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Our Team

The Calm Mind team supports our clients through a wide range of therapeutic techniques, and has been able to help our clients achieve a calm mind.  We provide a safe and comforting space, and we support you in choosing a therapist that meets your needs. 

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Suzanne Muirheid

Founder

Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) 

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II (CCTP-II)

Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC)

EMDR Certified

EMDRIA Approved Consultant

EMDR Institute Approved Consultant

I founded Calm Mind Counseling Center with the goal of providing innovative and effective care to individuals struggling with trauma and other mental health issues. I have found that a trauma-informed approach helps link events throughout an individual's life that can help them understand that difficulties they are currently experiencing and how to best heal.

 

In my efforts to provide my clients with the best treatment possible, I have trained extensively in trauma-informed care.  As a Certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) clinician, I regularly integrate this technique into my work as I have seen it transform the lives of my clients. Additionally, I work with the EMDR Institute facilitating EMDR trainings and providing mentorship and consultation to EMDR therapists.

My style is holistic and strength-based.  There is nothing more powerful than helping someone realize that their pain and past trauma doesn't define them. Helping people rediscover hope and empowerment creates a sense of purpose in my own life.  

 

I spend my free time with my children, running, trying new restaurants, and playing with my Boston Terriers.

 

Pronouns:  She/Her

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Susan Gabel

Clinical Director

Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) 

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II (CCTP-II)

Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP)

EMDR Certified

EMDRIA Consultant-In-Training

My goal is to help everyone feel empowered to create positive, meaningful change for themselves and their family.  My clients motivate me to be a better clinician, because I see the work they put in and strive to gain more knowledge to better support them.   I utilize an empathic and collaborative approach in therapy, and believe in providing a safe environment to promote client growth and exploration. 

I have over 6 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families.  Areas I specialize in are attachment issues, anxiety, depression, Dissociative Disorders, CPTSD and trauma, and selective mutism.  I have experience working in a PHP program, a domestic violence shelter, a group home, in the Mental Health Court, at a Juvenile Detention Center, and then private practice.  I've obtained training in evidence-based treatment modalities and trauma-informed care such as EMDR, Theraplay, and DDP to more effectively target and reduce distressing symptoms and increase resiliency. 

When not at work, I can be found spending time with family and friends, doing small projects at home, enjoying nice weather when Chicago permits, and watching too much Netflix (let's be honest).

Pronouns:  She/Her

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Suzy Puican

Clinical Supervisor

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)

EMDR Certified

I believe that often we try to distract ourselves from difficult, painful or ‘ugly’ emotions.  When we numb our painful emotions we also limit our ability to experience positive emotions.  Processing emotion is a lifelong work for everyone, and I believe in supporting the process at every age.

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with a master’s degree from DePaul University.  My primary focus has been working with individuals who have experienced trauma, and has experience helping individuals with anger management, anxiety, depression and stress management.

I currently offer individual and family counseling, and especially enjoy working with children, teens and young adults.  I love to see their growth as they are better able to speak their emotional truth, and support them as their emotions deepen and expand.   I enjoy helping people reach a point where they are no longer numbing their emotions, and instead can sit comfortably with joy, sorrow, anger and everything in between.

 

Pronouns:  She/Her

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Sara Loredo

Clinical Supervisor

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)

Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC)

EMDR Trained

I believe the key to navigating life stressors is strength and a willingness to seek wellness. My goal is to guide you towards living life based on your self-defined core values. I am dedicated to fostering a safe and comfortable environment through humor, with a highly personalized and collaborative approach needed to address underlying issues. Through a multicultural and inclusive lens, I create a space that promotes healing and honors your personal experiences. Using the tools learned from our work together, you would build readiness to complete treatment services and be equipped to carry on a meaningful life.

 

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 7 years’ experience in the mental health field, I integrate various therapeutic techniques like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and strength-based approach. These techniques drive exploration of your unique experience to develop tangible skills to reach treatment goals. While I address a wide range of difficulties, I specialize in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and PTSD.   

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

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Jeana Frazier

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)

EMDR Trained

I strive to provide therapy that is tailored to each individual's unique experience. I became a therapist because I wanted to help and support others in the way that my own personal therapy helped me in the past. I was inspired to be that safe space for others.  My work is rooted in a person-centered approach, and I often use CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques during sessions.

I have a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University.  I have a background in social justice and with prior experience working in a college counseling setting, as well as a women's treatment facility.  I specialize in treating stress and anxiety management, anxiety, depression, and grief and loss.

I am a dog lover, a coffee lover, and a music lover.   Outside of work you can find me jamming out to music in my car, spending time with friends and family, or going on bike rides when the weather is nice! Fun fact, I am an experienced barista!

Pronouns:  She/Her

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Abigail Slager

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

EMDR Trained

I am passionate about helping people lean into their journey of self-discovery and grow into personal healing and fulfillment.  I look to build a partnership with you by creating a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to come as you are.   I adhere to a person-centered approach to therapy where I will always choose words that recognize you as a person first with unique gifts and innate value.

 

I have a Social Work degree from Aurora University.  I have experience working in various health care settings including hospitals, community mental health, and kidney dialysis care.  I specialize in helping a broad spectrum of people including teens, adults and families managing chronic illness, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, body image/eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  

I am passionate about utilizing acceptance and commitment therapies, mindfulness techniques, and various cognitive behavioral therapies to help you sort through your emotions and evaluate your experiences.

Pronouns:  She/Her

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Jackie Harvel

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)

EMDR Trained

I believe that most human behaviors and patterns of thinking are affected by some trauma in our past, and if we can identify how we were impacted by those traumas, we can make positive changes for our future.  I focus on adults needing assistance with processing traumas, reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms, problem-solving, improving self-esteem, and relationship building/couples counseling.

I received a Master’s degree in Psychology from Walden University and Master’s in Clinical Mental health from Roosevelt University. I have experience as a mental health professional treating Major Depressive Disorder, anxiety disorders, Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.   I have knowledge and experience in different modalities of treatment including EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT, SFT, marriage and family, and Reality therapy. 

My goal is to build a trusting relationship in order for my clients to open up about their traumas and develop ways to reduce triggers and unwanted behaviors. I aim to empower people to take control of the things they can and make peace with the things they can't.

Pronouns:  She/Her

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Dominque Murrell

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

EMDR Trained

As a therapist, I understand that seeking out therapy may not always be the easiest decision. My goal is to provide a safe space for individuals to feel comfortable expressing themselves as well as create an environment where we can work together in order to achieve his/her/their goals by incorporating CBT and person-centered techniques in session.

 

I have a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University, Chicago, IL. I have experience working with teens and adults dealing with an array of concerns: anxiety, depression, grief, and cognitive disabilities.

 

In my free time, I love spending time with friends & family, going to brunch (or out to eat in general), and watching Netflix/Hulu. 

 

Pronouns: She/Her

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Savanha Rawls

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

EMDR Trained

I understand the strength and courage it takes to seek out counseling services, so I want to commend you for taking this first step. I believe that much of the pain and suffering that leads us to counseling stems from some form of unresolved trauma.

 

Together, we will work towards identifying and healing from this trauma while accomplishing your desired goals along the way. I am passionate about my work and seek to create a safe, therapeutic environment that fosters personal growth. As a therapist, I take on a holistic approach while maintaining a multicultural and trauma-informed lens, and I tailor my techniques to each individual client.

 

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from DePaul University. I have experience working with adults and couples with a variety of concerns including anxiety, anger management, depression, identity exploration, self-esteem, and relational issues.

 

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, doing yoga, painting, and cooking.

 

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Erin Olszewski

Erin Olszewski

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

EMDR Training In Progress

I believe in the power of perspective and utilizing internal strengths to overcome life’s difficulties and hardships. Therapy is a great way to explore what has been holding you back in life and find new pathways to changes in your life that you desire. I know this process can be difficult and I work hard to ensure that my office is a judgment-free safe space where you can explore yourself and the process. 

 

I enjoy getting to know my clients to understand where they are coming from, both cognitively and emotionally, so that I can create a treatment route that best fits their individual needs. My approach focuses on emphasizing my client's unique needs and strengths while layering in cognitive behavioral (CBT) and dialectical behavior (DBT) techniques to help build foundations for active change and empowerment. 

 

I have a Masters of Counseling with a specialization in Forensic Counseling from Adler University in 2021. I have professional experience working with forensic populations, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, substance abuse, interpersonal issues, as well as severe mental illness. 

 

In my free time, I enjoy exercising, painting and hanging out with my dog, Kita.

pronouns she/her

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Kendall Hunt

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)

Our complex backgrounds can be overwhelming, but when we learn to organize those experiences, we begin the journey of self-understanding and acceptance. My goal is to support my client’s in finding their way through their troubles and assisting them in leading fuller and healthier lives. I particularly enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults, as being a young person has its own unique set of challenges. My areas of specialty include individuals who have experienced sexual violence and domestic violence, PTSD, trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment, and grief and loss. As well as I am trained in Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), a relational-based model for young children, ages 0-5 years old, and their parents/caregivers who have experienced or been witness to violence.

 

I received my Master’s in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have interacted with multiple systems including the child welfare system, educational and health care systems, and legal and judicial systems. While obtaining my bachelor's degree, I focused on the healing effects of art-making, color theory, and fine art and painting. I often incorporate creative expression and art into my practice, as it can be difficult to find the words to detail how we truly feel. I take a person-centered approach to therapy as I believe support, validation, and trust are key-aspects when following my clients in their healing journeys.

 

In my time outside of providing therapy, I enjoy spending time with family and close friends, lounging with my Greyhound, and partaking in anything where I can be creative and feel artistic.

 

Pronouns: She/Her(s)

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Nicole Sonnefeldt

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

I believe people grow from mutually empowering relationships, starting with the therapeutic relationship. This means that I value equality and authenticity in my approach to therapy. I will encourage and strengthen your autonomy, giving you choice in your goals and room to give me feedback about what works best for you. I have a nonjudgmental attitude that will make you feel comfortable to become your most authentic self. My approach is warm, yet direct, and I value humor as an important tool for healing.
 

I am a therapist who strives to provide culturally competent and trauma-informed care and I look at struggle through a feminist, systems-informed perspective. In short, I believe that what
had led you to seek help is not due to factors or flaws within you, but to many things outside of you. I incorporate existentialism and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), asking what
you what you have control over, and what you’re going to do about it. Now that you’re here, what will you do next?

 

I enjoy providing therapy for adolescents, adults, and couples, including non-monogamous couples. My work with couples is informed by the Gottman Method and experiential, emotionally focused approaches. My experience includes working with people with anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD and workplace, spiritual and relationship issues. I also have experience and a personal interest in working with first responders. In my free time I enjoy staying active, collecting records, and traveling to warm places. I formerly studied dance and spent a decade working in bars and restaurants.


Pronouns: she/her

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Sharina Porter

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

 We all experience pain and no one deserves to suffer alone. Throughout my career, I have focused on providing compassion, empathy, and unconditional positive regard to support individuals facing life challenges.


I am a licensed counselor with four years of experience, holding Master’s degrees in both in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Psychology from National Louis University.


I specialize in addressing a range of mental health concerns with adults, including adjustment, anxiety, boundaries, childhood trauma, depression, relationship difficulties, and stress management.
My therapeutic approach draws from various evidence-based techniques, with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy. By integrating these approaches, I aim to help clients gain insight, develop coping strategies, and cultivate lasting positive change. No single approach works for everyone, so I believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards growth, healing, and fostering a greater sense of insight and wellness.


In addition to my love for therapy, I have a passion for fashion!! Experiencing the fashion culture in different places while traveling and twinning with my daughter are my favorite things to do! I also enjoy quality time with my husband and children. Our family game nights are the best!


Pronouns: She/Her

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Angelica Chrzascik

Counseling Intern

My passion for mental health stems from the belief that every person is capable of changing their life for the better and understanding themselves more. I believe in looking at a person holistically to be considerate of different parts of a client’s life that may be affecting them. While providing a safe space to talk, I will be supportive and collaborate to ensure our work together is effective.


I have experience with advocating for mental health and providing resources while volunteering at a NAMI drop-in center as well as have worked in a nursing home setting assisting with group therapy. Currently, I am working to receive my Master’s in Counseling Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
During my free time, I enjoy seeing friends and family, reading, spending time in nature, and exercising.

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Join Us!

Calm Mind Counseling Center is always looking for talented therapists to join our growing practice. 

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