ASSOCIATES
COUNSELORS
Dr. Amanda Goldman, L.C.P.C., Ph.D.
(She/Her)
Owner & Founder of East Aurora Counseling Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Dr. Goldman received her BA in Psychology from Indiana State University, her MS in Counseling Psychology from Benedictine University, and her PhD in General Psychology from Capella University. She specializes in Play Therapy and Psychotic Process, and is a certified Pre-Therapy Trainer. She is also a trained Mental Health Interpreter, and is fluent in German, having lived and studied abroad throughout her life. Dr. Goldman practices Pre-Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy.
Patrick Noonan,
M.A., L.C.P.C., L.P.C
(he/him)
Owner of East Aurora Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Patrick received his BA in Psychology from North Central College and his MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. Patrick believes that the therapeutic relationship is an opportunity for the therapist to be warm, genuine, and understanding with the client. He collaborates with each person to help them discover the resources within themselves to make change. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time playing video games and taking care of his dog Cooper. Patrick practices Client-Centered Therapy.
SUPERVISOR EXTRAORDINAIRE
Shaina Helm, MSW, LCSW, CADC [She/Her] shelm.eac@gmail.com
Shaina received her BA in Sociology from Northeastern Illinois University and her MSW from Loyola University Chicago. She also has advanced training in addictions and perinatal mental health. She has worked in various inpatient and outpatient mental health settings throughout the duration of her career. Shaina utilizes an interactive and collaborative approach in clinical supervision that draws from multiple therapeutic frameworks, focusing on the connections and relationships we build with others and with ourselves. She likes to spend her free time with her family and is often found outdoors gardening or working on a crochet project.
CLINICAL TRAINEES
Shubhra Chaturvedi [She/Her]
Masters Intern
schaturvedi.eac@gmail.com
Shubhra Chaturvedi holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University, with a speciality in Family, Marriage, and Couples Counseling. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Fluent in Hindi and English, She brings a rich, multicultural perspective to her work, providing compassionate counselling that honors the unique cultural backgrounds of her clients.
She is a big believer in healing on a holistic level. She is passionate about advocating for social change, particularly in cultures where traditional values and generational gaps may create barriers to open communication. She is dedicated to helping individuals overcome the constraints of unrewarding environments, supporting their journey toward personal growth and nurturing healthier relationships.
In her free time, Shubhra enjoys poetry writing, art projects, puzzle making, singing, and dancing—activities that not only enrich her life but also inspire her therapeutic practice. She is committed to creating a safe and supportive space where clients can heal, transform, and thrive.
Anita Robinson (She/Her)
Masters Intern
anitar.eac@gmail.com
Anita is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Indiana Wesleyan University, building on her BSW degree. She has a passion for helping those struggling with mental health challenges, and has a long term goal to receive her LCSW and practice independently. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and practicing self care in various ways.
Shannon Cameron (she/her)
Masters intern
scameron.eac@gmail.com
Shannon Cameron is working on her Masters of Social Work at Aurora University where she is focusing on School Social Work and Child Welfare tracks. Shannon holds an undergraduate degree in Theatre Education from Emerson College in Boston and an MFA in Directing for Stage and Screen from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, combining their creative and educational background with their passion for community advocacy. They moved to Aurora to open the Paramount School of the Arts as its founding director, creating opportunities for connection and creativity through the arts in the community of Aurora.
A dedicated community organizer, Shannon has made a profound impact in Aurora through their work with Aurora Mutual Aid, where they support efforts to provide critical resources to neighbors in need. This includes operating Community Fridges that offer 24/7 access to fresh and shelf-stable food, organizing a community-driven Overnight Warming Shelter for unhoused individuals during harsh winters, and launching programs with the Aurora Food Pantry. At the pantry, Shannon spearheaded a street outreach program to feed the unhoused and developed a case management program to help pantry guests break down barriers to accessing basic needs.
In addition to their community advocacy, Shannon works as a Psychiatric Case Manager and Intake Clinician at Mercy Medical Center, where they provide mental health support and resource connections to individuals in crisis.
With a unique blend of creativity, compassion, and a deep commitment to social justice, Shannon strives to empower individuals and strengthen the community through advocacy, resilience-building, and inclusive care.
Marissa Burns [she/her]
Masters Intern
mrburns.eac@gmail.com
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan, where my passion for the criminal justice field deepened. I currently work at a juvenile detention center, supporting youth between the ages of 10-18 from diverse backgrounds. My experiences have given me valuable insight into the challenges these individuals face and have fueled my commitment to making a positive impact.
In 2017, I had the opportunity to study abroad in London for six weeks, immersing myself in a different culture and broadening my perspective on social systems. I am now pursuing my Master’s in Social Work at the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago, where I continue to expand my knowledge and skills to better serve those in need.
In my free time, I enjoy staying active by going to the gym, spending time with my friends and family, and relaxing at home with my two cats. I am excited to meet new clients and am dedicated to providing the support they need to achieve their goals.
Naomi Araya [she/her]
Masters Intern
Naraya.eac@gmail.com
Naomi holds a Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement with a minor in Psychology from Western Illinois University. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling, with a specialization in Trauma and Crisis, from Walden University.
She has extensive experience working with individuals in crisis, having completed her undergraduate internship with her local police department and serving in the intake department of a behavioral health hospital. Additionally, she has worked in various mental health settings, including private practice, residential treatment, and volunteer-led mental health support platforms. She also facilitates a support group for individuals who have experienced trauma. Originally aspiring to become a police officer, Naomi redirected her career toward mental health upon realizing that law enforcement was not the right fit. However, her background in law enforcement provides her with a distinct advantage in the mental health field, allowing her to navigate legal considerations and collaborate effectively with first responders.
Coming from an immigrant household, being first generation here, Naomi is deeply committed to her community. She actively promotes mental health education among students, young adults, and parents, striving to bridge gaps in awareness and access to care. Her goal is to establish her own telehealth practice, specializing in counseling adults (18+) as well as first responders—including police officers, firefighters, EMTs—and veterans. She is also passionate about supporting her local police department by volunteering to accompany officers on mental health-related calls, ensuring individuals receive appropriate care and intervention.
Bianca Miggins [she/her]
Masters Intern
bmiggins.eac@gmail.com
Using a person-centered approach, I want to collaborate with you and find a solution to help you navigate life and become the person you want to be. I am an empathetic listener who is determined to help you explore techniques, coping skills, and thought processes that meet your needs. I am comfortable working with clients of all ages. I bring experience working with adults and older adults.
As a therapist in training, I want to provide a space where my client feels heard and empowered. I am eager to work with clients that are dealing with a variety of issues including but not limited to: adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, anger, and postpartum.
Stacy Turner [she/her]
MFT Intern
sturner.eac@gmail.com
Stacy earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with honors from Capella University in 2022. While completing her graduate studies, she gained two years of experience working with clients in residential substance abuse care. She is currently pursuing licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy, which emphasizes a holistic approach to individual and relational challenges. Stacy’s therapeutic style is person-centered with a compassionate focus on personal experiences. In her spare time, she enjoys reading suspenseful novels, taking on DIY projects, and spending quality time with her family.
Miguel Aguilera [he/him]
MFT Intern
maguilera.eac@gmail.com
Miguel Aguilera earned his bachelor's degree in Psychology from Ohio Christian University and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide. He has a deep passion for helping individuals on their journeys toward personal growth and emotional well-being. Additionally, Miguel is bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English.
In his free time, Miguel enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and exploring the outdoors.
Miguel Aguilera obtuvo su licenciatura en psicología de la Universidad Cristiana de Ohio y actualmente está terminando su maestría en terapia matrimonial y familiar de la Universidad de Touro Worldwide. Tiene una profunda pasión por ayudar a las personas en su crecimiento personal y bienestar emocional. Además, Miguel es bilingüe, habla español e inglés.
En su tiempo libre, Miguel disfruta pasar tiempo con su familia, viajar y explorar la naturaleza.
Angelica Flores, M.S. [she/her]
Master’s Student | LPC Track | Bilingual Counselor-in-Training
aflores.eac@gmail.com
Angelica Flores is a dedicated and compassionate master’s student at Capella University, currently completing her internship toward obtaining her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential. With a strong foundation in psychology from her undergraduate studies, I bring a deep understanding of mental health, human behavior, and the importance of culturally competent care.
As a bilingual (English/Spanish) counselor-in-training, I work with both children and adults, providing a safe and supportive environment for personal growth and healing. I have extensive experience in case management and currently serve as a social service worker at a nursing home, where I advocate for the well-being of older adults and their families.
My passion for mental health stems from my personal journey as a Mexican immigrant, which has given me a unique perspective on resilience, identity, and the challenges faced by diverse communities. I am committed to helping individuals navigate life’s obstacles while fostering emotional well-being and self-empowerment.
When I am not working or studying, I enjoy hiking, spending time in nature, and being with my family, finding balance and renewal in the beauty of the outdoors.
My professional aspirations include continuing to provide culturally responsive therapy, advocate for underrepresented populations, while developing my expertise in various therapeutic modalities to better serve my clients.
Soy una estudiante comprometida de la maestría en consejería en Capella University, actualmente completando su internado con el objetivo de obtener su licencia como Consejera Profesional Licenciada (LPC). Con una sólida formación en psicología a nivel universitario, yo poseo un profundo conocimiento sobre la salud mental, el comportamiento humano y la importancia de brindar un enfoque terapéutico culturalmente competente.
Como consejera en formación bilingüe (inglés/español), trabajo con niños y adultos, proporcionando un espacio seguro y de apoyo para el crecimiento personal y el bienestar emocional. Mi experiencia previa en manejo de casos y mi labor actual como trabajadora de servicios sociales en un hogar de ancianos me han preparado para brindar apoyo integral a personas de diferentes etapas de la vida.
Siendo inmigrante Mexicana, comprendo de primera mano los desafíos de la adaptación cultural, la identidad y la resiliencia. Esta experiencia personal me motiva a ofrecer un enfoque terapéutico empático y efectivo, especialmente para comunidades subrepresentadas.
Fuera del ámbito profesional, disfruto hacer senderismo, conectar con la naturaleza y pasar tiempo con mi familia, encontrando en estos momentos una fuente de equilibrio y renovación.
Mis aspiraciones profesionales incluyen continuar brindando terapia con sensibilidad cultural, abogar por poblaciones vulnerables y fortalecer su conocimiento en diversas modalidades terapéuticas para ofrecer un mejor servicio a mis clientes.
Lizsette Mancilla [she/her] Masters Intern lmancilla.eac@gmail.com
I am currently pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Chamberlain University with a concentration in trauma. My goal is to work towards attaining my LCSW! I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology from Roosevelt University in Chicago. I have a strong passion for helping others in any way that I can. I am compassionate and driven to building rapport by engaging with individuals with warmth and authenticity to empower them to feel in control of their lives.
In my free time, I enjoy going to the cinema, concerts, and spending time with family!
Melissa Pappas [she/her] Masters Intern mpappas.eac@gmail.com
Melissa holds a Bachelors of Science in Organizational Leadership Communication from Illinois State University. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in School Social Work where she plans to work with students in grades 4-8. Her mission statement is to positively impact lives, and she practices this by advocating for the children who need it most.
Melissa currently works with students between ages 9-14 as she is substitute teacher in four different districts. She also coaches cheerleading for a local Jr. High School. Melissa spends most of her time impacting schools that consist of low income, marginalized families. On top of teaching and coaching, she has started to lead fundraising events to help raise money for families who struggle to provide proper sports gear for their children.
In her spare time, Melissa likes to cook for her friends and family. She is always looking for new recipes to make and add to her monthly rotation.
CASE MANAGEMENT TRAINEES
Duncan Hsu [he/him]
Case Management Intern
dhsu.eac@gmail.com
I am a third-year student currently pursuing a Bachelor of Psychology and a Minor in Social Work at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. I am able to speak English and Mandarin fluently, and Spanish at an elementary level. I hope to pursue higher education in the future, namely a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. In pursuing a career in mental health, I look forward to helping people and creating a world with more empathy. I would also like to go back to my home country, Taiwan, in the future to work on expanding mental healthcare there. In my free time, I enjoy reading, playing basketball, playing video games, and hanging out with friends and loved ones.
你好！我叫徐達寬，目前就讀伊利諾大學香檳分校心理系。我今年大三，也是到美國的第三年。我中英文都通，也會一點西班牙語。我畢業後希望可以繼續在美國念碩士和累積經驗，學習到跟多有關心理健康的資訊，有機會的話也想回台灣拓展心理健康這個區塊。沒有在上課或工作的時候，我喜歡看書，打籃球，打電動，和跟親朋好友們相處。
Faithe Patterson [she/her] Case Management Intern fpatterson.eac@gmail.com
Faithe is currently working towards a Bachelor of Social Work at Aurora University, which she is planned to receive at the end of Fall 2025. Afterwards, she plans to continue her studies and pursue a Masters of Social Work. Faithe's goal in Social Work is to work within the mental health field or general healthcare system, with a specific aim in entering care management. She also has a knack for technology and holds a background in Computer Science. Alongside student life, Faithe works IT for her local school district and loves helping the students and staff through their computer troubles.
In her free time, she pours as much time into drawing as she can and strives to keep exploring creative outlets and developing new skills. She also enjoys reading books and playing video games with her brothers and friends.
Sia Patel [she/her] Case Management Extern siapatel.eac@gmail.com
Sia is currently working on her bachelors in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience at Loyola University Chicago. Approaching her senior year of college, she is excited to merge her knowledge of neuroanatomy and mental health disorder pathology with in person clinical experience. She is fluent in Gujarati and English, and is passionate about studying the intersection between neuroanatomy and mental health disorders.
Sia's passion for mental health stems from her personal mental health journey. She aims to use her own experiences with mental health conditions to relate to, comfort and empathise with any future patients she may have.
In her free time, Sia enjoys crocheting, arts and crafts projects, movie marathons with friends and watching history documentaries. She is committed towards learning about the career of clinical psychology through her role as a Case Management Intern and hopes to pursue a career in the healthcare field.
Christine Chen Case Management Extern cchen.eac@gmail.com
Christine Chen is a third-year student at Boston College, majoring in Transformative Educational Studies and Applied Psychology & Human Development, with a strong interest in working with marginalized communities and children! While she is still exploring her exact career path, she remains committed to advocacy, emotional well-being, and building genuine human connection through empathy. As an intern at East Aurora Counseling, she will be growing her understanding of client-centered care and learn more about the field of mental health through direct service, case management, and community engagement.
Outside of academics, Christine enjoys eating, playing video games, and collecting Sonny Angels!! She is also super excited to be co-founding the Lion Dance Club at BC—a hobby she picked up during college—as a way to celebrate her cultural identity and foster joy, teamwork, and tradition on campus.
Kit Gaponenko [they/them] Case Management Extern kgaponenko.eac@gmail.com
Kit (they/them) is currently studying Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. They are excited to have an internship with East Aurora Counseling, as they are very passionate about mental health, particularly how a variety of factors can cause psychopathology, and therefore a variety of treatments may be needed to treat psychopathology.
In their free time, Kit enjoys crocheting, knitting, and listening to music. They also have two ferrets at home, whom they are very happy to see this summer.
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Blake Aguilar [They/Them]
Administrative Assistant
Blake Aguilar is a Graphic Design and Computer Science major studying at Aurora University. Loves cats.
Blake Aguilar se especializa en Diseño Gráfico y Ciencias de la Computación en la Universidad Aurora. Ama a los gatos.
Frida Guerrero [she/her] Front Desk Administrator
Frida has a bachelor's in Psychology with a minor in Spanish and in American Sign Language. She has previously interned at EAC and is now working as Front Admin. She has plans to pursue a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Frida enjoys spending time with her two cats, Bubba and Little Baby. She also likes to crochet and go on long walks.
Joshua Grant Saria [He/Him]
Front Desk Administrator
jsaria.eac@gmail.com
Joshua has a Bachelor's degrees in Social Work and Psychology from Aurora University. He hopes to begin his professional journey in the social work field, and pursue higher education in attaining Masters degrees in Social Work and Psychology in the Fall of 2025. Additionally, he advocates for mental health issues, and wants to help as many people as possible. In his free time, Joshua enjoys writing and reading, playing video games, spending quality time with his siblings and friends, and trying new experiences.