23rd Annual Community Mental Health Conference

Marilyn and Larry Cohen founded the Naomi Ruth Cohen Family Foundation in June,2000 in honor of their daughter Naomi Ruth Cohen who died by suicide at age 33 having lived with bipolar disorder. The first Community Mental Health Conference was held in 2002, and in 2008 they partnered with the Chicago School to form the Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute for Mental Health Education. NRCI's mission is to reduce stigma connected to mental health and suicide through education, research and community.

Debra Vines is the founder and CEO of The Answer Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families affected by autism and developmental disorders in the greater Chicagoland area. Her journey into advocacy began when her son, Jason, was diagnosed with autism in 1989. Facing a scarcity of resources and support, Debra transformed her personal challenges into a mission to assist other families navigating similar experiences.

Since its inception in 2007, The Answer Inc. has served over 4,000 families, offering services such as support groups, educational workshops, recreational programs, and workforce development initiatives. The organization also provides training for first responders and municipal staff, aiming to foster a more inclusive and understanding community.

Debra's unwavering commitment to autism advocacy has earned her national recognition. In 2022, she was honored as one of CNN's Top 10 Heroes, highlighting her significant contributions to the autism community. Further acknowledging her impact, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, inducted Debra as an honorary member in 2023, celebrating her dedication to education and support for individuals with autism and their families.

Beyond her organizational leadership, Debra is a sought-after motivational speaker and trainer, sharing her insights and experiences to inspire others. She also hosts a radio segment on 1390 AM, further extending her advocacy and outreach efforts.

Debra Vines' work exemplifies resilience and dedication, transforming personal adversity into a beacon of hope and support for countless families dealing with autism.

Jennifer Gerlach, LCSW, is a psychotherapist, author, and speaker based in Southern Illinois, specializing in the intersection of neurodiversity and mental health. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Social Work degrees from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.  

Identifying as a neurodivergent individual in mental health recovery, Jennifer offers a unique, empathetic perspective in her practice. She is the owner of True Story Counseling LLC, where she provides neurodiversity-affirming, recovery-oriented therapy to adolescents and adults. Her areas of specialization include autism, self-harm, psychosis, mood disorders, and young adult mental health.  

Jennifer is the author of "The Psychosis and Mental Health Recovery Workbook: Activities for Young Adults from ACT, DBT, and Recovery-Oriented CBT," a resource integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support young adults in their mental health journeys.  

In addition to her clinical work, Jennifer provides training and consultation services to mental health professionals on topics such as neurodiversity-affirming care, adolescent mental health, and psychosis. She has presented nationally through organizations like PESI, sharing her expertise on therapy with autistic clients. 

Jennifer's personal experiences as a neurodivergent individual enrich her professional practice, allowing her to offer compassionate, informed care to her clients. She is committed to breaking the stigma surrounding neurodiversity and mental health, advocating for acceptance and understanding within the community. 

Samantha Kolkey, LCSW (she/her) has a distinguished career dedicated to supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women's Studies from the University of Michigan and subsequently obtained a Master's Degree in Social Work from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois-Chicago.   

Samantha began her professional journey as a case manager and clinician, working with children, youth, and families. In 2017, she transitioned into the field of disability services, assuming the role of Director of Programming at a nonprofit organization focused on supporting neurodivergent young adults in their pursuits of post-secondary education, employment, and independence. Her leadership and vision led to her promotion to Executive Director in 2018, where she honed her skills in nonprofit management and team leadership. 

Throughout her career, Samantha has been instrumental in developing, implementing, and evaluating a variety of programs aimed at enhancing and expanding support services. Her approach is deeply influenced by her own neurodivergent identity, embracing values such as vulnerability, connection, collaboration, and empathy. She advocates for the social model of disability, striving to create opportunities for individuals to build fulfilling lives. 

In her current role as Director of Programs and Services at the Center for Independent Futures (CIF) in Evanston, Samantha continues her commitment to partnering with individuals with disabilities to live meaningful, independent lives through innovative programs, personalized support, and community collaboration. CIF strives to create inclusive communities where everyone can thrive, pursue their goals, and achieve their dreams. 

Dr. Natalie LaDuke is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Nationally Certified School Psychologist with a distinguished career in school psychology and mental health. She earned her doctoral degree in School Psychology from Loyola University Chicago, where her research focused on supporting marginalized students, including those who are homeless and transgender. 

Before pursuing her doctorate, Dr. LaDuke began her career as a school psychologist at the Morton Freshman Center in Cicero, IL. There, she implemented district-wide mental health screenings and led social-emotional learning initiatives focused on promoting resilience, self-advocacy, and emotional regulation. 

Currently, Dr. LaDuke is an Associate Professor at The Chicago School, where she teaches courses on the dissertation process, school-based mental health supports, and neurodiversity. Her research and consultation work centers on the evolving role of school psychologists, and strategies for promoting resilience in all children, including those who are neurodiverse. 

Dr. LaDuke also demonstrates her commitment to supporting neurodiverse populations through her work at O’Koon Psychology Group, where she specializes in assessments for children and adolescents with learning, social/emotional, and behavioral concerns. 

In addition to her clinical and academic work, Dr. LaDuke is dedicated to giving back to her field. She currently serves as the Treasurer for the Illinois School Psychological Association, where she supports and promotes best practices for helping children in schools and school psychologists in practice. 

Tracy Levine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who joined NRCI in June, 2021 with over 30 years of experience in behavioral health and direct services. She earned both a bachelor’s degree and her Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan and also holds a certificate in Non-Profit Executive Leadership. Her extensive career reflects her unwavering passion for service and dedication to improving lives. She has led programs that build resilience, strengthen family relationships, and support children, families, and emerging adults. Her compassionate approach and expertise make her a trusted leader and advocate in the field of mental health. 

Tracy is a certified instructor for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA), teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) and Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) suicide prevention gatekeeper trainings and brings a wealth of knowledge, warmth, and practical experience to every training session.

Tracy serves on the board of Mental Health America of Illinois (MHAI).

Dr. Natalie LaDuke is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Nationally Certified School Psychologist with a distinguished career in school psychology and mental health. She earned her doctoral degree in School Psychology from Loyola University Chicago, where her research focused on supporting marginalized students, including those who are homeless and transgender. 

Before pursuing her doctorate, Dr. LaDuke began her career as a school psychologist at the Morton Freshman Center in Cicero, IL. There, she implemented district-wide mental health screenings and led social-emotional learning initiatives focused on promoting resilience, self-advocacy, and emotional regulation. 

Currently, Dr. LaDuke is an Associate Professor at The Chicago School, where she teaches courses on the dissertation process, school-based mental health supports, and neurodiversity. Her research and consultation work centers on the evolving role of school psychologists, and strategies for promoting resilience in all children, including those who are neurodiverse. 

Dr. LaDuke also demonstrates her commitment to supporting neurodiverse populations through her work at O’Koon Psychology Group, where she specializes in assessments for children and adolescents with learning, social/emotional, and behavioral concerns. 

In addition to her clinical and academic work, Dr. LaDuke is dedicated to giving back to her field. She currently serves as the Treasurer for the Illinois School Psychological Association, where she supports and promotes best practices for helping children in schools and school psychologists in practice. 

Adriane "Addie" Van Zwoll, PhD, MJ, MSW, LCSW, is a seasoned clinical social worker with extensive experience in school-based health care. Since 2011, she has contributed at local, state, and national levels, focusing on increasing adolescents' access to mental health services. In her role as Director at the School-Based Health Alliance, which she joined in 2023, Addie oversees consulting, technical assistance, and training initiatives aimed at enhancing school-based health centers (SBHCs) nationwide. 

Prior to this, Addie managed behavioral health services at a Chicagoland SBHC, where she provided direct clinical services and expanded programming, including alternative-to-suspension initiatives and the creation of a calm room. Her earlier career encompassed roles in foster care and juvenile justice, underscoring her commitment to supporting vulnerable youth.

Addie's academic credentials include a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Western Michigan University (2006), a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan (2007), and a Master of Jurisprudence in Children’s Law & Policy from Loyola University Chicago (2014). She also holds a certificate in School Discipline Reform from Loyola University Chicago and recently completed her PhD in Social Work at the same institution.

Her research interests encompass school-based mental health, juvenile justice, trauma-informed care, and interprofessional practice. Addie currently serves on the board of NAMI Metro Suburban.

Claudia Hypes is a dedicated mental health advocate and wellness educator committed to fostering community change, reducing stigma, and transforming societal perceptions of mental health. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science with a minor in Psychology from the University of Missouri.

In 2022 Claudia joined NAMI Metro Suburban as a Community Education Coordinator, where she leveraged her personal recovery journey to inspire hope, foster understanding, and cultivate compassion among students, educators, and families. In this role, she obtained her Recovery Support Specialist Certification, developed and piloted two social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum programs, and actively contributed to the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) workgroup and the NAMI Blog.

Recently promoted to Education Manager, Claudia continues to lead her team in engaging with community members, advocating for mental health awareness, and serving as a social ally. Through her leadership, she remains dedicated to advancing education, empowerment, and inclusivity in mental health spaces.

Alison B. Carris is a dedicated Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience in behavioral and mental health. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, she relocated to Chicago to pursue a passion for theatre, ultimately discovering a profound interest in behavior analysis. She earned a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology in 2011, specializing in both Applied Behavior Analysis and Counseling.

With extensive expertise in working with adolescents and adults within the neurodiverse community, Ms. Carris applies a foundation in Contextual Behavior Science to her clinical work. In 2020, she founded Behavioral Learning, a clinical behavior analytic organization committed to fostering psychological flexibility and supporting individuals, families, and supervisees in living values-driven lives.

Her professional experience spans multiple roles, including graduate-level instructor, community mental health provider, school therapist, behavioral health clinician, clinical supervisor, and counselor. A dynamic speaker, she has presented at esteemed organizations such as Black Applied Behavior Analysts, the Illinois Counseling Association, and The Chicago School. Additionally, she has served as Communications Coordinator on the Board of the Illinois Association for Behavior Analysis and is a reviewer for Behavior Analysis in Practice. Ms. Carris is committed to bridging the gap between mental and behavioral health through compassionate, evidence-based care.

Mark A. Reinecke, Ph.D. is Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and past Chief of the Division of Psychology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He served for 14 years as the Director of the Center for Cognitive Therapy at the University of Chicago. He is a Distinguished Fellow and former president of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, and a Diplomat of the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). Dr. Reinecke is also a Fellow of the American Psychological Association, the Association for Psychological Science, and the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies. He is the 2015 recipient of the Cynthia D. Belar Distinguished Service Award from the American Psychological Association. His research and clinical interests center on understanding and treating depression, suicide, and anxiety among children and adolescents.

Emily Wilson, J.D., M.Ed., is a Staff Attorney and CAP Advocate with the Special Education Clinic at Equip for Equality. In this role, she represents students and families in special education and related legal matters. Previously, she was a Skadden Fellow at Equip for Equality, where her project focused on addressing transition issues for students with disabilities.

Ms. Wilson primarily works with court-involved and transition-age youth, bringing extensive experience in education and special education advocacy. She has advocated for students with disabilities across Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. Before pursuing a legal career, she was a middle school math teacher and earned a Master’s degree in Secondary Education from the University of New Mexico.

Daniel brings over 25 years of experience in programming, planning and design of academic science education and research facilities. He is a speaker, published author and active member of the Society for College and University Planning (SCUP). He has been leading the development of integrated sciences and scientific workplaces that combine an organization’s strategy, space types and sciences to create dynamic interdisciplinary research that leads to innovation and breakthroughs. Daniel completed his BS in Architectural Studies at University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee.

Olivia is a Senior Project Designer with over 15 years of experience creating inclusive, sustainable, and biophilic spaces. She specializes in designing workplaces, justice and civic building interiors, and other corporate spaces that prioritize occupant wellbeing through the lens of neurodiversity. Olivia is committed to fostering a collaborative environment with clients and team members to tailor solutions that truly enhance the human experience. She completed her BA in Interior Design at Purdue University.

Samantha Kolkey, LCSW (she/her) has a distinguished career dedicated to supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women's Studies from the University of Michigan and subsequently obtained a Master's Degree in Social Work from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois-Chicago.   

Samantha began her professional journey as a case manager and clinician, working with children, youth, and families. In 2017, she transitioned into the field of disability services, assuming the role of Director of Programming at a nonprofit organization focused on supporting neurodivergent young adults in their pursuits of post-secondary education, employment, and independence. Her leadership and vision led to her promotion to Executive Director in 2018, where she honed her skills in nonprofit management and team leadership. 

Throughout her career, Samantha has been instrumental in developing, implementing, and evaluating a variety of programs aimed at enhancing and expanding support services. Her approach is deeply influenced by her own neurodivergent identity, embracing values such as vulnerability, connection, collaboration, and empathy. She advocates for the social model of disability, striving to create opportunities for individuals to build fulfilling lives. 

In her current role as Director of Programs and Services at the Center for Independent Futures (CIF) in Evanston, Samantha continues her commitment to partnering with individuals with disabilities to live meaningful, independent lives through innovative programs, personalized support, and community collaboration. CIF strives to create inclusive communities where everyone can thrive, pursue their goals, and achieve their dreams. 

Lynn Denton is a clinical social worker in private practice with over a decade of experience supporting children and their families. Before transitioning to private practice, she worked as a school social worker in both public and private settings. In public schools, she provided services to general education and neurodiverse students, later serving as the school social worker at Hyde Park Day School, a specialized institution for neurodiverse learners.

For the past 10 years, Lynn has focused on helping children and parents navigate challenges related to ADHD, learning differences, autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, anxiety, and depression. She is a frequent presenter for professional and parent groups, offering expertise on parenting neurodiverse children through programs in various school districts.

Lynn received her BA in Psychology from Indiana University and her MSW from UIC Jane Addams School of Social Work.

Bryant Laiche (he|him) is the Administrator of the Youth Prevention Resource Center at Prevention First. Bryant has been working in the prevention field for the past 20 years. He started as a student in prevention during his middle and high school years followed by youth drug and alcohol prevention, youth leadership, environmental prevention, and prevention policy work throughout his career. Bryant has worked with various organizations including Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), The National Organization for Youth Safety (NOYS), and The National Safety Council (NSC). He was a consultant with Prevention First from 2009 - 2022 and has worked on various projects and initiatives with the Cannabis Policy Resource Center and Alcohol Policy Resource Center.

Bryant is a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid instructor.

Randyl Wilkins is a trainer and consultant with more than 15 years of experience in the field of prevention, six years of experience as a youth programs coordinator, and over 10 years of experience as a trainer for the YPRC Student Advisory Board. She holds instructor certification in Youth, Teen, and Adult Mental Health First Aid and is also a QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Instructor and certified QPR+ Pathfinder. Randyl currently works for Prevention First as the Mental Health and Youth Engagement Specialist.

Sharde’ O’Rourke is a licensed marriage and family therapist, a certified clinical trauma professional, and the founder of The Mahogany Projek. With over 15 years of experience, she is dedicated to creating safe and supportive spaces for healing, growth, and empowerment. Her work focuses on guiding individuals and communities through challenges such as trauma, substance abuse, identity, and relationships. Passionate about fostering meaningful connections, Sharde’ engages audiences through authentic conversations on self-discovery, personal growth, and building healthy relationships. She strives to inspire transformation by sharing practical tools, real-life insights, and a touch of humor along the way.

Sharde’ has a BA in Psychology from Tuskegee University and a MA in Marriage and Family Counseling from The University of Southern Mississippi.

Javier (Javi) E. Acevedo-Arus is currently a fourth year PsyD student at The Chicago School. Javi completed his M.A. in clinical mental health counselling at Boston College and has worked in various clinical settings, including in-patient, partial hospitalization programs, and community mental health. Javi is currently in his second year of doctoral-level externship at the AARTS (Autism, Assessment, Research, and Treatment Services) Center at Rush University Medical Center where he is ADOS-2 certified and conducts neuropsychological assessments, individual & family therapy, and co-leads PEERS social skills groups for autistic teens in both English and Spanish. Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Javi hopes to make autism-specific treatment more readily available in Spanish for immigrant patients and their families.

Pete Myers, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist and the Director of Group and Therapeutic Community Services at Yellowbrick. He has worked in mental health for the past 35 years. Most of his career had been at the Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School at the University of Chicago and the Brooke Whitted Center, residential and therapeutic school programs for children through emerging adulthood with profound mental health and special educational needs, serving in almost every role from direct care staff to Co-Executive Director. His tenure at the school was formative in his experience working within a therapeutic community and doing group work.

Dr. Myers is a board member of the Association of Children’s Residential and Community, an international organization advancing quality interventions for youth of all ages and their families. He values working with families, recognizing the importance of the interdependence between individuals and families in understanding their challenges and supporting them in building a meaningful future. He has been a strong leader and advocate for quality interventions for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly gender-diverse individuals and those that are neurodivergent. He is committed to collaborating with each person as a unique individual and values each person’s distinctive and diverse characteristics, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, and ability. Dr. Myers was a part-time lecturer at the University of Chicago’s Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice and The Chicago School, Chicago Campus.

Dr. Thomas Golebiewski is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He has worked in schools for 40 years, including 26 years as Department Chair of Social Work at New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois. Tom has served as an Adjunct Professor at University of Chicago's School of Social Service Administration, Northwestern University's School of Education and Social Policy, and currently at Loyola University of Chicago School of Social Work. He has a private practice in psychotherapy, counseling, and consultation, and is currently a consultant at Wolcott College Prep, an independent school in Chicago. Tom also volunteers with several organizations and is a Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Responder. He is on the advisory committee and a regular presenter for the Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute annual community mental health conference. Dr. Golebiewski received his B.A. and M.S.W. from Loyola University in Chicago and a Ph.D. in Clinical Social Work from The Institute for Clinical Social Work. In Chicago. His most recent book, The Schools We Need Now: A Guide to Designing a Mentally Healthy School, is a best-seller from Corwin Press.

Dr. Timothy Dohrer is an Assistant Professor and Director of Educational Leadership at National Louis University, and has been a classroom teacher, administrator, and author for 35 years in K-12 schools and higher education. He was a teacher and Principal at New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois, a school of 4,000 students and staff. He has also served as a Director and Assistant Professor at Northwestern University and Northern Illinois University. Tim's major areas of research include social & emotional learning, school climate, curriculum and instruction, teacher education, and leadership. He is the President of the SEL4IL Alliance, and a member of several advisory boards. He has B.A.'s in English and Journalism from Indiana University, an M.A. in English from Northwestern University, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Pennsylvania State University. His most recent book, The Schools We Need Now: A Guide to Designing a Mentally Healthy School, is a best-seller from Corwin Press.

Javier (Javi) E. Acevedo-Arus is currently a fourth year PsyD student at The Chicago School. Javi completed his M.A. in clinical mental health counselling at Boston College and has worked in various clinical settings, including in-patient, partial hospitalization programs, and community mental health. Javi is currently in his second year of doctoral-level externship at the AARTS (Autism, Assessment, Research, and Treatment Services) Center at Rush University Medical Center where he is ADOS-2 certified and conducts neuropsychological assessments, individual & family therapy, and co-leads PEERS social skills groups for autistic teens in both English and Spanish. Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Javi hopes to make autism-specific treatment more readily available in Spanish for immigrant patients and their families.

Jennifer Gerlach, LCSW, is a psychotherapist, author, and speaker based in Southern Illinois, specializing in the intersection of neurodiversity and mental health. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Social Work degrees from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.  

Identifying as a neurodivergent individual in mental health recovery, Jennifer offers a unique, empathetic perspective in her practice. She is the owner of True Story Counseling LLC, where she provides neurodiversity-affirming, recovery-oriented therapy to adolescents and adults. Her areas of specialization include autism, self-harm, psychosis, mood disorders, and young adult mental health.  

Jennifer is the author of "The Psychosis and Mental Health Recovery Workbook: Activities for Young Adults from ACT, DBT, and Recovery-Oriented CBT," a resource integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support young adults in their mental health journeys.  

In addition to her clinical work, Jennifer provides training and consultation services to mental health professionals on topics such as neurodiversity-affirming care, adolescent mental health, and psychosis. She has presented nationally through organizations like PESI, sharing her expertise on therapy with autistic clients. 

Jennifer's personal experiences as a neurodivergent individual enrich her professional practice, allowing her to offer compassionate, informed care to her clients. She is committed to breaking the stigma surrounding neurodiversity and mental health, advocating for acceptance and understanding within the community. 

Brianne Jonathan began her career as a special education teacher, where she played a pivotal role in developing a pilot program designed to support neurodiverse high school students in building executive functioning and social skills. With a strong commitment to fostering student success, she has worked as a social skills therapist and executive function coach in private clinical settings. Additionally, she has served as an educational and behavior consultant across multiple Illinois school districts, providing expertise in supporting diverse learning needs.

In 2020, Brianne was appointed as the first Director of the Neurodiversity Initiative at Aurora University, where she played an instrumental role in launching the Pathways Program, a comprehensive support program for neurodiverse students. Through her leadership, she continues to advocate for inclusive education and the development of programs that empower neurodiverse individuals to thrive in academic and professional settings.

Robin Kacyn currently serves as the Director of Inclusion and Outreach at Aspiritech Evanston. She comes from a background of theatre, food, and education, and applies knowledge from all of these disciplines in meetings with employees, accommodation suggestions, and consultation with the operations and leadership teams. She works closely with a largely neurodivergent staff to address concerns and assist in communicating across departments when necessary. In an increasingly virtual world, Robin strives to foster connection and community. As a 10+ year employee at Aspiritech, she is committed, first and foremost, to ensuring a safe, equitable, and empowering space that celebrates the employees’ many successes and contributions.

Mike Bushman is a writer, speaker and trainer focused on mental health and suicide prevention. Mike serves as a board member with the Illinois Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP IL), a volunteer with other mental health organizations, and as a Youth and Teen Mental Health First Aid Instructor. Mike regularly conducts More Than Sad, Talk Saves Lives and other training programs on behalf of AFSP and has extensively shared his personal story of recovery and hope. Prior to his writing and mental health work, Mike’s experience included work in several corporate roles and serving as press secretary and then Washington director for former southern Illinois Congressman Terry Bruce. Mike earned his undergraduate degree in journalism from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an MBA, with honors, from the University of Chicago.

Tracy Levine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who joined NRCI in June, 2021 with over 30 years of experience in behavioral health and direct services. She earned both a bachelor’s degree and her Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan and also holds a certificate in Non-Profit Executive Leadership. Her extensive career reflects her unwavering passion for service and dedication to improving lives. She has led programs that build resilience, strengthen family relationships, and support children, families, and emerging adults. Her compassionate approach and expertise make her a trusted leader and advocate in the field of mental health. 

Tracy is a certified instructor for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA), teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) and Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) suicide prevention gatekeeper trainings and brings a wealth of knowledge, warmth, and practical experience to every training session.

Tracy serves on the board of Mental Health America of Illinois (MHAI).