OUR CLINICIANS
Bank the Blue’s efforts are implemented in partnership with certified mental health providers who specialize in trauma therapy, crisis management, and evidence-based therapies that are oriented for the unique needs of first responders.
All clinicians are culturally competent and fully vetted to specialize in treatment strategies for first responders.
Maggie Clines, LPC
Athans & Associates
32 Main Street
Park Ridge, IL 60068
847-823-4444
Direct extension: x112
Maggie.e.clines@athansandassociates.net
www.athansandassociates.net
Offering in-person and telehealth sessions.
Maggie Clines, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor holding a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling, both obtained from DePaul University. She has specialized post graduate training both in post-traumatic and acute traumatic stress as well as first responder counseling. This training equips her to address prevalent issues first responders may deal with such as stress on the job, PTSD, depression, anxiety, marital issues and substance use. Maggie has further undergone rigorous training to become a certified first responder counselor, involving immersive experiences such as active participation in police ride-alongs. This hands-on approach reflects her commitment to gaining an in-depth understanding of the distinctive challenges and culture associated with first responders. Maggie is well-versed in evidence-based treatment strategies tailored specifically for first responders.
Drawing on personal connections with active and retired police officers and firefighters, Maggie possesses a unique insight into the experiences and challenges unique to these professions. This personal connection enhances her ability to empathize and tailor counseling approaches specifically to meet the needs of first responders. Maggie believes that therapy cannot occur without solid rapport and trust. Maggie utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy and narrative approaches as well as her sense of humor in sessions.
Maria Sciortino, LCPC
Provides individual and couples therapy and wellness visits.
Office for scheduling is 630-909-9094
Direct is 224-698-9320
Maria Sciortino, LCPC, has been working in behavioral health since 2015 and has extensive experience working with clients who have been involved in high-stress situations. She completed her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice) at Roosevelt University in 2019.
Her experience includes starting in supervised visitation to community mental health, residential, inpatient, and intensive outpatient treatment. Most recently she has engaged in research with the Minneapolis VA. Her training included working with veterans with substance use and their families. Her interest in working with first responders began when she was working with adolescents who had parents that were police officers and specifically helping them navigate life between work and home. In the last couple of years, she has been growing her caseload with clients who are active in the military, firefighters, police officers, various and other first responder roles.
Maria specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidenced-based approach that empowers individuals to identify and modify unhelpful thought patterns, leading to positive changes in behavior and emotions. Maria believes in fostering a genuine, non-judgmental space where you can freely explore situations that bring first responders to therapy. She works collaboratively to uncover your strengths and develop practical strategies to overcome obstacles. Maria is passionate about supporting first responders in mental health and wellness education.
Karen Holtzberg, LCSW
477 Butterfield Rd #408
Lombard, IL 60148
M-F 8 am to 4:30 pm 1-630-796-2961
Direct at 1-708-762-9767
After hours: 1-630-909-9094
info@firstresponderswellnesscenter.com
Karen Holtzberg has collaborated with Cook County, Chicago Police, and other local police and sheriff’s departments while being employed in community corrections for over 20 years. She appreciates first responder cultures and communities and has gained insight into the mental and physical tolls this line of work takes. Karen is a clinical therapist with the First Responders Wellness Center and is eager to assist in breaking down barriers that prevent first responders from prioritizing their own mental health or wellness.
Karen has received professional training in various fields including counseling psychology, criminal justice, and social work. Her clinical background consists of working with adult court mandates who require interventions that promote change by challenging an individual’s core belief system. Her work with clients utilizes evidenced-based practices that includes risk assessments, motivational interviewing, psycho-education, cognitive behavioral and trauma informed therapies and mindfulness. As a criminal justice social worker, Karen engages with clients to assess barriers that can hinder internal growth and resolve issues through coping and life skills development and case management. She has experience working with mood and personality disorders, partner and family violence, addictions, stress, relationships, conflict resolution, self-esteem, suicide, and grief. Currently, she continues to provide client, staff and student intern supervision while working in tandem with multiple community-based programs that provide services specifically for domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health, anger management and parenting. Karen is resourceful and creative in building rapport, establishing a sense of trust, and fostering a therapeutic relationship that focuses on increasing a client’s intrinsic motivation to make changes that will support a more productive and healthier lifestyle.
Karen graduated from Loyola University Chicago in 1996 with a Master’s in Social Work (MSW). She has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois since 2004. Her enthusiasm to deliver meaningful therapy comes from her own commitment to utilize professional development opportunities that supports her own on-going learning in an ever-changing climate. Karen attends multiple clinical trainings yearly while also serving as a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence and the Illinois Probation and Court Services Association.
Erik Engel, LCSW
Certifications: CISD (Critical Incident Stress Debriefing) and trained in Prolonged Exposure therapy
477 Butterfield Rd #408
Lombard, IL 60148
M-F 8 am to 4:30 pm 1-630-796-2961
Direct at 1-708-762-9767
After hours: 1-630-909-9094
info@firstresponderswellnesscenter.com
Erik Engel, LCSW, has been clinically counseling for over 25 years in a variety of treatment settings with various, traumatized populations. He has worked in therapeutic schools, hospitals, residential settings, aftercare community mental health centers, private practice, and military installations.
He is an Air Force Veteran from a military family with a sister who is a retired Colonel and World War II Army Veteran father. Engel received the Illinois Veteran’s Grant with which he earned two Masters degrees in Social Work and Art Therapy. He now speaks as a Department of Defense Cadre Speaker for the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program (YRRP). At YRRP Events he addresses various mental health topics with military service members and their families during Pre- and Post-Deployment. Previously, he was a Military and Family Life Counselor directly counseling veterans and their families. Currently, he is a therapist with the First Responders Wellness Center, counseling first responders and their families.
Engel was recently published as a co-author of “Virtual Termination amid COVID-19: Strategies for School Social Work Interns and Field Instructors,” found in the May, 2021, edition of Children & Schools. He supervises interns in his role as the school social worker of Willowbrook High School. While there he has received awards and recognition: 2015 CHICAGO BEARS & SYMETRA Classroom Hero Award; 2015 Illinois State Board of Education Award of Merit—Those Who Excel; 2015 Illinois Chapter of the National School Public Relations Association Distinguished Service Award; 2015 IL Interagency Committee on Employees with Disabilities Media Award (for Producing Disney’s High School Musical Jr, performed by students with disabilities). To serve the local community he volunteered by coordinating a PADS homeless shelter for 15 years and was named the ItascaCares.org 2018 Volunteer of the Year. He plans to continue to serve his community in the helping professions.
Lourdes Estrada, LMSW
Certifications: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
477 Butterfield Rd #408
Lombard, IL 60148
100 Tri State International Ste 260
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
1412 West Washington Blvd, 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60607
M-F 8 am to 4:30 pm 1-630-796-2961
Direct at 1-708-762-9767
After hours: 1-630-909-9094
info@firstresponderswellnesscenter.com
Lourdes (Lou) Estrada, LMSW is bilingual intern working towards her LCSW. Lou will be graduating May 2022. She provides Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Wellness Checks.
Lou retired from the Carol Stream Police Department in 2021 after a 28-year career. She has served as a CST, Evidence Technician, Translator, Field Training Officer, Cultural Diversity Trainer, and as a member of the Officer Wellness Committee. Lou was honored with the Humanitarian Service Award from the Village of Carol Stream. She has provided Spanish translation and interview and interrogation services to field court, hospitals, and other local and state law enforcement agencies. Lou’s work as an E.T. exposed her to traumatic experiences that have informed and enhanced her ability to assist clients in processing their own traumas. She continues to train in and specialize in trauma treatment.
Lou has immediate family in the fire department and medical fields. She brings expertise and insight into the first responder culture and a passion for supporting this population. Lou’s extensive experiences with first responders helps her connect with her clients in a genuine, committed, and supportive manner.
Carie Johnstone, LCSW
Certifications: Critical Incident and Stress Debriefing, CPT, DBT, CBT, Certified First Responder Counselor Certification, Certified Autism Specialist
450 E 22nd Street, Suite 158
Lombard, IL 60148
220 Channahon Street
Shorewood, IL 60404
(630) 474-3900 call or text
info@MadrigalConsultingandCounseling.com
Carie has been in the field of social work for the past 25 years. She has served in the capacities of crisis intervention, child and family welfare, community mental health, school social work, emergency responders, and special education. Her expertise is in behavioral health, foster and adoptive care, EAP services, family systems, divorce with children, LGBTQ+, academia, policy, PTSD, trauma with a focus on sexual related issues, and offers a faith-based approach. She serves children, adolescents, adults, and couples. Carie has been a university instructor for the past 14 years along with holding administration positions and offering consultative supports and services. She currently serves in a legislative appointment to the Illinois Community and Residential Services Authority (CRSA) which helps strengthen policy and supports for children and adolescents with behavioral health needs in Illinois and serves on the IL Adolescent Suicide Prevention Alliance (ISPA). Carie is also listed with the Illinois Gender Affirmed Clinicians Group and Blue HELP Illinois advocating for suicide prevention and supports for law enforcement and their families. Her mission in life is to support the healing journey of others so they can live a purposeful life.
Dr. Strand-Kolasa
Hinds & O’Brien Counseling, Consulting, & Psychotherapy (Chicago, IL), Goodman Psychologist Associates (Oakbrook, IL)
Dr. Sarah Strand-Kolasa, M.A., Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
477 E. Butterfield Rd Suite 408 Lombard IL 60148
Dr.Strand-Kolasa@firstresponderswellnesscenter.com
630-750-1530
Dr. Strand-Kolasa strives to offer a direct and client-centered approach to all therapy services using evidence-based therapeutic techniques focused on processing traumatic events, identifying negative cognitions that keep clients feeling stuck, and building resiliency. Dr. Strand-Kolasa first became interested in the field of psychology through her years of competitive sports performance, including softball as well as springboard and platform diving, which she did for over 15 years.
Tara M Hinds, LCPC
Hinds & O’Brien Counseling, Consulting, & Psychotherapy (Chicago, IL), Goodman Psychologist Associates (Oakbrook, IL)
Since 2006,Tara Hinds has worked in a variety of capacities in the field of behavioral health at almost all levels of care: inpatient, residential, outpatient, PHP, IOP, home-based, community-based, private practice, EAP, & CISD. She holds an undergraduate degree in voice and music therapy from Loyola University New Orleans and a masters degree from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. Areas of specialization and interest include trauma, DBT, eating disorders, life adjustment, first responders/ essential workers, and critical incident stress debriefing. She is passionate about suicide prevention and has completed the CRP training by Dr. Craig Bryan, PsyD through the American Association of Suicidology. She is currently completing her training cohort in PE (prolonged exposure therapy), an evidenced based treatment for PTSD through STRONG STAR Training Initiative.
She is a New Orleans native, a Beverly south-sider, a Saints fan, a mom, step-mom, and a spouse of a police officer who has been on the job for 20+ years. Several years ago, she and her husband (who is also a psychologist) began a private practice, with a particular focus on serving first responders and their families. She is also a part of Goodman Psychologist Associates, a group practice based in Oakbrook & St Charles, and a CISD contractor for Perspectives EAP, specifically serving on first-responder and essential worker call outs. She is available for telehealth appointments and in-person appointments at her Oakbrook location.
Cathy Palubicki, LCPC
Email: cathy@cmp-counseling.com
Phone: (312) 415-9014
Website: www.cmp-counseling.com
CMP Counseling, PLLC
3450 W. Maple St, 2nd Floor
Evergreen Park, IL 60805
Cathy Palubicki, LCPC, is the owner and therapist of CMP Counseling, PLLC. As the wife of a former Chicago Police Officer, she has observed firsthand the lasting impact the profession can have on both mental and physical well-being. Helping first responders, especially law enforcement officers, has become one of her main goals, which is why she opened her own private practice in February 2024. With extensive training and experience in working with police officers, coupled with her lived experience as the spouse of a Chicago cop, she is dedicated to creating an environment that provides a safe space for individuals to discuss their experiences without fear of judgment, while fostering trust throughout sessions.
Cathy graduated with her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2014. Her clinical experience and training include working with individuals, couples, and families within a group private practice setting, serving children, adolescents, and adults. She also has experience conducting group therapy in intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs. Her clinical areas of focus and interest include first responders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, attachment, the mind-body connection, stress management, and work-related issues.
Cathy is a trauma-informed therapist trained in EMDR. She incorporates various therapeutic approaches based on the needs and goals of her clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, Strengths-based, Person-Centered, Narrative, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Polyvagal, and Internal Family Systems. Cathy integrates an overall wellness model that emphasizes mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She provides education on the autonomic nervous system and the body’s response to stress and trauma.
Cathy is here to support you, equip you with skills and tools for emotional regulation and stress management, and assist you in achieving your goals. Privacy and confidentiality are paramount to her. For more information about Cathy, her therapy services, the approaches she provides, and resources for first responders, visit her website at www.cmp-counseling.com.
Your mental health is important!
Timothy J. O’Brien, PsyD, CADC
Hinds & O’Brien Counseling, Consulting, & Psychotherapy (Chicago, IL)
Dr. O’Brien has an undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois. After a varied early career path, he joined the Chicago Police Department in 2000. Dr. O’Brien is an FBI-trained hostage negotiator and experienced detective, specializing in child abuse and child sex cases. He earned masters degrees in Police Psychology and Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology (now “Adler University”). In 2013, he completed his doctorate in clinical psychology, with a dissertation centered around Marital Satisfaction and the Unique Challenges in Police Marriages. During internship, he worked in the Will County Health Department Forensics Section, with the offending population. A CADC, he completed his post-doc with the Gateway Foundation as well as in private practice.
While he continues to work full-time in law enforcement, he maintains an active private practice (part-time) on the southwest side of Chicago. He is licensed in Illinois, Arizona, and Indiana, and has provided services virtually for the last few years. He recently completed CRP training and has been volunteering with Haymarket Square on their trauma-informed retreats for Law Enforcement in the Chicagoland area. While a generalist, he focuses on the unique needs of first responders, substance use concerns, and marital issues in his clinical practice.
In his free time, he enjoys soccer, yoga, working out, and spending time with his spouse and children.
Dr. Terry McCormick, Clinical Psychology Fellow
Certifications: Train the Trainer in Trauma Informed Care, Critical Incident Debriefing,
Managing Officers Involved in a Shooting, Peer Support, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
600 S. Washington Street Suite 105
Naperville, IL 60540
9631 W. 153rd Street Suite 33
Orland Park, IL 60462
Tel: 630.206.4060
Dr. Terry McCormick is currently not accepting new patients
Dr. Terry McCormick has worked within the criminal justice system, both in the fields of law enforcement and clinical psychology, for nearly 30 years. A licensed clinical psychologist and certified mediator with a theoretical approach to treatment based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dr. McCormick is particularly passionate about addressing trauma in police officers and other first responders. Her focus is holistic in nature and promotes generating efficient coping skills to improve mental health and daily functioning in individuals suffering from PTSD, work-related trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, and depression.
Dr. McCormick earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Law Enforcement Administration from Western Illinois University, a Master’s of Science in 2003 from Lewis University and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in 2011, with concentrations in group psychotherapy and clinical hypnosis.
Dr. McCormick not only brings over a decade of experience in first responder trauma therapy, but also over 15 years of actual experience in law enforcement. She served as a Special Deputy U.S. Marshal for the United States Marshals Service for over two years before serving as a police officer for the Cook County Forest Preserve Police Department for 13 years.
Dr. Carrie Steiner, Psy.D, Owner/Clinical Psychologist, Retired Chicago Police Officer
Certifications: EMDRIA certified, CBT, International Trauma Specialist, New Developments in the Treatment of PTSD
Complex PTSD and Co-Occurring Disorders: Ways to Bolster Resilience.
477 Butterfield Rd #408
Lombard, IL 60148
100 Tri State International Ste 260
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
1412 West Washington Blvd, 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60607
Tel: 1-630-796-2961
(office hours: M-F 8 am to 4:30 pm)
1-630-909-9094 (after hours)
Carrie Steiner is a licensed clinical psychologist and is currently in private practice as a police and public service psychologist. As a psychologist, she conducts police, fire, and public safety psychological evaluations and independent medical evaluations for first responders as well as therapy, debriefings, and wellness checks. Dr. Steiner also provides expert testimony and training for first responders. She specializes in trauma therapy utilizing E.M.D.R., exposure, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Dr. Steiner started her doctoral studies at the Adler School of Professional Psychology and received her doctorate from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Steiner is a certified trauma professional and has a certificate for cognitive behavioral therapy. She is also a member of the Illinois Association Chiefs of Police (ILACP), International Chiefs of Police (ICAP), Society for Police and Public Service, American Psychological Association (APA), and APA, Division 18, Psychologists in Police and Public Safety Member, and Illinois Psychological Association. Dr. Steiner is also a clinical partner of the “Headstrong Project; to heal the hidden wounds of war.”
Dr. Steiner is a 13-year veteran Chicago Police Officer, Crisis Intervention Team Leader, Peer Support Member, and Chicago Police Academy Instructor. She worked in several specialized units including public housing, preventive programs, community policing, the police academy, and superintendent’s office. Dr. Steiner also has FBI hostage negotiation training and has worked with numerous government agencies on high-risk cases. While working for the Chicago Police Department, she spearheaded their Veteran CIT training and autism spectrum training for law enforcement. She helped develop three streaming videos on how officers can successfully identify and resolve encounters with people on the autism spectrum and other special needs. In 2006, she was awarded the Crisis Intervention Team Officer of the year, silver ribbon award from the National Alliance of Mentally Ill. In 2007, Dr. Steiner won the CIT officer of the year award from the International Crisis Intervention Team. In 2008, the city of Chicago honored her with the human relations award for her development and training of Chicago Police Officers on autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Steiner is also a presenter for Force Science Institute. She also received the distinguished service award from the Fraternal Order of Police after surviving a critical incident. Dr. Steiner has won several other national and local awards.
Dr. Steiner has worked as a psychologist for Cook County and Kane County Jails conducting forensic testing and therapy to adult and juvenile mentally ill inmates. She continues to provide forensic testing for inmates detained at Kane county and Kendall County jail. Dr. Steiner collaborates with members of the United States Marshals, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and the Federal Protective Services on high-risk cases. She has also provided specialized training to the Chicago Fire Department, OEMC Dispatcher and Call takers, United States Marshals Service, Chicago Public Library, Chicago Organization of Bar Investigators, Kane County Bar Association, and several other government, private and public agencies. She speaks national on mental illness and police response, de-escalation, first responder wellness and resiliency, crisis intervention, identifying mentally ill persons, suicide, Covid-19 and civil unrest resiliency, PTSD, DSM-5 and several other topics.
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