Our Providers
Our compassionate, qualified providers work hard to understand, treat, and support our patients using therapeutic techniques specialized for individual needs. Click image for specific provider information, or scroll down to learn more.
Psychiatrists
Flavio A. Arana, M.D.
Flavio A. Arana, M.D. is a founding and managing partner of Meridian Psychiatric Partners, LLC. He completed his General Psychiatry residency at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Arana is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats depressive, bipolar and anxiety disorders. His area of specialization is perinatal psychiatry - the care of women before, during and after pregnancy. Dr. Arana has worked extensively with women facing fertility challenges and collaborates regularly with colleagues in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI). Dr. Arana sees patients in the Chicago and Evanston offices.
Shane Burke, M.D.
Shane Burke, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He completed his general psychiatry residency at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Peoria and then completed his child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. Additionally, he completed a forensic psychiatry fellowship at Northwestern University. His clinical interests include mood and anxiety disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, PTSD, and student mental health. He is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations, and ongoing medication management of children, adolescents, and young adults. He sees patients at the downtown Chicago and Evanston locations.
Deborah Cano, M.D.
Deborah Cano, M.D. is board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry. She completed her General Psychiatry residency at St. Vincent's Hospital in New York City, and then completed her Addiction Psychiatry fellowship at New York University. Her clinical interests include depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders. Dr. Cano is available for initial psychiatric evaluations, second opinion consultations, and ongoing medication management for adults. She sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Melissa Chappell, M.D.
Melissa M. Chappell, M.D. is a double board-certified Psychiatrist and Internist who earned her medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. She completed her combined residency in Internal Medicine and Psychiatry at Rush University Medical Center. Dr. Chappell's clinical interests include psychiatric care of adult patients with co-morbid chronic medical (ex: asthma, diabetes, hypertension,etc.) and psychiatric conditions; premenstrual and perimenopausal mood and/or anxiety exacerbation; preventive care of metabolic complications of psychotropic medications; depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and adjustment disorders. She is available for initial diagnostic evaluations, second opinion consultations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy. Dr. Chappell sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Neha Chatrath, M.D.
Neha Chatrath, M.D. is a board-eligible psychiatrist who completed her general psychiatry residency and women’s mental health fellowship at the University of Illinois Chicago. She specializes in the management of psychiatric disorders during preconception, pregnancy and postpartum. Dr. Chatrath’s clinical interests also include depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders and student mental health. She is available for initial evaluations, perinatal consultations and ongoing medication management for adults. Dr. Chatrath sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Aparna Chatterjee M.D.
Aparna Chatterjee, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist and medical director of Meridian's Reproductive Psychiatry & Wellness Division. She completed her general psychiatry residency and women's mental health fellowship at Northwestern University. Her primary clinical interests include managing depression, anxiety and OCD in women during preconception, pregnancy and postpartum. She is very passionate about supporting women during their peripartum journey. Dr. Chatterjee is available for initial evaluations, perinatal consultations, and psychopharmacology management. She sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Connie Choi, M.D.
Connie Choi, M.D. is a board-certified general psychiatrist who completed her training at the University of California, San Francisco's Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute. Dr. Choi has expertise in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD and grief. She has a special interest in treating women in the postpartum and peripartum periods. Dr. Choi is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations, psychopharmacology management and psychotherapy. She sees patients at the Evanston location only.
Traci D’Almeida, M.D.
Traci D’Almeida, M.D. is board certified in General Adult Psychiatry. She completed her residency training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. and a fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania. Her previous experience includes working as faculty at the University of Pittsburgh in both the Psychiatry and Transplant Departments and more recently at Northwestern University where she worked initially on the inpatient unit and later in collaboration with medical teams managing psychiatric care in the medically complex. She has also worked in the outpatient setting and her interests include perimenopausal symptom management as well as women’s health during the course of a lifetime, management of psychiatric symptoms in patients with endocrine disorders, treating healthcare workers and student health. Her expertise includes treatment of ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders, and encompasses medical and general PTSD. She is available for initial consultations, second opinions and ongoing medication management with concomitant psychotherapy at the Oakbrook Terrace office location.
Valentina Dehghan-Bernabe, M.D.
Valentina Dehghan-Bernabe, M.D. is board-certified in General Adult Psychiatry. She received her medical degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine and completed her general psychiatry residency at Rush University Medical Center. Her clinical interests include depressive disorders and anxiety disorders. She is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations and medication management for adults. Dr. Dehghan-Bernabe sees patients at the Evanston location only.
Niyati Dhand, M.D.
Dr. Niya Dhand, MD is double board-certified, completing her general psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic, addiction psychiatry fellowship at Yale University, and Perinatal and Women's Mental Health Fellowship at Northwestern University. Dr. Dhand’s clinical interests include depressive and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, women’s mental health including peripartum and postpartum care, substance use disorders, and treatment of impaired professionals. Dr. Dhand is available for initial psychiatric evaluations, second opinion consultations, psychotherapy and ongoing care with medication management. She sees patients at the Evanston location.
Jennifer Duan, M.D.
Jennifer Duan, M.D. is a board-eligible psychiatrist who completed her general psychiatry residency and women's mental health fellowship at the University of Illinois Chicago. Dr. Duan specializes in the management of mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders during preconception, pregnancy and postpartum. Her clinical interests also include post-traumatic stress disorder and eating disorders. She is available for initial evaluations, consultations and ongoing medication management. She sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Kimberly A. Fenzl, M.D.
Kimberly A. Fenzl, MD is a board-certified general adult psychiatrist and medical director of the Student & Medical Trainee Wellness Division at Meridian. She received her medical degree from Rush University and completed her general psychiatry residency at the University of Illinois Chicago. Her clinical interests include depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders and student mental health. Dr. Fenzl is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations and psychopharmacology management. She sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Divya Gongireddy, M.D.
Divya Gongireddy, M.D. is board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and is the Medical Director of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Division at Meridian. She completed both her residency in General Psychiatry and fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System. Dr. Gongireddy’s clinical interests include PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and mood disorders. Dr. Gongireddy is available for initial psychiatric evaluations, second opinion consultations and ongoing medication management of children, adolescents and young adults. She sees patients at the Evanston and downtown Chicago locations.
Shannon Gritzenbach, M.D.
Shannon Gritzenbach, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist who completed her General Psychiatry residency at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Gritzenbach specializes in an integrative approach to the treatment of depression and anxiety, incorporating a variety of psychotherapy techniques and other modalities including spirituality and wellness practices, along with medications when appropriate. She is available for initial diagnostic evaluations, second opinions, psychotherapy, and ongoing medication management at the Oakbrook Terrace location.
Sara Kashani, M.D.
Sara Kashani, M.D. is a board-certified general adult psychiatrist who received her medical degree from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. She completed her general psychiatry residency at the University of Illinois Chicago. Her main clinical interests include mood and anxiety disorders. She is available for initial evaluations, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy. Dr. Kashani sees patients at the Evanston location.
Daniel Y. Kim, M.D.
Daniel Y. Kim, MD is a board-certified general adult psychiatrist and the chief medical officer of Meridian. He received his medical degree from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and completed his general psychiatry residency at St. Vincent's Hospital in New York City followed by a fellowship in geriatric psychiatry at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Kim has extensive expertise in the use of pharmacology in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, and his clinical interests include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders and OCD. Dr. Kim is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations and medication management. He sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Alexandra Merg, M.D.
Alexandra Merg, M.D. is a board-certified General Adult Psychiatrist who completed her general psychiatry residency and women’s mental health fellowship at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She specializes in the management of mood and anxiety disorders during pre-conception, pregnancy and postpartum. Her areas of interest also include depressive disorders, bipolar disorders and anxiety disorders. She is available for initial evaluations, perinatal consultations and psychopharmacology management. She sees patients at the Downtown Chicago location only.
Molly Mulligan, M.D.
Molly Mulligan, MD is a Board-Certified General Psychiatrist and Sports Psychiatrist. She earned her medical degree from Loyola University Stritch, School of Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Mulligan specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders and anxiety disorders using a combination of psychotherapy, mindfulness, nutrition and psychopharmacology. As a Sports Psychiatrist, Dr. Mulligan specializes in athletes who are facing emotional disorders or emotional blocks affecting performance. Dr. Mulligan sees patients at the Chicago and Oakbrook Terrace locations.
Priya Patel, M.D.
Priya Patel, M.D. is a board-certified General Adult Psychiatrist. She completed her general adult psychiatry residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago where she had training in general psychiatric conditions as well as women’s mental health conditions. Her clinical interests include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and women’s mental health. She is available for initial evaluations, ongoing psychopharmacology management, and perinatal consultations including medication management during pre-conception, pregnancy, and postpartum. She sees patients at the Downtown Chicago location only.
Sumerth Pathak, D.O.
Sumerth Pathak, D.O. is a board-eligible general adult psychiatrist. He received his medical degree at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his general psychiatry residency at the VCU School of Medicine in Richmond, Virginia. His clinical interests include depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders and mental health in the South Asian community. He is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations and ongoing medication management with concomitant psychotherapy for adults. Dr. Pathak sees patients at the Evanston and downtown Chicago locations.
Michael D. Raida, M.D.
Michael D. Raida, M.D. is a board-certified psychiatrist. He completed his general psychiatry residency at Duke University Medical Center and his fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Raida treats both adult patients and geriatric patients. His interests include depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and the aging population. Dr. Raida is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations, and ongoing medication management. He sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Jordan Romero, M.D.
Jordan Romero, M.D. is a board-certified General Adult Psychiatrist who received his medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. He completed his General Psychiatry residency at Eastern Virginia Medical School. His clinical interests include psychopharmacology and psychotherapy of anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, and substance abuse disorders. Dr. Romero is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations, as well as ongoing medication management and psychotherapy of adult patients. He sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Kate Ruhl, M.D.
Kate Ruhl, M.D. is a board-certified General Adult and Geriatric Psychiatrist who received her medical degree from Rush University. She completed her general psychiatry residency and geriatric psychiatry fellowship at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Her clinical interests include depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and the aging population. She is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations and psychopharmacology management. Dr. Ruhl sees patients at the Evanston location.
Marcia Sawa, M.D.
Marcia Sawa, M.D. is board-certified in General Adult Psychiatry. She completed her General Psychiatry residency at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Her clinical interests include depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, and PTSD. She also has experience treating psychiatric illness during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Dr. Sawa is available for initial psychiatric evaluations, second opinion consultations, and ongoing medication management for adults. She sees patients at the Evanston location.
Eliza Sukiennik, M.D.
Eliza Sukiennik, M.D. is board certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree at Poznan University of Medical Science in Poznan, Poland. She then completed both residency in General Psychiatry and a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Mayo Clinic. Her clinical interests include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and psychiatric care of patients with co-existing medical conditions. Dr. Sukiennik is available for initial psychiatric evaluations, second opinions, and ongoing medication management of children, adolescents and adults. She sees patients at the Oakbrook Terrace, Oak Park, and downtown Chicago locations.
Gabriella Waserstein, M.D.
Gabriella Waserstein, M.D. is a board-certified psychiatrist who received her medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine. She completed her general psychiatry residency and women’s mental health fellowship at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Waserstein specializes in the management of mood and anxiety disorders during pre-conception, pregnancy and postpartum. Her clinical interests include mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, reproductive psychiatry, and student mental health. She is available for initial evaluations, consultations, and ongoing medication management. She sees patients at the Downtown Chicago location only.
Triphena Wong, D.O.
Triphena Wong, D.O. is a board-certified General Adult Psychiatrist and Lifestyle Medicine Physician. She earned her medical degree from Des Moines University and completed her General Psychiatry Residency training at the Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Wong’s clinical interests include depressive and anxiety disorders, nutritional psychiatry, and student mental health. She is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations, and medication management for adults. Dr. Wong sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Eric Yu, D.O.
Eric Yu, D.O. is board-certified in General Adult Psychiatry and is the Medical Director of the Adult Psychiatry Division at Meridian. He completed his General Psychiatry residency at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. His clinical interests include depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. He is available for initial evaluations, second opinion consultations and ongoing medication management for adults. Dr. Yu sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Advanced Practice Nurse
Rebecca Christophersen, A.P.N.
Rebecca Christophersen, A.P.N. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Loyola University and her Master of Science in Nursing from Rush University. Ms. Christophersen has extensive subspecialty training and experience in perinatal psychiatry. Her perinatal psychiatry work began at the University of Illinois Women’s Mental Health Program, then continued at Brigham and Women’s Hospital at Harvard University Medical School and the Women and Infants’ Hospital Day Program at Brown University Medical School. Ms. Christophersen performs initial psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacologic management, and individual psychotherapy. Her interests include preconception counseling; mood and anxiety disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period; transition to motherhood, including mother-infant attachment; and psychiatric symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle, perimenopause and menopause. Ms. Christophersen volunteers as a specialist for Postpartum Support International's perinatal psychiatric consultation line for medical providers. She sees patients in our Lake Forest office.
Therapists
Lara Baez, Ph.D.
Lara Baez, PhD is a clinical psychology postdoctoral fellow. She received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Miami and completed her predoctoral internship at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, where she specialized in women’s mental health. Dr. Baez utilizes an evidence-based and flexible approach in her work with patients, drawing from cognitive behavioral, acceptance-based, interpersonal and mindfulness-based approaches. She works primarily with individuals during pregnancy and postpartum who are struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression and general stress. She sees patients at the downtown Chicago location in-person and via telehealth.
Mary Kate Beckmen, L.C.S.W.
Mary Kate Beckmen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Practitioner, and is certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. She received her Master’s in Social Work at Loyola University Chicago with a children and family practice specialization. Mary Kate has experience as a therapist working with children, adolescents, and young adults in child welfare, school, and residential settings. Her areas of interest and clinical expertise include trauma, anxiety, depression, self-regulation, ADHD, internalizing and externalizing behaviors, identity exploration, and adoption. Mary Kate also offers parent coaching for parents of children who have been in foster care or are adopted, as well as parents whose children have been diagnosed with ADHD or anxiety. Mary Kate utilizes a variety of trauma-focused modalities of psychotherapy including cognitive behavioral, motivational, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based methods while incorporating creative approaches such as play and art-based interventions. Mary Kate offers services at the downtown Chicago and Evanston locations.
Gloria M. Cockerill L.C.S.W.
Gloria M. Cockerill, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor and a Certified Theraplay® Practitioner, Supervisor and Trainer. She received her undergraduate degree in child development from Tufts University and a master’s degree in clinical social work from The University of Chicago’s Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. She has practiced extensively with children, adolescents, and families impacted by trauma, attachment disruptions, and a broad range of social, emotional, and behavioral challenges in a variety of settings. She is passionate about helping children and their caregivers find hope, the strength to persevere and heal together, forming stronger relationships. Gloria’s work with families is informed by attachment, family systems and Adlerian theory and incorporates strengths-based directive and non-directive play therapy approaches. Gloria works out of the Oak Park and Oak Brook Terrace locations.
Suzie Condon-Paskiewicz, L.C.S.W., C.C.M., PMH-C
Suzie Condon-Paskiewicz, LCSW, CCM, PMH-C, who received her master's degree from the University of Illinois Chicago, is clinical director of Meridian's Reproductive Psychiatry & Wellness Division. She is a licensed clinical social worker, certified case manager and has her certification in perinatal mental health. Suzie has expertise in the area of women's mental health, including issues related to fertility, pregnancy and postpartum mood and anxiety syndromes. Through her 20 years of clinical experience in community mental health and hospital settings, she also developed her skills and an interest in working with patients dealing with chronic illness, grief and loss. Suzie uses various therapeutic techniques, including: cognitive behavioral interventions; interpersonal psychotherapy; motivational interviewing; and supportive counseling. She sees individuals and couples at the downtown Chicago and Lake Forest locations.
Mikayla Davis, L.C.S.W.
Mikayla Davis, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker. She received her master’s degree from University of Maryland Baltimore. She has experience working with adolescents and young adults in school and clinic settings. She has worked extensively with those who are coping with ADHD, anxiety and depression. Her clinical interests include anxiety and mood disorders, interpersonal relationships and trauma-focused approaches. Mikayla works primarily from a psychodynamic approach. She is available for psychotherapy with adolescents and adults at the downtown Chicago and Evanston locations.
Susan Doig, L.C.S.W., C.A.D.C.
Susan Doig, L.C.S.W., C.A.D.C. is a licensed clinical social worker and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. She received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Illinois. Susan has over 20 years of clinical experience in multiple clinical settings. Her interests include mood disorders, stage-of-life transitions, trauma, relationship problems, work stress and managing challenging work place dynamics. She has extensive expertise in the treatment of addictions and comorbid addiction with mood disorders using motivational enhancement techniques. Ms. Doig is available for individual psychotherapy. She sees patients at both the downtown Chicago and Evanston locations and has weekend and evening hours.
John Dominguez, Ph.D.
John Dominguez, PhD, is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and also certified in School Psychology and Educational Administration. Dr. Dominguez received his B.A. in Psychology from Stanford University, and his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston. Dr. Dominguez has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families in the therapeutic day school setting, and treating depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, conduct and oppositional defiant disorder, and high functioning autism. Additionally, Dr. Dominguez has extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ students in a therapeutic setting. Therapeutic program development and administration are also predominant parts of Dr. Dominguez’s professional experience. He sees patients at the Evanston office only.
Gretchen L. Doninger, Ph.D.
Gretchen L. Doninger, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Meridian. She completed a post-doctoral fellowship in women's mental health and health psychology at Loyola University Medical Center. Dr. Doninger utilizes multiple modalities of psychotherapy in her work with patients, including, mindfulness-based approaches, cognitive behavioral, and psychodynamic. She has significant experience working with young adult patient populations and specializes in issues focusing on women’s health (e.g., pregnancy and postpartum depression), eating disorders and obesity, chronic illness (e.g., cancer, multiple sclerosis, pain, bipolar disorder), and general life adjustment. Dr. Doninger offers psychotherapy for adult individuals at both the downtown Chicago and Evanston locations.
Daniel Fontaine, M.A., L.C.P.C., C.A.D.C.
Daniel Fontaine, M.A., L.C.P.C., C.A.D.C. is a licensed clinical professional counselor and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. His interests include mood disorders, stage-of-life transitions, relationship problems, and issues related to sexual orientation. He has extensive expertise in the treatment of addictions using motivational enhancement techniques. Mr. Fontaine is available for individual psychotherapy. He sees patients at the downtown Chicago location only.
Betsey Finnan, L.C.S.W.
Betsey Finnan, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDR Trained is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Perinatal Mental Health Certified, and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. She received her undergraduate degree in social work and master’s degree in clinical social work from Aurora University. She has practiced extensively with adults, parents, and birthing persons impacted by trauma, reproductive concerns ranging from preconception to postpartum, and attachment disruptions in a variety of settings. Betsey’s work with individuals and parents is informed by attachment, object relations and Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) theory and incorporates strengths-based, shame resilience, and acceptance and commitment therapy approaches. Betsey works out of the Oakbrook Terrace location.
Stephanie Green, Psy.D.
Stephanie Green, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist. She received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at National Louis University. Stephanie uses an integrative approach incorporating psychodynamic, relational, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Her clinical interests and areas of experience include anxiety, depression, identity development and adjustment issues, college transition, relational issues and family of origin issues. Stephanie sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Kristen Huber, L.C.S.W.
Kristen Huber, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She received her Master’s Degree from Loyola University of Chicago. In her 20+ years of clinical healthcare experience, Kristen has worked with adults in all stages of life. Areas of experience include traumatic injury, new diagnosis and chronic illness, anxiety and depression, and grief and loss. Specific interests include psychosocial oncology, individuals in medical training programs, and women’s mental health. Kristen employs a strength-based, collaborative approach utilizing cognitive-behavioral, supportive, and psychodynamic methods. Kristen sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Cheryl Irmiter, Ph.D., L.C.S.W.
Cheryl Irmiter, PhD, LCSW received her doctorate from the School of Social Work at Loyola University Chicago and completed a postdoctorate fellowship at the University of Michigan in the Department of Medicine and the Veterans Administration Ann Arbor Health System; she has 15 years of experience as a clinical social worker and therapist. Dr. Irmiter’s practice is informed by multiple psychotherapy approaches. From a strengths and relationship-based approach, she works in an interactive and collaborative way to support adult clients’ desire for a better life. She specializes in working with individuals dealing with life adjustments, loss, grief and chronic health conditions. Dr. Irmiter also has over 20 years of experience as an educator and field liaison for social workers, nurses and physicians. She worked with accrediting agencies, universities and students to ensure all levels of students have the knowledge, skill-set, confidence, resources and support to be their absolute best selves as they grow professionally and personally. Dr. Irmiter sees adults at the downtown Chicago and Evanston locations.
Carolyn Kanagy, Ph.D.
Carolyn Kanagy, Ph.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist. She received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She works primarily with adults, and her interests and expertise are in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, grief, life transitions, and relationship issues. Dr. Kanagy utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as her primary approach but has experience with interpersonal and supportive therapy as well. Dr. Kanagy is available for individual psychotherapy at both the downtown Chicago and Evanston locations.
Stacy Kaplan, M.S.W., L.S.W.
Stacy Kaplan, MSW, LSW, is a licensed social worker. She received her master's degree in clinical social work from Loyola University Chicago. She has experience working with adults and older adults in medical settings, particularly with a focus on women's health. Her clinical interests and areas of experience include anxiety and mood disorders, relational issues, family transition issues, especially those associated with pregnancy and parenthood, and family of origin issues. Stacy works from a psychodynamic perspective using a relational approach. She sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Sue Kehias, M.A., L.C.P.C.
Sue Kehias, MA, LCPC, who received her master’s degree from Northwestern University, supports adult patients with individual and couples therapy using cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic methods. Her clinical interests include anxiety and mood disorders and family transition issues, especially those associated with pregnancy and parenthood. Sue also has a longtime interest in working with sexual assault survivors. She sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Karolina Lieponis, L.C.S.W.
Karolina Lieponis, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She received her Master’s Degree from Loyola University of Chicago. Karolina uses a supportive and holistic approach with her clients integrating therapeutic modalities including Mindfulness-based interventions, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She has extensive experience working with youth and adults in hospital settings facing new diagnoses, chronic illness, and caregiving stressors. Her clinical interests include: anxiety, depression, health issues, work-life balance stressors, spiritual struggles, relationship challenges and infertility. Karolina is available for psychotherapy with adolescents and adults in the downtown location.
Todd McCarty, L.C.S.W.
Todd McCarty, LCSW received his Master of Social Work from the University of Chicago. Todd has experience working with college students, adults and older adults dealing with life transitions, anxiety, depression, men’s issues and early/sustained substance misuse recovery. He utilizes Internal Family Systems® (Level 1), which is a non-pathologizing, evidence-based psychotherapy that helps people understand and heal parts of their personality to improve emotional well-being. Todd also holds a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia College Chicago and enjoys working with people in the arts and creative fields. He is available for virtual psychotherapy sessions online with college students and adults.
Drew McLeod, Ph.D.
Drew McLeod, Ph.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist and serves as the chief clinical officer at Meridian. He received his doctorate in clinical psychology from Loyola University and completed his clinical internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. McLeod has over 20 years of experience providing therapy using cognitive, interpersonal, and psychodynamic approaches. He works with clients who are coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, personality issues, relationship and professional identity struggles, marital or partnership conflicts, as well as issues related to sexuality and gender. He offers psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families and works with adults and adolescents. Dr. McLeod sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Ryan Michelsen, LPC
Ryan Michelsen is a Licensed Professional Counselor and received his M.Ed. in clinical mental health counseling from DePaul University. He holds a Ph.D. and a M.S. in criminal justice from Michigan State University, where his research focused on bias crime. Ryan also earned a B.A. in criminal justice from Indiana University-Bloomington. Ryan works with patients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, LGBTQ concerns, grief/loss, and suicidality. He practices from a psychodynamic perspective and sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Adria Ososkie, L.C.S.W.
Adria Ososkie, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and is Clinical Director of the Student/Trainee Wellness Programs at Meridian. She received her Master’s Degree from Loyola University Chicago. She has experience working with adults and older adults in medical settings providing supportive interventions to those dealing with chronic conditions, new diagnoses, and caregiver stressors. Adria utilizes an integrative, client-centered approach focusing on client strengths to cope with life stressors. She incorporates supportive, cognitive, and psychodynamic therapies. Adria’s areas of interest include anxiety, depression, chronic health conditions including cancer and chronic pain, grief, loss, and adjustment to life transitions. Adria is available for individual psychotherapy at the downtown Chicago location only.
Anjali N. Polan, Ph.D.
Anjali N. Polan, Ph.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist. She received her doctorate in clinical psychology from DePaul University and completed her clinical internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Her interests include anxiety and mood disorders; relationship issues; mental health in young adulthood; and issues of particular concern to women such as motherhood, balancing work and family, and reproductive health. She is available for individual therapy with adults. Dr. Polan sees patients at the downtown Chicago and Oak Park locations.
Scott Harms Rose, M.S.W., Ph.D.
Scott Harms Rose, MSW, PhD, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and serves as Director of Training at Meridian. He earned his master’s degree from Loyola University Chicago, and his doctorate from The Institute for Clinical Social Work. He has spent more than 20 years working in social service agencies, in private practice, and in academia. Dr. Rose served on the clinical staff at Howard Brown Health Center, and was Director of Mental Health and Clinical Training at Center on Halsted. He has taught master’s courses at The University of Chicago’s School of Social Service Administration, master’s and doctoral courses at Loyola University Chicago’s School of Social Work, and master’s and doctoral courses at The Institute for Clinical Social Work, where he also served on the Faculty and is past President and Dean. He works with patients coping with anxiety, depression, anger management, severe trauma histories, relationships, and LGBTQ concerns. He sees adolescents, emerging adults, and works with both individuals and couples. Dr. Rose works primarily from a psychodynamic perspective, and sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Matthew Teeters, AM, LSW
Matthew is a Licensed Social Worker, and earned his master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Chicago, where he focused on culturally responsive practice and trauma. He has experience working with diverse populations of adolescents and adults experiencing chronic distress. His clinical interests include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, marginalized identities and identity development, and concerns of meaning and spirituality. Matthew works from an integrative and relational perspective, drawing on third-wave behavioral and psychodynamic therapies to foster self-compassion and growth. He sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Abby Toms, LCSW, CCTP, PMH-C
Abby Toms, LCSW, CCTP, PMH-C is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and has her certification in Perinatal Mental Health. She earned her master's degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and has also completed her 200-hour yoga teacher training. Abby is an expert in women's mental health topics, including pregnancy-related issues, transition to motherhood and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. Additionally, she has 10 years of clinical experience in community mental health and hospital settings supporting patients impacted by chronic illness, trauma, and gender-based violence. Abby uses various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral interventions, acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness techniques. Abby sees individuals at the downtown Chicago location.
Jason Tuite, L.C.S.W., C.A.D.C.
Jason Tuite, LCSW, CADC, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He received his Master’s Degree from Loyola University Chicago. He has experience working with young adults and adults with substance use disorders, chronic medical illnesses, and LGBTQ concerns. Jason utilizes motivational interviewing, supportive, and psychodynamic therapeutic practices in his work. Jason’s clinical interests include addictions, anxiety, depression, life adjustments, and chronic health conditions including cancer. Jason is available for individual psychotherapy with young adults and adults remotely.
Jill Valbuena, L.C.S.W.
Jill Valbuena, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker. She received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Illinois. She has a significant background in treating individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, and co-occurring substance use. Jill utilizes a person-centered, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach. She
incorporates cognitive behavioral, motivational, and supportive therapy into her practice. Jill’s clinical interests include anxiety and mood disorders, stage-of-life transitions, chronic health conditions, relationship issues, and workplace stress. Jill sees patients at the Evanston location.
Maxwell Weiss, L.P.C.
Max Weiss, LPC, is a licensed counselor. He received his Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Institute for Clinical Social Work as well as his Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies and Italian from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He has worked extensively with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of treatment and school settings. Max has advanced training and clinical experience assisting in treating anxiety, depression, and career and relationship challenges. He works from a psychodynamic perspective and sees clients in the Evanston and downtown Chicago locations.
Paul Wiemerslage, L.C.S.W.
Paul Wiemerslage, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He received his Master's Degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He works with adults and couples using an integrative approach incorporating CBT and supportive therapy. His areas of interest and clinical expertise include LGBTQ concerns, substance abuse and addiction, problematic pornography use, sexual issues, polyamorous and open relationships, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and stage of life transitions. His background in community health has given him extensive experience working with clients living with HIV. Paul sees patients at the downtown Chicago location.
Stephanie Zangrilli, M.S., L.C.S.W.
Stephanie Zangrilli is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Child Development Specialist and is trained in EMDR. She received her Master's in Social Work from Loyola University and her Master's in Child Development from Erikson Institute with a specialization in Infant Development. Stephanie is passionate about women's mental health, specifically perinatal and postpartum depression, identity of the new mother, attachment, and fertility and loss. She also has several years of experience working with children and adolescents who are coping with AD/HD, trauma, life changes, etc. Stephanie uses a variety of therapeutic techniques including attachment, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational therapy, and strengths-based. Stephanie sees clients at the downtown Chicago location only.
