Team

<h3>Meet Kat, LCSW, C-DBT, CRSS, ADHD-CCSP</h3> <p>Kat (they/them, he/him) is a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about LGBTQIA+ and disability advocacy, and certified as a specialist in ADHD, dialectical behavioral therapy, and peer support. They have a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Knox College, and a Master’s in Social Work from Loyola, as well as specialized training in workplace mental health, executive function coaching, motivational interviewing, aging, dementia, caregiver stress, and harm reduction. Currently, Kat is working towards certification in DIR/Floortime, while learning more about somatic therapies and Internal Family Systems. They are passionate about lifelong learning, and constantly seeking out new tools to add to their arsenal.</p><p> </p><p>As a neurodivergent clinician with chronic illness, Kat uses warmth, humor, practical experience, and a broad, evidence-based therapeutic toolbox to help people identify their strengths, adapt to new challenges, and pursue their goals, regardless of diagnoses. Clinically, they have a soft spot for helping people make work and/or school work for them, as well as queer, trans, chronically ill, and/or neurodivergent people dealing with anxiety, trauma, or stress. Due to their COVID-cautious nature, Kat’s services are strictly telehealth.</p> <h3>The Personal:</h3> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>What’s your favorite holiday?</h2> <p>Halloween, hands down – I live for spooky season and I’ve always got at least two costumes on deck, ready to go.</p> <h2>Favorite Drink?</h2> <p>Sparkling water, herbal tea, or espresso – it just depends on the weather and the time of day.</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>If it’s above freezing, you can find me outside walking by Lake Michigan, fishing at various places in Chicagoland, running, picnicking with friends, or writing. If it’s below freezing, you can find me still outside running, albeit significantly less cheerfully – or watching movies and creating art with my chosen family.</p>

<style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Admin Staff</h2> <img width="500" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Liz-500x500.jpg" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Liz-500x500.jpg 500w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Liz-150x150.jpg 150w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Liz-100x100.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /> <h3 class=owl-title data-setting=item_title >Liz O</h3><h5 class=owl-subtitle data-setting=item_subtitle >Billing</h5> <a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_1_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_2_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_3_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_4_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a> <img width="500" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Michelle-500x500.jpeg" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Michelle-500x500.jpeg 500w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Michelle-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Michelle-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Michelle-100x100.jpeg 100w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Michelle-450x450.jpeg 450w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Michelle.jpeg 722w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /> <h3 class=owl-title data-setting=item_title >Michelle K</h3><h5 class=owl-subtitle data-setting=item_subtitle >Community Liaison</h5> <a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_1_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_2_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_3_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_4_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a> <img width="500" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-500x500.jpg" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-500x500.jpg 500w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-300x300.jpg 300w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-150x150.jpg 150w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-768x768.jpg 768w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-100x100.jpg 100w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-450x450.jpg 450w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /> <h3 class=owl-title data-setting=item_title >Ram C</h3><h5 class=owl-subtitle data-setting=item_subtitle >Client Journey Manager</h5> <a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_1_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_2_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_3_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_4_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a> <img width="500" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-500x500.jpg" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-500x500.jpg 500w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-300x300.jpg 300w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-150x150.jpg 150w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-768x768.jpg 768w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-100x100.jpg 100w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-450x450.jpg 450w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /> <h3 class=owl-title data-setting=item_title >Veronica E</h3><h5 class=owl-subtitle data-setting=item_subtitle >Executive Assistant</h5> <a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_1_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_2_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_3_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a class="elementor-animation-bob" data-setting="item_social_icon_4_link_url" href="#" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a>

<style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Interns</h2> <h3>Meet Jen B</h3> <p>Jen B (she, her, hers) is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree, marking a significant career transition after a decade spent raising her children and a prior career in corporate human resources. Jen’s passion for therapy dates back to her undergraduate years, when she initially aspired to become a therapist. When the opportunity arose to return to school, she eagerly enrolled in the MSW program at Aurora University to fulfill her long-held dream.</p> <h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> <p>Jen is deeply committed to providing neurodivergent affirming care. She believes in a collaborative approach to therapy, aiming to meet the diverse needs of neurodiverse families. Jen is dedicated to supporting neurodivergent adults as they navigate and process their experiences in a predominantly neurotypical world. Her therapeutic style is rooted in a strengths-based and person-centered approach, ensuring that each client’s unique strengths and perspectives are at the forefront of the therapeutic process.</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Jen’s approach to therapy is grounded in empathy and affirmation. As a parent of neurodivergent children, she brings a unique perspective and deep understanding of the challenges and joys that come with raising neurodivergent kids. This personal experience enables her to assist and support other parents in a uniquely empathetic and informed way. Jen integrates attachment-based therapy with trauma-informed care to create a safe and supportive environment for her clients.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>Jen is advancing her education in social work through the MSW program at Aurora University. Her background in corporate human resources and her experience as a stay-at-home parent provide her with a unique perspective and a wealth of life experience that she brings to her therapeutic practice.</p> <h2>Work with Jen</h2> <p>Jen is excited to work with clients who are seeking a compassionate and affirming therapist. Whether you are a family looking for support in meeting your diverse needs or an adult exploring your neurodivergent identity, Jen is committed to providing a therapeutic space where you can feel understood, valued, and empowered.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=".svg"]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block}</style> <img width="640" height="506" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/jen-blaszczyk-1024x809.jpg" alt="" /> <h3>Meet Nancy N</h3> <p>Coming Soon!</p> <h3>Meet Kalya M</h3> <p>Coming Soon!</p>

<h3>Meet Atlas, Our Therapy Doodle</h3> <p>Hello! I'm Atlas, the fluffiest member of the Uniquely You Behavioral Health team. Before joining this wonderful family, I graduated from 16 weeks of puppy school where I learned all the important things like sitting, lying down, and staying calm—skills I use every day! I've made lots of human friends, especially at a therapeutic day school for autistic children, where I even encouraged a kiddo say their first word. They called me "fluffy," which is pretty spot on!</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> <p>I take my job as a therapy dog very seriously, but always with a wagging tail. Since joining Uniquely You, I've honed my skills to stay serene during therapy sessions, ensuring I'm the best support I can be. My trainers have worked closely with all the therapists here to make sure they know how to use my doggy talents to the fullest. Whether it’s lending an ear (I have two very good ones) or just being a comforting presence, I'm here to help in the most paws-itive way!</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Being a therapy dog is all about bringing joy and comfort. Studies show that spending time with a therapy dog like me can decrease anxiety and stress, elevate moods, and even lower blood pressure. Plus, I'm great at encouraging communication and social interaction!</p> <h2>Work with Atlas</h2> <p>If you think a little doggy time might brighten your session, just let our staff know, and they’ll arrange for me to join in. I'm here to offer snuggles, support, or just make you smile. Remember, I'm here if you want me, but no worries if you think we might not be the best match—I want whatever makes you most comfortable!</p> <h2>Benefits of Animal Therapy</h2> <p>Animal therapy isn't just fun; it has real health benefits! Engaging with a therapy dog like me can help improve emotional well-being, reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, and even help with physical health challenges. I'm trained to be gentle and supportive, ready to help you feel more relaxed and optimistic during your therapy journey.</p> <h3>The Personal:</h3> <h2>If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?</h2> <p>Bread! I love bread! It’s the one thing I will break the rules for.</p> <h2>What is your favorite toy?</h2> <p>My stuffed alligator. I like to carry it around with me and throw it in air!</p> <h2>What is your favorite activity?</h2> <p>I love it when my humans take me on long off leash walks on the weekends. I get to sniff all the smells and adventure off into the field.</p>

<h3>Meet Jen, MSW Intern</h3> <p>Jen (she/her) is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree at Aurora University, following a career transition from corporate human resources and a fulfilling period raising her children. Her decision to return to school and pursue social work was driven by a long-standing aspiration to become a therapist—a dream she initially set aside during her undergraduate years. Now, Jen is dedicated to following her passion for supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> <p>Jen is committed to delivering neurodivergent affirming care, with a focus on collaborative therapy that respects the diversity and unique needs of neurodiverse families and adults. She aims to help neurodivergent adults understand and process their experiences in a predominantly neurotypical world. Jen utilizes a strengths-based, person-centered approach to therapy, integrating attachment-based methods with trauma-informed care to provide sensitive and effective support.</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Jen’s approach is deeply rooted in her belief that therapy should be a supportive, inclusive space where neurodivergent individuals can explore their identities and experiences without judgment. She is dedicated to fostering an environment that empowers clients to embrace their strengths and address challenges through tailored therapeutic interventions.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>After completing her undergraduate degree and gaining substantial experience in human resources, Jen returned to academia to fulfill her true calling in social work. At Aurora University, she is honing her skills in neurodivergent affirming practices and plans to continue developing specialized competencies that cater to the nuanced needs of her clients.</p> <h2>Work with Jen</h2> <p>Jen will be adding additional parent support sessions and supporting autistic adults to her schedule in Fall of 2024.</p> <h3>The Personal:</h3> <h2>If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life what would it be?</h2> <p>Fries because there are different styles and you can use different condiments for dipping, though cheese is my very favorite!</p> <h2>How do you like to relax and unwind after your workday?</h2> <p>After work, my favorite thing to do is catch up with kids so I can hear about their day and what interesting things they have on their minds. Once everyone is in bed, I like to do crossword puzzles on my phone while listening to a podcast or watch TV and crochet or knit.</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>Weekends are always family time with my two boys, my husband, and our dog Stanley Pup. Every Saturday night is family movie night and we eat a “snacky dinner” while sitting on blankets on the floor in the living room. I usually make an appetizer dinner with mini hotdogs, pizza bread, popcorn, pretzel bites with cheese, veggies with dip, and ice cream sundaes.</p>

<h3>Meet Dorrian Stephens, COTA/L</h3> <p>Dorrian (she/her) is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant dedicated to serving Neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan. She finds fulfillment in helping her clients navigate the sensory, social, and emotional challenges of daily life. Dorrian believes in empowering individuals with practical tools to enhance their engagement in communities and families.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> <p>Dorrian adopts a client-centered approach in her practice, tailoring therapy to meet the unique needs, goals, and preferences of each individual. She understands that every client is different and emphasizes creating a supportive and compassionate environment where clients can explore and grow at their own pace. Her therapeutic style integrates trauma-informed care, sensory processing techniques, and mental health strategies to promote holistic well-being.</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Through her professional journey and ongoing education, Dorrian is deeply committed to providing empathetic and affirming care. She believes in fostering a supportive environment that encourages accountability and flexibility, adapting routines to best support her clients' development.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>Dorrian completed her Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S) in Occupational Therapy at Fox College in Tinley Park, IL. She continues to pursue advanced certifications in Sensory Integration, DIR Floortime Model, Trauma-Informed Care, Handwriting Without Tears, and Therapeutic Listening enhancing her ability to provide comprehensive and effective therapy.</p> <h2>Work with Dorian</h2> <p>As a dedicated COTA/L, Dorrian is passionate about her work with Neurodivergent individuals and their families. She strives to create meaningful change by equipping her clients with the tools they need to thrive in various aspects of their lives.</p> <h3>The Personal:</h3> <h2>Favorite Drink?</h2> <p>Quesadilla</p> <h2>If you had to eat one food for the rest ofyour life, what would it be?</h2> <p>My favorite restaurant is Wildfire. I like to order the twice baked potato!</p> <h2>What’s your favorite restaurant?</h2> <p>Slushie….any flavor, any color!</p> <h2>What is your favorite thing about your brain?</h2> <p>I am super creative and good at improvising!</p> <h2>How do you like to relax and unwind after your workday?</h2> <p>I love listening to music on my record player! I also love reading books: sci-fi or mystery!</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>My weekends often include going to concerts or digging through bins in my favorite record shops! After the fun, I like to recharge by cleaning my home and preparing for my week at work.</p> <h2>Why Therapy?</h2> <p>Occupational Therapy is such a gratifying job! You can help others to be more involved in their communities and families by giving them practical tools to incorporate everyday.</p>

<h3>Samantha “Sam” Dubina, LSW</h3> <h3>The Personal:</h3> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>What did you do before you became a social worker?</h2> <p>I actually went to college to pursue musical theatre because I wanted to be on Broadway! After I graduated, I was a professional actor in and around Chicago for nearly a decade, performing in dozens of musicals and plays and even starting my own theatre company with my friends. I secretly know how to tap dance and you’ll likely catch me singing showtunes in my car.</p> <h2>What is your favorite drink?</h2> <p>Is it too boring if I say water?</p> <h2>How do you like to relax and unwind after your workday?</h2> <p>I love to go home and play board games with my husband while we split a pizza. Afterwards, I’ll snuggle with our rescue pit bull, Trooper, and our black cat, Nellie. Unfortunately, they are not friends (yet!) so I need to constantly divide my time and energy between the two of them.</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>Spending time with my family and friends is crucial. Otherwise, you can find me at home, reading a book or watching movies. And I’m a happy camper if I can squeeze a nap in! I recently took up photography, so I am working on taking pretty photos and creating memories.</p> <h3>The Professional:</h3> <p>Sam is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW). Her passion for mental health and helping others become the best versions of themselves is what drives her. She is passionate about eliminating the stigma, misconceptions and stereotypes of mental health. As a therapist, Sam helps individuals and families understand mental illnesses and what they can do to control or cope with symptoms to improve health, wellness and function. She has experience working with children, teens and adults with a wide variety of struggles including neurodivergent disorders, anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and trauma.</p><p>As a therapist, Sam believes in creating an inclusive environment that values and accommodates everyone’s’ unique strengths, challenges, and ways of experiencing the world. She does not want to “treat” or “cure” neurodivergence –– rather, she wants to help neurodivergent individuals find acceptance and pride in their differences. Sam uses a blend of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy and mind-body approaches to support individuals in a whole-person, strength-based way, combining insight with action.</p><p>Sam received her master’s degree in social work from Aurora University in Aurora, Illinois. She received her bachelor’s of fine arts degree with an emphasis in musical theatre from Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois. She has extensive training in school social work and has considerable knowledge of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and collaborating with students, school staff and families. She has additional training in behavioral therapy, trauma and crisis intervention. She is currently pursuing certifications in DIR/ Floortime therapy.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=".svg"]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block}</style> <img width="640" height="893" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sam-dubina-full-734x1024.jpg" alt="" srcset="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sam-dubina-full-734x1024.jpg 734w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sam-dubina-full-215x300.jpg 215w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sam-dubina-full-768x1072.jpg 768w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sam-dubina-full-1101x1536.jpg 1101w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sam-dubina-full-600x837.jpg 600w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sam-dubina-full-323x450.jpg 323w, https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sam-dubina-full.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" />

<h3>Meet Cassandra, Licensed Social Worker and Director of Engagement</h3> <p>Cassandra (she/her) is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois, with pending licensure in Indiana. She holds a Master's degree in Social Work from Grand Canyon University and embodies a profound understanding of neurodivergence from both professional and personal experiences. As the Director of Engagement at Uniquely You Behavioral Health, Cassandra is pivotal in enhancing both client and staff interactions within the practice.</p> <style>/*! elementor - v3.21.0 - 18-04-2024 */ .elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}</style><h2>Practice Philosophy & Therapeutic Style</h2> <p>Cassandra is certified in DIR/Floortime, focusing her practice on autistic individuals and others with developmental disabilities. She is particularly adept at connecting with individuals described by their families as "shy" or "difficult." Utilizing her expertise in DIR/Floortime, she works to develop essential skills in regulation, engagement, and self-awareness, making a significant impact on their lives. Her approach is rooted in the belief that neurodivergence is a natural variation of the human experience, not a deficiency needing correction.</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Cassandra’s dedication to neurodivergent affirming care is demonstrated through her work, which emphasizes understanding and leveraging the unique strengths of each individual. She fosters an environment where neurodivergent individuals and their families can thrive, supported by tailored strategies that respect their unique ways of interacting with the world.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>Cassandra completed her bachelor's degree in Social Work at Aurora University and advanced her training with a master’s degree in Social Work from Grand Canyon University. Her education is complemented by specialized training in managing developmental disabilities through DIR/Floortime, along with expertise in navigating educational settings and advocating for appropriate accommodations and supports.</p> <h2>Work with Cassandra</h2> <p>Cassandra is actively accepting clients with day-time availability.</p> <h3>The Personal:</h3> <h2>If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?</h2> <p>I would eat pasta for the rest of my life. There are so many variations of pasta, and they are ALL delicious.</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>On Saturday mornings, my oldest son, Noah, has soccer, and then after soccer, we always go out to eat breakfast. Then, when we get home, we take our little dog, chico, for a walk. On Saturday evenings we go to visit the grandparents. On Sundays, we like to stay at home and relax. Sometimes we will go for a walk or go to the park.</p>