Crown Counseling Services


Meet Our Clinicians



DR. CATHLEEN AMADOR, PSYD, HSPP



Psychologist



Dr. Cathleen Amador has been working in the mental health field since 1975, and as a Clinical Psychologist HSPP since 2001. In addition to clinical supervision at Crown Counseling, she provides psychological testing including cognitive, personality and academic.



Naomi Knoerzer, LMHC, CSOTS



Clinical Director



Naomi has been a practicing therapist for 17 years. Her theoretical orientation is Trauma Informed, Client Centered and Interpersonal. She applies Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy to her practice. She is trained in Play Therapy and Sand Therapy. She is a certified sex offender treatment specialist.



JOHN TOIGO, MSW



Director of Domestic Violence Services
Anger Management Specialist



John has a Master's Degree in Social Work from Western New Mexico University with a certification in Rural Community Social Work. John is also state certified in Batterer Intervention Facilitation. He is a Nationally Accredited Anger Management Specialist. He has over 10 years in the field of social work and utilizes a CBT, solution focused approach in individual and group therapy for adults.



Maria Alvarado, MS, LMHC, NCC, CSAYC



Intern Supervisor
Therapist



Maria's theoretical orientation includes Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy. She integrates other modalities to meet clients' needs. She is a Credentialed Sexually Abusive Youth Clinician and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She is available for outpatient and home-based therapy.



Nicole Barreiro, MS, LMHC, NCC



Supervising Therapist
Therapist



Nicole specializes in trauma-informed therapy. She utilizes a variety of evidence based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Mindfulness Based Therapy. Nicole is also trained in Functional Family Therapy (FFT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).



Jacob Biancardi, LMHC, CSAYC, NCC



Supervising Therapist
Therapist



Jacob specializes in clinical assessments, parenting assessments, psychosexual assessments, and individual therapy for adolescents. He also holds a group therapy with adolescents with problematic sexual behavior and a support group for parents of adolescents with problematic sexual behavior. Jacob started his career in the mental health field working with adolescents in a residential environment. He has worked mostly with children and teens with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, and problematic sexual behavior. He specializes in working with adolescents with problematic sexual behaviors and has worked with this population since first becoming a therapist in 2016.



NATALIE LUKICH, MS, LMHC



Case Management Supervisor
​Therapist
LGBTQAI+ Program Coordinator



Natalie's theoretical base is Cognitive Behavioral, but she also utilizes Expressive Arts, for which she holds certification, and other methods of helping her clients. She is the founder and co-facilitator of an affirming support group, Pride Initiative, that provides support and education for the families, friends, and allies of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) community, as well as running therapeutic groups for the population. She lectures for the education for DCS workers, foster and adoptive resource parents, and social service providers in the area of LGBTQ youth.



TINA GLINSKI, LBSW



Case Management Supervisor
Intern Task Instructor
Case Manager



Tina has experience working with adolescents in a residential setting, domestic violence, children with Autism spectrum disorder and mental health with adults. She has completed Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) training. Tina specializes in working with children on behaviors and mental health.



Adam johnson



Therapist



Adam graduated from Valparaiso University in August of 2023 with his Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. He has been an intern therapist with Crown Counseling since May of 2022. Adam provides both individual and group therapy sessions and specializes in working with teens, adults, addiction, anxiety, and depression. His theoretical orientation is focused in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.



ALYSSA WAGNER



Intern Therapist



Alyssa graduated from Purdue University Northwest with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She is currently a MSEd LMHC candidate enrolled at Purdue University Northwest. Her professional goal is to utilize her training and knowledge to work hands-on with children and adolescents. One of her passions includes the incorporation of expressive arts therapy into her practice in order to assist clients with the releasing of their thoughts and feelings, so the healing process can begin.



AMANDA MCGOLDRICK, MS ED., CMHC



Therapist



Amanda graduated from Purdue University Northwest in December 2020 with her master's in Mental Health Counseling. Her theoretical orientation is focused in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existentialism and a Psychodynamic approach. She specializes in a client-focused approach and empowerment with clients to help shape the client’s value and self-worth. Amanda’s areas of interest include trauma, behavior and disruptive disorders, depression and anxiety.



AMY DEL TURCO, MS, LMHC, NCC



Therapist



Amy graduated from Purdue University in 2015 with her Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling and Certification in Addictions Counseling. Amy specializes in trauma using EMDR therapy and is trained in Exposure Relapse and Prevention Therapy for OCD. Amy's theoretical orientation is Gestalt Therapy with a focus on Mindfulness techniques and helps clients that suffer from anxiety and depression by using meditative practices and focusing on a here and now approach in therapy. She is passionate about anxiety and trauma, but generally treats most issues. She uses an integrative approach when working with individuals to meet them where they are. She is available for telehealth outpatient services.



ANNA Akan



Therapist



Bio coming soon.



ANGELA CRAIG, MED, MSW



Therapist



Angela works with both adolescents and adults. Her therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Strengths-Based, and Mindfulness. Angela has experience helping those who suffer from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, shame, and psychological and emotional abuse. She is available for outpatient sessions during the evenings and on Saturdays.



ARIANNA Mele, MSW, LSW



Therapist



Arianna graduated from Indiana University Northwest with her master's in Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health and Addictions in 2019. She has an extensive history with social services providing agency and home-based therapy to adolescents and adults. Arianna has worked with substance use, trauma, mental health, anxiety, depression, self-harm and low self-esteem. Her therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Strengths-Based Therapy, and Mindfulness.



Bonnie Thompson-Ford, ma



Therapist



Bonnie obtained her Master's degree in Counseling from Chicago State. Bonnie has been in practice for over 15 years, working with both individuals and families of all ages. She prefers a cognitive behavioral approach with a focus on utilizing the client's inner strength to achieve their desired goals.



CARRIE MASON, MSW, LCSW



Therapist



Carrie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who's approach consists of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Strengths Based Therapy, as well as utilizing mindfulness and guided imagery. Carrie has experience in working with children, adults and the senior population and specializes in depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues.​



CHELSEY STINNETT, MA, LMHCA



Therapist



Chelsey is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who graduated with her degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2020. Chelsey specializes in working with children, adolescents, and domestic violence survivors however, she enjoys working with clients of any age. Chelsey’s uses a client centered humanistic approach to therapy, catering to the individual client’s needs while drawing from dialectical behavioral and emotion focused therapies. Chelsey also enjoys art therapy techniques, specifically while working with children. Chelsey is available for school-based therapy as well as in-office therapy as needed.



CHris Lambert, MSW, LSW



Therapist



Chris graduated from Indiana University, Bloomington in 2016 with his Bachelor's in Social Work. he then graduated from Indiana University Northwest in 2020 with his Master's in Social Work with a specialization of mental health and addictions. He has spent 8 years working in Child Welfare with the last 3 years as a therapist. He has worked with clients from all ages and backgrounds.



CHRISTINE CASTRO, MSED, NCC, LMHC



Therapist



Chris graduated from Purdue University with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Chris has experience working with all ages but focuses on working with younger children (ages 3-13). Chris’ areas of interest include trauma, disruptive behaviors, behavioral modification and learning difficulties. She uses an interactive Cognitive Behavioral and Trauma based approach to meet the client and family where they are at.



Clarita Mabon



Intern Therapist



Bio coming soon.



danielle kmiec



Intern Therapist



Danielle graduated from Purdue University with her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, and she is currently an MSW student at Indiana University specializing in mental health and addictions. She has experience in nonviolent crisis intervention and has worked with domestic violence survivors and individuals with substance use disorder. She utilizes a trauma-focused approach as well as cognitive behavioral therapy, and she is interested in seeing clients of all backgrounds. She is also QPR certified: Question, Persuade Refer Suicide Prevention.



Danielle Lannan, MSW, LSW



Therapist



Theresa received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology through Purdue University Northwest. She is currently an MSEd LMHC candidate also at Purdue University Northwest. She is also pursuing art therapy certification. Her professional goal is to work with adolescents and young adults in both group and individual settings. Her areas of specialization include: childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-exploration.



Dionna Warren



Intern Therapist



Dionna worked as a parent educator/home visitor at Mental Health America for 3 years. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Indiana University Northwest. She has previously worked as a career advisor at Work One. Dionna currently works as a Team Lead Health Educator at A Positive Approach to Teen Health. She is currently enrolled at Indiana University South Bend in the Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. She is expected to graduate in August 2024.



FAITH HAYES, LMHCA



Therapist



Faith is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and has worked in the counseling field since 2008. Faith specializes in working with children and adolescents but enjoys working with all populations. Faith's therapeutic approach is tailored to meet the needs of the individual and draws from a combination of cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, and trauma informed therapies. Faith also utilizes play, art and narrative approaches. Faith is available for home-based, office and school therapy.



Griffin Rhyne



Intern Therapist



Griffin graduated from Purdue University Northwest with a bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts focused in Behavioral Science and Sociology. He is a master's candidate in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at Adams State University.. Griffin has been working in the mental health field since 2019.


HANNA TOKOLY



Therapist



Hanna graduated from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 2014 and is currently pursuing her master's of Social Work from Indiana University Northwest. Hanna was a third grade teacher for five years, where she found her passion for working with children and adolescents who struggle with mental health. Her objective is to provide a calm environment in which clients feel safe and comfortable through their therapeutic journey. Hanna utilizes a client-centered approach, solution focused goal setting, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as her therapeutic framework. She is available for outpatient therapy.



Jaquise Whitehead



Therapist



Jaquise has experience working with children and adolescents in schools, residential, day treatment and child services settings. She has experience working with clients who have experienced domestic violence. Jaquise focuses on meeting clients where they are and utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and strongly believes in empowering clients. She is currently seeing clients age 10 and older.



JAMIE DEVRIES, LPC



"It's Not About the Food" Program Facilitator
Therapist



Jamie's theoretical approach includes Client Centered, Solution Focused, and Trauma Informed therapies She has over 8 years of experience in the residential treatment setting, treating adolescent girls and women that struggle with eating disorders, substance abuse, mood disorders, trauma and self harming behaviors. She utilizes a holistic approach incorporating Mindfulness to meet clients where they are and help them to work towards realizing their meaningful life. She is available for office and home-based therapy.



JENNIFER TSILIMOS MSED, LMHCA, NCC



Therapist



Jennifer graduated from Purdue University's Clinical Mental Health Program with a master's degree and received a certificate in addictions counseling. Jennifer uses a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach in her practice and is available for outpatient and home-based services.



JEREMY WIRTZ, MS



Therapist



Jeremy’s theoretical foundations are reality and choice based, but he also employs constructivism and narrative therapy in his approach. These theories work in combination to help a client' convey their own reality or personal narrative so as to more efficiently establish and achieve accurate treatment goals. As a former Marine and National Park Ranger, he understands the more regimented lifestyles, and sub-cultural challenges of first responders, active duty military, and veterans. He also enjoys employing softer, creative interventions like poetry, song writing, and art to help a client tell their story. Jeremy studied advanced play therapy, and has worked with children from ages 3 and up. He believes that play therapy is not just for the young but for anyone, especially our aging community, and beyond! He is a certified Life Coach and also holds a certification in Mediation and Conflict Resolution from the Center for Conflict Resolution. Jeremy has a service dog named Belleau who is a standard poodle. Belleau is working to get his therapy dog certification and will be joining you for sessions with your permission of course!.​



JESSICA DEBOER, MA, LMHC



Therapist



Jessica has been working with children, adolescents, and families since 2014 in inpatient and outpatient settings. She has experience working with children and teens, in residential and home-based settings, addressing self-harm, trauma, anger, aggression, defiance, depression, and anxiety. Her approach consists of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Trauma-Focused CBT.



JESSICA SChultz, MSED, NCC



Therapist



Jessica's theoretical orientation is person-centered and existentialism. She graduated in 2018 from Purdue Northwest with her Master of Science in Education. She has worked with children and teens in a residential setting and as a school counselor. She has experience working with college students and enjoys having young adult clients. She is available for in-office and virtual therapy.



JONATHAN VANDERVLUGT, MA



Therapist



Johnathan received his Master's of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Adler University in 2014. His therapeutic style is grounded in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solutions-Focused theories. He believes in an integrative approach to therapeutic interventions specifically designed for the individual. As such, Johnathan incorporates therapeutic techniques including, but not limited to Cognitive Behavior, Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, Narrative, Strengths-Based, and Experiential therapies. He strives to create a calm and safe atmosphere in which clients feel comfortable sharing their stories. He is experienced in outpatient settings, facilitating individual and group sessions.



JOrdan de laurentis



Intern Therapist



Jordan graduated from Purdue Northwest in 2020 with a Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology. She is currently a master's level intern within the School of Social Work at Indiana University Northwest. Jordan's professional goal is to work with individuals, couples, and families to better themselves and assist them in achieving their own personal goals. Her therapeutic approach consists of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-Based Approach, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. Outside of the office, Jordan loves to read books, spend time with her three dogs, clean, and enjoy company from her friends and family.



JOSE NEGRETE, MSW



Therapist



Jose Negrete, MSW, graduated from Indiana University Northwest in 2018. Since his graduation, he has endured several life challenges and has been dealing with a personal illness. Through his challenges, he believes he is in the best part of his life. Jose shares his knowledge gained through his experiences in order to relate to clients. Jose enjoys working with clients from all walks of life. He also enjoys working with clients who are looking to make positive changes in their lives. Jose has experience working with clients in the following areas: anxiety, major depression, trauma, couples counseling, family therapy, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional-defiant disorder (ODD), substance abuse, and LGBTQIA+ issues. He specializes in working with children with anxiety, depression, and trauma issues. Jose considers his treatment approach to be eclectic and tailor evidence-based plans to meet the needs of clients. He draws on elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Informed Care, and Mindfulness Therapy.



KATIE EICH, MA, LMHC



Therapist



LMHC and Reiki Master Practitioner: Katie specializes in play therapy, sand tray therapy, EMDR, and Reiki (energy work) and currently works with clients from ages 5 - young adulthood, and working with issues surrounding trauma, anxiety, and depression. She is trained in Play Therapy, Sand Therapy, EMDR, as well as Equine Therapy, and since 2020 has had her Reiki Master certification. Her theoretical orientation is client centered, interpersonal, and solution focused.



KERRY KNOWLES, MHS



Therapist



Kerry provides an eclectic approach to therapy including, but not limited to, Humanistic, Mindfulness, Experiential, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy. She believes that using an integrated holistic approach facilitates meeting clients where they are and in achieving their personal goals. She provides useful tools in treatment that her clients can integrate into their daily lives. Her objective is to provide a calming environment in which clients feel safe and comfortable in their therapeutic journey. Kerry also has past experience running Intensive Outpatient groups and in residential facilities. She is available for outpatient, home-based, and school-based settings.



LAKESHIA PERSON, MSW



Therapist



Lakeshia graduated from IU Northwest with a Master's of Social Work. Lakeshia uses strength based, cognitive behavioral therapy, gestalt, client centered, and mindfulness. She has experience in play therapy and sand tray therapy in addition to working with clients who have experienced domestic violence. Lakeshia tends to meet the client where they are at without judgment as each client's situation is unique. Lakeshia sees child and adult clients.



LARIA A. CREWS, MSW



Therapist



LaRia matriculated her bachelor's degree from Purdue University Calumet in 2011 and her MSW at Indiana University Northwest in 2014. LaRia has a strong sense of family and community. LaRia’s motto is “meet you in your now to get you to your not yet”. She is also currently seeking certification in Play Therapy and Sand Therapy. LaRia uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a focus on Strengths-Based Perspective. She is available for office and home-based sessions.



LETICIA GARFIO, LMHCA



Therapist



Leticia is a Master’s level counselor in training in the Clinical Mental Health Program at Purdue University. She is passionate about helping her clients explore and reach their goals. She aims to create a safe space for them and uses a holistic approach towards their healing process. Leticia is also a musician, artist, and speaks fluent Spanish. Leticia is available for outpatient therapy and works with children, teenagers and adults.



LOIS JACKSON-MILES, MSW, LSW



Therapist



Lois has over 20 years experience in outpatient and school based settings. She received training at Rush Presbyterian St. Lukes Hospital in Chicago in the child psychiatric unit. Her theoretical orientation is Cognitive Behavioral therapy utilizing Mindfulness techniques.



Maria reyes



Therapist



Maria graduated from Valparaiso University with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Maria uses integrated approaches of client-center, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution focus, and emotion focus therapy. Maria has a concentration in trauma and will meet her clients at the level of care they are at. Maria is also bilingual and thrives in helping individuals and the community.



Michelle Albright



Therapist



Michelle is a Master's level therapist who graduated from Indiana University's School of Social Work. Prior to pursuing her MSW, Michelle taught in the Duneland School Corporation. Michelle utilizes a holistic, strengths-based approach to help clients achieve their therapeutic goals.



Patricia Lawson, MSW



Therapist



Patricia is a seasoned therapist with many years of experience working with clients of all ages. She works in an in-home therapeutic role as well as providing parent education, supervised visitation and casework services.



Ruta Zamitis



Therapist



Bio coming soon.



SARAH PANCINI, MSW



Therapist



Sarah attended Indiana University Northwest and graduated from their Master’s of Social Work program in 2023. Sarah uses a person-centered approach when working with her clients. Her goal is to help individuals through their struggles utilizing a holistic approach through practices and techniques that include trauma informed care, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness practices



SARAH Strebbing



Intern Therapist



Sarah graduated from Winona State University in 2014 with a bachelor's degree in social work. She is currently a Master's level intern therapist enrolled at Indiana University's Master's of Social Work program. She has worked as a licensed social worker for 9 years. Sarah has experience with children, families, and the geriatric population.



SAmantha bailey



Intern Therapist



Samantha is a master's level intern at Crown Counseling as of August 14, 2023. They graduated from Ivy Tech with an A.S in Human Services in 2020. They furthered their education by completing a Bachelor of Social Work at Indiana University. They are currently working on their Master's at Indiana Wesleyan University. Their career goal is to help people navigate the gray in what can seem a very black and white world.



SHANNON POLEZOES, LMFT



Therapist



Shannon completed the Marriage and Family Therapy master's program at Purdue University in 2017. She received her professional license in 2021. She has over 5,000 hours in the treatment room with children, couples, families and individuals. She utilizes Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Systemic Family Therapy and a hope-based approach. She offers Christian-based and spiritual counseling services.



SHANNON SWANEY, MA, LMHC



Therapist



Shannon joined Crown Counseling in 2014 where she provides outpatient therapy to children adolescents and adults through individual couples/marital and family therapy. Her areas of specialty include depression anxiety anger management trauma domestic violence self-harm eating disorders behavioral disorders ADHD adolescent issues grief parenting adoption life transitions divorce and women issues. Ms. Swaney implements a client-centered, strength-based approach and utilizes various clinical techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Motivational Interview Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Play and Expressive Therapies.



SHAron Parker



Therapist



Sharon graduated from Indiana University Northwest with a Master's Degree in Social Work. She has experience in working with youth and adult clients, and really enjoys working with both age groups. Sharon uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but will implement the therapy that is beneficial and also meets the needs of the client.



STEPHANIE SONS, MSW, LSWT



Therapist



Stephanie received her bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Behavioral Health from Grace College. She studied at Indiana University Northwest and completed her master's degree in Social Work with a concentration in school therapy. Stephanie has worked with DCS and juvenile probation cases since 2011. She has been working in the schools as of 2021. She enjoys working with children and adolescents as well as families.



tiffany sabal, LSW



Therapist



Tiffany graduated from the Master’s of Social work program at Governors State University. Prior to becoming a therapist, Tiffany was a middle school teacher for several years. She has experience working with both children and adults, but her primary focus is working with children. She utilizes a strengths-based approach while working with clients and utilizes numerous evidenced based therapies such as CBT, TF-CBT, narrative therapy, and mindfulness. Tiffany's areas of specialization include: anxiety, phobias, depression, and trauma.



Vanessa laroche



Intern Therapist



Vanessa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from Stonehill College. She is trained in level one Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Vanessa is currently a masters level therapist in-training enrolled in the couples and family therapy program at Purdue University Northwest. She specializes in couples, families, and individuals. She utilizes solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and systemic family therapy.



WEN DEE ANDERSON, MSW, LCSW



Therapist



Wen Dee takes a Client-Centered and Strengths-Based approach to therapeutic relationships. She works collaboratively with each client on treatment goals to achieve a healthy life balance. Wen Dee utilizes an eclectic approach, extracting points from various evidence based therapies including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Narrative therapy, Strengths-Based therapy, and Mindfulness. She believes in the power of vulnerability and will advocate for her clients to see themselves in a positive light by offering hope and guidance in addressing and resolving problems they are experiencing.



ZacH Pflaum, LMHCA



Therapist



Zach graduated from Purdue Northwest in 2022 with his master's degree in mental health counseling. Zach specializes in working with male clients of all ages, but is open to working with anyone who trying to improve their lives. Zach's theoretical orientation focuses on logotherapy, mindfulness techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy.





Crown Point (Primary) Location:
1308 N. Main St. Crown Point, IN 46307

Hammond (Secondary) Location:
7025 Indianapolis Blvd. Hammond, IN 46324


Call Us
crowncounselingservices@yahoo.com

Crown Counseling Services