Our Therapists

  • Practice Owner & Therapist
    LCPC, NCC, CCTP

    Hi, I’m Nicole! My journey into mental health began in an unconventional way. I was a special education teacher working with students with Social-Emotional Behavioral Disabilities in Title 1 schools. While teaching was my occupation, safety became my first goal and priority. The longer I stayed in this role, the more I began to truly understand the importance of creating safety as a way of healing. Safety is the crux of all growth, development and self-discovery.

    I took this deep understanding of safety with me into the field of mental health. I have had experiences working in residential care for adults with severe mental illnesses, residential care for eating disorders, community mental health, substance use, domestic violence private practice, as well as the foster care system before starting Emerald Mental Health. Through these experiences, I have developed a passion for treating the whole person, not just symptoms or experiences.

    I passionately believe that healing starts from within the body. Without honoring our bodies and nervous systems we cannot truly get to the root of healing. Developing true safety within our bodies allows us to authentically feel and acknowledge the emotions that have been buried, neglected, or avoided; hindering us from discovering our true selves.

    My approach is to create and foster a safe, warm and honest relationship with clients in order to help them  achieve a deep understanding of themselves and their power. I work from a somatic, nervous system, and trauma informed approach to bring the whole person to light.

    As a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), it is my honor to walk with clients through their personal journeys of self-discovery, and to hold space for the depths of the human experience. I specialize in working with clients with Complex Trauma/PTSD, eating disorders, substance use, perfectionism, mood and personality disorders, high achievers, anxiety and depression.

    Let’s walk together and get back to you.

  • Therapist

    Hi, I’m Lauren! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a passionate advocate for mental health care. I’ve always known I wanted to work closely with people — to listen, connect, and support others in meaningful ways. That passion led me to pursue my B.A. in Psychology from McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland. During my senior year, I worked in a residential home providing facilitative care for eight residents, which deepened my desire to walk alongside people in their healing journeys.

    After graduation, I worked as a vocational supportive specialist before taking the leap to Chicago, Illinois, where I earned my M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School. I also hold credentials as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) through the National Board for Certified Counselors.

    As part of my Master’s program, I completed my internship at a 230-bed residential facility in Chicago, providing trauma-focused care to residents managing schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, personality disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, and complex trauma. These experiences continue to shape my passion for providing thoughtful, individualized care that honors each person’s story.

    I specialize in working with adults (20+) who want to get to the root of what’s holding them back — whether that means exploring long-standing patterns, healing past wounds, or navigating life transitions. My approach is person-centered and trauma-focused, drawing from DBT, psychoanalytic, and somatic-based theories. I believe therapy works best when it’s collaborative, consistent, and tailored to you. Together, we’ll create space for reflection, connection, and growth — honoring both your mind and body in the healing process.

    I believe that healing your past can transform your present, and I’m here to help you turn your trauma into a story of strength and meaning. Let’s prioritize your well-being and the life you want to build.