Sheryl Ankrom, MS, LCPC
Director of Clinical Services
Sheryl is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in behavioral health services. Sheryl believes that it is imperative to understand each client's uniqueness and uses a collaborative therapeutic approach that is based on the client’s individual needs and perspectives. In a nurturing and supportive environment, Sheryl focuses on identifying and building upon each individual’s strengths and guides clients through the process of modifying problematic issues and attaining personal growth.
In private practice, community non-profit and hospital settings, Sheryl has worked with individuals, families, and couples with a broad range of difficulties, including relationship, emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. She has also received specialized training to work with survivors of domestic violence.
Sheryl has extensive experience in assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a variety of presentations, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, addiction issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, and unhealthy expressions of anger.
As a former mental health writer for About.com, a New York Times Company, Sheryl has numerous published articles relating to the symptoms, causes, treatments, and self-help strategies for individuals with mental illness and their families
In private practice, community non-profit and hospital settings, Sheryl has worked with individuals, families, and couples with a broad range of difficulties, including relationship, emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. She has also received specialized training to work with survivors of domestic violence.
Sheryl has extensive experience in assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a variety of presentations, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, addiction issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, and unhealthy expressions of anger.
As a former mental health writer for About.com, a New York Times Company, Sheryl has numerous published articles relating to the symptoms, causes, treatments, and self-help strategies for individuals with mental illness and their families
Shannon Garrison, MSEd, NCC, LCPC (She/Her/Hers)
Shannon is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. She obtained her Master of Science in Education (MSEd) degree in Counseling from Western Illinois University. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Shannon has worked in outpatient community mental health settings, intensive outpatient programs, and partial hospitalization programs. She has extensive experiencing providing individual, group, and family therapy to culturally diverse individuals and families. Shannon is LGTBQ+ affirming and has worked with adolescents, adults and families of the LGTBQ+ community. In addition, Shannon has extensive experience providing clinical supervision and program management and development in her prior roles.
In Shannon's Own Words:
As a therapist, I am passionate about working with individuals and families who present with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, thought disorders, and interpersonal/family conflicts. I utilize person-centered and strength-based approaches to develop strong therapeutic relationships with my clients so that they may fully engage in the therapeutic process. I also incorporate evidenced based techniques that draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems, and Trauma-Informed interventions. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is key in helping to create a safe, non-judgmental space where my clients can explore and navigate current stressors/challenges to improve overall functioning, reach their desired goals, and lead more healthy, happy, and meaningful lives.
In Shannon's Own Words:
As a therapist, I am passionate about working with individuals and families who present with a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, thought disorders, and interpersonal/family conflicts. I utilize person-centered and strength-based approaches to develop strong therapeutic relationships with my clients so that they may fully engage in the therapeutic process. I also incorporate evidenced based techniques that draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems, and Trauma-Informed interventions. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is key in helping to create a safe, non-judgmental space where my clients can explore and navigate current stressors/challenges to improve overall functioning, reach their desired goals, and lead more healthy, happy, and meaningful lives.
Dana Hall, MS, LCPC
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II)
Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (ICATP)
Certified Family Trauma Specialist (IATP)
Addictions-Informed Professional (CAIMHP-Certification)
Dana Hall is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 15 years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families. With advanced certifications as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II), Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (ICATP), Certified Family Trauma Specialist (IATP), and an Addictions-Informed Professional (CAIMHP-Certification), Dana brings a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to treatment. Dana also has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
In addition to clinical work in private practice, Dana is an accomplished author and has been featured as an expert in Chicago Parent Magazine and written articles for Very Well, Psychology Today, Deep Soulful Love, and A Chronic Voice.
In Dana’s Own Words:
My passion lies in helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma, relational challenges, and mood / anxiety management, offering a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. Whether you're dealing with the lingering effects of trauma, struggling with relationship dynamics, or seeking better ways to manage anxiety or mood swings, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to create lasting change. In our work together, we'll tailor the therapeutic process to meet your unique needs, ensuring that each session is both meaningful and effective. I believe in the power of collaboration and will be with you every step of the way, helping you uncover your strengths and build resilience. You are not alone. So, if you're ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more balanced life, I'm here to support you on that journey. Let’s work together to overcome the obstacles standing in your way and move toward a future where you feel more in control and at peace.
In addition to clinical work in private practice, Dana is an accomplished author and has been featured as an expert in Chicago Parent Magazine and written articles for Very Well, Psychology Today, Deep Soulful Love, and A Chronic Voice.
In Dana’s Own Words:
My passion lies in helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma, relational challenges, and mood / anxiety management, offering a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. Whether you're dealing with the lingering effects of trauma, struggling with relationship dynamics, or seeking better ways to manage anxiety or mood swings, my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to create lasting change. In our work together, we'll tailor the therapeutic process to meet your unique needs, ensuring that each session is both meaningful and effective. I believe in the power of collaboration and will be with you every step of the way, helping you uncover your strengths and build resilience. You are not alone. So, if you're ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more balanced life, I'm here to support you on that journey. Let’s work together to overcome the obstacles standing in your way and move toward a future where you feel more in control and at peace.
Erica James, LSW
Erica received a Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University and a Master’s degree in Child and Adolescent Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Erica enjoys working with adolescents through adults and has extensive experience working with individuals and families facing challenges surrounding anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma/loss, relationship issues, confidence/self-esteem building, parenting, co-parenting, and other life adjustments and transitions.
Having worked in residential, inpatient, and community health settings, Erica has gained extensive experience using a variety of clinical approaches in her treatment, including CBT, DBT, IFS, and Trauma Informed Therapy. In addition, Erica has 10 years of experience working with individuals using ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis). In a safe and supportive environment, Erica helps her clients develop his or her goals and navigate the road to fruition, especially in the context of family or societal expectations.
In Erica's own words:
My goal in working with my clients is to help them discover a sense of peace, genuine happiness, joy, and confidence in becoming the version of themselves they desire. Due to the complexities of the human experience, often blurred by social media, societal, family, and other relationship expectations, there is no “simple answer” on our path to discovery. With this in mind, I recognize the uniqueness of each client I help and use the therapeutic approach that will provide the best outcomes. While I begin the therapeutic journey with a client-centered approach, I also utilize therapeutic techniques of CBT, DBT, Trauma Informed Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, and play therapy for the child/adolescent populations connecting through specific interests.
I recognize the courage it can take to ask for help and to make life changes. I would be honored to be a part of your journey.
Erica enjoys working with adolescents through adults and has extensive experience working with individuals and families facing challenges surrounding anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma/loss, relationship issues, confidence/self-esteem building, parenting, co-parenting, and other life adjustments and transitions.
Having worked in residential, inpatient, and community health settings, Erica has gained extensive experience using a variety of clinical approaches in her treatment, including CBT, DBT, IFS, and Trauma Informed Therapy. In addition, Erica has 10 years of experience working with individuals using ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis). In a safe and supportive environment, Erica helps her clients develop his or her goals and navigate the road to fruition, especially in the context of family or societal expectations.
In Erica's own words:
My goal in working with my clients is to help them discover a sense of peace, genuine happiness, joy, and confidence in becoming the version of themselves they desire. Due to the complexities of the human experience, often blurred by social media, societal, family, and other relationship expectations, there is no “simple answer” on our path to discovery. With this in mind, I recognize the uniqueness of each client I help and use the therapeutic approach that will provide the best outcomes. While I begin the therapeutic journey with a client-centered approach, I also utilize therapeutic techniques of CBT, DBT, Trauma Informed Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, and play therapy for the child/adolescent populations connecting through specific interests.
I recognize the courage it can take to ask for help and to make life changes. I would be honored to be a part of your journey.
Lynn Panepinto, LCSW, CCTP-II, EMDR
Lynn received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Liberty University and her master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults, and has extensive experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual abuse, self-harm, trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, and substance abuse. Lynn also specializes in working with families experiencing communication, relationship, infidelity, domestic abuse, parent-child relationship, and addiction issues.
Lynn utilizes evidenced-based techniques to assist her clients in strengthening and enhancing their unique abilities to make the changes they desire. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Lynn believes that success is defined by the client and takes a client-centered, strengths-based approach to empower her clients. Whether working with individuals or families/couples, she takes time building a therapeutic relationship that will foster change and growth while providing her clients with a safe space to practice new behaviors and life skills
Lynn utilizes evidenced-based techniques to assist her clients in strengthening and enhancing their unique abilities to make the changes they desire. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-II), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Lynn believes that success is defined by the client and takes a client-centered, strengths-based approach to empower her clients. Whether working with individuals or families/couples, she takes time building a therapeutic relationship that will foster change and growth while providing her clients with a safe space to practice new behaviors and life skills
Kelly McGowan, MS, LPC
Kelly received her Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Lewis University in 2013. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults. By working for over a decade in elementary schools, high schools, and colleges, she has gained experience, in helping young people with a variety of concerns including: anxiety, stress management, grief/loss, trauma, behavioral concerns, motivation, depression, and self-injury. Kelly is LGTBQ+ affirming and has worked with individuals of the LGTBQ+ community and their families. In addition, while providing services to individuals in a therapeutic day school program, Kelly gained extensive experience working with youth who present with high levels of emotional distress and behavioral concerns.
Kelly utilizes an integrative approach to treatment and draws from her theoretical orientation of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with components of person-centered techniques to assist her clients in achieving their goals. She is committed to providing compassion, support, and encouragement to help each client work towards a sense of personal growth to create a healthier, happier, and overall better quality of life.
Jamie Simmert, LSW, Certified EMDR Therapist
Jamie is a Licensed Social Worker who has a calm and empathetic nature that shines through when helping others. She is a compassionate therapist who has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families, providing guidance and support in their journey to create meaningful lives and better relationships. Jamie enjoys working with child through geriatric populations, and is experienced in helping people with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, self-injury, PTSD/trauma, gender identity, self-esteem and other emotional/mental health and life transition problems.
In Jamie's Own Words:
My goal in working with individuals, couples, and families is not only to alleviate symptoms, but to restore balance, facilitate long-term healthy changes, and enhance overall quality of life in family, social, relational, work, and educational functioning. I use a collaborative approach to set treatment goals and work with my clients to explore their areas of concerns. My office provides a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental environment to empower you to make changes and to learn the skills necessary to achieve your goals.
My treatment style is client-centered, and I am experienced in a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step Program, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy. The individual approach I use is based on the client's presenting problems and goals.
If you're experiencing emotional difficulties, are feeling distressed, dealing with past trauma, or stuck from life transition issues, I would be honored to help you on your journey to wellness. Together we will explore what keeps you stuck in dysfunctional patterns and emotions and find the solutions for long-term change.
In Jamie's Own Words:
My goal in working with individuals, couples, and families is not only to alleviate symptoms, but to restore balance, facilitate long-term healthy changes, and enhance overall quality of life in family, social, relational, work, and educational functioning. I use a collaborative approach to set treatment goals and work with my clients to explore their areas of concerns. My office provides a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental environment to empower you to make changes and to learn the skills necessary to achieve your goals.
My treatment style is client-centered, and I am experienced in a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step Program, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy. The individual approach I use is based on the client's presenting problems and goals.
If you're experiencing emotional difficulties, are feeling distressed, dealing with past trauma, or stuck from life transition issues, I would be honored to help you on your journey to wellness. Together we will explore what keeps you stuck in dysfunctional patterns and emotions and find the solutions for long-term change.
Samantha Hawkinson, MS, LPC
Samantha uses a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to connect with her clients. Samantha's overarching approach to treatment is meeting each person where they are in life, then helping them deepen their self-awareness in order to grow toward positive change. Sam is experienced working with adolescent through adult clients with a wide range of presentations, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, relationship issues, family conflict, separation/divorce, blended family issues, and substance use issues. Sam has experience working in outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization settings.
In Sam's own words:
"Working together as a collaborative team, my goal is to walk beside you in your journey toward positive change. Together, we will explore tools and strategies you can use to manage, emotional, psychological, and relational concerns. In a warm, non-judgmental, and safe environment we can explore current and past difficulties, identify personal strengths and inner resources, and develop a plan for positive and lasting change to meet your life goals.
I utilize person-centered therapy as the foundation of the therapeutic relationship to meet my clients where they’re at in life. I integrate appropriate evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Systems, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) based on your presenting issues.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or alone, together we can explore barriers and past or current difficulties that are keeping you stuck in dysfunctional patterns, I will help you discover the possibilities that are within your reach and will guide you through the process of positive and lasting change based on your goals".
In Sam's own words:
"Working together as a collaborative team, my goal is to walk beside you in your journey toward positive change. Together, we will explore tools and strategies you can use to manage, emotional, psychological, and relational concerns. In a warm, non-judgmental, and safe environment we can explore current and past difficulties, identify personal strengths and inner resources, and develop a plan for positive and lasting change to meet your life goals.
I utilize person-centered therapy as the foundation of the therapeutic relationship to meet my clients where they’re at in life. I integrate appropriate evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Systems, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) based on your presenting issues.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or alone, together we can explore barriers and past or current difficulties that are keeping you stuck in dysfunctional patterns, I will help you discover the possibilities that are within your reach and will guide you through the process of positive and lasting change based on your goals".
Melissa Baranowski, MS, LPC
Melissa earned her undergraduate degree in Counseling Psychology from St. Xavier University and her Masters in Clinical Psychology from Governors State University, where she graduated with honors. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults who present with a variety of issues, including mood/anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, stress, eating disorders, relationship issues, family conflict, and other concerns.
Melissa has experience in private practice, inpatient, intensive outpatient, emergency room, and partial hospital programs. She is Trauma Therapy Certified, Aggression Management Certified, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Certified, and is a Certified Mindfulness Instructor.
In Melissa's Own Words:
"I value a holistic approach to treatment, considering how one's physical, relational, and spiritual aspects may affect an individual's mental and emotional wellness. I offer a collaborative, compassionate, and emphatic approach to treatment, and provide a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you can talk openly. I pride myself on being open and accepting of everyone and have been fortunate to work with clients from all walks of life".
Melissa Baranowski, MS, LPC
Melissa earned her undergraduate degree in Counseling Psychology from St. Xavier University and her Masters in Clinical Psychology from Governors State University, where she graduated with honors. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults who present with a variety of issues, including mood/anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, stress, eating disorders, relationship issues, family conflict, and other concerns.
Melissa has experience in private practice, inpatient, intensive outpatient, emergency room, and partial hospital programs. She is Trauma Therapy Certified, Aggression Management Certified, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Certified, and is a Certified Mindfulness Instructor.
In Melissa's Own Words:
"I value a holistic approach to treatment, considering how one's physical, relational, and spiritual aspects may affect an individual's mental and emotional wellness. I offer a collaborative, compassionate, and emphatic approach to treatment, and provide a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you can talk openly. I pride myself on being open and accepting of everyone and have been fortunate to work with clients from all walks of life".
Lauren Mock, MS, LPC
Lauren received her Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lewis University, with a specialization in Child and Adolescent therapy. She is a calm, receptive, and compassionate clinician who understands the importance of a therapeutic environment that feels safe for each individual. Lauren enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults with varying mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, autism, and developmental/intellectual/learning disabilities. Lauren has worked in an inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings.
In Lauren’s words:
“No matter what you are going through, you can push through it and become a better you or change that negative energy into something positive. My goal is to provide a safe place so you may feel comfortable to open up about what is going on in your life. Fostering growth in all individuals is how people can help themselves change and flourish. I will help you work through difficult challenges and come up with positive realistic goals for the future that you can achieve".
In Lauren’s words:
“No matter what you are going through, you can push through it and become a better you or change that negative energy into something positive. My goal is to provide a safe place so you may feel comfortable to open up about what is going on in your life. Fostering growth in all individuals is how people can help themselves change and flourish. I will help you work through difficult challenges and come up with positive realistic goals for the future that you can achieve".
Ruth Henrichs, RN, LCPC
Ruth Henrichs, RN, LCPC
In addition to holding a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Ruth also holds a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. With over 20 years of experience in inpatient and outpatient treatment, Ruth provides quality care for a variety of mental health issues, including stress management for life transitions/adjustments, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, bipolar disorder, trauma, loss, and grief issues.
Ruth understands the course of change is different for each person. She creates a nonjudgmental, supportive, and collaborative relationship with her clients through a therapeutic process of identifying and harnessing a client's personal strengths.
Ruth understands the course of change is different for each person. She creates a nonjudgmental, supportive, and collaborative relationship with her clients through a therapeutic process of identifying and harnessing a client's personal strengths.