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.
Elizabeth Frantz, LCPC
Elizabeth Frantz is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a Master’s in counseling from Saint Xavier University. Elizabeth received a certification in Animal Assisted Therapy from Oakland University and is also a registered handler through Pet Partners. Elizabeth has experience working with adults dealing with mild to severe mental illness, as well as adults with developmental disabilities in outpatient settings. Elizabeth has worked in Community Agencies as a Mental Health Counselor, providing individual, group, couples and family counseling. Elizabeth has experience working with children and adolescents with developmental disabilities, ADHD, and Autism, in therapeutic horseback riding programs. Elizabeth has also worked for Hartgrove Hospital as a school-based therapist, with Kindergarten through 12th grade with students experiencing social, emotional and behavioral issues.
Elizabeth also has experience in animal care, enrichment and training. She received a Bachelor of Science with a psychology and biology major. She completed her internship at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago as a Marine Mammal Keeper and has spent years rescuing and rehabilitating wild and domestic animals. She is currently contracting with The Legacy Ranch and Sarah’s Stables, to offer Animal Assisted Therapy utilizing horses, miniature horses, ponies, cats and a variety of farm animals in a natural setting.
Elizabeth has been able to combine her passion for animals and helping others of all ages to deal with a wide variety of mental, physical and emotional issues across the lifespan. She believes in the human-animal bond and strives to use animals as interventions to treat a wide variety of issues, including depression, PTSD, trauma, attachment issues, trust issues, relationship issues, mood disorders, anger, communication difficulties, generalized and social anxiety, ADHD, poor impulse control, dysfunctional relationship patterns, domestic violence and self-esteem issues.
Additional certifications: Certified Animal Assisted Therapist Interventionalist, Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider.
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.
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.
Lexie Stauber, LCSW, Clinical Supervisor
Lexie Stauber is a Licensed Clinical 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.
Kalli Fuller
Kalli Fuller is a Licensed Social Worker committed to empowering and client centered care. Kalli obtained her Masters in Social Work with a focus in Trauma from Andrews University in Michigan. Prior to that, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Western Illinois University.
Kallis therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational interviewing, Strength Based theory, and Narrative Therapy. Kalli believes in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings. Kalli enjoys working with children, teens, young adults, and women of all ages. My goal is to empower clients to gain self-awareness, develop coping strategies, pursue personal and professional growth, and work toward meaningful change.
In Kallis free time she enjoys watching Greys Anatomy, being outside, and board games with her family.
Laura Patterson
I received my master’s degree in counseling psychology in 2014 from Lewis University. I was recently trained in Eye Movement Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and am currently working towards certification in the modality. EMDR is a great way to help process traumatic memories. I am also a certified domestic violence professional through the ICADV. I have over 10 years’ experience working with victims of domestic violence through a local agency in various roles. I have experience with shelter operations, answering hotline crisis calls, and providing both individual and group victims counseling services for children and adults. I have also worked in community mental health settings providing therapy to children, teens, and adults. In my work with clients, I typically use a client centered approach alongside cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused brief therapy, and Eye Movement Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
The primary conditions I treat are:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- ADHD
- traumatic events
- abuse and neglect
- adjustment disorder
- dissociative disorders
Some fun facts about me:
- I love to spend time with my family
- my favorite place is starved rock state park
- Coffee is my favorite beverage
- I enjoy painting, gardening, reading, and crocheting.
Michelle Hansen
My name is Michelle Hansen. I earned my BA in Psychology from Purdue Northwest, in Indiana, and received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, from Lewis University. I have experience in community mental health and working with the courts for mandated assessing, diagnosing, individual and group therapy. I have provided outpatient therapy for adolescence and adult mental health, individuals with disabilities, substance use and alcohol use.
I specialize in individual counseling for grief and suicide prevention, including safety planning, crisis intervention, constructing the basics of building self-esteem, depression, general and social anxiety. One of my strong points is group therapy due to the collaborative nature of everyone involved. I have a passion for working with the community advocating for preventative care, providing mental health education, and raising self-awareness. I have presented presentations within the community to promote awareness of Narcan and how to save lives due to opioid use. I have developed suicide prevention presentations for both adults and adolescence to bring awareness and help fight the stigma allowing for open discussion. I created a presentation, Advanced Daily Living (ADLs), to assist individuals with disabilities live their most productive life.
I have experience with evidence-based treatment modalities which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness. Because you are the expert in your own life, my approach is client centered, which will help build autonomy, leaving you with the ability to solve your own problems. My goal is to meet each client where they are, provide them with self-awareness to make their own positive healthy decisions for the future they envision.
I will be working with adults at both the Morris and Coal City offices.
Vana Ramadani
“I provide evidence-based therapy for clients navigating emotional/behavioral challenges. I bring a global lens to therapy and honor the unique cultural perspective each client carries. I ensure clients feel heard and supported. Therapy will be based on your unique needs, using evidence-based practices and a trauma-informed lens. When it comes to healing, there is one universal language: support and treatment. I offer a safe and inclusive space for all clients”
Vana is a mental health therapist with master’s degrees in Social Work, Addiction Studies, and Criminal Justice. She has experience working with children, adults, and families across diverse communities.
Therapeutic Approach: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family Systems and Internal Family Systems (IFS), Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (PACT), Trauma-Focused Interventions, Culturally Sensitive and Multicultural Frameworks.
Symptoms Treated: Emotional/ Behavioral Symptoms, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Grief Symptoms, ADHD, Addiction, Substance Misuses Disorder, Communication Disorder, Marital Problems, Relationship Problems, Cultural Adjustment.
Therapy Provided: Individual Therapy, Adult Therapy, Child Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family therapy, LGBTQ+, Bereavement Therapy.
“I am passionate about travel and cultural exploration, continually learning from the diverse experiences, traditions, and stories of people around the world. This deepens my commitment to inclusive care and strengthens my ability to connect across communities.”
Miranda Brennan
Miranda is a licensed social worker who knows that starting therapy can feel like a big, awkward, maybe even a little-scary step—and she’s here to make it feel a little easier.
She has been practicing since 2021 and works best with children, adolescents and young adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or life transitions and are craving a space where they can breathe, reflect, and just be themselves. Whether someone is navigating change, feeling stuck, or simply trying to make sense of the noise in their head, Miranda offers a safe, supportive space to sort things out—no pressure, no judgment.
Her approach is person-centered and down-to-earth, blending evidence-based practices
with mindfulness and grounding techniques to help clients build awareness, manage emotions, and feel more present.
Natalya Knoblich
Natalya is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Natalya obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Governors State University.
“He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.”, a famous quote by the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, means that having a strong sense of purpose (“the why”) provides the inner strength to endure any hardship or challenge (“the anyhow”). Natalya’s goal as a counselor is to help clients discover a deep-seated meaning in their lives so that they can find the resilience to overcome difficult circumstances, no matter how severe they may be. Natalya’s therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT),
Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Natalya enjoys working with diverse populations including children, teens, young and older adults to help them discover their strength and to build on these strengths to face the challenges of life with courage, confidence and joy. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, anger management, life transitions, and parental struggles. Prior to committing herself to a counseling career, Natalya has worked in various educational, business, and hospice settings.
A native of Ukraine, Natalya also speaks Russian and Ukrainian. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, singing, hiking, and reading.
Greyson (Intern)
Greyson is a graduate-level counseling intern currently completing his clinical training in mental health counseling. He has experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, OCD, addiction, and identity-related concerns. He has worked with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and lived experiences. His clinical work draws from evidence-based approaches, including cognitive-behavioral and acceptance-based therapies. He is especially drawn to action and experiential-based interventions, such as exposure and response prevention as he values supporting clients in facing challenges in ways that foster flexibility, confidence, and lasting change. Greyson also brings prior crisis-intervention experience to his work and has a particular interest in supporting individuals living with chronic suicidal ideation, approaching this work with steadiness, care, and deep respect for each person’s autonomy and lived experience.
Greyson approaches counseling from a holistic, person-centered perspective, believing that lasting wellness emerges when care attends to the whole person—physically, mentally, spiritually, and socially. He views therapy as a collaborative process, focused not on fixing people but on understanding patterns, meaning, and strengths, and helping clients move toward lives that feel more grounded and sustainable.
Outside of the therapy room, Greyson values fitness, family, and connection. He is an avid animal lover and shares his home with two dogs, two cats, a snake, a gecko, two spiders, three guinea pigs, and a rabbit named Hopper. He believes relationships—human and otherwise—are often where we learn the most about presence, patience, and care, and he brings this same grounded curiosity into his work with clients.
Julio Ruiz, MSW, LSW
I am a dedicated and compassionate social worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Aurora University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Lewis University. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults, and I’m committed to creating a welcoming, safe, and supportive environment for all clients.
Throughout my career, I have held various roles advocating for families and individuals with intellectual disabilities. My therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Play Therapy. I have supported individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, stress, and more.
I am fluent in both English and Spanish, and in my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching sports, and listening to music.
