Mindful Behavior takes an innovative approach when it comes to the community it serves.

We know it can be difficult to find a counselor that takes your insurance but also even more difficult to find a counselor you can personally connect with. 

Here at MB we do our best to contract various counselors around the Chicagoland area that can fit both of those needs. We also connect with other practices for a large range of referral sources. We work closely with the Chicago Police Department, DCFS, our Alderman and other State representatives to try to meet the community's needs.

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Meet the Team

  • Elisa has worked with many individuals, couples and families over 7 years addressing schemas and family functionality. She has trained under the supervision of various Psychologists and Psychiatrists which has helped her pay close attention to how the brain processes information and how to retrain the brain to make beneficial changes. She is CBT and DBT trained and has various certifications on trauma and mood disorders. She helps clients identify emotions and symptoms that affect their daily functioning. She enjoys structuring her sessions but is also very empathetic and person-centered. Elisa's goal is to help clients rewire the way they view relationships and commit to a healthy change. On her time off, Elisa enjoys time with her 9 children and grandbabies. She loves hiking, camping, and fishing but also a good football game and boxing. Elaine Habla Espanol.

  • I approach therapy with a mindset of exploration and action. So many of us endure life’s turbulence through poor reactions and judgments that come from a place of fear, pain, and worry. I see my role as a therapist to help accompany my clients on their journey through turbulence. Through the feelings of inadequacy, frustration, pride and bring about change with awareness. This awareness is key to change and initiates a call to action whereby the person can find serenity in their lives. This is not an easy journey, and it helps to have someone neutral on your side. 

    I have served various kinds of people including people suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, suicide, and psychosis. I am a LGBTQIA+ ally and have helped with many kinds of family and relationship issues. I have also worked with adolescents and adults from a variety of cultural backgrounds. 

    I practice from a humanistic philosophy and believe awareness and acceptance are the biggest steps towards change. Once the first step has been taken, then action must occur for change to really stick. I implement a Person-Centered Gestalt guideline with Behavioral and Solution Focus techniques to foster greater change towards goals. Therapy is not an easy road, but you reading this shows all the strength needed for better change. If you’re ready please call me, I’m here.

  • Desiree is responsible for financial planning and analyzing the company's financial strengths and weaknesses and proposing strategic directions. She directs and oversees the financial activities of the corporation, directs the preparation of current financial reports and summaries, and creates forecasts predicting future growth. Desiree is responsible for ensuring clients are fully aware of their financial responsibilities and update staff on any issues with insurances. Desiree loves to create music and spend time with her baby. She is loving and caring and enjoys nice long drives down LSD.

  • I have been in the medical field since 2010 and have my certification as a Medical Assistant. My strengths include a strong work ethic and attention to detail. As the office manager, I ensure everyone’s needs are met and verify that we function smoothly as a practice. I enjoy being friendly to both staff and clients by creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I enjoy spending time with my family and having a good time.

  • I have experience in maintaining the daily operations of the office. I assist, coordinate with clients and therapists and address any issues that may arise in the office. I work closely with Elaine in working with other clinics and hospitals to ensure we meet clinical expectations.

  • At Mindful Behavior, Catlyn plays a key role in ensuring smooth and efficient billing operations. She manages all session billing to insurance companies and works diligently behind the scenes to ensure that provider information is accurate and up-to-date with each insurer. Catlyn also takes the lead in credentialing our team with new insurance networks, helping expand access so we can welcome and support more clients. Her attention to detail and commitment to quality care ensures that both our clients and providers experience a seamless process from intake to reimbursement.

  • I am the Secretary for Mindful Behavior, where I provide comprehensive support to therapists and clients. My responsibilities include managing calls, emails, and faxes, as well as gathering essential information to schedule client intakes efficiently. I handle insurance verifications to provide clients with accurate estimates of their financial responsibilities and strive to answer their questions while ensuring they receive the assistance they need.

    Additionally, I coordinate communication by responding to emails and notifying clients about any outstanding requirements. I take pride in helping individuals access the care they need, as I believe everyone deserves support to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. It brings me joy to contribute to others’ success and well-being, fostering a positive impact on their lives.

    • Greet clients promptly and courteously, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

    • Answer and manage incoming phone calls, addressing inquiries or directing calls appropriately.

    • Schedule, confirm, and reschedule client appointments, ensuring efficient use of therapists’ time.

    • Maintain and update confidential client records in compliance with privacy regulations.

  • Supports the clinic manager in overseeing daily operations to ensure efficient patient care and smooth administrative processes. Responsibilities often include managing staff schedules, coordinating patient appointments, maintaining inventory of medical supplies, handling billing and insurance documentation.

  • I believe everyone deserves access to mental healthcare and I am passionate about providing quality care to all of my patients. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have over eleven years of nursing experience. I started my nursing career as a licensed practical nurse and worked my way up to an advanced practice nurse. I received my bachelor of science from Purdue University and Masters degree from the University of St Francis. I have worked in a variety of healthcare settings including inpatient psychiatry, long term care, ICU, telemetry, cardiac catheterization and radiology. My versatile nursing background allows me to care for individuals with comorbid psychiatric and medical conditions. I have worked with several vulnerable populations throughout my nursing career including the homeless, LGBTQ+, minorities, and the elderly. I am passionate about providing evidence-based individualized care to my clients. I strive to provide a non-judgemental positive experience and communicate effectively with my clients. I address client’s needs by developing  collaborative and comprehensive treatment plans that fit their needs. Yo hablo español y estoy aquí para servirle. 

  • I have been a therapist for more than 10 years working with families and couples. I got much of my clinical experience with individuals working at inpatient hospitals. I have experience dealing with the most vulnerable populations that have the least support. I pride myself in ensuring that client’s basic needs are met first before working through the difficult path ahead. I utilize a gentle CBT approach but make sure that clients are the one in charge of the change for their life. I utilize ACT approach, integrate Gottman techniques to give couples the tools they need to rebuild a successful relationship and CBT techniques to help any population be aware of the choices they make and how it affects them. Estoy aqui para ayudarles en procesar dificultades de la vida. Tengo mas de 10 años en practica como consejero.

  • I have been a therapist for more than 10 years working with families and couples. I got much of my clinical experience with individuals working at inpatient hospitals. I have experience dealing with the most vulnerable populations that have the least support. I pride myself in ensuring that client’s basic needs are met first before working through the difficult path ahead. I utilize a gentle CBT approach but make sure that clients are the one in charge of the change for their life. I utilize ACT approach, integrate Gottman techniques to give couples the tools they need to rebuild a successful relationship and CBT techniques to help any population be aware of the choices they make and how it affects them. Estoy aqui para ayudarles en procesar dificultades de la vida. Tengo mas de 10 años en practica como consejero.


  • I have over 15 years of experince in the field. I have worked for community centers helping the Latino community feel heard and understood when society invalidates their journey. Life has many challenges and I want to be able to assist my clients navigate through this. I utilize CBT and family systems approaches and ensure all aspects of our life are address as a collective. I supervise interns and staff and help mold them to be an efficient therapist. Hablo Espanol.

  • As a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish) and committed advocate for LGBTQIA+ and other historically marginalized communities, I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan—from children to older adults—who are navigating complex emotional, relational, and identity-based challenges. My therapy is rooted in creating a safe, affirming space where clients can explore who they are, how they relate to others, and how past experiences may still be shaping their present.

    I specialize in supporting clients through life transitions, family conflict, cultural identity exploration, trauma, and the emotional impact of societal stigma. Many of the people I work with are questioning or redefining their sense of self, seeking clarity in their relationships, or healing from past wounds that have affected their self-worth and sense of belonging.

    Whether you are navigating the challenges of adolescence, stepping into adulthood, rebuilding after a loss, or learning how to accept yourself more fully, therapy is a space where your truth is not only welcomed but honored. I welcome queer, trans, nonbinary, and questioning individuals, as well as allies, and those in blended or chosen families.

    My approach integrates structured tools from evidence-based practices with a warm, collaborative, and person-centered style. I believe in empowering clients with insight and skills while holding space for deep emotional exploration and growth. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful change that aligns with your values and strengthens your relationships—with yourself and others.

  • I have many years of experience working with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures and belief systems. I have worked with adults who have Severe and Persistent Mental Illness such as Schizophrenia, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar I, as well as co-occurring substance use disorders. Tina has experience in the areas of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, PTSD, dissociative disorders, trauma, spirituality, life transitions, and relational problems.

  • Hello there! I have a strong desire and passion for helping others and being someone that can provide a safe space for people to share their experiences. I want to make sure all my clients feel seen and heard. I recognize therapy can be intimidating. As such, It is my goal to facilitate an environment that is judgement-free for my clients to feel safe disclosing whatever it is that is impacting them. All at a pace that is comfortable for them. I seek to ensure that each client’s therapeutic journey is collaborative in nature between myself and them,  and that the sessions are uniquely tailored towards them. My current approach to therapy is scientifically based, utilizing primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but also includes elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Theory, among others, depending on the special needs of each client. My counseling is done through a multicultural lens, again highlighting the uniqueness of each client. I want to destigmatize therapy and make it something clients can look forward to.  I cherish the opportunity to be able to help my clients explore themselves further and grow.

  • As a counselor at Mindful Behavior, I bring my authentic self to each session to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can safely express your innermost thoughts and real-life challenges. Together, we’ll explore the systems and outside influences that have shaped you and gain insight into how they impact your sense of self. My goal is to support your self-reflection and empower you to take meaningful steps toward your goals in therapy. I draw from evidence-based approaches, including psychoeducation, person-centered therapy, mindfulness, self-compassion, trauma-informed care, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. Above all, I believe in meeting you where you are and honoring your choices as we collaborate on a treatment plan that supports your mental health. I am a Licensed Social Worker. I recently earned my Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) through a comprehensive, accredited program. I also have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my MSW with a concentration in Health and Well-Being, has equipped me with a strong foundation to serve effectively as a mental health professional.

  • I am a proud graduate of Northeastern Illinois University, where I earned my Master of Social Work degree in 2024. My journey in advocacy began during my undergraduate years, focusing on combating housing gentrification in Chicago. Following that, I gained valuable experience as a drug counselor at the Counseling Center of Illinois, a private practice.


    As a neurodivergent counselor, I understand the challenges of navigating a neurotypical world. I aim to create a safe, judgment-free space where clients can express themselves openly and work through life’s challenges. I specialize in helping clients manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health conditions while empowering them to center their experiences and find balance.


    My approach to therapy is rooted in evidence-based practices, including CBT-based techniques, trauma-informed care, person-centered and solution-focused techniques, mindfulness, empowerment strategies, and holistic methods. Collaboration is at the heart of my work—I partner with clients to co-create personalized solutions that align with their unique circumstances, goals, and needs. Together, we can navigate the path toward healing, growth, and resilience.


  • I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in which I received my Master’s degree from UIC. I was a case manager with a background in school operations and career coaching. I also have 7+ years of experience as a resource specialist and social service professional, specializing in case management and supportive services. The importance of providing culturally competent therapy is valuable to me, which has helped me develop a passion for tailoring therapeutic approaches to address the societal issues affecting the Latino community. I look forward to working with individuals ready to make changes in their lifestyle and commit to reaching life goals. I utilize CBT and other evidence based practices as well as mindfulness practices for optimal progress. 

    In my spare time, I enjoy a wonderful motorcycle ride while watching the sunset. I like having fun with my friends and family and enjoying life to the fullest. Please don’t hesitate to ask me questions if you feel nervous about the therapy process.

  • Hafsa has been in the social work field for over 12 years. She works with populations from 13 years of age to adulthood. She addresses symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar, and many interpersonal conflicts. She is informed in family stability and awareness and thrives to connect clients with the skills they need to succeed. She is fluent in Urdu/Hindi.

    हफ्सा 12 वर्षों से अधिक समय से सामाजिक कार्य क्षेत्र में हैं। वह 13 वर्ष की आयु से लेकर वयस्क होने तक की आबादी के साथ काम करती है। वह चिंता, अवसाद, द्विध्रुवी और कई पारस्परिक संघर्षों के लक्षणों को संबोधित करती है। उसे पारिवारिक स्थिरता और जागरूकता की जानकारी है और वह ग्राहकों को सफल होने के लिए आवश्यक कौशल से जोड़ने का प्रयास करती है।

    حفصہ 12 سال سے سماجی کام کے میدان میں ہیں۔ وہ 13 سال کی عمر سے بالغ ہونے تک آبادی کے ساتھ کام کرتی ہے۔ وہ بے چینی، ڈپریشن، دوئبرووی، اور بہت سے باہمی تنازعات کی علامات کو دور کرتی ہے۔ وہ خاندانی استحکام اور بیداری میں مطلع ہے اور کلائنٹس کو ان مہارتوں سے جوڑنے کے لیے پروان چڑھتی ہے جس کی انہیں کامیابی کے لیے ضرورت ہے۔

  • Melanie joined Mindful Behavior as an intern and has recently join our team. She enjoys working from a CBT lens but also utilizes more of an integrative approach. She works with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, grief/loss, and trauma.  Melanie aims to build a therapeutic alliance with clients and work together to achieve the client’s goals. Some areas of focus have been navigating peer/familial relationships, managing symptoms, coping skills/strategies, building confidence, overcoming daily challenges and stress. As a Latina member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Melanie is interested in multicultural identities and how they intersect. It is important for her to build and provide a safe and supportive space for clients.

     

    She also works at a high school that predominantly consists of Black and Latinx students. She works in the classroom, is an advisor, and coaches rugby. Melanie loves music, animals, sports (rugby, football, and basketball) and spending time with her wife.

  • Erica’s professional goal is surrounded by her first-hand experience with oppression and marginalization as a born immigrant herself. She wants to help her clients, by being able to understand and empathize with them. It is important for her to create a safe space where her clients can process, heal, and reach for their goals.

    Erica’s approach is client centered, and she is very compassionate about her clinical role. She empowers clients by strengthening their social and behavioral skills and developing a healthy support system.  Erica uses various approaches such as CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing with clients that are facing challenges with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self-esteem and suicidal ideations.

    Erica is a bilingual Spanish speaking therapist. She achieved her Master’s in social work from Dominican University, with a concentration in Health and Well-Being.

    Erica has a wide range of experience with adolescents from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds who are facing challenges while transitioning into adulthood. 

  • Clinton has over six years of experience in the mental health field, with a specialization in fostering safe, supportive environments for comprehensive clinical assessments. His approach emphasizes helping clients identify and address conflicts impacting their mental well-being, allowing for tailored, evidence-based treatment plans. Clinton's professional background includes work in inpatient psychiatric settings, as well as extensive experience with underserved youth populations, where he has demonstrated a strong commitment to meeting the unique needs of these groups.

  • We have all at one point in our lives felt confused, isolated, or even stuck in old patterns that no longer serve us. Often at times we can experience difficulties in our personal, or professional relationships. We often find ourselves dealing with stress, or just looking for a supportive environment to help figure out how to approach certain situations differently. Together we will identify these patterns that get you stuck and together discover new options and ways to try something different.
    I strive to create a safe space to express yourself without fear of judgment or societal pressure. I provide a culturally sensitive, emotionally compassion-focused and collaborative treatment approach. I believe that you know yourself best and my role is to offer support and insight into your experiences by helping you gain a new perspective. I am a sex-positive, LGBTQ+ ally, and as a queer person myself, I know what it is like to navigate a world filled with cis-heteronormative expectations. I approach everyone with genuine curiosity, acceptance, and respect. I look forward to our work together.
     
    I hold a Master’s Degree in Couple and Family Therapy degree and a Sex Therapy Certificate from Adler University. I believe that each situation is unique and that we all have inherent strengths and skills to navigate any difficulties we may experience.

  • My work centers on grounding oneself and accepting truths that push growth. I am interested in fostering a client’s ability to take responsibility for their actions, be mindful, and respond to their triggers more appropriately and healthily than before. As we work together, we will walk down a path of accepting the here and now, learning gratitude for the small pleasures, and becoming aware of one’s choices. 

    I have lived in the Chicagoland area for 35 years and as a first-generation Latina, I can provide services in Spanish and understand the nuance of culture, familial struggle, and identity. I have over 10 years of experience in healthcare and I have experience as a social service director, which focused my skills on assessing needs, family reintegration into the community after illness or injury, and medically complex cases. I have also worked with domestic violence cases, shared custody, and advocacy for those experiencing homelessness.

    During our sessions, you can expect a judgment-free, empathetic space to share your thoughts. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy-based (CBT) techniques, mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment therapy-based (ACT) interventions. 


    Let’s work together to create the change you seek.

    Trabajemos juntos para crear el cambio que deseas. 


    I’m looking forward to meeting with you!


  • Kailey Sims, MA

    Mental Health Counselor

    I am a Clinical Mental Health Intern currently pursuing my Master's degree at Governors State University. While I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, I recognize that each client is unique, and their needs may change from session to session. I am dedicated to being an active listener and creating a safe, supportive space for clients to express themselves freely. My approach is primarily person-centered, but I integrate a variety of therapeutic tools to tailor the experience to each client's individual needs.

  • Shalisha McDaniel

    Clinical intern

    I am a Clinical Mental Health Counseling intern at Mindful Behavior and a master’s student at National Louis University. My work is guided by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and person-centered counseling. In session, I focus on careful listening, collaboration, and practical skills such as identifying unhelpful thought patterns, practicing new behaviors, and building coping strategies you can use day to day. I seek to create a calm, respectful space where you feel heard, supported, and able to speak freely. I tailor counseling to your goals and values, and I check in regularly to make sure our work stays aligned with what matters most to you.

  • Angela Acosta Jones, MS, CADC, CODPII

    Mental Health Counselor

    I believe therapy should feel like a genuine conversation; safe, supportive, and centered on you. My goal is to create a space where you can feel heard without judgment and begin to untangle the experiences weighing you down. Whether your coping with everyday life issues, past trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, or substance use, we’ll work together to help you reconnect with your strengths, build resilience, and move forward with confidence.

  • Danielle Morales

    Clinical Intern

    I am a Clinical Mental Health Counseling intern at Mindful Behavior, as well as a graduate student at Concordia University Chicago.

    I believe that access to mental health care is a basic human right and that most personal as well as systemic issues can be improved through therapy. 
    I believe strongly in the impact of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and feel that by addressing internal limiting beliefs, a client can learn to lead a fully actualized life. Depending on the need, sometimes a short-term solution is appropriate, but others may require a longer and more thorough stretch in therapy in order to reach their goals.
    From trauma to domestic violence to substance abuse issues, mental health is a public health issue that impacts us all, and I believe that working with an effective therapist can and will change your life.

  • Reka Vrana

    Intake Specialist Intern

    I am an undergraduate psychology student at National Louis University. I support clients during their first step into services by conducting initial screenings, gathering information, and helping them connect with the care that best fits their needs. I’m deeply committed to making mental health care more accessible and approachable. I strive to ensure that each person’s first interaction with services is calm, supportive, and empowering, helping to reduce anxiety and build trust as they begin their care journey. Originally from Hungary, I bring a culturally sensitive perspective to my work and understand how challenging life transitions, stress, or feeling alone can be. My goal is to create a calm, welcoming space where you feel comfortable sharing openly and asking questions. I believe the first contact with mental health care should feel supportive, respectful, and reassuring.

  • Luis Andrade

    Case Manager Supervisor

    I oversee client services that provide counseling, therapeutic support, and community-based resources, including court-mandated cases. I work closely with high-risk youth and families, coordinating with probation officers and community partners to ensure clients receive the guidance and tools they need to succeed. My role includes connecting individuals to essential services, removing barriers to stability, and offering hands-on support to promote positive outcomes. I am committed to empowering young people to build productive, healthy futures through consistent advocacy and mentorship.

  • Guillermo Nino, BSW

    Outreach Supervisor

    I am a dedicated outreach professional and community advocate focused on violence prevention, mentorship, and connecting individuals to critical resources. Using my lived experience, I build trust with youth and justice-involved individuals to help guide them toward positive change. My goal is to uplift the community and create safer, stronger neighborhoods. I actively collaborate with community organizations and partners to expand opportunities and support systems. I remain committed to being a consistent, reliable presence for those who need guidance and support.

  • Latisha Marshall, MSW

    Social Worker

    With over 15 years in healthcare and mental health, my experience underscores my commitment to individual and community support. My background has highlighted the deep link between mental and physical health and the complexities of accessing care.

    After completing my master's in social work, I became a mental health therapist, focused on creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. My public health and social work background enables a holistic perspective, considering individual, environmental, and experiential factors.

    I am dedicated to integrating principles with clinical practice for culturally responsive and holistic care. My approach is founded on meeting people where they are, building genuine connections, and equipping clients with the necessary tools to move forward in life with confidence.

  • Will Raphaelson, BSW

    Social Work Intern

    I’m a social work intern at Mindful Behavior, currently completing my master's in social work at Loyola University Chicago. I strongly believe in the value of therapy in helping people introspect, process, and live the lives they want to live. I am a person-centered therapist, holding my clients as experts in their environment, problems, and strengths.

    I draw on an eclectic mix of theories and therapeutic approaches, including relational, psychoanalytic, Internal Family Systems, critical, and behavioral schools of thought. Ultimately, therapy is a process built on an authentic, collaborative working relationship, and I’m excited to partner with you toward your mental health goals.

We can help.

Individual Services

Includes various approaches such as walking-talk therapy, on-site therapy, custom self-care plan, check-ins, and more.

Couples Therapy

We assign a counselor to the couples so they can learn how their behaviors affect one another and then create a plan.

Family Counseling

There are times that we need to address issues as a family because if someone in our family is affected, everyone feels the stressor.

Learn More About Our Services