These members of our practice specialize in perinatal mental health:

Cathy Araos, MA.Ed., LPC – McHenry and Lake Zurich offices

I’ve had the honor of working closely with diverse groups of children, adolescents, and their families. My clients span a wide spectrum, including children as well as expectant and new mothers. My expertise extends to aiding individuals facing a variety of obstacles, such as depression, anxiety, academic hurdles, social and emotional difficulties, and refining cognitive abilities within educational settings. Understanding the distinctiveness of each person, I emphasize the need for personalized approaches in therapy rather than relying on a standardized method. I’m genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to join you on this journey of transformation.

When working with expectant mothers, perinatal therapy provides vital support to women during the demanding stages of pregnancy and postpartum, addressing concerns like anxiety, depression, and the adjustment to motherhood. This support ultimately fosters healthier family dynamics and improves maternal mental health.

Education/Certifications

• Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois
• MA, School Counseling, Concordia University, Chicago, IL
• MA, Special Education & English as a Second Language, National Louis University
• BS, Secondary Education, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
• Professional Educators License
• Certified Youth Mental Health Specialist

Jennifer Flanagan, MA, LCPC – Grayslake Office

I see it as a privilege to walk with others through the challenges and transitions that life brings. While life isn’t easy, I believe there is hope to be found through connection and support. In my own life, I have found this to be true. I continue to be in awe of the courage and truth found in the counseling relationships built, and I am passionate about joining others on their journey of healing and growth.

I work with adults and older teens. I have a special place in my heart for those going through life transitions: young adults launching into new seasons of life, women experiencing challenges changing/adding roles, and anyone aware of needing support to make life changes.

My approach begins with listening, joining my clients in the process of learning, growing, and healing. Many times we stumble over our self-defeating ways, ignoring our defenses and bad habits. But with a look at the ways we think, believe and act, we can find a new sense of hope and purpose.

My counseling approach uses evidenced based practices while also engaging with grace, compassion and enthusiasm. I believe in being present with each person, giving attention and value to them, listening with patience, and understanding their context of struggles and stage of life. As clients receive encouragement and become aware of their strengths, they are able to overcome obstacles and begin to think, feel and act in ways that are more conducive to peace and purposeful living.

Education/Certifications

• Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois
• Perinatal Mental Health trained by Postpartum Support International
• Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling, Trinity International University
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Trinity International University

Joshua Flanagan, MA, LPC – Vernon Hills and Grayslake Offices

Thanks to my clinical experience working in intensive outpatient therapy settings, I have enhanced my ability to connect with and understand the diversity of experiences of those who seek therapy.

I continue to work with individuals struggling with addiction in their lives and am a strong advocate for the recovery community (12-Step, CR, Dharma, SMART Recovery, etc.). I also work with teens (11+), college students, young adults, and those affected by perinatal issues, including fathers who are impacted as well.

Education/Certifications

• Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois
• MA in Mental Health Counseling from Trinity International University
• BA in Counseling Psychology from Trinity International University
• Florida telehealth certified
• Perinatal Mental Health Trained by Postpartum Support International

Cris Goodfellow, MA, LPC – Grayslake Office

I work with high school teens and adults of all ages, individually or as couples, families, or groups.

Education/Certifications

• Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois
• MA in Mental Health Counseling, Trinity International University (May 2024)
• Bachelor of Social Work, Aurora University

Lisa LaBute, MS, LCPC – Teletherapy only

I enjoy working with adolescents ages 16 and older, as well as adults of all ages. I have experience in private practice as well as community mental health settings. I have a strong clinical background and I’m confident and comfortable addressing a variety of issues including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, perinatal/postpartum mental health and the transition to parenthood, sexual abuse issues, eating disorders, addictions, trauma recovery, couples and individuals going through divorce, unexpected life transitions, etc.

Emotional wellness is something we each strive for. I look forward to taking this wellness journey with each of my clients, knowing that the first steps can sometimes feel challenging. It’s my privilege to accompany you as you choose to move forward in your life.

Education/Certifications

• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois
• Saint Francis College – Master of Science – Mental Health Counseling
• Brigham Young University – Bachelor of Science – Psychology
• Perinatal Mental Health trained – Postpartum Support International
• NCC – National Certified Counselor

Caitie McCormack, MA, LPC – Grayslake Office

I mainly operate out of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), facilitating deep emotional experiences, which studies show predict more positive outcomes in therapy. To complement this, I sample techniques from several different theories based on the client’s unique personality, needs, and goals. We may uncover unhelpful thought patterns through Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy or process things unresolved through Gestalt simulations. We may learn how to better connect with our bodies through mindfulness practices or go on a journey through a guided visualization to heal the inner child inside us—to name a few examples.

I firmly believe that “comfort is the enemy to progress,” and clients will be challenged at a pace with which they feel safe.

Education/Certifications

• Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois
• Licensed Professional Counselor -IT in the State of Wisconsin
• MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Concordia University
• Bachelors Degree, Olivet Nazarene University

Emily Nelson, MSW, LCSW – Lake Zurich – Downtown | Lake Zurich – Willow Ponds

As a therapist, I deeply value connection, collaboration, and creating a space where clients feel safe, seen, and genuinely supported. My approach is warm and down-to-earth, grounded in evidence-based practices and guided by a strong belief in the power of therapeutic relationship.

I meet clients where they are—honoring their unique experiences, identities, and challenges—and walk alongside them as we work together toward healing. Therapy with me is a true team effort. We’ll set goals together, explore barriers with curiosity and compassion, and take practical, empowering steps toward meaningful and lasting change.

I work with children, teens, adults, and couples navigating a wide range of life challenges. Everyone’s experience is unique, and I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel understood, respected, and empowered to grow.

Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, grief and loss, or major life transitions. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of pregnancy and postpartum, struggling in a relationship, or facing another life stressor, I’m here to help you process your emotions and discover practical tools that fit your life.

I have a special focus on supporting first responders and caregivers—those who carry significant emotional weight in service to others. I understand the unique stress of these roles and offer a space to decompress, heal, build resilience, and restore balance.

When working with couples, I emphasize collaboration and communication, helping partners reconnect, resolve conflict, and strengthen their relationship. With children and teens, I create a warm, engaging environment to help them explore their feelings, develop healthy coping strategies, and involve families in the healing process when helpful.

My approach is collaborative and rooted in evidence-based practices. Together, we’ll set clear goals, work through challenges with compassion, and move toward meaningful recovery and lasting change.

If you’re ready for support on your journey, I’m here to walk alongside you.

Specialty Treatment Areas

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief and loss
• Military and veterans
• Caregiver stress
• Perinatal and postpartum mental health
• First responders
• Fertility/pregnancy loss
• Domestic violence
• Life transitions
• Parenting
• Social skills
• Family therapy

I believe therapy is most effective when it’s tailored to each person’s unique journey. I draw from a range of approaches—including humanistic, strengths-based, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family systems, and coaching techniques—to meet you where you are.

My goal is to create a compassionate and collaborative space where your strengths and values guide our work together. By blending these modalities, I help you uncover practical tools and meaningful insights that are relevant to your life and aligned with your goals.

Together, we’ll build a path toward growth, healing, and lasting change.

Education/Certifications

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois
• Masters Degree in Social Work, military concentration, from Dominican University
• Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice from Governors State University

Lara O’Malley, MS, LPC – Lake Zurich – Downtown | Lake Zurich – Willow Ponds

Counseling is about creating a life that feels more aligned with who you truly are and what you want for yourself, your family, or your career. My passion lies in creating a non-judgmental atmosphere where clients can problem-solve, grow, and heal.

I work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing a variety of issues, including substance abuse, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation.

• Specialty Treatment Areas
• Substance Abuse
• Life Transitions
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Couples Counseling
• Parenting
• Emotional regulation
• Self-image and identity
• Perinatal issues

Theoretical Approach

• Person-Centered Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Strengths-Based Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Education/Certifications

Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from National Louis University

Michelle Schaefer, MA, LCPC, PMH-C – Grayslake Office

Michelle Schaefer joined us on The BirthGuide Podcast to talk about “Aligning with your partner on decisions around pregnancy and childbirth” – Listen here

I am passionate about walking with others through the challenges that life can hold. In my own life journey I have discovered the value and importance of secure relationships in the healing process. Fear, shame, or wounds frequently become life-dominating issues that are difficult to process alone. I love to create an environment in the counseling relationship that is marked by high levels of trust, grace, and acceptance that I refer to as “hospitality of the heart.” It is my sacred honor and privilege to share an experience with clients through the counseling relationship where they heal, learn, explore, and grow, experiencing new levels of peace and freedom.

I work with adults, couples, teens, families and groups. I have a special heart for working with women through life transitions and other issues unique to women’s reproductive events such as infertility, pregnancy loss, abortion grief/shame, peripartum and perimenopausal mood disorders, and adjustment to parenting and maternal/infant bonding. To support this specialization I have an advanced certification in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) through Postpartum Support International. Additionally, I have training in the application of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy with perinatal trauma. Through my previous work and life experiences I also know that parenting can be tough at times and I love to support individuals and couples on the journey of parenting. Fathers/birthing-partners are often overlooked in care settings which I believe is a flaw in the support of families during this transition. I aim to have a partner-inclusive practice in my treatment philosophy for the perinatal population, because I believe it is the best model for the flourishing of babies, mothers, fathers, and the couple’s relationship.

I’m passionate about working with couples to create healthier and more secure marital relationships, both emotionally and physically. My approach with couples is to work to understand the perspective of each partner, creating a strong therapeutic alliance with both, and then to assist couples with exploring, understanding, and changing relational patterns through increased empathy, vulnerability, and trust.

My theoretical approach is tailored to the individual needs of my clients but is firmly grounded on the foundation of a secure client-therapist alliance. Once a strong therapeutic relationship is established, interventions are selected based on current empirically supported treatment options and the unique needs of the individual client(s). When working with couples or families, my primary treatment approach is Emotionally Focused Therapy. Faith-based counseling is an additional layer that I provide for clients that desire this as a part of their counseling experience.

Education/Certification:

• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois (LCPC)
• Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Wisconsin
• Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C)
• EMDR trained
• Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy Level 1 Certificate
• Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples and Families advanced training
• MA in Mental Health Counseling from Trinity International University
• MA in Secondary Mathematics Education from DePaul University

Zoe Yohe, M.Ed., LCPC – Zurich – Willow Ponds

I believe therapy is a space where people can slow down, reflect, grow, and I feel honored to be part of that process. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in empathy. I tailor sessions to each client’s unique needs, drawing from evidence-based practices such as CBT, mindfulness, and play-based strategies when working with children.

Whether someone is navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck, I meet them where they are and walk alongside them with compassion and respect. I value honesty, curiosity, and a sense of humor—and I believe healing happens not only through insight, but also through connection.

I work with children, teens, and adults of all ages who are navigating a wide range of emotional and life challenges. This includes anxiety, OCD, emotion regulation difficulties, personality patterns, identity exploration, self-esteem and body image concerns, or life transitions.

My practice is inclusive and affirming of all identities, and I welcome clients from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where people feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful change.

Specialty Treatment Areas

• Anxiety
• OCD
• Life Transitions
• Personality Disorders
• Identity/Self-Esteem/Body Image
• Emotional Regulation
• Interpersonal Concerns
• LGBTQIA+ Affirming
• Depression
• Mood Disorders
• Adolescent Concerns
• Trauma Recovery
• ADHD

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to the needs of each person. I draw from evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based approaches. These frameworks help to support clients in understanding patterns, regulating emotions, and making meaningful, values-driven changes in their lives.

When working with children, I incorporate developmentally appropriate, play-based techniques to help them express emotions, build coping skills, and strengthen emotional regulation. With teens and adults, I focus on creating a space that balances skill-building and insight, while honoring each person’s goals, identity, and lived experience.

Above all, I believe effective therapy is rooted in trust, curiosity, and connection. I strive to meet each client where they are—with warmth, flexibility, and respect for their unique journey.

Education/Certifications

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois
Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Alabama
M.Ed., in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, from Northern Illinois University
B.S. in Psychology, from Northern Illinois University
National Certified Counselor (NCC)
Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC)
Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP)
Certified Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP)