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Meet The Therapists
Tracy Stone, LCPC, ICDVP
Therapy Studio: Owner and Lead Clinician
Hartgrove Hospital: Clinical Coordinator for School Based Services for Services
Tracy Stone is a Licensed Clinical Coordinator and received a Master’s Degree in Community and Agency Counseling from St. Xavier University. Currently, she is committed to making a difference helping the communities in Grundy and Will County.
Tracy also is working to build a program that can meet the mental health needs of students within a school setting and supervises clinical work for Hartgrove Hospital outpatient settings.
Tracy’s therapy approach embodies trust, compassion, Cognitive Behavioral, and Solution Focused techniques. Tracy brings a unique perspective to counseling due to her experience of working in corporate America and being a business owner prior to becoming a therapist.
Additional Certifications include: Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP) and Perpetrator Abuse Interventions Program (PAIP) allowing her to be trained to counsel Domestic Violence Victims and Perpetrators; Certified Alcohol and Drug Certification trained.
Kathleen wormsley, lpc
My name is Kathleen Wormsley. I graduated with my masters in Human Service and Counseling in 2008 at National Louis University in Wheaten. I have been in the mental health field for the last 15 years. I have worked with children and adolescence with my strength in working with adults.
I have been trained in all therapies including person centered, cognitive behavioral, and dbt. I believe that there is one therapy for all, sometimes you have to take a pinch of this technique and a dash of that technique to find the best one that works with each client. Each client is an unique individual and must be treated that way.
I am very passionate in grounding techniques. I believe that when people are experiencing trauma, ptsd, anxiety, and panic attacks that grounding techniques can help bring a person to the here and the now. Some grounding techniques that I like to incorporate are deep breathing, essential oils, meditation, finding that safe place using all of your senses.
When I am not doing therapy I love to spend time with my husband and kids. Reading is one of my favorite past times as well as going on long walks, I am active in my community in being both a cub scout leaser as well as a girl scout leader.
Nicole Bandur, LPC
Nicole Bandur is a licensed professional counselor with a passion for helping and advocating for persons in need. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Aurora University in Aurora, IL. Soon after, Nicole received her Master of Arts degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Roosevelt University in Chicago, IL. She has experience working with several populations including children, adults with chronic to severe mental illness, teen mom’s, young and older adults, with a soft spot for adolescents. She believes that building self-esteem and confidence in those teens who struggle today, helps to lay the groundwork for developing positive coping skills and tools to assist throughout life’s challenges. She has had over 10 years experience working with Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities in a social service setting.
Nicole believes a great deal can be achieved with compassion and kindness. Nicole provides a warm, welcoming, and empathic environment that allows the individual to feel comfortable and safe sharing his or her story. She uses a client-centered approach to tackling various problems, whether it be day-to-day stressors, adjustment, mental health concerns, or major life changes.
Nicole teaches Cognitive Behavioral and mindfulness techniques to promote and empower clients to recognize how thoughts and feelings shape behaviors and build skills to better cope with various situations. She has a proactive positive attitude when it comes to self-esteem building and overall health and wellness. She will take things at your own pace, helping you to set goals and build on your strengths. She understands things are not always black and white, there will always be setbacks or new challenges that arise. She will help you process trauma and past experiences and explore with you how they shape your current beliefs and perceptions, with the hope that you can build off that knowledge and work towards positive
change.
Monica Molesky
We all know that the journey of life can be filled with many different paths. Some are beautiful and peaceful, while others are difficult to navigate and push us further away from our destination.
My mission is to walk beside you on whichever path you are currently traveling. I am here to be supportive, understanding, and help explore. I also can help strengthen coping skills, reconnect with strength, and discover a new destination (or meaningful life).
My name is Monica, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received my Master’s Degree in Community Counseling from Saint Xavier University. I have worked with at-risk youth and individuals in residential level of care. I have experience working with mood disorders, eating disorders, addiction, co-occurring disorders, trauma, and grief.
I believe an important piece of your recovery journey is building a supportive therapeutic relationship where you can be authentic and vulnerable. My therapy lens is adapted for your specific needs and I do specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT). Both of those therapies use commitments, goals, and values to help guide you towards your most meaningful life.
I am here to help support you in whichever path of recovery you currently are on and help explore where you would like to go. I look forward to meeting you!
Stephanie Putman, LPC
“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and loved more than you know” These are words that can impact a child’s life and even an adult can take heart in these words. This quote is from Winnie the Pooh, a silly old bear that if we listen closely to may change the way we think of ourselves. My name is Stephanie I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling From Olivet Nazarene University. As a trained professional I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, and adults.
I have experience working with youth and adults dealing with family issues, identity issues, behavioral issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, and self esteem/body image issues. These issues can lead us to feel disconnected from ourselves and the people we care most about. In my work I strive to guide individuals to a happier balanced life through a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness which are customized to individual needs.
So whether your 8 years old or struggling somewhere in your 30’s I can help you make sense of the life you are boldly walking through. Counseling can help guide you to make empowering decisions and live a life you truly want for yourself. It is a brave step to reach out for support whether it is for you or your child. I encourage my clients to use their strengths and interests during treatment as I facilitate a safe, judgment-free space that provides room for healing and growth.
Julie Tenorio, LPC
Julie received her Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University- Chicago. Prior to that, she attended Argosy University – Chicago, where she obtained her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. She incorporates various theories into her work, including person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, and family systems. In addition to individual therapy, Julie has experience conducting couple’s therapy, family therapy, and psycho educational consultations. Julie’s overall goal for every client relationship is to help strengthen, heal, and empower each client to improve their overall well-being through the therapeutic relationship and self-exploration.
Specialties
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
Issues
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Behavioral Issues
- Bipolar Disorder
- Divorce
- Oppositional Defiance
- Parenting
- Relationship Issues
- Self Esteem
- Stress
- Suicidal Ideation
- Trauma and PTSD
Types of Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
- Family Systems
- Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
- Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT)
- Psychodynamic
- Relational
Deanna Blyth, LCPC
Deanna has been treating adolescents and adults who struggle with the effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, and self-destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, non-suicidal self injury, and anger. Her focus is driven from a perspective that we are strengthened by our experiences and through these experiences we gain courage and confidence. Without our human struggles we cannot discover our hidden internal strengths.
Her passion stems from an Emotional Focus theoretical orientation. Through our attachment we learn to navigate the world. Through the discovering of the client’s strengths they can learn to effectively utilize and build the support systems that surround them. Encouraging the adoption of a healthy lifestyle from the physical, psychological, and sociological elements, this allows for the client to be able to safely reflect upon their current self and their circumstances. Within this journey they are empowered to embrace their present selves and free to determine their desired future.
As a previous teacher of adolescents, current Adjunct Professor and graduate of Roosevelt University with a master’s in Clinical Counseling, she has worked with a variety of settings with adolescents, young adults, and families that have presented with a variety of emotional, social, and behavioral concerns. In addition to teaching and counseling she is a trainer for The National Council for Behavioral Health, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and for Edwards/Elmhurst Hospital, including Linden Oaks Behavioral Health.
Cole Deischer, LPC
My name is Cole Deischer. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), who received their Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lewis University in 2019. I have lived and worked in different parts of Illinois throughout my life, allowing me to be able to see an array of people at their worst, their best, or somewhere in between.
With that being said, throughout my life I have developed a passion for working with individuals from the LGBTQ+ community. As a transgender member of the LGBTQ+ community I understand how important it is to find an affirming provider. Whether you’re struggling with figuring out who you are or how you identify, or you’re having uncertainties or difficulties with friends or family in regards to your gender identity or sexual orientation, I’m here to help with a compassionate approach. I want people to know that they have a safe space to freely talk about their feelings when they come to my office.
I also have 10 years of experience working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities. I have learned through that time different approaches and modalities to use to allow individuals with Developmental Disabilities to better understand what they may be feeling or experiencing. Sometimes all somebody needs is to feel heard and to not be seen as different, but instead as unique of an individual as everyone else in the world. Life can be a roller coaster and rarely do people express their thoughts and feelings the exactly the same way. Getting to the base emotions that a person may be feeling or Experiencing can be difficult. I am willing to work with any individual to get beyond the person that you are showing the world, and gradually take down the wall that you’ve built up brick by brick to reveal the you that you genuinely are.
“Happiness can be found in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”
Amber Gilbertson
Amber is a Licensed Social Worker. She earned her MSW at Aurora University in 2016 with a
dual specialization in Advanced Clinical and Healthcare. Amber has experience in a variety of
treatment settings, including inpatient hospitalization settings, working with adolescent and adult patients, private practice, and domestic violence and sexual assault shelters for women and children.
Amber enjoys building a strong therapeutic alliance with her clients through kindness,
compassion, humor, empathy, and validation. While providing therapy, Amber strives to take a
strength-based approach with her clients while integrating cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness,
play therapy, and psychodynamic approaches in her work. Amber has prior experience working
with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of presenting issues (including
substance/alcohol use, co-parenting or parenting challenges, depression, anxiety, past
childhood trauma, domestic and sexual abuse, family dynamics, life transitions, and relationship
difficulties).
For fun, she likes to try new restaurants and enjoys spending time with her family. She loves to
have impromptu dance parties and play board games together with her kids.
Elizabeth Letterle, LPC
Elizabeth (Liz) Letterle is a Licensed Professional Counselor who received her BA in Music Education from Illinois State University and her MA in Guidance Counseling/Psychology from Lewis University. She has had experience working in diverse roles such as a tutor, teaching music lessons, senior healthcare professional, hospice liaison, school therapist, and mental health counselor.
During her free time, Liz loves spending time with her blended family, singing, concerts, beach vacations, and is always open to trying new experiences! Having grown up in a large, blended family with eight siblings, she is passionate about helping blended families connect and thrive.
Lexie Stauber, LSW
Lexie Stauber is a Licensed Social Worker committed to advocating for those in need. Lexie obtained her Master’s degree in Forensic Social Work from Aurora University. Prior to that, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Western Illinois University.
Lexie utilizes a collaborative and compassionate approach to therapy in an effort to foster hope, healing and resilience. Lexie’s therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Strength-Based therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Lexie enjoys working with children, teens, and young adults to navigate the challenges of life, whether they are personal, with family, or with peers. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, behavioral issues, building healthy relationships, and more.
Lexie enjoys spending time with her family and pets, traveling, volunteering, and playing the piano.
Cheree Robertson
My name is Cheree Robertson. I am the office manager for Therapy Studio Inc. I have over 14 years of experience in Medical Billing and Coding and well as patient accounts management. I have my degree in Medical Administrative Assisting as well as a degree in Health and Human Services.
Kristina Jongsma, LSW
I am a Licensed Social Worker who knows how the imposter syndrome feels due to excessive time in the field. I grew up in a conservative, single parent home; I struggled greatly in school and then became a teacher/principal in my adult years. I will help you develop inner strength and creativity toward depression, anxiety and unhappiness. You will be able to make intentional choices about goals, work, relationships and more.
I am passionate about helping children, children having disabilities, adolescents, couples trying to make it, or couples in distress, adults and seniors. Let me help you in breaking patterns of behavior that may cause difficulty in life. I believe in providing the most affirming and safe environment free of judgment, awareness and compassion.
I specialize in LGBTQIA individuals ; trauma-informed treatment, psychoanalysis, PTSD, self-esteem, self-defeating behaviors, perfectionism, relationship issues, client-centered treatment. Let me help you find peace and joy in your life.
Joe Ramos, LPC
My name is Joe Ramos; my hometown is the Six Flags area in Lake County, and I live in central Illinois near Fairbury with my wife of 17 years and our four children.
I have a passion for listening to, understanding, and engaging people. This passion led me to become a professional mental health counselor. I’ve pursued my passion through various roles in some of the most challenging clinical settings, from military field hospitals and ambulance units in Iraq to serving in inner-city community centers and behavioral healthcare units in a forensic setting.. I focus on cultivating psychological flexibility, healing emotional traumas, and alleviating anxiety and depression in my clinical practice.
I aim to carry my mission of helping people navigate challenging changes, from the clinical setting to the corporate environment. I have a Bachelor of Organizational Management from Bethel College in South Bend, IN. And a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Before licensure as a mental health professional, I served in inside sales, account management, and team leadership with W.W.Grainger and Stericycle.
My teammates typically count on me to be the Reasoner due to my trio of proficiencies as a therapist, creative thinker, and logical examiner. I am inquisitive and analytical, continually seeking ways to help people be resilient and realistic.
My approach to therapy is primarily inspired by Dr. Irving Yalom, which you’ll find reflected in my interpersonal style and attention to the present moment—complimenting that with employing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to address stress, anxiety, trauma, and depression. If you’re looking for someone to talk to about these, reach out to me at Studio Therapy for an appointment.
Maribel Duy
I am a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I earned both my Bachelor’s degree and my Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Faith- Based and counseling from Aurora University. I utilize inner healing, faith-based counseling, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help my clients in their healing journey as well as helping them achieve their goals.
I have experience working with adults, children, and adolescents in an individual or group setting. I specialize in helping my clients work through inner child, current issues, trauma, PTSD, or any other symptoms and intergrade it with faith-based counseling to better help the client cope and heal along their journey. I have experience with individuals who are struggling with any mental illness, grief and loss, abuse, self-injury, identity issues, depression, schizophrenia, mood disorders, developmental disorders, intellectual disorders, and social skills.
I value the importance of combining faith-based, inner child and DBT therapy in order for my clients to experience the most freedom and healing from any traumatic event or those who are suffering from any kind of mental disorder. I also offer services in both English and Spanish.
Mak Mulcahy, MA, LCPC
Mak (He/Him) graduated with his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Wisconsin – Whitewater and then went on to receive his Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. His professional experience includes facilitating therapeutic groups at a behavioral hospital and providing a wide range of services including individual, couples, family, and group therapy at an outpatient clinic/private practice. Mak incorporates techniques from CBT/DBT, motivational interviewing, family systems, and strengths-based approach to meet the needs of a wide range of clients.
Mak’s approach to life and therapy are one in the same. He remains open to new experiences and meets those experiences with humility and compassion. The most inspiring part of his job is collaborating with clients to help them work towards becoming better versions of themselves.
“I am not who you think I am; I am not who I think I am; I am who I think you think I am” – Charles Horton Cooley
Holly Pivonka
Holly Pivonka is a Licensed Social Worker. Holly obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University with a focus in school social work. Prior to her MSW, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Governor’s State University.
Holly utilizes an empathic and mindful approach in session to support individuals and couples alike tailoring each session to meet clients emotionally where they are. Holly’s therapeutic approaches include Behavioral Therapies (CBT and DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, Strength Based Therapy, and Positive Psychology.
Holly enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families who are seeking healing, emotional support, and help navigating areas of struggle. Areas of Holly’s strengths include anxiety, school issues, behavioral issues, creating healthy boundaries, and issues concerning grief and loss such as deployment, death, divorce, or incarceration.
Holly is a mom of two children who enjoys spending time with her family. Holly has various hobbies such as reading, rare plant collecting, and being outdoors.
