Team

<h3>Meet Kat, LCSW, C-DBT, CRSS, ADHD-CCSP</h3> <p>Kat (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>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/Michelle-500x500.jpeg" alt="" decoding="async" /> <h3 class=owl-title data-setting=item_title >Michelle K</h3><h5 class=owl-subtitle data-setting=item_subtitle >Social Media Marketing</h5> <a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_1_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_2_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_3_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_4_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a> <img width="500" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-500x500.jpg" alt="" decoding="async" /> <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 ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_2_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_3_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_4_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a> <img width="500" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/blank-staff-500x500.jpg" alt="" decoding="async" /> <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 ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_2_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_3_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_4_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a> <img width="480" height="500" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/matt-pictures-480x500.jpg" alt="A young man with short dark hair smiles while standing in front of a plain light-colored wall. He is wearing a beige textured sweater with a geometric pattern." decoding="async" /> <h3 class=owl-title data-setting=item_title >Matt Herling</h3><h5 class=owl-subtitle data-setting=item_subtitle >In Office Support</h5> <a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_1_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_2_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_3_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></a><a class=elementor-animation-bob data-setting=item_social_icon_4_link_url href=# target=_blank rel=nofollow ></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 Yairis</h3> <p>Clinical MSW Intern</p><p>Hi, I'm Yairis! My pronouns are She/Her/Ella. I currently attend the Univeristy of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, I'm finishing up my last semester of my Clinical Master's Degree in Social Work. I'm passionate about supporting children, teens, and young adults through anxiety, depression, and generational trauma. I'm interested in family dynamics, identity development, and healing intergenerational patterns. I offer services in English and Spanish to better support diverse communities, to create supportive & empowering spaces where individuals feel understood and valued. </p><p> </p><p>Now excepting clients in person with insurance and sliding-scale. </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="853" src="https://uniquelyyoubehavioralhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/yairis-scaled-e1750380595679-768x1024.png" alt="A woman with long wavy black hair and glasses smiles while sitting on a tan leather couch. She is wearing a black embroidered blouse and light blue jeans, with her hands gently folded in her lap. A large abstract painting hangs on the wall behind her." />

<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 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>

<h3>Meet Dani, Licensed Professional Counselor</h3> <p>Dani (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor (clinical license pending) who is deeply committed to providing neurodivergent affirming care. Her practice is centered around creating a nurturing, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment where clients of all ages—children, adolescents, and adults—feel valued and understood. Dani is known for her open-minded, warm, and genuine approach, ensuring that therapy is a collaborative, affirming experience.</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>Dani emphasizes a person-centered and strength-based approach in her sessions, working collaboratively with clients to identify and achieve their goals. She believes in harnessing each client’s unique strengths and capabilities as a pathway to successful therapy. Dani’s methods are tailored to each client’s needs, helping them embrace their identities and foster self-acceptance in a supportive atmosphere.</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Understanding the specific needs of neurodivergent individuals, Dani integrates practices that not only respect but celebrate the unique aspects of each client. Specializing in supporting those who struggle with self-esteem issues, Dani is deeply committed to helping clients recognize and enhance their intrinsic value in a supportive and affirmative environment. Additionally, she is working towards a specialization in treating children who struggle with encopresis, aiming to provide targeted, compassionate care that addresses both the emotional and practical challenges associated with this condition. Her dedication to these focused areas fosters a therapeutic environment where clients can truly flourish.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>Dani earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Social Work from Lewis University, followed by a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the same institution.  She has extensive training in working with autistic individuals, trauma, behavioral therapy, and crisis intervention. Dani is also certified in DIR/Floortime therapy.</p> <h2>Work with Dani</h2> <p>Dani's commitment to her clients is evident in every aspect of her work. Actively accepting new clients, she prioritizes the well-being and personal growth of each individual, making a significant impact on their lives. Dani's approach ensures that therapy is not only a place for growth but also a journey of discovery and acceptance. By welcoming new clients into her practice, Dani continues to expand her reach, offering her expertise to help more individuals navigate their paths toward self-acceptance and personal fulfillment.</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>Any form of pasta- it’s the Italian in me.</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>Relaxing with my family and friends, or taking long hikes to new fun places.</p> <h2>What is your favorite movie?</h2> <p>I’ll pick Brother Bear, but truly anything Disney is my favorite it’s hard to choose just one.</p>

<h3>Meet Ashlee Augustyn, LPC, CADC</h3> <p>Ashlee (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). She serves as the Director of Compliance at Uniquely You Behavioral Health. Ashlee's extensive experience includes working with individuals facing challenges related to neurodivergence, addiction, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, and issues concerning sexuality.</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>Ashlee employs a person-centered approach in her therapy, prioritizing the establishment of a strong therapeutic relationship. She maintains a foundational belief in the power of unconditional positive regard within the therapeutic alliance. Ashlee’s eclectic therapeutic style integrates various methodologies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and more, adapting her methods to meet the unique needs of each client.</p> <h2>A Commitment to Empathetic, Affirming Care</h2> <p>Ashlee is dedicated to providing empathetic and affirming care, valuing the unique journeys and challenges of each client. Her broad training enables her to offer comprehensive, tailored support that respects and enhances the individual’s path to recovery and self-discovery.</p> <h2>Educational Background and Expertise</h2> <p>Ashlee obtained her Associate's Degree in Addiction Counseling from the College of DuPage in and her Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services from National Louis University and her master’s program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at National Louis University.  Her professional development is further enriched by certifications in SUPR DUI Service Provider Training, Effective Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment, IAODAPCA Gambling Disorder Training, ASAM Criteria Skill Building Training, and Internal Family Systems Training.</p> <h2>Work with Ashlee</h2> <p>While Ashlee's schedule is currently full, she is accepting clients for her waitlist. Her role as Clinical Coordinator allows her to ensure that all clients at Uniquely You Behavioral Health receive care that is not only consistent but also deeply attuned to their individual needs.</p> <h3>The Personal:</h3> <h2>What’s your favorite holiday?</h2> <p>Halloween! I’m a big-time scary movie fan, love to dress up and do all the fun spooky activities that this holiday brings!</p> <h2>What do your weekends look like?</h2> <p>I’m usually spending time with my family, especially my son. We love to go and do new things, and just spend quality time together.</p> <h2>What animal best represents you?</h2> <p>I think a cat would be a good representation of me. They are independent, vigilant, curious and develop close bonds to the humans they like the most!</p>