Meet the Team

Jeff Weiss LPC
I studied at Lewis University for my undergraduate degrees in psychology and sociology, as well as my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. During my time as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have worked with all age ranges experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, social skill deficits, impulse control deficits, and more. In my work, I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), all of which are empirically validated methods of treatment, but I am also familiar with and open to using other theories. My approach to counseling is to meet the client where they are at and understand their thoughts and feelings to the best of my ability. The client is the expert on their own life and how much they can process in a session, and I believe that it is up to them to determine the pace and nature of their own treatment. I think it is pivotal for a client, regardless of age, to have their own private safe space in which to talk about their experiences, thoughts, and feelings without fear of judgment. I take great pride in building a rapport with my clients and creating a safe space for them, as once these tasks are accomplished, the work of healing and making positive changes in the client’s life can subsequently begin.

Jennifer Smith LCPC, NCC, CCTP
I specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma that is causing them to struggle with functioning in their daily lives. My approach is holistic and person-centered, focused on improving not only the mind, but also the body and soul. I offer an open and honest space to share past, present, and future concerns in order to learn and grow. Since the needs of my clients can vary, I also incorporate techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other evidenced-based therapies. I have a background in working in all levels of mental health care. Through my previous counseling positions, I was able to gain experience in conducting individual, group, and family therapy. Clinically, I have experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns such as PTSD, Major Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Reactive Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Substance Abuse and Personality Disorders.
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Karla Ciombor Buck LCPC, CADC, CGP
I specialize in work with adult clients with mood or substance use disorders and am a certified grief counselor. I have extensive experience in crisis management, specifically pertaining to suicide risk and domestic violence. Since the family system is impacted when an individual is struggling, I have also worked closely with adult family members as they navigate through the recovery process with their loved ones. I believe that an individual’s past life experiences and personal values influence how they think and behave in the present moment. My approach to treatment aims to help my clients identify their core beliefs and values to develop personal goals and learn healthy coping skills to aid in symptom management. The interventions I employ are based on the tenets of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I strive to make the counseling environment one of collaboration, acceptance and safety, a place that is free of judgment and worthy of your trust.
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Kristina Caponi LCPC
I have worked with individuals across the life span, as well as with families and couples. I specialize in working with clients who are in crisis, and those who suffer from Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment Disorders, and familial and relational issues. Self- esteem, body image issues, anger management, and parenting skill development are also area of specialty. I believe that by focusing on a clients' strengths, and through the development of communication skills, coping skills, and stress management skills, a client can reach their goal of living a happier and healthier life.
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Lindsay Baumgartner LPC
I am a care focused provider working to help my clients meet their individual needs in a trusting, compassionate and non judgmental space. I currently see adults and teens for a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Behavioral concerns, Anger Management, Bipolar, Grief and Weight/Body issues. I have extensive experience in the field of education, specifically with high school students with learning and behavioral disabilities. Focus of care was on managing extreme emotions and channeling energy into healthy coping and cognitive skills. I also have extensive experience counseling individuals struggling with substance use and mood disorders. Care focused on helping clients meet their individual needs in a more effective and healthy way by utilizing their strengths and analyzing thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and consequences.

Precious Allen LSW
I am a Licensed Social Worker from Chicago, IL. I studied at Jackson State University for my undergraduate degree in Social Work. I then received my Master’s degree in Social Work from The University of Illinois at Chicago. I work with a wide array of age populations from elders to children to reach their goals. I have experience working with issues such as Depression, Trauma, Phobia, Anxiety, Suicidal and Self-harm Ideation, ADHD, and Substance use disorders. My therapeutic approach is to assist clients in creating and completing their life goals, I also assist clients in gaining a better understanding of their thinking and behaviors. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), as my preferred treatment methods. However, I am open to using other therapeutic methods to assist my clients in the best way possible. As a therapist, I pride myself on creating a space where my clients can come and feel comfortable to share the challenges they are facing, process their feelings thoughts, and behaviors collaborate to develop a plan on how to create my client’s best life. My favorite parts of being a mental health professional are seeing my clients grow and achieve their goals.

Samantha Garcia LPC
I work with a wide array of age populations including adults and adolescents, with most of my experience being with young school age children and young adults. I have experience working with individuals and families dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues such as defiance and opposition, self-injurious behaviors, life transitions and more. The therapeutic orientations from which I operate from include but are not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy and Play Therapy. I am Intermediate in Spanish and offer Bilingual therapeutic services. I am interested and passionate about LGBTQIA+ mental health, Multicultural Feminism, Women’s Issues and Social Justice. In therapy, I will offer a safe, non-judgmental space with a foundation of trust where you can process your thoughts, feelings and behaviors and learn helpful coping skills to navigate obstacles in your everyday life.