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

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

I’m a compassionate and experienced therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. I believe in creating a warm, non-judgmental space where we can work together to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I work with a wide range of clients, including, but not limited to, individuals managing symptoms of ADHD, stress, anxiety, depression, current and former athletes, or those simply seeking personal growth and balance. With a client-centered approach, I work to help individuals build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and achieve their goals, empowering them to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.

My goal is to foster a collaborative and trusting relationship where you feel heard, supported, and motivated to make meaningful changes. Whether you’re facing challenges in your personal life, career, or mental health, I am committed to walking with you through the process of growth and healing. Together, we’ll explore practical strategies and insights tailored to your unique needs, helping you move forward with confidence and clarity.

To schedule an appointment with James, 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

“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” – Aristotle

Life is full of challenges. It can be helpful to talk with someone about those challenges who is unbiased and a great listener. Knowing yourself takes time, and it is worth your time to do so.

I have been listening and helping others for 14 years. I graduated from Purdue University with an Interpersonal Communications degree and then from Indiana University with my Masters in Social Work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in Indiana and Illinois with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have experience serving clients who experience: anxiety, depression, anger and stress management, grief and loss, peer pressure, and self-esteem.

As everyone is unique, I use an eclectic approach to therapy, with emphasis on being Person-Centered and Strengths-Based, using Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. When I am not doing therapy, I love to be with my family going on adventures. I enjoy cross stitching and reading, as well.

I look forward to working with you!

To schedule an appointment with Melanie, 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

I am a social worker with a deep commitment to helping individuals and families navigate trauma and cultivate healing. I began my work in the social work field in the Domestic Violence system in 2014 and have since worked in spaces designed to help those who are homeless, those who live with severe and persistent mental illnesses, those experiencing domestic violence, teens in underfunded and marginalized high schools, and veterans fighting substance abuse in the VA system, amongst others. Since joining Couch Clarity in 2019, I’ve specialized in working with both internal systems—such as nervous system regulation, polyvagal work, family of origin dynamics, parts work, attachment styles—and external systems like couples counseling, family therapy, parenting coaching, blended family therapy, and co-parenting counseling.

I draw from the teachings of leaders in trauma work, including Peter Levine, Bruce Perry, Stephen Porges, Bessel Van der Kolk, Judith Herman, David Emerson, Arielle Schwartz, and Deb Dana amongst many others. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with creativity and compassion to create a space where clients feel safe and empowered to face whatever is bringing them to therapy with confidence.

In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT200), and have an MBA focused in leadership development. I incorporate somatic techniques and polyvagal-informed practices into both individual and group settings, offering yoga classes designed to support both adult and youth clients experiencing stress, trauma, or burnout.

I believe in meeting clients where they are and working collaboratively to develop practical tools for regulation, connection, and growth. Whether through talk therapy, walk and talk therapy, somatic practices, or systems work, I strive to honor each client’s unique path toward healing.

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

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou’s words have guided me in my practice as a therapist. My goal is to make my clients feel safe and supported in a non-judgmental space where they can process their feelings and experiences, be authentically themselves, and make mistakes and grow from them. As a queer Latina coming from an immigrant household, community and social justice have always been important to me.

My approach to therapy is holistic, anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, and LGBTQIA+ affirming. I collaborate with my client and tailor my approach to their needs. I have experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, and inner child work. I work with clients in a variety of areas including depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, relationships, life transitions, grief, and identity exploration. I received my Bachelor’s from Williams College and Master’s in Social Work from the University of Chicago. I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).

I’m excited to walk alongside you on your journey of healing and growth!

To schedule an appointment with Nitza, 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