Our Team

Are you in a relationship where you have an unresolved issue that you can seem to find the right time or place to discuss it with your partner? Schedule it! I have been a practicing therapist for over 29 years and am also a collaborative coach. I work with couples on issues that require a neutral person to assist with healthier communication methods, conflict resolution, and a more directive approach to problem solving. I am trained in mediation as well as collaborative divorce coaching.

Dr. Bercier made compassion fatigue, secondary traumatic stress and vicarious trauma her research focus throughout her PhD program, resulting in the first systematic review and meta-analysis of interventions targeting compassion fatigue, secondary traumatic stress and vicarious trauma in mental health workers.  Helping the helper is a personal, ongoing mission for Dr. Bercier.

Dr. Bercier’s experience began working in community mental health centers in Chicago. Since then, her experience expanded to psychiatric in-patient treatment at Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Stone Institute of Psychiatry in Chicago, IL and Montevista Psychiatric Hospital in Las Vegas, NV. Her experience also includes out-patient psychotherapy and group therapy at Alternatives Community Mental Health Center in Anchorage, Alaska.  From 2006 to 2010 she served as the Three Rivers District Chair on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Social Workers-IL (NASW-IL).  From 2010 to 2019, Dr. Bercier worked as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) therapist and affiliate for Perspectives, Ltd. working with various individual, family, and couples’ issues on a brief-treatment basis. As of January of 2018, Dr. Bercier was asked to join the Small Business Council for the United States Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.  Through this position, Dr. Bercier advocates for entrepreneurs and small business owners as she meets in Washington, D.C. and other areas in the U.S. throughout the year to inform and be informed on policies that directly affect small business.

Dr. Bercier’s life goal has been to destigmatize mental health enrichment and create a more positive and healthy community for all. She believes in being authentic and providing a comfortable and compassionate environment to support Couch Clarity’s clients through meaningful and positive change. Continuing on her path with destigmatizing seeking mental health enrichment, Dr. Bercier created Theralete, therapy for athletes, in 2015. Theralete is a program designed to assist in guiding athletes into a well rounded lifestyle which includes balance of the mind, body, and soul.

Dr. Bercier’s passion with helping the helper is also a large part of her private practice and business model.  Staying true to her PhD research, she continues to expand her practice continuing to create and offer exciting opportunities for growth and change for her own team.

Dr. Bercier is a Collaborative Divorce Coach. If you or someone you know is thinking about separation/divorce or deciding on a process, feel free to contact me to learn more about collaborative divorce and my coaching services. You can contact me directly at melissa@couchclarity.com or 630-280-9299.

To schedule an appointment with one of our other therapists, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

Every person is worthy of the opportunity for a supportive, positive and stable relationship in their life and I strive to be that guide for my clients. It is critical for children, adolescents and families to have support in navigating stressors that occur during various stages of life. My goal is for our clients to develop the coping skills, regulation strategies and mindset to move forward and deal with stressors in a positive and productive way. I focus on being partners in your journey by using my empathic and approachable style. I place importance on working together to identify strengths and supports, as well as problem solving through the barriers that are in the way of your personal success and happiness.

I received my Masters in Social Work with a Professional Educator License from University of Illinois in Chicago and am certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have experience in community counseling and school settings with children, adolescents and families that present with a variety of stressors including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, communication delays, emotional regulation challenges, and relationship issues. My approach is strengths-based infused with evidence-based interventions that are based in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), social learning theory and solution-focused counseling. I have a wealth of experience navigating the world of special education to help children, adolescents and their parents be successful across environments.

I look forward to being your guide through life’s challenges!  To schedule an appointment with one of our therapists, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

Life is full of vulnerabilities and stressors that we sometimes think we must overcome ourselves. My beliefs mirror Erik Erikson’s quote, “Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, the better for us all.”  Emphasis on togetherness and collaboration within life and in therapy is a must.  My goal is to engage with you in the difficult, vulnerable, and stressful aspects of life in a warm and empathetic manner while guiding you towards personal growth and fulfillment.

I received my Masters of Arts in Counseling with a Specialization in Forensic Psychology from Adler University. My experience has allowed me to work with individuals as they triumph through their own challenges, such as anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, and life transitions.  I incorporate a strength-based, collaborative approach that acknowledges your ability to conquer these challenges alongside the structure and support of our therapeutic alliance. Due to the unique nature of everyone’s therapeutic needs, I bring fluidity into interventions but often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Positive Psychology.

I look forward to our journey together! To schedule an appointment with Nicole, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

“…rarely can a response make something better. What makes something better is connection.” I have always been moved by these words from Brene Brown, PhD, LMSW.

We often seek therapy yearning for connection and understanding. My goal is to provide a safe space where we can work together as a team to help you process your experiences, validate the emotions attached to these experiences, and discover your own strengths and capacity for coping through life’s challenges. We as humans are inherently resilient even when things like shame, trauma, isolation, addiction, depression, and anxiety try to disconnect us from ourselves and others. We will work together to find compassion for yourself in restoring this connection.

My clinical work is informed by evidence-based interventions including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I also focus my work with clients from a humanistic, strengths-based, and person-centered approach. As a social worker, I am also keenly aware that we are impacted by our environments such as school, work, and home but also our community, culture, and society at large.

I have a Masters in Social Work from The Catholic University of America, a certification in drug and alcohol counseling from Loyola University Chicago, and am a licensed social worker in the state of Illinois. I have experience in individual and group settings helping clients navigate through anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues, shame, self-esteem, life transitions, domestic violence, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I also have over 10 years of experience as a patient advocate for individuals and families living with bleeding disorders and understand the complexities of navigating life with a chronic health condition.

I look forward to walking beside you in this journey of discovering your own resiliency, strength, and self-compassion.

To schedule an appointment with Lauren, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

“A Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins with a Single Step.”

I would love the opportunity to join you on your journey toward positive mental health and self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming, messy, and exhausting but I’m here to help guide you through any obstacles you may face along the way.

No matter our age, life stage, or circumstance, we are worthy of a life of deep meaning and beauty. Let me help you become more free to be all you were meant to be.

Trauma Informed Strength Based Solution Focused

I specialize in working with children, tweens, teens, and their parents to cope with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, or life transitions (divorce, adoption, loss, etc). I can help navigate the special education system alongside parents and advocate for your child at IEP/504 meetings. I have experience working with ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities, developmental delays, and sensory processing disorders. I can help families manage challenging behaviors at school and at home and love to create positive solutions.

I am an experienced Social Worker who has been practicing in various settings for many years, including schools, police/fire departments, and other outpatient settings. I earned a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California and a Master’s in Communication from Michigan State University. In addition, I have my Professional Educator’s License from Loyola University.

Mother to five beautiful children, including an amazing son adopted from Ethiopia. I love spending time outside in nature and by the beach. I enjoy reading, basketball, and traveling. In addition, I volunteer my time as a Court Appointed Special Advocate through CASA in Lake County serving foster children in the court system.

To schedule an appointment with Susan, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

Our identities are one of the most important aspects of our personalities. The essence of who we are, how we exist in the world, and how we pursue our values creates an inner knowledge of self. Counseling can involve identifying, exploring, and utilizing these ideas to encourage clarity.

There are times in our lives when it is important to seek help for issues that we are working through. My goal as a therapist is to provide space, insight, and opportunities for growth. As a trained art therapist, I love to utilize the creation and exploration of art in my counseling sessions. Art is a technique that can be employed throughout the entire therapeutic process to provide insight, help work through material, and encourage healing. It is truly amazing what can be expressed and revealed through art.

I have a master’s degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from Southwestern College in Santa Fe, New Mexico. My approach to therapy begins with unconditional positive regard and stems into several branches of therapy, including solution focused, acceptance and commitment, and person-centered. I have experience in working with those who are chronically mentally ill, as well as those dealing with life stressors such as relationships, jobs, school and family. I specialize in talk and art therapy with adolescents and those who identify as a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Our identity is paramount to how we relate to the world, and I want to be able to support others in their own search for identity and self-awareness.

To schedule an appointment with Danna, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

With over 10 years of experience as a clinical social worker, I have had the privilege of
supporting teens, young adults, and parents through complex emotional and behavioral
challenges. My background in school social work has given me a deep understanding of how
personal, social, and family issues can impact a student’s academic and emotional
development.

I specialize in working with Teens, Young Adults, and Parents who are navigating obstacles
around anxiety, depression, peer and family relationships, social skills, learning difficulties, and
emotional regulation. Additionally, I have experience collaborating with parents
and teachers to create positive support systems and interventions that foster success both in
and outside the classroom.

I draw on person centered and psychodynamic approaches to deepen self-awareness and
foster emotional growth. I strive to create a safe, non-judgemental, space where you can feel
heard and supported. During our sessions, we will work together to explore feelings, identify
patterns, and develop strategies for lasting change. I also incorporate a variety of
evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness.

I hold a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from Loyola University Chicago and am licensed as a
clinical social worker (LCSW) in IL. During my time in school settings, I provided individual and group
counseling, crisis intervention, and worked on multidisciplinary teams to support student
well-being and academic success.

To say that change is difficult is an understatement. Sudden changes in life can leave us reeling with losses, or struggling to find ways to cope. At the same time, it can feel painful to approach change due to barriers such as shame, guilt, resentment, and fear. In the counseling relationship, I strive to create an environment of compassion and trust – in which clients can work through these difficult emotions while knowing they are supported and heard. My role is to walk alongside the client, centering their unique journey, while helping empower them to achieve their goals.

My therapeutic approach is humanistic, strength-based, and trauma-informed. I strive to tailor my approach to each client’s individual needs, using Person-Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Attachment-Based Psychotherapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy as foundational modalities. I have worked with adults in individual and group settings to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD / C-PTSD, personality disorders, domestic violence, and relationship health concerns.

I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University.  I also work with trauma-informed healthcare and LGBTQIA+ healthcare.  I look forward to working with you on your wellness journey!”

To schedule an appointment with Jamie, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

As your therapist, I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can safely explore your feelings and experiences.  Here, you will feel listened to and supported, and free to question and process your thoughts.  My goal is to help you discover and embrace your authentic self, fostering a collaborative environment that supports your personal growth.  I strive to stay adaptable and responsive to your evolving needs, working with you to understand and navigate the unique facets of your identity and helping you find balance and meaning in your life.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from Loyola University Chicago, specializing in mental health and addictions.  I have had the privilege of working with teens, adults, and couples and I bring this diverse experience into our sessions.  My trauma-informed approach is rooted in empathy and empowerment, recognizing that each person’s journey is unique.  Therefore, I integrate various therapeutic methods to meet you where you are and tailor our work to best support your goals.

I look forward to building a trusting and supportive relationship with you and being part of your journey.

To schedule an appointment with Caira, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

Our journey towards personal growth can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming to manage on our own. We all have our “stuff” that we work through but often need guidance and support to achieve the growth that we need. It is my honor to walk this growth journey with you, utilizing evidence-based modalities to provide the tools needed to progress on your journey. 

I have engaged in therapeutic work in a variety of settings, including trauma, grief, domestic violence, substance use, anxiety, and depression. This work assisted in my development of an eclectic approach, focused on tailoring treatment to meet each person’s unique needs and incorporating modalities such as mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation and body work therapies such as yoga, breathwork, walk and talk therapy, and Trauma Release Exercises (TRE). 

I have a Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and am a Certified Yoga Instructor. I’ve sought out additional training and certifications in groupwork, substance use, and the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics to better formulate an understanding of the critical components impacting one’s current emotional experience as well as individually tailor each treatment. I also have a strong appreciation of therapeutic gardening and its benefits for reducing common anxiety and depressive symptoms.

I feel we have the ability to grow and unlock our full potential if we allow ourselves to invest the time and energy necessary – at Couch Clarity we help you do just that!

To schedule an appointment with Jenni, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

Whether you’re navigating a particularly challenging moment or simply seeking to enhance your overall well-being, I am here to help. Together, we will work to uncover your strengths, address any obstacles, and foster a path toward growth and healing.

I’m dedicated to working with individuals at all stages of life, from young children and adolescents to adults. I offer a warm, supportive space where we can address a variety of needs, including trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression.

I look forward to the opportunity to work together and support you in achieving your personal goals.

To schedule an appointment with Alix, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

Julie Kluth is our intake coordinator at Couch Clarity, currently taking our new and returning client’s information and making sure they get matched up with a great fit therapist at our practice. Contact her at intake@couchclarity.com or go to our Home Page of this website and complete our quick Google Form.

Following a professional basketball playing and coaching career in Europe, Greg joins the Couch Clarity team and brings a winning strategy with extensive global experience. As a mentor, coach, and leader, he has depth in developing shared expectations and goals with stakeholders, staff, and teams in both business and sports.

Greg holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, specializing in Finance and Marketing Management.

His achievements include ownership in a professional sports club in England as well as creating a community program that promoted a healthy lifestyle. Attracting significant private and public investment, the program was highly recognized in making a major impact in schools and communities and was strategically implemented nationally.

Along with his creative and innovative approach, Greg maximizes peak performance and growth by striving to inspire, motivate, and empower others.  Greg has lead the Benefits Team initiative of demystifying insurance eligibility and benefits for our clients, leading to decreased anxiety, increased knowledge, and creating an open door of communication that is consistent and helpful to empower our clients in their own mental health care.

To schedule an appointment with one of our therapists, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16

“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you go; they merely determine where you start.” –  Nido Qubein

Barb has built her professional career in the healthcare industry crossing a variety of environments: acute inpatient, outpatient, population health, wellness, and mental health. With a foundation rooted in engineering, she enjoys examining, understanding, identifying, and improving operational practices, both internal and external, as they relate to people, process, and technology.

Barb holds a Master of Science Degree in Industrial & Management Engineering, with a concentration in Health Systems and a Bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering.

Her background includes co-founding a healthcare information technology consulting firm as well as leadership positions in finance, HR, process engineering, data analysis, and benefits assessment.

As a member of the Couch Clarity Benefits Team, Barb assists and supports our clients with their financial experience – namely, insurance eligibility and benefits. One of her goals is to help inform, educate, and empower our clients in managing the financial element of their own health care.

To schedule an appointment with one of our therapists, please use this link:  https://forms.gle/gdryZPAiRmY4RZf16