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

Bernie Dyme, BCD, LCSW
President and CEO

Stacie Westhouse-Milam, LPC
Vice President of Operations

Frank Gulik, CPA
Vice President of Finance and Accounting

Jonathan Eisler
Vice President of Business Development and Organizational Consulting

Bernie Dyme, BCD, LCSW
President and CEO
Since co-founding Perspectives Ltd in 1981, President and CEO Bernie Dyme has helped develop an organization committed to delivering the highest-quality workplace resource programs. Bernie continues to create a balanced approach between cost savings and safe, healthy and productive workforces. Throughout his career, he has used his formal clinical training and business experience to provide consulting services to hundreds of organizations. He is an active member of more than a dozen professional and community organizations. Bernie has also served as the president of the board of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. Bernie is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). He has a master’s degree in social work from The University of Chicago.

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
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.

Jonathan Eisler
Vice President of Business Development and Organizational Consulting
In his role as vice president of business development and organizational consulting, Jonathan helps organizations articulate their goals and then build, grow and retain teams and achieve results that matter. He is passionate about enabling customers to support their team members’ professional, personal and emotional well-being so they can grow with the organization. Jonathan also oversees the planning and execution of strategies focused on increasing sales and growing Perspectives. He has been a business administration leader since 2002 and began working as a consultant in 2006. His experience spans clinical psychology, interpersonal coaching, human resources, organizational development, survey design and analysis, leadership training, program design and team development. Jonathan is a certified professional behavioral analyst with a master’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology; a master’s degree of business administration from the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management and the Morris Graduate School of Management; and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Flagler College.

Jeanelle Kline, LSW
LGBTQ, Transgender, Couples

Kimberlee Johannesen, LCPC
Adults, Couples, Eating Disorders, Adolescents

Nate Pusateri, Masters Level Counselor
Couples

Danielle Jones, LCSW
Relationships, aging, anxiety, depression

Brittany Lewis, LPC
Adolescents, Severe Mental health

Edward Jana, LCPC, CADC
Hypnotherapy, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction

Paulina Malysko, LCPC
Adults, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression

Mary Ann Dier-Zimmermann
EAP Counselor, Therapist

Tom Schlieske, LCSW
School issues, Family Conflict, Adults, Under 18

Phyllis Greenbaum, LCSW
Therapist

Valencia McPike, Student Intern
Couples, Family, Children

Loren Morris, LCPC
Couples, Gottman

Nikki Nelson, LCSW
Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Jeff Lewis, LCPC
Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Gary Schochet, LCSW
Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Angela Zartuche, PsyD, LCSW
Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Jill Shiner, LCSW
Currently Not Accepting New Clients

Brittani Sitar
Director of Counseling and Psychotherapy Centers

Jodee Elliot, LCPC
Clinical Director

Kelly Lee
Practice Manager

Telehealth
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.

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.

Telehealth
BCBS-PPO
CIGNA
United Health Care/Optum
AETNA
Immediate Availability
Anxiety
Grief and Loss
Adults and emerging adults
Music Therapy
Trauma
Financial Stress
Autism
ADHD
My approach to therapy is warm, non-judgmental, and open-minded. I give particular focus to building trust and developing a strong working alliance. I employ several theoretical orientations, including Psychodynamic Therapy and behavioral approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also use my many years of music education to help provide art-based therapies that foster self-expression and meaning. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, Autism, and ADHD, as well as relational, occupational, and financial challenges. I prioritize all clients’ unique sense of self-identity, expression, and ways of being. In addition, I encourage all clients to prioritize their comfort and style of processing when meeting with a therapist. I’m happy to meet with you to see if we are a good fit for therapy.

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.

Telehealth
BCBS-PPO
United Health Care/Optum
AETNA
Children
Immediate Availability
Adults
Emerging Adults
Children
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
DBT
Reality Therapy
Personality Disorders
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
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.

Telehealth
BCBS-PPO
United Health Care/Optum
AETNA
Children
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!

BCBS-PPO
CIGNA
United Health Care/Optum
AETNA
- Relationship Issues
- Spirituality
- LGBTQ+

Telehealth
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.

Telehealth
CIGNA
United Health Care/Optum
AETNA
Medicare
Children
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Telehealth
BCBS-PPO
CIGNA
United Health Care/Optum
AETNA
Children
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.

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.

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.

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!


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
Director of Information Technology

Sue Gearica
Director of Accounting and Human Resources

Marie Pavlich
Director of Strategy

Susan Dumigan
Director of Marketing

Braeden Schaefer
Senior Sales Executive

Jill Hinrichs
Senior Consultant

Monique Limbach
Manager of Consulting Operations

Kathy Mazies
Executive Assistant
Account Management

Kellie Calderon, LCPC
Director of Account Management

Gina Higgin
Executive Account Manager

Joy Lockner, LCSW, CEAP, CADC, SAP
Executive Account Manager

Stephanie Jackson
Senior Account Manager

Paul McCauley
Senior Account Manager

Jorie Cotton, LPC, PHR
Account Manager

Nicole Bernhard
Account Manager

Farah Tawfik
Account Manager

Eric Dobson
Senior Account Manager

Maggie Ludwig
Account Management Coordinator
Assistance Program Counseling

Jodee Elliot, LCPC
Clinical Director

Orly Avidor, LCSW
Assistance Program Counselor

Vanessa Qualls, LMHC, LCPC
Assistance Program Counselor

Gianne Shah, LPC
Assistance Program Counselor

Tina Zuchel
Clinical Case Manager
Access Center Counseling

Taylor Venturini, LPC
Access Center Director

Cassandra Khan, LCPC
Access Center Trainer and Counselor

Amanda Fox, LPC
Access Center Counselor

Kelly Frees, LMSW
Access Center Counselor

Taffy Gaston, LPC
Access Center Counselor

Creig Holm, LCSW, CADC
Access Center Counselor

Jaclyn Moore, LSW
Access Center Counselor

Anuar Ponce de Leon
Access Center Counselor

Akosua Thornton, LLPC
Access Center Counselor

Samaki Massingale
Access Center Counselor

Oscar Espinoza
Affiliate Coordinator

Gabriela Casalegno
Access Center Admin

Lynette Lucero
Access Center Admin