Our People

Our team of experienced professionals empower well-being for individuals and organizations.

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Leadership

Perspectives leadership’s expertise, built over 30 years, drives the organization's passion and purpose to deliver care with compassion and respect.

Stacie Westhouse-Milam, LPC

Stacie Westhouse-Milam, LPC

Vice President of Operations

As vice president of operations, Stacie Westhouse-Milam provides leadership and vision to direct the development and implementation of operational processes and systems with direct oversight for multiple departments within the organization. She started in the counseling field in 2007, experiencing both inpatient and outpatient settings. Since joining the employee assistance field and Perspectives in 2013, Stacie has overseen the company’s Access Center, Affiliate Network and Clinical Department. Stacie is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and member of the Northern Illinois Employee Assistance Professionals Association. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Kentucky and a master’s degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology.

Frank Gulik, CPA

Frank Gulik, CPA

Vice President of Finance and Accounting

Since beginning his career as a staff accountant in 1990, Frank has amassed decades of experience as a controller and CFO, which he brings to his role as vice president of finance and accounting for Perspectives. He has been an active member of the executive management team focusing on financial analysis, treasury management, equipment financing, risk management, corporate real estate and financial forecasting. He has also managed payroll, human resources and facilities. Frank began his career as a CPA and is an active member in both the ICPAS and the AICPA. Frank graduated from the University of Illinois (Urbana/Champaign) with both a bachelor’s degree in economics and a master’s degree in accounting.

Our Clinicians

Using your Perspectives EAP, MAP, or SAP? Call 800.456.6327 or Login here.

Jeanelle Kline, LSW

Jeanelle Kline, LSW

LGBTQ, Transgender, Couples

Telehealth

Downtown Chicago

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Children

Immediate Availability

LGTBQ

Transgender

Kink Aware

Adolescents 

Anxiety 

Depression 

Gender/Sexuality

ADD (ADHD) 

Sexual-Orientation struggles 

Career/Life Transitions 

CBT (Integrative as well) 

Person-Centered Approach 

As a multicultural gender nonconforming and registered kink-aware practitioner, I try to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to collaborate and honor where you are in your journey to living an authentic, purposeful, and happy life. I provide therapy through a holistic, patient-centered, intersectional, and trauma informed lens incorporating: Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Existential Therapy. I work with adults, young adults, and preteens struggling to manage life transitions, exploring gender, sexuality, and sex, examining relationships, finding connection and belonging, overcoming shame, and improving emotional health (depression, anxiety) through coping and finding joy and pleasure. I strive to help you find meaningful and relevant solutions to life’s challenges.  

Kimberlee Johannesen, LCPC

Kimberlee Johannesen, LCPC

Adults, Couples, Eating Disorders, Adolescents

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Children

Relationship Issues

Anxiety

Self-Harming

Depression

Eating Disorders

Family Conflict

Self-Esteem

Each of us has our own unique story: where we were born, what we have experienced, what are our dreams. Sometimes, our situation doesn’t always turn out the way we imagined. We can become overwhelmed and experience different emotions like sadness, loss, anxiety, and depression. It is my desire to help people navigate their situation. My approach is one of empathy, to provide a safe and comfortable place for you. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help you develop the tools needed to navigate your path.

My areas of specialty are depression, anxiety, failure to launch teens and their families, ADHD, couples, premarital, and eating disorders.

Your situation is unique and personal and I welcome the opportunity to walk alongside you in this journey, to help and to guide you.

Danielle Jones, LCSW

Danielle Jones, LCSW

Relationships, aging, anxiety, depression

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Medicare

Individuals

Acute/Chronic Illness

Aging

Anger Management

Anxiety

Relationship Conflicts

Stress Management

Suicidal Ideation

Assertiveness

Caregiver Conflict

Coping Skills

Depression

Grief & Loss

Life Transitions

Loss of Independence

Mood Disorders

I use different approaches and techniques with each client including, but not limited to Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.

I understand that seeking change or something different can be difficult. I enjoy working alongside my clients to help each individual achieve their therapeutic goals in a way that feels comfortable for them. 

By using an empathetic and client centered approach, I support and encourage my clients to focus on their strengths in order to overcome life’s challenges.

I strive to create a safe and empowering space where clients can be vulnerable, try new things, and speak openly in an environment where they feel accepted rather than judged. 

I believe the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is essential in the helping process. My goal is to meet the client where they are and assist them in their journey of self discovery, personal growth, and living more fulfilling lives. 

Brittany Lewis, LPC

Brittany Lewis, LPC

Adolescents, Severe Mental health

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Children

Immediate Availability

Adults

Emerging Adults

Children

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

DBT

Reality Therapy

Personality Disorders

IF YOU ARE USING YOUR EAP, PLEASE DO NOT USE ONLINE BOOKING. Call 866.296.5262

I utilize reality therapy to put today’s struggles into perspective for my client to work toward the outcome they would like to see in the future. I work with my clients to achieve their goals to make their future brighter. Understanding the stressor of today can change how you handle the battles of tomorrow. 

My main goal is to create a safe space for my client to feel open to disclose the struggles they are experiencing without judgment. I have several years of experience working with those that have a diagnosis of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and psychosis.

Edward Jana, LCPC, CADC

Edward Jana, LCPC, CADC

Hypnotherapy, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Adults

Emerging Adults

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Adult ADHD.

Trauma

Parenting

Addiction/Substance abuse

Stress Management

Phobias, OCD 

Mood Disorders

I am a warm and caring counselor with over 35 years of experience working with adults and adolescents. I use cognitive therapy and other therapies which I feel are most beneficial to my clients. I am short term orientated and help clients achieve their goals for positive behavior changes. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I am also certified as an Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor. I also have over 35 years experience in Clinical Hypnosis.

If you feel inspired to reach out, I am happy to schedule a 15-minute phone consultation prior to scheduling your first appointment with me.

Paulina Malysko, LCPC

Paulina Malysko, LCPC

Adults, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Adults

Emerging Adults

Anxiety 

Coping Skills

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Depression

Motivational Interviewing

Stress Management

Substance Abuse

Fluent in Polish

Life can get very difficult at times and we all need some extra support sometimes. I believe in the importance of meeting the client where they are and creating a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment. I enjoy learning from others and offering active listening and guidance.

I have over five years of experience working with substance abuse issues as well as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and self-development. I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral approach in therapy. I am also fluent in Polish.

Therapy involves challenging oneself, learning about oneself, and striving to make positive changes in order for growth to happen. Maybe you have thought about starting counseling in the past, but maybe it wasn’t the right time or you just didn’t feel ready. That’s okay, you’re here now, so let’s get started on this journey towards health and wellness!

Mary Ann Dier-Zimmermann

Mary Ann Dier-Zimmermann

EAP Counselor, Therapist

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Children

  • Relationship Issues
  • Spirituality
  • LGBTQ+

Healing is a unique journey of transformation toward Wholeness, Peacefulness, and Happiness. I listen with full attention to show you compassion, empathy and care in a safe, confidential relationship. Your integrity will be respected. Whether you work on Depression, Grief, Relationships, LGBTQ issues, or Faith/Religious concerns we will journey toward healing of body, mind and spirit. Healing happens in connection, so we can also focus on healing relationships with family and friends, and your support system. You will receive an assessment and together we can explore enhancing and expanding your support systems.

With specialized education in Religion, Spirituality and Psychology, I can help you integrate these powerful sources of healing to improve your life. Your beliefs life situation and Gender orientation are respected and honored as pathways to transformation. I have worked compassionately with the LGBTQ community and their families.

I meet people where they are, without judging. As Insurance benefits continue to decrease and more people have no coverage, every attempt is made to make therapy affordable through a compassionate fee setting. As a Pastoral Counselor, I also treat the human spirit since meaning in life is vital for healing.
Jay Butterfield, LPC

Jay Butterfield, LPC

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

AETNA

Children

Immediate Availability

IF YOU ARE USING YOUR EAP, PLEASE DO NOT USE ONLINE BOOKING. Call 866.296.5262

 

With a background focusing heavily on the sciences and medicine, my approach to counseling tends towards the practical, though you will never find me to be cold. I focus mostly on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and grounding techniques to help get back to a solid baseline when things start to feel out of control. 

In particular, I have experience working with people with disabilities, doing vocational work, and especially talking with teens and young adults. I am LGBTQ+ friendly, and have a background in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling. Most of all, I am here to listen to your story. After all, I fully believe that you know yourself the best, and it is my role to guide you and provide insight into those things that are too close to home to see clearly.

Tom Schlieske, LCSW

Tom Schlieske, LCSW

School issues, Family Conflict, Adults, Under 18

Telehealth

Oak Lawn

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

AETNA

Medicare

Children

Individual Therapy for ADHD

Peer Relationships

School Issues

Family Conflict

Behavioral Health Issues

Depression

Life Transitions

Stress Management

Anxiety

Divorce

Men's Issues

Coping Skills

Adolescent Issues

Young Adult issues

It is a privilege to support others as they go through life's challenges. I am dedicated to providing a non-judgmental and nurturing environment so, adolescents, young adults, and adults are comfortable working through a range of issues.

My approach is to assist clients in developing various ways of dealing with mental/emotional stressors and embrace life transitions. I've specialized in issues pertaining to autism, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit disorder, and divorce. I've become interested in addressing concerns particular to the greater number of men now seeking therapy.

I appreciate the effort it takes as one makes the decision to seek counseling.

Phyllis Greenbaum, LCSW

Phyllis Greenbaum, LCSW

Therapist

Telehealth

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Medicare

Adults and Couples             

Aging Issues

Anxiety

Depression

Grief & Loss

Infertility/Adoption

Parenting

Work Place Stress

While life usually has its ups and downs, and everyone encounters difficult days, sometimes things become overwhelming and therefore it makes sense to seek counseling. It is helpful to run a distressing situation past a professional like me, not only to allow the opportunity for an evaluation, but also to hear oneself in the presence of an outside, objective person.

I have been successful with young adults, midlife and senior people. The kinds of issues may range but not be restricted to relationship concerns, employment dilemmas, parenting problems and grief associated with loss.

My style is to listen thoroughly, yet to interact with my clients. I think that your past may offer clues to understanding the current obstacles to happiness, but I do not dwell there. I like to think that a solid relationship between my client and myself is the key to progress.

Valencia McPike, Student Intern

Valencia McPike, Student Intern

Couples, Family, Children

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

AETNA

Low-Cost/Sliding Scale

Immediate Availability

Emotional and mental health disorders

Childhood behavioral challenges

Marital problems

Domestic violence

Family issues and complications

Gender and LGBTQ identity

Medical challenges of family members

Caring for older adults

Overcoming grief

Substance abuse and addiction

My mission is to reach as many clients as possible no matter the age, a place that is safe and nonjudgmental, as well as a place where you can truly be respected, encouraged, and empowered. I am a student intern who is training to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love working with families and couples, in which I am training to be able to treat a variety of issues. I believe that a therapist goal is to be trustworthy, genuine, compassionate, and adaptable.

I specialize in couples, families, and individuals, and behavioral changes during adolescence.

Loren Morris, LCPC

Loren Morris, LCPC

Couples, Gottman

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Medicare

ADHD

Anxiety

Adults

Couples/Marital

Depression

Mood Disorders

CBT

Strength-based Mindfulness

Grief Therapy

Motivational Interviewing

Taking the first step to seek counseling is not always an easy one. Understanding this, my approach is one of empathy, compassion, respect and collaboration. I consider it a privilege to provide you with a non biased, non judgmental space to work with you on your goals for counseling.

I provide counseling for both adult individuals and couples, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which addresses pattern of thinking and how thinking relates to behaviors. Along with CBT, we will also look at using your existing strengths and exploring ways to be more mindful and present.

The goal is to provide you empowering tools to use day-to-day to manage and/or reduce the impact of multiple stressors which can be present in both professional and personal lives for a fuller more meaningful life.

Nikki Nelson, LCSW

Nikki Nelson, LCSW

Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Specializations:

Addictions

Anxiety

Chemical Dependence

Couples and Family Therapy

Depression

Domestic Violence

Grief & Loss

Sexual/Physical Abuse

Stress Management

Trauma

Women's Issues

I am a giving and compassionate person who continues to love helping individuals, couples and families--even after 40 years of doing this work!  My job is to create a safe, humane and supportive environment in which people can make their lives and relationships better.  I have a sense of humor and have come to believe that counseling, while often dealing with sad, difficult and painful realities, need not be grim or joyless.

Jeff Lewis, LCPC

Jeff Lewis, LCPC

Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Adults

Adolescents

Children

EMDR

ADD / ADHD

Addictions

Anxiety

CBT

Grief Therapy

Mood Disorders

Motivational Interviewing

Relationship & Family Therapy

Trauma Focused Therapy

I have a unique and creative way of utilizing different therapeutic tools to match my client’s needs and individual issues.  My focus is to create a trusting and safe environment to enable my clients to explore their deepest feelings and thoughts.  I rely on an empathetic and motivational approach, as well as on the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Play Therapy.  As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I work with adults and older adolescents, to resolve past traumas and issues that keep them from moving forward in their lives and accomplishing their future desires and goals. I work with all ages to overcome anxiety and depression issues.  I also teach coping skills to adults and children struggling with ADD or ADHD.  I believe that if you believe in yourself, you can overcome obstacles and grow in ways you didn’t think were possible. 

Working with Adults:

My integrative approach to therapy is tailored to meet the needs of each individual.  My main objective is to help them achieve personal growth and live their lives more successfully by learning to understand and accept themselves.  I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist, whose purpose is to help my clients recognize and become aware of their full potential and possibilities.

Working with Children, Adolescents, and Families:

I have extensive experience in working with children and adolescents, as well as the family dynamic.  By building a rapport and connection with young clients, they are able to express themselves freely with me.  I use innovative and creative techniques in working with children, adolescents, and their families.  I have specialized in working with children and adolescents with ADHD, mood disorders, depression and anxiety.  I have worked with children who have experienced trauma, divorce, bullying, or are grieving are the loss of a loved one. 

Gary Schochet, LCSW

Gary Schochet, LCSW

Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Telehealth

Downers Grove

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Life Transitions

Assertiveness

Dysfunctional Families

Adult Children Dealing With Family of Origin Issues

Self-Esteem & Self Acceptance

Stress Management

Substance Abuse / SAP Certified

I am a caring individual who wholeheartedly believes that everyone I work with has the capacity of improving the quality of their life. I use my 40 years of therapy experience to help people overcome depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and other crises that may feel overwhelming to them. I start from a basic premise that most of our pain comes not from the behavior and communications of others but from how we interpret them. I work with people to improve their communications, their self-esteem, their capacity to love and receive love and to accomplish more of their life's goals.

Angela Zartuche, PsyD, LCSW

Angela Zartuche, PsyD, LCSW

Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Telehealth

 

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

United Health Care/Optum

AETNA

Medicare

Adolescents

Emerging Adults

Anxiety

Christian Counseling

Depression

Grief

Trauma

Parenting

I am a warm and caring therapist with over 15 years of experience working with adults and adolescents. I understand the importance of having a safe and non-judgmental space to process personal circumstances that are impacting your life. By using this safe space, it is my hope we can work together in partnership to help you discover clarity and find meaning. I use cognitive behavioral approaches and other therapies that are beneficial to my clients. Also, for those  interested, I offer Christian-based counseling. If you feel inspired to reach out, I am happy to schedule a 15-minute consultation prior to scheduling your first appointment with me.

 If you feel inspired to reach out, I am happy to schedule a 15-minute phone consultation prior to scheduling your first appointment with me.

Jill Shiner, LCSW

Jill Shiner, LCSW

Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Telehealth

BCBS-PPO

CIGNA

AETNA

Medicare

Adults and Older Adults

Anxiety

Depression

Personal / Family Stress

Phase of Life Issues

Relationship Issues

Trauma

Unresolved Grief and Loss

We all experience a wide variety of feelings during our life time.  Uncomfortable feelings such as anxiety, depression, resentment, guilt and shame are often difficult to own and process.  When these feelings are not well processed, they disrupt our sense of self-esteem and self-worth.

I became an LCSW in 2013 to pursue my passion to help people regain their sense of self-esteem and self-worth.  In my practice, I often use therapeutic techniques such as active/empathic listening, reflection, reality testing and boundary setting.  These techniques help my clients feel better about themselves and live fuller, more meaningful lives.

Brittani Sitar

Brittani Sitar

Director of Counseling and Psychotherapy Centers

Telehealth

I recently moved to Chicago from Las Vegas where I spent 11 years building my career in first drug and alcohol counseling, then moving into administration in 2016. In Vegas I built my own treatment center which I sold in 2020. Experiencing the business operations from the ground up has set me up to learn everything from intake, to marketing, to building website.  I love being part of a growing practice and such an amazing team of people who care about the community.  I have been able to transfer to drug and alcohol license and I am currently working getting my LCPC licensure in Illinois! 

Jodee Elliot, LCPC

Jodee Elliot, LCPC

Clinical Director

Jodee is the Clinical Director for Perspectives Counseling and Psychotherapy Centers. In her role, she brings more than 15 years of clinical experience including community mental health, private practice, school counseling, and employee assistance program (EAP) based services. She is highly regarded in the industry as an attentive and supportive therapist and leader who fosters space for collaboration provides constructive feedback and is sensitive to cultural considerations that impact care. Jodee's primary professional interests are life transitions, student mental health, family/relationship issues, and mood disorders. She holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from the University of Holy Cross in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Kelly Lee

Kelly Lee

Practice Manager

Kelly has been the Practice Manager for Perspectives for over 25 years. She graduated with a Bachelor's of Science degree. After graduating from college, she worked within the marketing and advertising industry. After a few years, she went back to school, working towards her Master's degree in clinical psychology. She is dedicated to making sure that each of our client's get the help they are seeking. Her experience dealing with insurance companies gives her the ability to help our clients negotiate the complex, and sometimes difficult, insurance system. Using her background and empathy, she helps make that first step a client takes in calling for counseling an easier one. 

Our Team

Business Development & Operations

Will Ling
Will Ling

Director of Information Technology

Sue Gearica
Sue Gearica

Director of Accounting and Human Resources

Marie Pavlich
Marie Pavlich

Director of Strategy

Susan Dumigan
Susan Dumigan

Director of Marketing

Braeden Schaefer
Braeden Schaefer

Senior Sales Executive

Jill Hinrichs
Jill Hinrichs

Senior Consultant

Monique Limbach
Monique Limbach

Manager of Consulting Operations

Kathy Mazies
Kathy Mazies

Executive Assistant

Account Management

Kellie Calderon, LCPC
Kellie Calderon, LCPC

Director of Account Management

Gina Higgin
Gina Higgin

Executive Account Manager

Joy Lockner, LCSW, CEAP, CADC, SAP
Joy Lockner, LCSW, CEAP, CADC, SAP

Executive Account Manager

Stephanie Jackson
Stephanie Jackson

Senior Account Manager

Paul McCauley
Paul McCauley

Senior Account Manager

Jorie Cotton, LPC, PHR
Jorie Cotton, LPC, PHR

Account Manager

Nicole Bernhard
Nicole Bernhard

Account Manager

Farah Tawfik
Farah Tawfik

Account Manager

Eric Dobson
Eric Dobson

Senior Account Manager

Maggie Ludwig
Maggie Ludwig

Account Management Coordinator

Assistance Program Counseling

Jodee Elliot, LCPC
Jodee Elliot, LCPC

Clinical Director

Orly Avidor, LCSW
Orly Avidor, LCSW

Assistance Program Counselor

Vanessa Qualls, LMHC, LCPC
Vanessa Qualls, LMHC, LCPC

Assistance Program Counselor

Gianne Shah, LPC
Gianne Shah, LPC

Assistance Program Counselor

Tina Zuchel
Tina Zuchel

Clinical Case Manager

Assistance Program Members

EAP, MAP, SAP

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