Our Clinical Staff

Dr. Aimee Koerner-Frank, PsyD

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Naperville Office; Teletherapy

Over the past 20 years, I have provided effective therapeutic counseling services to a broad range of individuals. I graduated from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in 2002 earning a doctorate degree in psychology. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I utilize a caring nonjudgmental client-centered approach. My practice includes individual, family, and group therapy helping children, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with anxiety and mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactive disorders, and sensory integration disorder. I also specialize in helping individuals address relationship issues, divorce, and grief/loss. I’m passionate about addressing the intellectual, behavioral, and emotional needs of individuals with disabilities, giftedness, “twice gifted,” and those that require home-based services.

When working with children and adolescents it is important to address the “well-being of the entire family” to ensure support for all family members. As a result, treatment goals may include developing parenting strategies, addressing homework/school refusal, creating discipline and routines, and managing challenging behaviors such as noncompliance, bedtime issues, and/or toileting concerns (e.g., encopresis, enuresis). Other therapeutic goals may also include understanding and managing gaming addictions and substance use such as “vaping.”

It is my view that parents are “the expert of their child;” however, we can often feel overwhelmed and underprepared. Throughout this journey, many parents experience worries and fears about their child’s current needs as well as their future. As a parent of children with dynamic educational and emotional needs, I have a unique perspective in understanding the joys and challenges of addressing a child’s ongoing needs. I work closely with families and school districts to address the educational and emotional needs of children and adolescents. It is my goal to help ensure that each child obtains the appropriate educational services that best meet their needs.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Moose Frank

Emotional Support Dog-In-Training
Naperville; Teletherapy

Moose Frank will be pursuing his training through WoofBeach Shore Professional Dog Services in Wheaton, IL. He is a great addition to the Vine Counseling Center team with his calm nature, adorably sweet face, incredible ability to zoom, strong dedication to snoozing, and extreme attention to detail (especially if it’s food related or something that shouldn’t be food, but he thinks it is). Moose accepted his lifelong position as a Good Boy with the Frank Family and Chief Canine Officer with the Vine Counseling Center team on October 10, 2022.

When Moose’s training is complete, his presence will provide comfort to individuals coping with the challenges associated with emotional and mental health conditions.

Maddie Alvaro, MA

Licensed Professional Counselor
Palatine Office; Teletherapy

I obtained my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wheaton College, with a specialization in trauma. My practice includes work with children, adolescents, and adults related to issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, sexuality, relational stress, identity, religion, and existential despair. I have experience working with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, mood dysregulation, trauma responses, adverse childhood experiences, sexuality, gender, youths exhibiting sexualized symptoms, painful life transitions, and strained family relationships. In addition, I have completed research centered around sexual and gender identity with specific attention to distress within familial and religious contexts.

I believe that effective child therapy requires engagement with the child’s family system and other systems related to their daily life and functioning. I have a collaborative approach to child therapy and believe in creativity and play as primary components of expression in the therapeutic process.

In working with adults, I am interested in delving into concerns of relational health, religious trauma, sexuality, and the impacts of society and systems on an individual. I work from a relational, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and culturally sensitive framework. I build from a CBT and client-centered approach to therapy while being attentive to the impact of the past as it relates to current issues.

I aim to foster an environment of safety, creativity, and collaboration where individuals can feel empowered to grow and flourish

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Heather Blanck, MS

Licenced Professional Counselor/Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor
Downers Grove; Teletherapy

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor (CADC) with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from National Louis University. I have extensive experience working with individuals and their families affected by substance abuse. I also enjoy working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, guilt, shame, relationship issues, parenting issues, codependency, and coping with loss.

I use an eclectic treatment model, including behavior-based therapies and motivational interviewing, to help clients discover new ways of thinking. I have the ability to help clients quickly feel comfortable using a warm and engaging approach. I also don’t shy away from using humor when it’s appropriate in a session.

I believe that every person’s journey is unique and shaped by life experiences that are frequently outside of one’s control. I also recognize that a person’s relationships and experiences directly correlate with how one thinks, acts, or feels, and I work to understand and treat the whole person based on these ideas. I believe that the ultimate goal of therapy is to work together to help my clients build confidence in their abilities to make decisions that help create more meaningful and productive lives.

I primarily work to support individuals ages 18+. I offer both daytime and evening appointments in the office as well as via a HIPAA compliant telehealth platform. I consider it a privilege to work with each client who confides in me and welcome the opportunity to meet you to determine if we are a good fit to work together.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Karyn Byrne, MS (Graduating June 2023)

Student Intern
Naperville; Teletherapy

I am a professional counselor with a passion for helping individuals rediscover a sense of purpose and identity during life transitions. I will graduate with my Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from National Louis University in June 2023. I specialize in supporting individuals process the unique challenges associated with change and transitional periods, such as those related to postpartum, loss, menopause, health conditions, weight loss, or weight gain. I understand that these transitions can be complex and overwhelming, and that often change is a catalyst for past traumas to surface. I am here to provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate them with resilience and empowerment.

My counseling approach is holistic and integrative, incorporating evidence-based techniques from various therapeutic modalities to meet your unique needs and goals. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and concerns. Together, we will work collaboratively to help you gain insights, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience to thrive during these transformative life transitions. I also help clients explore the impact of these changes on their sense of self and provide strategies for embracing and redefining self-concept and identity.

If you are ready to embark on a journey of self-exploration, growth, and empowerment, I would be honored to accompany you. I am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for individuals of all backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, and identities.

Kim Cho, MS

Licensed Professional Counselor
Downers Grove; Naperville; Teletherapy

I have experience with a variety of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD and a variety of personality disorders. I also have a vast variety of experience in teaching and helping clients apply learned coping skills that can be used daily in your life. I have extensive counseling experience gained within an adult partial hospital outpatient program, including individual, group, family and couples therapy. Additionally, I have experience with clinical mental health treatment plans, teaching a variety of coping skills, researching additional counseling resources and helping connect clients with 12-step recovery programs. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from National Louis University.

As a therapist, I utilize a variety of therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), solution-focused brief therapy, narrative therapy, reality therapy and existential therapy. My therapeutic experience thus far has shown that I am adaptable and flexible in helping you determine what counseling style works best for you. Simply put, my passion is helping others and I am here to help you. I believe that the therapeutic relationship between the client and the therapist is the most valuable part of the therapy experience and that will also be an important component in the success of treatment.

My counseling approach is very person-centered, with a sincere and genuine focus on my clients. My plan is always to meet you where you are at regarding what you are ready to address in therapy, however, I will add that I am not afraid to positively challenge my clients to dig deeper if their potential is not being reached. For those of us that can relate to feeling “stuck,” my style is focused on helping you get “unstuck” by utilizing authenticity, empathy, compassion, trust and honesty during sessions. Movement in therapy is often difficult until we are uncomfortable enough to move and I am here to help you navigate that process.

I highly believe in the value and importance of self-care and making time for yourself. In my spare time, I enjoy running, cycling, reading, being outside, watching movies/tv series and spending time with friends, family, my husband, and my cat, Turbo.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Nicole Diaz, MA

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Palatine Office; Teletherapy

My passion is helping individuals of all ages, who identify and build on personal strengths in order to make positive changes in their lives. I believe that people begin to grow, as well as heal, when they truly feel heard and supported. Using an empathetic, holistic, and non-judgmental approach to therapy I work with my clients to understand who they are now and who they wish to become.

I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment disorders, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, sexual identity, parenting stress, family conflict, and communication issues. I utilize a variety of techniques from: Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Systems Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness. My Master’s degree is in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University.

I am multicultural, sensitive and knowledgeable in diverse populations. I work to advocate and provide services to minority populations such as individuals with disabilities, women and related issues, racial/ethnic related issues, and LGBTQAI+ community members.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Jim Frank, MA

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Naperville Office; Teletherapy

I am a mental health professional with over 20 years of experience working with individuals of all ages. My expertise lies in treating a wide range of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and complex trauma. I have also worked extensively with individuals who struggle with addiction, as well as those whose lives have been impacted by addiction.

In addition to my clinical work, I have spent a number of years leading wilderness trips, working for Habitat for Humanity, and working at an inpatient hospital program to hone my therapeutic skills. This diverse background has helped me develop a non-judgmental and eclectic approach to therapy, allowing me and my clients to explore the best options for treatment.

As a parent of two children with differing needs myself, I am also well-equipped to support special needs parents through their own complex journey. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, gain insight into their behaviors, and develop new strategies for coping and healing.

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Jennifer Inserro, MSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Naperville Office; Teletherapy

I am a big believer in people knowing their strengths and values. When clients understand their strengths, those strengths become an integral part of the healing process. When clients understand their values, they can create a vision for how they want to live. In my practice, I use strengths-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I primarily work with adults who are learning to manage anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders as well as grief and loss, relationship issues and life transitions (e.g., to a new career). “Nothing changes, if nothing changes” is a quote that speaks to me. What excites me is the opportunity to work with clients who are learning to embrace change and developing a growth mindset toward life.

I have always had a passion for social justice and coaching people to explore their strengths. Working in a partial hospitalization program allowed me to develop skills in helping clients stabilize their mental health through a combination of individual and group therapy, combined with skill-building through psychoeducation. I also worked for a community-based agency where I gained extensive training and experience working with clients who were dealing with the trauma of domestic abuse. I am knowledgeable about programs offered in the western suburbs that can assist clients with a variety of needs. I hold two master’s degrees: one in social work from Aurora University and one in Public Service Management from DePaul University. Prior to becoming a licensed social worker, I worked for 20+ years in various corporate positions.

I am blessed to have a loving husband and three children in my life. I volunteer as a mentor for Bridge Communities, a program that provides stable housing, as well as at my church. In the past I was a licensed foster parent in the state of Illinois.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Michelle Lemrise, MSW

Licensed Social Worker
North Aurora; Teletherapy

I have experience working with a variety of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, eating disorders/disordered eating, binge eating disorder, anorexia, bulimia, and ARFID as well as supporting individuals through major life transitions such as divorce. As a result of my extensive experience working in a variety of mental health settings, I have developed the knowledge and skills necessary to support people addressing their difficult and often complex challenges. I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master of Social Work degree from Aurora University.

My clinical practice uses a variety of behavior based modalities to best fit the person and the struggles they are working to overcome. I am compassionate and understanding of the challenges we face in life. I bring that compassion to my sessions which enables people to feel comfortable and at ease quickly.

Everyone’s journey is different and I understand that and will work with you towards achieving your goals at your own pace.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Danny Living, MSW

Licensed Social Worker
Teletherapy

My therapeutic practice focuses on trauma therapy, addiction, mindfulness, creative visualization, meditation, and self-acceptance. I have a Master of Social Work from Aurora University, and am a certified Rapid Resolution Therapist.

My Vine Counseling Center practice includes limited weekend appointments for those looking for help with chronic “stuckness” from patterns stemming from trauma which thinking about or talking about hasn’t helped. Read more about the process below. The two-hour sessions are conducted in-person and incorporate the healing tones of the Tibetan singing bowl, which helps relax the body and mind and deepen and solidify insights and shifts during and after the session. Sound has been proven to enhance learning, concentration, and mental and physical health, creating a rich, powerful experience.

Does It feel like there’s a pattern? Sometimes, thinking and talking about your story or stories hasn’t worked to shift the beliefs and conclusions about the self and how the world seems to work. Do you have a sense of being stuck or a belief that “this or things like this keep happening to me?” Have related experiences/patterns reinforced the fears? Is the “sound” of your mind and “vibe” from the thinking and feeling negative, like a complaint or lament? Has talking about it not changed anything?

Stories have themes and themes are the belief templates like, “There’s something wrong with me,” “I’m not good enough,” “I’m a bad person,” “When I trust people, they hurt me,” “I don’t fit in,” “Nobody loves me,” “I’m a failure,” etc., and attached “feeling” signature(s) like, guilt, shame, anger, sadness.

Once the template and emotional signatures are identified and cleared, it impacts related stories and there’s no need to clear each story individually if there’s an underlying pattern, theme, or conclusion about the self that the stories reinforce like, “I’m a failure,” or “people always hurt me” — conclusions that are absolutes or generalizations, but are based on a few experiences.

To help, I use a process called Pattern Reflection Therapy (PRT) which is based on the principles of MRT (Memory Reconsolidation Therapy), but eliminates the pain of retelling stories, the need for holding back stories too painful to tell or “leaving other stories on the table” at the end of the session. PRT addresses patterns—patterns in the past and their “meaning.” PRT uses your intellectual curiosity and imagination to discover patterns, their origins, and eliminate limiting beliefs attached to them and can leave you feeling lighter, calmer, and clearer in as little as one session.

Each day, it is my hope that my work will help others and honor the gifts that my interests, passion, and experience has given me.

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Mimi Seversen, MA

Licensed Professional Counselor
Palatine Office; Teletherapy

I see clients from a wide array of backgrounds dealing with various issues that have taken a toll on their ability to cope with life’s challenges. My prior experiences have engaged mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar, challenges regarding health and individuation within family systems, as well as experiences of trauma, violence and abuse. I’ve been honored to sit with people who carry the uniquely isolating weight of being in relationships or in families where alcoholism is present.

Much of my work is with immigrant parents and children of immigrants navigating traditional values and modern realities, with individuals in cross-cultural and socioeconomically-diverse relationships, those experiencing visa/legal stress and who may resonate with the feeling of being a foreigner in their own land. I have worked extensively with refugees, immigrants, displaced persons and asylum seekers in the US and Southeast Asia, many of whom have experienced multiple forms of past and present traumas including political torture and forced migration. I obtained my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wheaton College. I also hold certificates in trauma from Harvard’s Refugee Trauma Program, The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, and Wheaton College.

My therapeutic style is grounded in concerns of justice. It is relational, non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, and solution-focused through a narrative lens (meaning, we will together explore the nuance and depth of your story and let it inform our collaborative work towards change). I love walking with folks through the muck of dismantling shame’s power, and who as a result, make room to honor desire and growth. I will join with you in holding curiosity for your various identity intersections (racial, ethnic, gender, sexuality) and life experience. My space is LGBTQAI+ friendly, and I welcome people across the lifespan. If this resonates with you, please feel free to reach out to coordinate a first session.

Pronouns: She/Her/Ella

Yula Sung, MSW

Licensed Social Worker, Rapid Resolution Therapist
Naperville Office; Teletherapy

As a therapist, I focus on creating a collaborative and goal-oriented space to work through life’s challenges. I enjoy working with individuals to build up self-awareness, their strengths, and developing effective ways to cope with stressful events. My areas of expertise are working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, whether they are seeking personal growth or are in need of support through a difficult time.

Together, we will identify and transform the patterns, thoughts, and behaviors that are no longer working in your life. My treatment style fosters unconditional acceptance in a non-judgmental way. I approach therapy from a person-centered lens, and allow you space to share what you are ready to address as a trauma informed therapist.

I welcome clients and families of all cultures, religions, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Ball State University and I am a certified Rapid Resolution Therapist (RRT).

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Elizabeth Veeser-Sharer, MSW

Clinical Manager
Downers Grove; Naperville; Palatine

I have worked in a variety of mental health settings with the majority of my career working for non-profit organizations. A common thread through all of my positions has been ensuring individuals have access to high quality assessments, treatment plans, and services to support appropriately their mental health needs and goals. Populations I have worked with include children and families in crisis, children with differing needs, and sexual assault survivors of all ages.

Parenting children of differing needs myself necessitated reliance on the support of many therapeutic providers over the years and has given me insight into the client end of both physical and mental health treatment. I know firsthand how frustrating bureaucratic red tape, long wait lists, lack of communication, and time wasted with a poorly matched provider can be. My own experiences inspire me to support both clients and staff at Vine Counseling Center with streamlined business practices, accurate and easy-to-locate information, and direct, timely communication. Finding a therapist that is the best fit to support your, your child’s, or your family’s growth is the most important aspect of my job.

I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Boston College with a specialization in Community Organizing, Policy, and Administration. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling with my family, walking our rescue dog, reading, and perennial gardening.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Barbara Weiner, MA

Licensed Professional Counselor
Palatine Office; Teletherapy

As a person-centered therapist, I support clients through life transitions, loss, anxiety, depression and other challenges with deep listening, compassion, warmth and honesty. For those searching for more meaningful relationships and passion in their vocation, as well as their most fulfilling lives, my goal is to help individuals feel empowered, try new behaviors and choices, fostering more joy and authenticity. I find it is possible to achieve more harmony in personal and work relationships through shifts in perspective and improved communication skills, and to experience higher levels of health through the resolution of long-standing stress, unresolved anger and hurt.

For those with chronic health challenges, my areas of special interest and training are the role of the mind-body connection in unexplained infertility, chronic pain, and insomnia. I am also available to parents challenged with finding a balance between supporting and trusting their maturing offspring.

Insight oriented, I support my clients to become more conscious of patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that hold them back, also to recognize and embody those strengths and gifts that help create more satisfaction. As a lifelong meditator and student of mindfulness, I can bring these experiences into sessions for those interested in using these tools to reduce anxiety and experience more peace.

I earned master’s degrees in Counseling from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology and Speech Communication from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. My work and life experiences include mental health counseling and social work, real estate and affordable housing development, writing, travel, and parenting.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Tracy Wheeler, MSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Downers Grove; Teletherapy

I chose the field of social work over 20 years ago with the clear intention to help other people and earned my Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University. In therapy, I use mindfulness techniques and basic Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adult clients with acceptance of their current situations, understanding how and why they are where they are, and specific ways to help them move forward.

Sometimes life takes you in a direction that you did not anticipate. You may feel confused, lost, sad, disappointed and/or anxious about what the future holds for you. I aim to help individuals who are experiencing significant life changes such as becoming a new mom, the loss of a parent or spouse, marriage/relationship difficulties, divorce, (including contemplating divorce, going through the divorce process, moving on from divorce, or blending a family), or becoming an empty nester. All of these life events can evoke emotions that we may not be able to understand and oftentimes become overwhelming.

I use an empathetic, warm and safe environment to help clients feel comfortable to share their experiences and hopefully to help them learn how to move forward in life in a healthy and productive way. My ultimate goal is to help my clients find happiness and solitude in their everyday lives.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers