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 [she/her]
MSW, LCSW, CADC 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
Joshua Grant Saria [he/him]
MSW Intern
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.
Cynthia Rodriguez [she/her] MSW Intern crodriguez.eac@gmail.com
Cynthia Rodríguez is a graduate student at Governors State University pursuing her master’s in social work with the goal of obtaining her LCSW. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Community Health, which strengthened her passion for supporting individuals and families through health and social services. In her spare time, Cynthia enjoys staying active by going to the gym, traveling, cooking, and spending quality time with her two boys and family. She is excited to continue learning and growing in the field of social work while making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Cynthia Rodríguez es estudiante de la maestría en Trabajo Social en Governors State University y tiene como meta obtener su LCSW. Obtuvo su licenciatura en Salud Comunitaria, lo que fortaleció su pasión por apoyar a las personas y a las familias a través de los servicios de salud y sociales. En su tiempo libre, Cynthia disfruta mantenerse activa yendo al gimnasio, viajar, cocinar y pasar tiempo con sus dos hijos y su familia. Está entusiasmada por seguir aprendiendo y creciendo en el campo del trabajo social mientras genera un impacto positivo en la vida de los demás.
Tracie Gibbs [she/her]
MSW Intern tgibbs.eac@gmail.com
My name is Tracie Gibbs, and I am currently an MSW student at Chamberlain University, expecting to graduate in 2026, and completing my internship at East Aurora Counseling. I have a strong passion for helping people and am committed to providing support with empathy and respect. My areas of interest include working with the elderly and individuals involved in the prison system, populations that I believe deserve compassion, dignity, and a chance to be heard.
Outside of my work and studies, I love spending time with my family and grandchildren. I also enjoy traveling and finding new places to explore. These experiences help keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of connection in all aspects of life.
Kehinde Ogunfowokan [he/him] Masters Intern kogun.eac@gmail.com
I am currently pursuing my Master of Social Work (MSW) at Capella University and completing my internship as part of my path toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). In my current role, I work closely with children on the autism spectrum, providing compassionate and individualized support to help them thrive socially, emotionally, and behaviorally.
I am deeply passionate about mental health and committed to supporting individuals who are struggling by creating safe, understanding, and empowering environments. My long-term goal is to continue growing in the field of clinical social work and ultimately earn my LCSW to serve diverse populations through direct practice.
Tyisha Witherspoon [she/her]
Masters Intern twitherspoon.eac@gmail.com
Tyisha Witherspoon received her BA in Behavioral Health and Science at East-West University, her MA in Human Services at Concordia University, and is currently completing her 2nd MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Concordia University. Tyisha is very experienced in social services. Tyisha Motto is “Taking care of yourself is the most productive thing you can do.” Tyisha is a full-time dog mom who loves retail therapy.
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.
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.
Destinee Feltson [she/her]
MSW Intern Student
dfeltson.eac@gmail.com
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and am currently pursuing my Master’s in Social Work. I am passionate about supporting underprivileged individuals and families, with the goal of empowering them to overcome barriers and create lasting positive change. Through my work, I strive to provide compassionate care and advocacy for those who need it most.
Jodie Owen [she/her]
BA, MJ – MSW Intern jowen.eac@gmail.com
Jodie Owen holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology, earned magna cum laude from Belhaven University, and a Master of Jurisprudence (MJ) with honors from Loyola University Chicago, where she concentrated in Child and Family Law Policy. During her graduate legal studies, she completed coursework abroad in Rome, Italy, focusing on child sex trafficking and international child protection systems.
She is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) at Loyola University Chicago, specializing in Advanced Clinical Practice, alongside a Master of Arts in Trauma, Theology, and Ministry at Richmont Graduate University. This interdisciplinary education reflects her commitment to integrating legal, clinical, and spiritual frameworks in the service of trauma healing and systemic justice.
Jodie is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, the Honor Society, and the Society of Collegiate Leadership and Achievement. Her academic and professional path is rooted in the belief that healing is possible, restoration is powerful, and the past does not define the future.
Professionally, Jodie serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and a trauma group facilitator with Hope-Recovery. She brings both lived experience and rigorous clinical training to her work, drawing from modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS) and somatic-based healing approaches. Her clinical passion centers on supporting individuals impacted by complex trauma, betrayal trauma, spiritual abuse, and the reclamation of identity.
Jodie approaches her work with compassion, nonjudgmental presence, and a trauma-informed lens—creating spaces where survivors feel safe to be seen, strong enough to be heard, and supported in beginning again.
Outside her professional and academic life, Jodie enjoys reading, writing, spending time in nature, and adventuring with her three Yorkie terriers—Max, Ollie, and Scooby. She is also completing her first book, a memoir exploring childhood trauma, therapeutic betrayal, and the journey of reclaiming voice and power.
Lauren Williams [she/her] Masters Intern lwilliams.eac@gmail.com
I am a counseling intern currently pursuing my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Concordia University of Chicago. I hold a degree in Psychology from Dominican University and an additional degree in Fine Arts from Triton College. I am passionate about supporting others through life's challenges by offering empathy, active listening, and authenticity. I am excited to work alongside others as we explore experiences, growth, and self-understanding in a collaborative and compassionate space.
In my free time, I enjoy crocheting, crafting, and reading in my book clubs.
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.
Rachel Anderson [she/her]
Masters Intern randerson.eac@gmail.com
Rachel Anderson earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Carthage College and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) with an emphasis in Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling (LPCC) at Touro University. With a deep passion for supporting individuals and families, Rachel is especially committed to working with those who have experienced trauma and those navigating challenges in relationships. She brings a compassionate, systems-oriented approach to her clinical work, integrating both evidence-based practices and a strong understanding of relational dynamics to foster healing and growth.
Lauren Granderson [she/her]
Masters Intern
lgranderson.eac@gmail.com
Lauren holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development & Family Sciences with an emphasis in Family and Individual Development from Northern Illinois University. Lauren is also currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Concordia University Chicago to obtain licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
As a graduate counseling intern, Lauren is committed to creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. She integrates evidence-based practices with a person-centered approach, emphasizing empathy, cultural sensitivity, and respect for each client’s unique experiences. Her clinical interests include identity development, life transitions, stress management, and emotional well-being.
Dedicated to holistic growth, Lauren strives to empower individuals to recognize their strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and achieve personal goals. She is eager to continue building her clinical skills under supervision while bringing warmth, openness, and professionalism to every client interaction.
Outside of her clinical work, Lauren enjoys spending time with her dog, family, and friends, as
well as cooking, hosting, and road trips.
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.
Espagnol: 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.
CASE MANAGEMENT TRAINEES
Robin DuFresne [she/her]
Case Management Extern
rdufresne.eac@gmail.com
Robin DuFresne is a third year undergraduate student at Dominican University, majoring in Psychology and English. She has interest in eclectic clinical practice, as well as experiential and bottom-up therapies. She is pursuing a Psy-D in hopes to become a clinical psychologist.
Robin is excited to work with East Aurora Counseling for the direct client experiences as well as the opportunity to learn about pre-therapy, affirmative therapy, and psychotic process. Her free time is spent playing drums, Dungeons & Dragons, and Roller Derby. She also enjoys writing, reading, and weightlifting.
Danielle Antoine [she/her] Case Management Intern dantoine.eac@gmail.com
Danielle is currently obtaining her bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) and plays collegiate basketball at Aurora University. She plans on pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) and LCSW as well. Danielle is very passionate about providing support to individuals through empathy and authenticity.
In her free time, she enjoys weightlifting, playing sports, and spending quality time with her family and friends.
Xavier Rivera [he/him]
BSW Intern xrivera.eac@gmail.com
Hello! My name is Xavier Rivera, I’m currently in my final year in the BSW social work program at Aurora University, and I am planning to go straight into the MSW program for school or hospital social work in order to one day work with LGBTQ+ youth on various levels. Thus far, I’ve gained experience volunteering at the Hesed House in the Harvesting Hope program, where play services were offered for pre-k children, allowing them to unwind, relax, and possibly act out scenarios they’d decide.
In my off time, I enjoy reading, exploring the outdoors, whether that is a city or a nature preserve, and playing my instruments. Clarinet is my main focus when performing; however, bass flute is my favorite to practice with whenever I can use one. Incorporating music into my life on various levels can be helpful in expressing, but also understanding myself better, and maybe one day I can incorporate it into my work practice.
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.
Isabella Ponce [she/her] BSW Case Management Intern iponce.eac@gmail.com
My name is Isabella Ponce, and I am a senior at Aurora University pursuing my Bachelor of Social Work. I’m thrilled to be gaining experience in case management and further developing my skills in supporting individuals and families. I’m passionate about helping vulnerable populations find their voice and discover their purpose. In the future, my goal is to pursue my Master of Social Work and become a mental health professional, specifically working with children and adolescents.
In my free time, I enjoy cooking, spending time with my pets, and watching movies.
Sarah Patel [she/her] Case Management Accel. Extern spateleac9@gmail.com
Sarah earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Arizona State University in 2024. She will be starting her Master's of Education in School and Community Counseling at Loyola University Chicago. Sarah’s goal is to work as a school counselor or as a clinical mental health counselor with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults. Sarah has worked at (East Aurora Counseling location and been an extern at our sister locations (Rainbow Wing and Judah Robinson Foundation).
Sarah decided to come back as an accelerated Extern for our East Aurora Counseling location to help make an impact in more people’s lives and her passion to help and gain experience working in the counseling field has brought her back. Sarah has volunteered at a local hospital for about 4 years and also volunteered/ organized events for one of Gigi's Playhouse locations. Sarah decided to go into the mental health field due to her personal experiences/ challenges she faced as a teenager. She plans on using those experiences as a guide to help others struggling with the same and/ or other challenges.
Sarah is also fluent in Gujarati and Hindi besides English. In her free time, she enjoys going to the gym, reading books, writing poetry, and binge-watching her favorite shows/ movies. Sarah is committed to helping and making a difference in others’ lives through her role as a Case Management Accelerated Extern as she pursues a career in the mental health field.
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Blake Aguilar [they/them] Administrative Assistant
blakeaguilareac@gmail.com
Blake Aguilar provides office management for all 4 Client Centered Collaborative sites. Blake has also conducted case management services since they joined our team in 2023 and supervises our undergraduate students. Blake is fluent in English and Spanish.
Blake Aguilar proporciona la gestión de oficinas para los 4 sitios de Colaboración Centrada en el Cliente. Blake también ha realizado servicios de gestión de casos desde que se unió a nuestro equipo en 2023 y supervisa a nuestros estudiantes de pregrado. Blake es fluido en inglés y español.
Frida Guerrero [she/her] Front Desk Administrator
fguerrero.eac@gmail.com
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.
MARKETING STAFF
Hayden Patterson [he/him] Marketing/Graphic Design Intern hpatterson.eac@gmail.com
Hayden Patterson is a graphic designer working toward his bachelor’s degree at Aurora University. He plans to receive his degree in May of 2026. Previously, Hayden attended Elgin Community College, where he obtained his Associate’s degree in Arts, as well as a semester at Columbia College Chicago studying film. Hayden has skills in graphic design, ranging from working with 3D software, 2D work, photography, motion graphics, video editing, and some video game design.
In his free time, Hayden enjoys playing board games, video games, and spending time with friends and family.