Karin Lagacy, Psy.D, CIMHP, Licensed Clinical Psychologist

I believe that people face many challenges in their lives. I believe that with perseverance and with focus many challenges can be overcome. I believe that it is important to accept things that we may not like; and change our thinking when we cannot change our situation. That is why my approach to treatment is integrative with influences from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

I believe that people often try to avoid or suppress emotions, thoughts, or memories, which may result in unhealthy or maladaptive methods to further that avoidance. Often these symptoms, whether eating disorder behavior, self-injury, chemical dependency, etc., also serve some sort of purpose in the person's life and help them through difficult times in an unhealthy way. The purpose of treatment then becomes to replace ineffective and maladaptive behavior with functional and thoughtful responses. My approach to therapy emphasizes the acceptance and validation of your thoughts, feelings, and actions; while still challenging you to think of alternatives and practice acceptance of discomfort in the service of change.

I specialize in working with adults and adolescents and focus on helping you to identify your values and take action toward the person you would like to be.  My role is to help you define your sense of identity and see meaning in your life beyond the daily grind. My role is to help you learn about yourself by challenging your worries and clarifying your values. I work with all ages and diagnoses. I also have specialized training in the areas of eating disorders and sports performance. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Heath Professional (CIMHP) with a focus on nutritional and integrative medicine for mental health. 

Though I do practice using primarily the previously mentioned treatment techniques, my ultimate goal is to ensure a positive therapeutic relationship with each and every one of my clients. I am certainly flexible within my treatment approach and hope to work with you in a way that best meets your needs and helps you start living your life to the fullest.

Nicole Miller, M.A., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

I believe that a successful therapeutic relationship is based on trust, teamwork, compassion and empathy. I work attentively to assist my clients in realizing their potential for positive change, and help to empower them to meet their therapeutic goals. I am comfortable utilizing a variety of interventions to meet each client's specific needs.

I work with individuals and groups on issues such as family problems, divorce and divorce recovery, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, anger management, eating disorders, parenting skills, grief and loss, physical and sexual abuse, and adolescent issues.

We all experience periods of distress in our lives that can fluctuate between intense grief and suffering to slight sadness and worry. Regardless of the stressor, I believe that most people can benefit from therapy services at one point or another. I assist my clients to feel safe and comfortable in the therapeutic process.

Nathan Lagacy, M.A., CMPC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and also a Certified Mental Performance Consultant for the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. I have spent the past six years working as a full time therapist dealing with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ODD, ADHD, anger management, Bipolar Disorder, and others. I also have experience with relationship issues and issues related to children's adjustment to divorce, and stress management. I have experience as a mental performance consultant in working with various sports teams, individual athletes, and performers in a multitude of sports/performance realms to develop skills to create consistency, and optimal performance. Concentrating on areas such as goal setting, mental toughness, emotional regulation skills (anxiety, anger, etc.), relaxation, managing pressure, motivation, focus, and improving performance.

I work with individuals to meet them where they are in life in order to help them find more effective ways to cope, and to maneuver through their life. We will work to identify areas for improvement and to challenge each person in order to improve their quality of life. I work to help individuals utilize their current strengths to help them find more success in managing stressors, painful emotions, and to navigate through difficult relationships.

As a therapist with training in sport and health psychology I understand the importance of how the mind and body interact with one another. I work to help individuals look at all areas of their life in order to increase their happiness, and work to achieve their goals in life. As a youth I participated in soccer, baseball, basketball, football, and track. I played collegiate football during my undergraduate degree as well. As an adult I continue to be very involved in health and wellness, along with playing sports recreationally. I am a big believer in the impact that health, wellness, physical activity and sports can have upon increasing happiness and overall life satisfaction.

Jennifer Earnest, M.Ed., NCC, CCMHC, PEL, CYT-200, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

As your counselor, I am here to join along side you on your journey of growth and healing. My intention is to understand and care for your needs in therapy and for you to know that you are not alone. I believe the continual pursuit of growth is best understood as the relentless process of rediscovering and harnessing your strengths and revisiting the core aspects of your self that make you uniquely you. I am committed to being an agent of change for individuals during times of transition and personal development. During our time together, I intend for us to get to the core of your current challenges, realize and actualize your abilities, and begin moving towards optimum wellness. I am sensitive to the diverse needs of individuals/life stages and recognize that each person comes to therapy with their own story and desired outcomes. My hope is for each individual to leave with a desire to experience a more fulfilling and meaningful life; and most importantly, to feel equipped enough to do so!

I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, as well as others as needed to help you discover underlying challenges and hurts, work out past traumas, change thinking that is no longer serving you and makes gains toward inner peace and understanding. I use a variety of therapy modalities and tools, some of which include: Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused/Strength based therapy, mindfulness and visualization, art and music therapy, psychoeducation, as well as journaling. 

Common challenges and reasons that individuals may see me include: body image issues, relationship concerns (within family systems and/or friendships), life transitions, anxiety, personal growth and mindset development, anger/stress management, perfectionism, postpartum support, exploring boundary work (with others and self) and overall wellness/self care.  I also work closely with athletes who find themselves experiencing performance anxiety, self doubt and blocks within their competitive sport setting- as well as those who are looking to elevate their current performance level through mental strength training. I am currently working with adolescents, college/emerging young adults and adults providing individual therapy.

My educational background began at Northwestern University, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude, earning a Bachelors Degree of Science in Education and Social Policy in Human Development and Psychological Services. I continued my studies in School and Community Counseling at Loyola University, where I earned my Masters of Education, as well as my certificate as a school counselor (professional educator license). I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), and certified by the National Board for Certified Counselor as a National Certified Counselor (NCC), as well as a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC). I have additional training in mindfulness and stress reduction for adolescents and am a certified yoga teacher (CYT-200).  Outside of the therapy office, I coach completive soccer at the club level and hold a US Soccer National C-License.  I am currently working towards my Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) certification through the Association for Applied Sports Psychology.

Molly Kanaley, M.Ed., Licensed Professional Counselor

Life brings many stressors, and we could all benefit from a safe and supportive place to sort out our feelings and process our concerns. In counseling, I aim to provide my clients with a warm and non-judgmental space to be truly heard so that they can communicate their authentic experiences in a safe place. I use a person-centered and collaborative approach, providing clients with the opportunity to identify and clarify their own goals, gifts, and qualities. 

 I obtained my M.Ed. in Counseling from DePaul University in 2018 and have worked in Higher Education since 2010. I have experience with an array of students and clients from adolescents to adults, and focus on issues such as anxiety, depression, identifying and setting boundaries, relationship and social issues, grief and loss, time management, and stress management. Additionally, I have a strong background and interest in learning styles and have assisted undergraduate and graduate students in exploring their academic needs by understanding how they learn and process challenging material inside and outside the classroom.

 My treatment approach is influenced by Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy;  I enjoy working with individuals as they grow and face the challenges of life.

Kimberly Fitzgerald-Amend, M.S., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

Caring for an individual with special needs is difficult, that goes without saying.  Finding someone to talk to about your struggles shouldn’t be.  My passion is assisting individuals who find themselves facing unique hurdles in life stemming from their role as a caregiver.  It has been my experience that even the strongest person can find themselves faced with challenging life events, whether it be caregiver stress, relationship problems, the loss of a loved one, or struggles with anxiety and depression.  Life is full of unexpected hurdles and hardships.  Although our lives are not always going to be optimally satisfying, never doubt that they still have meaning.  As your therapist, my goal is to create a relationship in which you feel comfortable, accepted, and safe.

I am an eclectic clinician, thus rather than using a “one-size fits all” therapeutic approach, I prefer to implement treatment plans based on the individual needs of my clients.  While working together, I may utilize such approaches as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Writing Exposure Therapy, Art Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.  I do favor a client-centered approach, in which my clients choose their own goals, and with my guidance, work toward achieving them, because….
”It is your story, and you get to write the ending" — Brene´  Brown.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults, in an individual, couple, or group capacity.  I provide services for those who find themselves struggling with caregiver stress; emotional regulation; depression; anxiety; OCD/OCPD; bipolar disorder; PTSD; grief and loss; relationship conflict; ADHD; and adjusting to difficult life transitions.

I hold a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology/Clinical Counseling and am licensed in the State of Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.

Veronica Palar, M.A., NCC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

Today’s world, especially for youth and young adults, is more challenging to navigate and understand than ever before. Some days, you may feel like things are pretty all right and manageable. Other days, you might feel empty, hopeless, misunderstood, mentally and physically exhausted, and confused as to how it got “this bad”. As a parent, you may notice your child spending more time alone, preferring to stay home during family outings, angry and irritable for “no reason”, losing interest in activities they once enjoyed, or getting lower grades in school. While these feelings and behaviors can appear to affect your life in some of the worst ways, they’re also your body’s way of telling you it’s time for something different.

It’s time to realize that you too are strong, smart and capable of learning, growing and becoming the version of yourself that you may have never imagined you could be. As a therapist who recognizes that therapy is not a one size fits all, I bring together techniques, beliefs and treatment modalities offered through different therapeutic approaches to create a unique, personalized experience that will work for you. You are ready to take that next step and deserve to begin working on the most important person in your life, you. I believe that the relationship we develop with ourselves is the most crucial and influential in shaping how we experience our day to day. Allow me to help you get to know yourself in ways that will allow things like joy, understanding, love, compassion, and meaning be a part of your daily life. With my extensive background in working with teens, young adults and families who have been “dealt a bad hand” at one time or another, I am ready to be by your side and support you through your journey to a happier, more fulfilled life.

Megan Foertsch, M.A., Licensed Professional Counselor

Modern day life and stressors are becoming increasingly hard to handle these days. You are not alone! The unconscious mind is a mystery, but by taking a deeper look inside ourselves we can begin to understand and cope with the world around us. At our core, there are complexities to be uncovered and new freedoms to be found to regain independence and balance in our lives. I recognize that everyone has specific needs, and therefore will need an individual and unique treatment plan.

My dedicated, client-centered approach will help you to overcome negative thoughts and improve emotional regulation. I will work with you to think outside of the box and build strength within our therapeutic relationship. Collaboration is key, and establishing rapport and a good working relationship is vitally important. My goal is to help you learn coping methods to live a successful and fulfilled life! Anything is possible when you trust the process and the journey!

Michel Carter, M.A., Licensed Professional Counselor

I believe everyone deserves a safe place to be heard, understood, and supported. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed School Counselor with trauma-informed training, I provide a warm, compassionate space for healing and growth—for children, teens, adults, couples, and families alike.

I work with clients navigating a wide range of challenges—anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, grief, relationship struggles, and life transitions. With kids and teens, I understand how overwhelming school can feel, and I offer support with academic stress, behavioral challenges, peer relationships, and self-esteem. I also partner with parents to navigate IEPs, 504 plans, and school processes so students can thrive both emotionally and academically.

In our work together, I’ll meet you where you are and tailor therapy to your unique needs. I draw from approaches like person-centered therapy, CBT, DBT, REBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, play therapy, and the Gottman Method for couples counseling. More than anything, my goal is to create a space where you can reflect, exhale, and feel safe to grow.

I am especially passionate about supporting women, individuals from diverse cultural and social backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Every story matters, and I strive to create an inclusive space where your whole self is welcomed, respected, and valued. Whether you’re working through pain, navigating change, or seeking more balance, I’ll walk with you—with compassion, authenticity, and encouragement every step of the way.

Together, we can create a space where healing happens and where you begin to step into the life you envision.

Sarah Shebik, M.A., Licensed Professional Counselor

I received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a master’s degree in forensic psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have experience working with child, adolescent, and adult clients struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and general life stressors.

I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy with my clients. I understand that no two clients are the same and that it is important to work with my client to set goals and find a therapeutic approach that is best for the individual. I believe in creating a safe space for my clients to feel comfortable working with me. To build this safe space, I emphasize the importance of a positive rapport with my clients. My goal is to support my clients in the process of coping with and working through their struggles so they can achieve their goals in therapy and in life.

Julie Jensen, M.A., Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Whatever life has thrown at you lately is causing you to feel something which has led you to reading this right now. And I want you to know that I am here for you. Regardless of what you might be going through, you do not have to go through it alone. It is freeing when you can enter a non-judgmental safe space with someone who accepts all of you, even on your darkest days. If we get the opportunity to work together, my aim is for us to embrace the good days and the not so good days while practicing skills that will make everyday for you feel more enjoyable.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who believes in a collaborative, trauma-informed, and person-centered approach. My therapeutic lens tends to be influenced by a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy, and/or Attachment-Focused Therapy. I am more eclectic in my approach with clients to ensure that our work together is tailored to what is best for you and your particular situation. 

My experience spans a variety of settings supporting individuals and groups within schools (PreK-12), youth community centers, safety shelters, crisis hotlines, and providing on-call community mental health support after incidents of violence. Clients I work with tend to be coping with crisis, trauma, loss, separation, depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, school issues and/or relationship issues. In addition to my work at Life to the Fullest LLC, I spend part of my days as a School Social Worker and have extensive knowledge on academic procedures, especially when it comes to special education and accommodations (IEP and 504).

I graduated from Marquette University with a BA in Psychology and later went on to get my MA in Social Work (MSW) from Loyola University of Chicago.

Kierstyn Piper, M.A., Licensed Professional Counselor

I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). My professional background includes experience in hospital settings, in-home therapy, school counseling, and private practice, where I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults.

I utilize evidence-based approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Play Therapy to help clients understand how their experiences shape their lives, while building skills to create meaningful and lasting change. I hold a particular passion for working with clients affected by OCD and eating disorders, helping them develop healthier coping strategies, foster self-compassion, and regain a sense of control and balance in their lives.

My goal is to provide a supportive and collaborative therapeutic space where you feel empowered to achieve your goals and live authentically. I honor the courage it takes to seek help and commend you for taking this important first step toward healing and growth.

Scarlet Konczyk, M.S., Licensed Professional Counselor

My approach as a counselor is to create a comfortable, welcoming, and safe environment for every client. The space I strive to create is one where the client and counselor work together as a team to improve the clients mental health or causes of distress. Every client will have a different therapeutic experience based on their needs and goals. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of diagnosis.  I have worked with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem issues, stress, issues related to life transitions, school issues, peer relationship issues, women issues, eating disorders, body image, as well as working with couples to transform and create meaningful partnerships. Also, my background in sports and as an elite gymnastics coach allows me to connect with children, teen, and young adult athletes who may be struggling with the stress and pressures of their sport. My goal is to offer an open, genuine space for you to express yourself and grow into the person you would like to be. 

Edwin Guzman, M.S., CRC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) for the US Department of Veterans Affairs. I received my bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a master’s degree from Illinois Institute of Technology. 

I have a passion for connecting with individuals on an emotional level and taking an eclectic approach that is best suited to your unique wants and needs. I work with adults and military veterans coping with depression, anxiety, substance use, and PTSD. My therapeutic orientation combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, positive psychology, and mindfulness meditation. I am fluent in Spanish and offer services in both English and Spanish.  I am driven and motivated to work within the context of my clients' ethnic backgrounds as they align with their treatment goals.

Lindsey Watts, M.S.W., Licensed Social Worker

Clients have described my therapeutic approach as characterized by authenticity, warmth, empathy, and a forward-thinking perspective, complemented by a sense of humor. I firmly believe that the foundation of successful therapy lies in cultivating a strong and trusting therapist-client relationship. 

 Recognizing the unique nature of each individual, I tailor my treatment approach to align with your specific goals and needs. My repertoire typically includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and traditional talk therapy. My goal is to establish a safe and supportive environment that encourages you to openly discuss challenging or painful aspects of your life. Together, we collaboratively create solution-focused plans and I impart skills to help you navigate and thrive amidst distressing situations mindfully. 

 My professional journey encompasses diverse experiences, ranging from working with individuals in residential treatment centers to supporting Division 1 college athletes. I have a particular interest in addressing complex trauma, eating disorders, self-harm, and substance use. Additionally, I am a staunch LGBTQ+ ally, committed to providing affirmative counseling.

 Whether you prefer in-person or remote sessions, I am available to support you. I look forward to the possibility of working with you!

Katie Fee, M.A., Licensed Professional Counselor

I hold both a Bachelor and Masters of Arts degrees in Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and have over 15 years of experience helping young adults and children struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, life-transition challenges, and self-confidence. My therapeutic goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe space, assisting my clients in realizing their potential for positive change. I work with my clients to help them find more effective ways to cope, and maneuver through life to meet their therapeutic goals. I believe in continual growth, harnessing your strengths and identifying your abilities to assist you in moving toward optimal wellness. I use a person-centered and collaborative approach, providing clients the opportunity to identify their challenges and goals. I believe the relationship between the therapist and client is of great importance, and I welcome the opportunity to work with you to lead to a more fulfilling life.

Mary Faith Vaughan, M.A., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

My role is to provide a space where you can be heard, respected, and accepted. One of the most freeing things we can do is share our beliefs with another and be accepted non-judgmentally. My clients have described me as comforting, attentive, patient and curious. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or relational obstacles, I recognize the importance of being able to speak to an unbiased professional in order to identify and manage negative thoughts and emotions. It is also my role to be an objective observer and highlight patterns you may not have been aware of in order to decide if those thoughts or behaviors are still serving you. I have worked with adults, adolescents, and couples. I work from a person-centered perspective, allowing you to direct the session with the belief that you know what is most important and have the answers within you. I incorporate aspects of existentialism, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and attachment theory. My communication style is respectful and direct. My goal is to help you move in the direction of your values and live the life you want.

Weronika Kmiecik, M.S., Licensed Professional Counselor

I am an EMDR-trained therapist dedicated to helping adolescents and adults navigate life’s challenges with resilience, self-compassion, and a renewed sense of purpose. I take a holistic approach to healing, recognizing that true growth happens when we address the mind, body, and spirit together. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported as you work through life’s difficulties and reconnect with yourself in meaningful ways.

I specialize in trauma, anxiety, OCD, women’s issues, and chronic illness. Life’s transitions can be overwhelming, and whether you're managing the emotional toll of a medical diagnosis, processing past wounds, or struggling with anxiety, I provide evidence-based approaches tailored to your unique needs. Using EMDR, exposure therapy, mindfulness techniques, and other therapeutic modalities, I help clients break free from limiting patterns, reprocess painful experiences, and build a stronger sense of self. I firmly believe that healing isn’t about erasing the past but about reclaiming your power and creating a future where you feel more in control, confident, and at peace.

Inclusivity is at the heart of my practice. No matter your background, identity, or life experience, you deserve a space where you are valued, respected, and understood. I know that starting therapy can feel vulnerable, but I want you to know that you’re not alone. Therapy isn’t just about working through struggles—it’s about discovering your strengths, embracing your story, and learning how to live a life that feels fulfilling and authentic. If you're ready to take that next step, I’d be honored to walk this journey with you.

Laura Liden, M.A., Licensed Professional Counselor

I am passionate about helping individuals of all ages, including children, navigate life’s challenges with compassion and empowerment. I provide a warm, non-judgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported on their journey toward healing and growth. My approach is centered on fostering a safe, trusting relationship where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

I integrate evidence-based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and EMDR. These modalities allow us to explore and process emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in a holistic way that is aligned with your unique needs and goals. I believe in meeting each client where they are, empowering them with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges and build resiliency.

In addition to these therapeutic approaches, I also draw from a strengths-based perspective, which focuses on the inherent strengths you already possess. Together, we will work to uncover and amplify these strengths to help you overcome obstacles and create lasting, positive change in your life. Whether working with children or adults, I believe in fostering a sense of agency and self-efficacy, so that you can feel more in control of your journey.

Trauma-informed care is also at the heart of my practice. I recognize that past experiences shape how we relate to ourselves and others. In our work together, I approach your experiences with deep respect, ensuring a safe and supportive environment that allows for healing at your own pace. I recognize that healing is a process, and I am committed to walking alongside you with patience, empathy, and understanding.

Mary O'Connor, M.S., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Advanced Certified Personal and Executive Coach, I walk alongside individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s personal, relational, and career challenges. I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to my work—as a mother through adoption and IVF, a former small business owner, and someone who has faced many of life’s complexities firsthand. I believe life can be hard, and we all sometimes need a supportive, nonjudgmental sounding board.

I offer decades of experience grounded in empathy, authenticity, acceptance, and strength. I am extensively trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and specialize in supporting clients navigating trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, including traumatic grief,
loss related to narcissistic abuse, and the emotional impact of infertility and reproductive experiences. While I work with a wide range of concerns, my heart is in supporting women and those facing trauma, life transitions, and identity shifts across the lifespan.
I also help clients manage anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting stress, divorce, family conflict, and career transitions. I especially enjoy working with individuals who are building or growing businesses, navigating leadership roles, or seeking greater confidence and clarity in their personal and professional lives.

My approach is client-led—your healing belongs to you. My role is to walk beside you with care and respect, offering insight and tools when helpful, while shaping our work around your values, goals, and hopes. Together, we focus on helping you reconnect with your inner strength, your voice, and what truly matters to you.