501c3 Not-For-Profit Corporation
501c3 Not-For-Profit Corporation
Meet Our Therapists
Catherine Fairfield, M.A., D.Min., LCPC - Executive Director
Pronouns: she/her
This is an exciting and challenging time to be the Executive Director of The Genesis Therapy Center.
I have been so proud of our staff who have stepped up in a major way throughout the pandemic. We have learned to utilize new skills, like telehealth and learned how to read facial cues even with masks! In a time when other agencies were unable to stay open or struggling to do so, Genesis has continued to grow and thrive.
As an agency and as a community, we are working with people who have faced illness, loss, stress, and financial struggles. We are committed to walking with our clients as they navigate the “new normal”. We have also learned new ways to fundraise. Part of being a not-for-profit involves raising funds to provide services for those with limited financial resources to pay for their therapy. We have embraced online fundraising as well as some hybrid models. The best part of my job is that it is never boring!
C. Michael Ideran, M.Div., D.Min., LCPC, LMFT
Pronouns: he/him
I enjoy the journey of therapy. I have been a therapist for 42 years and have realized the impact of working with people through their issues and struggles. Therapy can be thoughtful, frustrating, and exhilarating all at the same time. In the process of working with clients, I work to be engaging, thoughtful, and encouraging. I enjoy the process of feelings and how they work with our thoughts. I do honor the consequences of abuse in a person’s life and the impact that the abuse has in our later life. The journey of recovery is critical and takes time and energy. I enjoy working with those thoughts and feelings. I look forward to the opportunity to consider working with you. I enjoy any conversation that you would like to have to consider working with me. I will work diligently with you to acquire the best possible therapist for you. Your questions are essential to ensure you are working with the person who is not only trained but able to consider what works best for you. Thanks for your consideration and I look forward to talking with you.
Sara Allen, M.S., LCPC
Pronouns: she/they
I work with and like clients who live in some way outside of the norm — whose body types, cultural identities, family, or relationship structures differ from those represented frequently and/or positively in mainstream media. I celebrate queer joy, liberation, and pleasure. As a therapist, people seek me out to address the following issues and/or concerns: relationship difficulties, LGBTQAII+ affirming care, family of origin ‘stuff’, family scapegoat issues, trauma, and parenting concerns. It is important to me that my clients have a sense of safety and connection within the therapeutic process. In therapy, I work relationally and systemically, meaning I use the therapeutic relationship as our main guiding tool. My therapeutic approach is to be active and engage my clients. I listen deeply, ask questions, and gently challenge clients to live by their values.
David Barecki, Psy.D
Pronouns: he/him
My therapeutic theory of choice is Cognitive Behavioral. It allows the client to foster understanding as well as gain insight into their behaviors and emotional experiences. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents and adults with a wide range of issues and concerns.
When working with a client in session, I use a strength-based approach with the understanding that before we can address what might be “going wrong”, we must first understand the potential for what is “going right.” Regardless of the challenges my clients may be struggling with, I believe that everyone has the innate capability to heal and grow personally; given that the individual is provided with the opportunity and support to explore. During the journey of exploration, I serve as a supportive guide as the client takes the initial steps toward making sense of their world. I ask clients to consider their experiences, their skills and the strengths they bring with them to find understanding of what may be “getting in the way.” Having the ability to be flexible helps incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques and theories to provide an intervention that is not only effective but tailored to the client’s specific and unique needs and goals.
Naomi S. Effort, M.A., LCPC
People often wonder If therapy can truly help them and it is a valid question. I would respond with therapy can offer healing, perspective, awareness as well as help ease some emotional heaviness. Over the years, clients have entrusted me with their stories, challenges, and experiences. In session, I journey with my clients by listening, reflecting, along with exploring their thoughts and feelings. Providing clients with a safe space to feel heard, validated and understood, helps establish a good therapeutic relationship.
I work with individuals, couples, and adolescents. Some of whom have experienced different types of traumas, depression/anxiety, marital challenges, chronic health issues and life transitions. Due to the nature of some of these issues, therapy takes time, requires patience and goal setting. At times, therapy can be emotionally exhausting work as well as rewarding. So, whenever, you are ready to start your therapeutic journey, I am here to help.
Fun Facts: I am huge movie goer, as well as a music, podcast, and audible listener.
Elizabeth Fritz, M.S.W, LCSW
Pronouns she/her
I see value in connecting with individuals and families to help process and understand the world around them. In therapy, I often sit with clients who are interested in exploring how their world has shaped them and its overall impact on their lives. Therefore, having the mindset and willingness to work through challenging emotions, can be beneficial to meeting your therapeutic goals.
While I have worked with an array of clients with different presenting issues and concerns, I am drawn to working with teens and young adult women. At times, these individuals struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. I want to journey with my clients by using an integrative approach. I help clients learn ways to calm anxious thoughts, process painful experiences as well as tap into their strengths.
Fun Facts: I enjoy talking about Harry Potter as well as keeping plants alive. I have a love for animals particularly my two cats Sage and Pepper.
Brian Gold, M.S.W., LCSW
Through my journey as a counselor, it became apparent that I enjoy working with adult individuals, couples and anyone looking to work through the concerns and issues they are facing. I work with clients who experience difficulty with transitions, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. Enhancing communication skills and self-awareness are just two of many areas that I focus on with my clients. Additionally, I enjoy working with couples to help them realize that their contributions to the relationship could be both beneficial as well as damaging. With guidance, couples learn to understand that each of them plays a significant role in how the relationship moves forward. Lastly, I offer a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community.
With a more direct and caring approach, I encourage clients to look at the negative thoughts and behaviors that are affecting their lives. By presenting alternative points of view that reinforce positivity, clients begin to view themselves in a more confident way. I believe that everyone’s life can be enhanced by therapy and if clients are willing to put in the time and effort the rewards are immeasurable.
Joleen Hartland, M.S., LCPC, CADC
Pronouns: she/her/hers
My clients find me empowering and supportive. I strongly believe in the power of the human spirit and enjoy working with people to make the most of their strengths. These strengths can be anchors for people to lean on during tough and challenging moments within their lives. My client base is individuals, couples, and families. I work with clients who have issues with relationship building, depression, anxiety, and stress management. In addition, I have helped clients, family members or close friends that have loved ones who battle with addiction issues.
Hanifa Khan, M.A., LPC
Welcome! The decision to begin therapy can be a nerve-racking experience. People seek therapy for a multitude of reasons. It does not mean you are "crazy" or a weak person. Finding the right therapist can be a challenging process. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety or struggling in general, therapy can be a helpful outlet to talk about what's on your mind. In order to create a safe and comforting environment, connecting with your therapist is crucial. I recognize this need and uphold it in my work. I use an eclectic approach when working with clients. One size does not fit all. I have experience working with people from different backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with individuals and couples.
Fun Fact : I enjoy fashion and wearing trendy sneakers.
Jessica Krakowsky, M.A., LCPC, CCTP
I enjoy working with an array of clients that have experienced both major and minor setbacks. I can truly attest to experiencing my own setbacks in life. Often, these setbacks can be related to an abusive or a traumatizing experience. Not addressing these setbacks could lead to issues with self-confidence as well as possible unhealthy coping skills. As a therapist, I believe in providing a warm, safe, and understanding environment for my clients to process their thoughts and feelings. In this space, my clients can be heard and supported to work through life’s setbacks.
Fun Facts: I am a married mother of two who enjoys bicycling, reading, and traveling to new places.
Mary Leonhardt, M.A.. LCSW
Starting therapy can be quite intimidating for some people. So, I strive to create an environment for my clients to feel relaxed, safe and at ease. My therapeutic expertise lies in working with adolescents as well as young adults. Most of my clients have presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and feeling “stuck.” I see therapy as an avenue to explore, process and understand complex feelings. In working with my clients, I am supportive, empathic, humorous, and encouraging in helping them work through challenging moments within their lives. Also, I am a strong advocate for having self-care goals as an essential part to a client’s overall well being.
Fun Fact: I enjoy being outdoors and, in the sunshine, which helps me feel the light in life.
Nicole Ramel, M.A., LCPC
Hi there and thanks for stopping by! Yes, this is a picture of me on the website, so you know what I look like…why don’t you stay a minute and let me tell you a little about who I am. If you haven’t already figured out, I like to think of myself as a funny gal (I also perform in an improv group!) I like to incorporate humor into my therapeutic style, but I also enjoy challenging my clients and helping them see the bigger picture. My office is a judgment free zone. I like to think of my office as a place for you to unload and feel safe.
I am someone who likes to think outside the box and at times will bring this to session via music, coloring, or games. I also utilize therapeutic tools that inform you of what is going on with your mental health. I ask that you come with an open mind and be prepared to learn and grow with each session. I like to use meditation, visualization and other calming techniques aimed at helping reduce the symptoms that you may be struggling with. Therapy is a journey and a gift; allow yourself to fully embrace it.
Fun Facts: I enjoy puzzles and listening to podcasts while I work on them; my biggest puzzle is 5,000 pieces and is currently framed and hanging in my living room.
Terae Tatum, M.S., LCPC
Some of our life experiences can leave us feeling, stuck, depressed, alone, anxious, and overwhelmed. However, I believe we have the inherent ability to tap into our strengths to overcome obstacles and challenges that come our way. As your counselor, I believe in meeting you where you are at. We can begin with establishing a healthy partnership that will equip you to begin addressing as well as identifying some of your challenges. In working together, we will develop new skills and define strengths to empower you to live life on your own terms. Primarily, I work with adults and adolescents. I provide a safe and secure space to begin your healing and restoration. Past and present challenges can be replaced with your desires, confidence, and certainty. Our triumphs are within us and together we will find your victory/strengths and increase their functioning and well-being by recognizing and using their inherent strengths to achieve their personal goals.
Contact Information
Office Hours:
- Mon - Sat
- Appointment Only
- Sunday
- Closed
Payment Options:
We Accept Most Private Insurances
Business Locations
EVERGREEN PARK
Phone:
708-425-0310
Address: 9730 S. Western Avenue, Suite 335
Evergreen Park, IL, 60805