Our Team of Therapists
We are a team of therapists dedicated to finding collaborative and creative solutions that work best for you. Taking Control is a private practice, therefore we are able to customize your treatment. Email or call us for a free consultation and we will match you with the best therapist to fit your needs. Feel free to contact any therapist directly with his or her email link.
James Jorgenson, Ed.D., LCPC
James Jorgenson has been in private practice for over 32 years, with an excess of 70,000 total clinical hours of experience along the way. He received his doctoral degree in Counselor Education from Northern Illinois University in 1979, and has worked as an individual and family therapist since 1982. He opened Taking Control as a full-time private practice in 1987. Dr. Jorgenson has had extensive experience with a wide variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, anger management, domestic violence, and family issues.
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"I strongly believe in the adage that it takes a whole village to raise a child, and I've sought creative ways to build communities through my work that heal and support both children and adults in need of help. I continue to explore additional concepts and alternative programs to serve these needs in the community. I maintain tremendous energy and enthusiasm for this work, and I eagerly look forward to the challenges I encounter every day." |
Joanna VanLear, MSW, LCSW, C-PD
Joanna VanLear is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Aurora University in 2006. Her work as a therapist at Taking Control has focused on supporting people in different seasons of life from adolescence through retirement. Joanna is a certified personality disorder treatment provider and her experience also includes working with anxiety and depression, domestic violence, Christian counseling, parenting and blended family/co-parenting issues.
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"I believe there is hope for profound change through the creative collaboration of client and therapist. I strive to create a comfortable environment where clients are able to share their experiences, realize their strengths and develop a plan for achieving their goals. I have great respect for my clients and the courage it takes to reach out for help. Whether you are dealing with a new issue or something you have struggled with for years, the goals and methods of treatment we set will be determined collaboratively and in a supportive, non-judgmental environment." |
Lindsey Maltese, MS Ed., LCPC, LGBTQ+ Ally
Lindsey Maltese earned her Master of Science in Education degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Illinois University. She has been at Taking Control since 2016. Lindsey has experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression as well as providing services to individuals, couples, and families. She is a proud Ally and is highly passionate about working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, listening to one's unique experiences, and providing an open and affirming environment.
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"At some point in life, everyone finds themselves facing something. The question is, 'Are you ready to face it?' Come take the first step with counseling and I will gladly walk with you! I make it my duty to cater to the specific needs of each person using creative techniques that fit you. My counseling style is based on the foundation of transparency and mutual trust, using collaborative efforts to meet your personal goals. I believe that every person has the power within themselves to create lasting change. My goal is to help you grow, one step at a time. The time to start feeling better is now!" |
Rita Wiermanski, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Rita Wiermanski is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Certified Anger Management Specialist. Rita has been in the field since 2012. She received her Masters of Social Work at St. Ambrose University. Rita has worked with a range of clients including adolescents and adults with substance use, mental health, behavioral and relationship issues.
She specializes in working with adolescents and young adults with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, anger and self-esteem issues. Rita uses a compassionate approach mixed with humor to help build a strong therapeutic relationship. |
"I believe that kindness and humor can make all the difference for a person. By providing a safe place for people to explore their goals, they are able to grow into the people they want to become. With support, encouragement and laughter, people can do what they thought was impossible.” |
Adam L Maldonado, BA, MS, LCPC
Adam L. Maldonado is a fully licensed therapist who earned a Bachelor's of Arts degree in both Psychology and Philosophy from Northern Illinois University in 2007. He served as a Research Assistant and conducted his own research in the Psychology Department of NIU. He obtained his Master's of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University and has been with Taking Control since June of 2014. He has received special training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Multicultural Counseling, and Play Therapy. He specializes / focuses on working with Borderline Personality Disorder, Adoption, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Attachment conflicts, relationship/family conflicts, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, anger management, self-injury, defiance and play therapy with children. Adam is experienced in adolescent, couples, family and group therapy, and works with people of all ages and identities. Adam adapts to the specific needs of each individual client with whom he works.
Click the button below for more from Adam: |
"Therapy can be intimidating, and the fact that you are here says you recognize the need and are brave enough to consider it. It is a journey you will not take alone. Wouldn't it be nice to have someone who can help you make sense of the chaos and lighten the load on your shoulders by teaching you how to face it all? You are the author of your life, and I consider my role as an editor helping you to see and make the necessary changes to make your life work for you as best it can. Things are never set in stone and can always change, sometimes we just need the right momentum, direction and inspiration to do so. I firmly believe that I can help you with that while addressing the very unique person that you are. There is no singular way with which I approach the issues that my clients face. My approach is always supported with evidence of its effectiveness but will vary depending on the specific needs you have. Together, we can revise your story to be the kind you want it to be, join me and write the next page!" |
Caitlin Patterson, MS, LCPC
Caitlin Patterson earned her Master’s of Science in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 2017 and completed her clinical internship at Taking Control. She has a passion for working with children and adolescents, but equally enjoys working with adults, couples, and families. Caitlin has extensive experience working with children in different capacities including being a nanny, coaching children’s sports camps, and working at an early childhood center. She also has experience working with individuals with issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, post-traumatic stress disorder, behavioral issues, and school refusal. Caitlin has also worked with children with Autism as an ABA therapist.
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"I believe that therapy is a place for growth and personal development and I strive to empower individuals to overcome personal obstacles that may be standing in their way. I do this by helping individuals reconnect with their strengths in a safe and nurturing environment in which we work together as a team.” |
Callie Rezin, MSW, LCSW
Callie Rezin earned her Master of Social Work degree from Aurora University in 2017. Callie has prior experience working within the school system and with young adults at risk. She has a passion for working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, family issues, behavioral concerns, self-injury, trauma and individuals who identify as LGBTQ+. Callie often incorporates modalities including cognative behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and mindfulness-based interventions, yet she appreciates getting creative and using eclectic approaches to meet each client where they are in order to tailor the counseling experience for each client.
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“I believe wholeheartedly in the power of human connection, especially during times of suffering. I am here to celebrate diversity and provide a warm atmosphere for growth and change. The unique alliance between client and therapist is something I highly value. I like to work collaboratively with each client to process their current concerns and assess together what strengths can be discovered, or changes that can be made, in order to find the most happiness and success within their daily lives. Genuine attunement, acceptance and humor are promised." |
Tiffany Wu (Heng Chun Wu), MA, LCPC
Tiffany Wu has a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology and specializes in Marriage and Family therapy. She has completed Gottman Method level 1,2, and 3 training. She uses a variety of approaches to help her clients, depending on individual needs. Tiffany is trained to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Therapy and Psychoeducation Therapy. Her experiences include working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce, co-parenting, addictions, grief, mood disorders, among other challenges.
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"As a mental health clinician, my goal is to help my clients |
Heather Anderson, MS, LPC
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Heather Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She graduated from Benedictine University in 2018 with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. Specializing in children and adolescent therapy, Heather has experience working with individuals experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, stress, grief, and trauma. As a Person-Centered therapist utilizing techniques from Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Expressive Therapies such as Art Therapy and Play Therapy. Tailoring the techniques to each individual client, so no experience is ever the same just as no person is the same.
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"Carl Rogers, the father of person-centered therapy, said, ‘When I look at the world I’m pessimistic, but when I look at people I am optimistic.’ |
Michele Dominguez, MA, LPC
Michele Dominguez earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lewis University and has been with Taking Control Counseling since 2018. She is passionate about working with individuals in the LGBT community, Spanish speakers, Adults, and Teens. Michele is bilingual in both English and Spanish. She has experience working with Depression, Anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, Spanish speaking, and LGBT individuals. She often incorporates modalities such as mindfulness-based or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to provide clients with tools to make lasting change. To achieve this, she uses plans and approaches personalized to each client and their unique goals.
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"During times of inner conflict and turmoil, it can be difficult to find the time or a safe place to unravel everything and work out the details. I hope to work together to create a safe place to give your needs and goals the time they deserve. Together we will work towards the future you see for yourself and confront the issues that need to be addressed.” |
Andre Joachim, MS Ed., LPC
Andre Joachim- is a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Illinois. He completed his Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. He has worked with treatment courts for the past few years. His experiences with adults encountering the criminal justice system has included interventions for substance abuse and/or criminal thinking. Andre has worked with youth, outside and inside the criminal justice system, to assist in their development of prosocial life skills, career exploration, goal attainment planning. In addition to his work as a mental health court counselor, life coach, and mentor. Andre has provided counseling services for college students working through issues related to self-esteem, career development concerned, relationship dissatisfaction, self-harming, anxiety, and suicidal ideations.
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"Having Vitiligo, I know personally how hard it is to find strength through life's adversities and establishing self-efficacy and self-acceptance can be a difficult process, but it is not impossible. Throughout life, we all experience transitions that influence our health whether it is physical, emotional, psychological, or spiritual health. I love the intrinsic feeling of assisting someone as they transition to a higher sense of awareness or finding equilibrium for the obstacles, barriers, or problems life throws our way." |
Laura Leddy, MA, LPC
I am bi-lingual and am able to read, write and speak both English and Spanish fluently. I believe that we have the tools to cope with the hardships and challenges that are presented to us, however in the moment it is difficult to go through it alone. Together, I believe, we can bring clarity and learn to manage through those trials.
I received my master’s degree from Lewis University. I completed my internship at Linden Oaks Outpatient Center, facilitating healthy communication between the patient and their family members. I have worked with a variety of mental illnesses primarily focusing on adults and adolescents. I have personally been through many trials and tribulations in my life time and I feel that through these difficult times I have grown as a person both personally and professionally. I know that without a support system or person in place it would have been difficult to overcome and I would like to accompany you in the journey. |
"I believe that we have the tools to cope with the hardships and challenges that are presented to us, however in the moment it is difficult to go through it alone. Together, I believe, we can bring clarity and use new coping skills to manage through those trials.” |
Melissa Simonek, MA, LPC
Melissa Simonek earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lewis University and has been with Taking Control Counseling since May of 2019. She has specialized in working with children and adolescents, but also has experience working with adults, couples, and families. Presenting concerns that Melissa has worked with include ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, anger, life transitions, relationship concerns, and self-esteem concerns. She believes that every client who comes to her is unique. Melissa works to tailor each therapy session to the individual and their needs.
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Jordan Peterson said, “Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today.” This is a great approach to life as so often we forget that the only person we should strive to become is the best version of ourselves. Sometimes we are lost and struggling to see the good within. By coming to therapy, we can work towards finding the best version of ourselves and living happier, healthier lives. |
Mia Williams, MS Ed., LPC
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I earned my Masters of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Illinois University. I have been with Taking Control since 2019. I have experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, anger/resentment, and divorce. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents. My approach to counseling is geared towards the individual needs of the client. As a former Police Officer for 10 years has exposed me to the mental health field and allowed me to develop a great passion for wanting to help individuals find their way in life.
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"Like a roller coaster, life has its ups and downs. Some roads in life may be harder to navigate and it is my job as a counselor to assist you through those bumps in the road. It is important to build a trusting relationship while providing services in a safe and comfortable environment. Confidentially is a high priority, while ensuring empathy, 'judgement free zone,' and positive regard. I will assist with supplying the skills needed to cope with life's challenges. My goal is to ensure your goals are the focal point and to work towards your goals each session. At times, life can be a difficult journey, but you do not have to go at it alone.” |
Eimileanne Delaney, MS, ALMFT
Eimileanne Delaney earned her Master of Science in Applied Human Development and Family Sciences with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. Eimileanne is a sex-positive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and BDSM/Kink-friendly therapist. Eimileanne has experience working with individuals, significant others (monogamous and consensually non-monogamous), and families. She has a certificate in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. She is a certified Prepare and Enrich facilitator. Eimileanne conceptualizes client struggles through an experiential and systemic modality. She highlights the impact of prior family generations and larger systems on the family/client. Eimileanne has experience working with a myriad of issues, such as depression, anxiety, anger, grief, infidelity, family and marital conflict, as well as, aiding children through the grief process.
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" 'Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.' -Warren Buffett |
Andrea Holm, MA, LPC
Andrea Holm earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, specializing in children and adolescents, from Lewis University. Andrea was a Graduate Assistant at Lewis University, assisting with developing Trauma Informed Writing Pedagogies for Instructors, as well as, co-leading a Mindfulness and Meditation Program for College Students. Andrea has been with Taking Control Counseling since 2018, where she fulfilled her internship clinical hour requirement. Andrea’s status has now evolved from intern to staff member upon graduation. Andrea has experience working with individuals with an array of issues including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiance, and grief. Andrea uses mindfulness-based approaches to counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral therapy.
Sylvia Ortiz-Kennedy, MSW
Sylvia attended Aurora University, earned a bachelor’s degree in social work, and a master’s degree in social work specialized in advanced clinical work. In addition, she is a member of the National Association of Social Workers. Experienced working with a diverse community ranging in ages (12+), nationalities, cultures, belief systems, sexual orientation, gender, and various mental health imbalances.
Sylvia is a thriving therapist, experienced in treating the following conditions: Depression, Trauma, Anxiety disorders, Stress, Relationship Conflict, School issues, Motivation, Socials skills, Self-Esteem and Grief Therapy. |
"I want to help my clients by empowering them with hope and positive change. Changing one’s life changes a family, changing a community into a healthy environment where one can thrive and become the best version of oneself." |
Brad Travis, MS, CADC
Brad Travis is a Certified Addictions Counselor with 20 years of experience in the field. He aims to give clients the knowledge and skills to handle the various issues that may become disruptive to their lives. His services include anger management treatment and counseling, substance abuse treatment and counseling, DUI classes, adult and youth mentoring, individual therapy sessions, and group therapy sessions.
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"The good news is that no matter how complicated life gets or how difficult problems may seem, good thinking can make a difference – if you make it a consistent part of your life. The more you engage in good thinking, the more good thoughts will come to you. Success comes to those who habitually do things that unsuccessful people don't do. Achievement comes from the habit of good thinking. The more you engage in good thinking, the more good thoughts you will continue to think. It's like creating a never ending army of ideas capable of achieving almost anything." |
Latoya Walker MS Ed., CCTP
We all go through hard times and may need some direction in order to navigate back toward a fulfilling and happy life. I am passionate about empowering clients and helping them to gain insight into various challenges in their lives. Through our work together the client can begin to identify struggles around anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. My role is to provide a compassionate, collaborative and safe space for clients to explore and overcome these challenges to find satisfaction in life.
I have experience working with a variety of issues including trauma focused, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family conflict as well as providing services to individuals, couples, and families. I am highly passionate about working with individuals, and families of trauma, listening to their unique experiences and moving towards self-love and personal acceptance. |
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” – Maya Angelou |
Jared Elwart, MSW
Jared is a social worker with a diverse array of experience in several settings, including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential programs, and private practice. He received a Bachelor's of Arts in psychology from Northern Illinois University in 2016 and a Master's of Social Work in 2020. He completed a clinical internship at Taking Control Counseling. Jared has worked with all kinds of age groups from young children to adults, with a wide variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, interpersonal difficulties, self-injury, LGBT difficulties, and autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. He works out of a psychodynamic framework that emphasizes relationships and attachments, affect, recurring patterns in people's lives, and past experience.
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"What sets humans apart from animals? I think one of the central features of human life as opposed to animals is our use of language: we don't simply communicate, we speak. And oftentimes we find that speaking doesn't quite capture it all, that there's something left to be said, and many of us suffer as a result. This is the heart of how I practice--language and its effects on our daily lived experience of the world." |
Maria Ciavarella, MSW
Maria Ciavarella is bi-lingual in English and Spanish. She earned her undergrad degree in Psychology from Aurora University. She completed an internship with Communities in Schools and Gateway Foundation while earning her Master’s degree in Social Work in 2019 from Aurora University. She started working at Taking Control in October of 2020 and has experience working dual cultural issues, school issues, bullying, self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, Religious/Christian based (Catholic) issues, immigration issues, and sexual abuse. Maria uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and art as therapy.
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“Always remember that for each patient you see you may be the only person in their life capable of both hearing and holding their pain. If that’s not sacred, I don’t know what is.” Author unknown. |
Donna Pie, BCTMB
I am a Board-Certified Licensed Massage Therapist and Reiki Master Practioner. I offer therapeutic massage and bodywork, which may encompass deep tissue/pressure, myofascial release, stretching, Swedish and geriatric massage. I also utilize essential oils with aromatherapy and raindrop technique.
I help to facilitate your body's innate ability to heal itself. All sessions are by appointment only and for wellness. |
"Massage can improve mental health by calming the mind, improving sleep, relieve tension headaches and stress, increase body awareness and improve immune system function. Massage also increases blood circulation, which enables an increase in dopamine levels while decreasing levels of cortisol. This can mean less stress and anxiety.” |
