental health and co-occurring disorders, geriatric and aging issues, caregiver stress, grief and loss, racial identity, chronic pain and/or illness, relationship and family dynamics, and survivors of incest and rape. I work with older adolescents, adults, and seniors. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn and Jefferson Park, Chicago office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS)
- Certified in Wellness Recovery Action Planning (WRAP)
- Master of Social Work, University of Illinois-Chicago; Jane Addams College of Social Work
Cathy Conway
Cathy Conway
LCPC, SEP
Psychology Today Profile
“I am passionate about helping you experience a freedom I’ve found – a freedom from burdens and wounds that hold us back from being the people we want to be and were created to be. We are made for relationships, specifically to have the kind of relationships that are joy-driven, mutually respectful, and thriving. I am privileged to walk along side of you, upholding your importance and worth as I collaborate with you in progressing towards your goals. My approach is client-centered, strengths-based, and integrative with a focus on identity and value. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults, whether it’s through counseling, coaching, and /or mentoring. Specialized training in trauma has helped me deeply understand the integration of body, mind, and spirit. I am certified as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and have received additional training in the touch element of SE. (Whether or not we use touch is entirely up to you.) I also can facilitate Immanuel Prayer and Christian Counseling if a client chooses to integrate their faith into treatment. Utilizing a large clinical “toolbag” from my twenty years of experience in a variety of settings, helps me to collaborate with you as we recognize your internal resources and build with them. Issues I work with include adoption, anger, anxiety, boundaries, burnout, codependency, depression, loneliness, parenting, phobias, relationships, self-esteem, sexual abuse, singleness, stress management, spiritual integration and trauma. I believe we continue growing and developing who we are throughout our lifespan, and it’s an honor to be with you on this part of your journey! I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
- Master of Counseling Psychology, Trinity International University
- Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP)
- Brainspotting Therapist
- Immanuel Prayer Practitioner
Marty Dennen
“I am passionate about helping teens, young adults and adults to find freedom from their past and current struggles. I come along side hurting, anxious and overwhelmed individuals and help them find renewed strength and resiliency. I have worked in residential and intensive outpatient treatment settings, specializing in working with eating issues including Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge Eating. I also have many years of experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, substance addictions, and childhood abuse. My advanced training is in healing trauma and anxiety disorders from a somatic (body-centered) approach, and include somatic touch skills to support individuals to find inner strength and resources to cope with past and current challenges. I focus on treating the whole person: Mind, Body and Soul. For those who desire to include their faith in their healing journey, I can integrate Christian principles in my work. I am honored to be a part of your healing and finding hope in your life journey. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Master of Social Work (Fordham University)
- EMDR Therapist
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1 Trained)
- 40-Hour Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Training
- 200-hr Yoga Teacher Training
Jennifer DiCostanzo
“As a social worker I have experience in many aspects of mental health treatment, but my primary focus is on substance and process addictions, trauma, depression, bipolar, and anxiety disorders. The therapeutic approaches I use most often include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR. My method of practice is simple: I am genuine and make my clients feel comfortable. I create that comfort by getting to know my clients and adapting therapy to fit their needs each time we meet. Regardless of what stressors my clients are facing, the most important aspect of their treatment is fostering a positive therapist-client relationship. I use the same approach when conducting groups and often like to let group participants drive the focus/topic of group for that session. My goal as a therapist is to assist my clients in making positive changes, while always remembering that the client is their own expert; my role is to provide guidance and support. I see adults and conduct groups in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Master of Social Work
- Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)
- Co-Occurring Substance Use and Mental Health Disorder Professional (CODP1)
- EMDR Therapist
Sarah Hechter
Sarah A Hechter
MS, LMFT
“I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about providing culturally sensitive therapy. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach using evidenced-based treatments that are tailored to your specific needs. The therapy process between us is one of collaboration and partnership and focuses on finding solutions and skills to address the issues that you face. My style is one that combines an empathetic, nonjudgmental space for you to reflect and discover, while also employing directive and motivational techniques that help you move through the things that keep you stuck. My work focuses on treating children (ages 4+), parents, and families that are struggling with trauma, relational issues, and developmental or behavioral issues. In addition, I treat adults that are facing struggles with issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, shame, infidelity, and existential dilemmas. My training includes a Masters of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy during which time I was awarded the Excellence in Marriage and Family Therapy Award from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I have also published multiple book chapters on topics ranging from the treatment of children in therapy to LGBTQIA issues and have spent time teaching and working in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy in Israel, China, and Cambodia. I invite you into a process of discovery, self awareness, and change where I will walk beside you at your pace and gently move you towards a healthier and more empowered you. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
- Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Clinical Fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
- Emotion-Focused Therapy Core Skills
- Prepare/Enrich Couples Facilitator
- Critical Incident Stress Management
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
Linette Howard
“I tailor my approach to the client’s needs and use a variety of therapeutic methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Expressive Therapies, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Somatic Experiencing (SE). I am passionate about helping children find their own unique voice, having been a consultant to teachers and parents and having worked extensively with children. I coach parents on more effective management of their child’s behavior while strengthening family bonds. With children I treat behavioral problems, learning difficulties, anxiety, poor self-esteem, and emotional and performance issues, as well as help children experiencing social challenges and bullying by aiding them in developing skills, confidence and competence in social settings. I am passionate about adults reaching their potential and goals, and I enjoy helping them get to a place where life can be good, healing can happen and joy can be found. I use a client-centered approach and determine therapeutic goals with each individual. I treat depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems and trauma, helping clients move from being “stuck” to becoming more peaceful and functional. I assist the whole person — mind, body, emotions, and spirit — in healing from difficult life events while increasing resiliency.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
- National Certified Counselor (NCC)
- Master of Arts in Professional Counseling, Argosy University
- EMDR Therapist
- Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP)
- Trained Touch Skills Practitioner
- Member American Counseling Association (ACA)
Sheri Leasure
“I began my career teaching at a small Bible college in central Mozambique. Personal experience with PTSD led to a career change, and I became a therapist. My own experience with trauma enables me to empathize with clients and create a space where they feel safe processing painful memories. I also treat clients with anxiety, mood disorders, spiritual concerns, and struggles with family of origin. My experience makes me well-equipped to work with pastors, missionaries and other people in ministry who are struggling with burnout, trauma and identity/vocational confusion. My therapeutic style is gentle and person-centered; I use CBT, DBT, Internal Family System and have training in EMDR. I am working towards certification in Somatic Experiencing. It is a joy to journey with people through their struggles and into a life of greater contentment. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn and Sycamore offices.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Master of Social Work (MSW), Aurora University
- Master of Biblical Exegesis (MA), Wheaton College
- Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) in Training
- Member National Association of Social Workers
- Member Christian Association for Psychological Studies
Marina Lisjonok
“With expertise in nursing, mental health, social work, and yoga, I have skills and experience to help clients emotionally heal. I combine counseling techniques with yogic practices in group or individual sessions to help create a safe space and to empower clients to use new tools for self-exploration and discovery. I work with chronic stress and fatigue, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, PTSD, sexual, physical, and emotional trauma, and other emotional difficulties. Some of those tools I teach are guided relaxation to help clients rest their nervous systems, awareness of the breath-cycle to help manage emotional states, visualization techniques to help rewire neural pathways and change emotional reactions, reframing problematic thoughts and beliefs, as well as additional tools to use at home to change behavioral patterns. I apply mindfulness, MBCBT, and Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT), which can produce instant and lasting results. Clients can then reconnect with the authentic self, build stronger relationships with others, find emotional balance. and make healthier life-choices. My goal is to help clients regain physical, mental, and/or spiritual well-being, and revived enthusiasm and excitement about life. I offer services in English and Russian in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Associates in Nursing (Latvia)
- Bachelor of Psychology
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Experienced Certified Yoga Teacher (500-hour level) (E-CYT)
- Certified Rapid Resolution Therapy Practitioner
Derek Moore
Derek Moore
LPC, CADC
“I am driven to help others overcome personal obstacles through evidenced based practices. My main approaches include DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and SFT (Solution Focused Therapy). My approach is mindful, goal oriented, and strengths based to steer you in the direction you want to go. I have experience working with late teens, young adults, and adults living with depression, substance abuse, and anxiety. My background stems from working at residential facilities, community mental health agencies, and hospital based mental health programs. I am currently attending my last year of graduate school at National Louis University, with a focus on Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My goal for working with clients is to help them excel and discover themselves in a safe space. You are the expert in your own life; I want to help you find your own direction. I enjoy working with late teens, young adults, and adults. I am unable to see clients with insurance, however, work from a sliding scale fee to best fit your needs. I see patients at the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Professional Therapist (LPC)
- Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)
- AAS in Addictions Counseling
- BS in Human Services
- Pursuing MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Gayle Pape
“I believe it takes a great amount of courage to seek therapy. I am passionate about treating the whole person with respect and honor. I have 23 years of experience working with children and adolescents. I use a strength- based approach, and I provide a safe space to assist in the processes of empowerment, healing and growth. My therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Based Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Art Therapy and Play Therapy. I treat anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional and behavioral issues, along with the effects of divorce, grief, stress, and school related issues. I help build self regulation skills, coping strategies, social competency and resiliency. When working with adults, we look at emotional blockages, relationships, poor self esteem and short term goals. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Bachelor of Psychology
- DuPage Women Against Rape Trained
Kim Rothwell
Kim Rothwell
BC-DMT, LCPC, CADC
HEAR Kim on
The Return to Embodiment
Podcast
Psychology Today Profile
“In all my roles – as a therapist, wife, sister, mother, and friend – I seek to practice grace and compassion for myself and others while facing the ongoing challenges of life. My goal as a therapist is to create space for my clients to discover and to grow into who they are meant to be in their lives and in their relationships. I have ten years experience working in chemical dependency, self-injury, trauma, eating disorder, and mood disorder treatment. I work along a continuum of movement from simple breath work to full body movement, and along a continuum of verbal processing from exclusively talk sessions to mostly movement sessions based upon the needs of the client. By engaging the body, mind and spirit in the work of therapy, I offer a holistic embodied approach that recognizes the deep wisdom and healing impulse of the body while enlisting mindfulness that tracks and witnesses the ongoing process of being within and responding to the world. I am continually honored to hold a grace-filled and compassionate space for the stories and discoveries of my clients. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Master of Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling – Columbia College Chicago
- Board Certified-Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT)
- Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
- Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)
- Graduate Laban Certificate of Movement Analysis
Codie Surratt
“My residency and practicum were at a private practice clinic specializing in children, adolescents, teens and adult women. The experience led me to develop a deep affinity for play therapy, interpersonal neurobiology and mindfulness-based therapy to empower clients to develop their own sense of self-worth and self-compassion. I went on to work with children, adolescents, and teens coping with the effects of divorce, grief, stress, anxiety, and school related issues. I enjoy working with adults, as well, particularly women. I draw upon many approaches to create a compassionate, yet challenging experience and therapeutic environment for each client. In this integrative approach, I use a variety of evidence-based treatments and techniques: mindfulness-based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, strength-based therapy, and somatic therapy. I also have experience coaching clients to help with short-term goal setting, relationship and job transitions, as well as self-esteem, health, and wellness issues. A Viktor Frankl quote guides my work: When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves. Helping my clients see that they have the strength to choose their response regardless of their situation is the bedrock of my work, and the source of passion I derive from seeing each client develop self-worth and self-agency. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Professional Counselor
- Master of Counseling Psychology (St. Edwards University)
- Board of Directors – Texas Brain Injury Alliance
- Licensed Massage Therapist: Texas/National (LMT)
- Member – American Counseling Association
Jordan Spinazzola
“Walking through the doors is the first and most important step in one’s journey of therapy. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, and families through difficult times and supporting them through those times. I know that each client is their own person, so I meet each client where they are emotionally and mentally, modifying my treatment approach to best aid each client in achieving their goals. Therapeutic methods I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strengths-Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, Mindfulness, and listening to the mind-body connection. I have experience with individuals with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, trichotillomania, traumatic brain injuries, eating disorders, trauma of various types, cancer patients/survivors and their family/support system, and family/spousal relationships struggles. I work with clients to remember and learn from their history while moving forward and living their best life with the tools they have collected on their therapeutic journey. I see clients and conduct groups in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Social Worker
- Master of Social Work (MSW), Aurora University
- Advanced Clinical Social Work Specialization (ACSW)
- Bachelor of Social Work & Servant Leadership, Aurora University
- Member of National Association of Social Workers
Sarah VanMeter
Sarah VanMeter
LCSW
“In working with youth, families, and adults for nearly twenty years, I have come to value the concept of “a life worth living” even when someone faces numerous struggles. I work closely with my clients, supporting them as they heal and grow into the person they want to be. I support all my clients in building a life they enjoy and can fully embrace. My approach is very client-centered, meaning I adjust to what each client needs. So my work may incorporate art, music, games, and outdoor activities. My services are rooted in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Over the years I have completed trainings in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Health Coaching, and Fostering and Adoptive Concerns. I also have advanced training in working with survivors of sexual assault, and I have my Illinois Coalition Domestic Violence Professional certification. While I specialize in working with at risk youth, youth in foster care, and those with complex trauma, my clients are of all ages – children as young as 5 through older adults. In addition to providing therapy, I sat on a subcommittee of the Long-Term Recovery Committee for the tornado that impacted Fairdale, Illinois, and I currently sit on the Trauma Informed Committee for DeKalb County. I work in the Sycamore office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Master of Social Work (Aurora University)
- Somatic Experiencing Practitioner
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist
- Trained Health Coach
- Illinois Coalition Domestic Violence Professional
- Member, Trauma-Informed Committee for DeKalb County
Ashley Wilkins
“I bring a deep passion for supporting those who are struggling and accompanying them on their path toward healing. As a social worker I rely on a systems lens that focuses on treating the whole person within their environment, and work to leverage additional supports around my clients to bolster the effectiveness of therapy. My therapeutic style relies on authenticity, empathy, and trust to provide a supportive environment for growth and change. I approach therapy as an active collaborator and offer an experience that is trauma-informed and free of judgement, recognizing the inherent worth and uniqueness of each individual’s experience. I bring a strengths-based approach to my work, empowering individuals to lean on their inherent strengths to thrive. I use clinical approaches like psychodynamic theory, attachment-based therapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral interventions. I work with all ages but have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and families; and have provided therapy in a variety of settings including schools, hospitals, and community mental health centers. I specialize in working with issues of grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, parenting, and identity exploration. I see clients in the Chicago office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Master of Social Work (University of Illinois at Chicago)
- Bachelor of Science in Community Development (Portland State University)
- EMDR Therapist
Karen Kuhlman
Karen Kuhlman
LSW, CADC
Psychology Today Profile
“My passion is understanding stored childhood trauma and the long-term effects it can have on adults. Unresolved traumatic experiences very often render a person with feelings of anxiety and depression; particularly for those who were never given the appropriate tools and support to process their trauma. These emotional states can lead to poor coping skills in our efforts to meet life’s challenges, and very often anxiety and depression can lead us to feeling incapable of helping ourselves or ever changing our circumstances and clearly seeing our potential.
Operating from an attachment perspective, I use a variety of therapeutic modalities in my work with clients including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS), and I tailor interventions to meet your specific needs. In a warm, understanding, and safe environment, I provide services for a wide range of disorders and difficulties including anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, life transitions, stress, and parenting. I truly believe that the greatest challenges in your life can also be your greatest opportunities for healing and growth. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office.”
Education & Certifications
- Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
- Master of Social Work (Aurora University)
- Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC)
- First Aid Mental Health Certification
- Member National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
Rebecca Muir
Rebecca Muir
I have always felt a strong calling to help others. This calling recently led me to change my life’s trajectory and pursue a career in clinical social work. Shifting from the administrative side of medical billing to the clinical forefront of therapy was quite a leap, but I have landed firmly in this helping profession with passion and ingenuity. I am currently attending Tulane University in Louisiana online for my MSW program. Tulane’s School of Social Work training has given me a broad understanding of several therapy approaches that I use with clients. These include CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Strengths-Based/Solution-Focused Therapy, and Talk Therapy. Part of the wonderful nature of being a student is that I am always learning and applying new techniques and strategies to help maximize the benefits of therapy for my clients. I love incorporating mindfulness-based strategies during therapy and encourage clients to use them outside of sessions to help create a more peaceful, joy-filled life.
My own life experiences as a child of divorced parents, trauma and domestic violence survivor, art teacher, mother of a young child, and as part of a family that navigates mental illnesses and addiction/substance abuse have given me a plethora of first-hand knowledge which enables me to connect with and relate to my clients in a meaningful way. Additionally, I have experience working with children with ASD utilizing Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapies. Early Intensive Behavioral Interventions (EIBI) is a therapy I have had the opportunity to see transform the lives of clients with ASD and their families.
I bring a heart filled with kindness and compassion to every session. My sole purpose is to help clients improve their lives and find relief from suffering. I am an intern here at LifeCare Wellness and accept clients on a self-pay basis only. However, I do work to accommodate all financial backgrounds with a low sliding scale.
Education & Certifications
- Master of Social Work,Tulane University (in progress)
- Board Certified Autism Technician (BCAT)
- Bachelor of Arts in English Literature
- Mindfulness and Meditation Therapist
Advanced Practice Nurse:
Sarah Katula
Sarah Katula
PhD, APRN
Advanced Practice Nurse – Psychiatry
Associate Professor
“I believe all of us are on a unique journey and as a seasoned Advanced Practice Nurse, it is my hope that I can participate in your journey towards a healthier you. The role of an Advanced Practice Nurse in Psychiatry is, in part, prescribing needed medications. Psychotropic medications may help you reach goals that without them might not be possible. Medications can stabilize moods, help one to focus, decrease anxiety, and provide enhanced feelings of wellbeing. When thinking is clearer and mood is stable, your work with a therapist can be enhanced. Medications (if indicated) are only a small part of helping you manage and enhance your mental health. My treatment philosophy is based on the idea of empowerment. Working together to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and value system is always my goal. I practice holistically, which means that medical issues, exercise, nutrition, sleep, spiritual practices, and social connectedness are addressed in each session. I value taking time with you and working collaboratively, including working with your treatment team. This may include your therapist and other practitioners (for example, acupuncture, energy healing, and more). My aim is to work with you as you find the wisdom within to a healthier, empowered you. I see clients in the Glen Ellyn office only.”
Education & Certifications
- Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN)
- Doctorate of Nursing, College of Nursing, University of Illinois – Chicago
- Master of Science in Nursing, Rush University, Chicago
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Valparaiso
- Associate Professor, Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Elmhurst College
- Advanced Practice Nurse, Behavioral Health, Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital, Downers Grove
- Advanced Practice Nurse representative to Hospital’s Clinical Advancement Council
- Chair, Employee Domestic Violence Council
- Chair, Patient Domestic Violence Council
- Residency Program
- Member, Dupage County Community Health Advisory Board
- Peer Reviewer, Nursing Forum