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.
Angelica Flores, M.A., (she/her)
Angelica Flores, M.S., (ella)
Bilingual Counselor
Consejera Bilingüe | Defensora de la Atención Culturalmente Sensible
aflores.eac@gmail.com
Angelica Flores is a bilingual counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Counseling from Capella University. She provides culturally competent care to children, adolescents, and adults, creating a safe space where clients feel heard and supported.
With a background in case management and social services, she understands the challenges across different life stages. As a Mexican immigrant, she brings empathy, resilience, and cultural awareness to her work, supporting clients through identity, life transitions, and personal growth.
Miguel Aguilera, M.A., (he/him)
Bilingual Counselor
Consejera Bilingüe
maguilera.eac@gmail.com
Miguel Aguilera earned his bachelor's degree in Psychology from Ohio Christian University and his 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, listening to and playing music, practicing martial arts, and exploring the great outdoors.
Miguel Aguilera obtuvo su licenciatura en Psicología de Ohio Christian University y su maestría en Terapia de Matrimonio y Familia de Touro University Worldwide. Tiene una profunda pasión por ayudar a las personas en sus procesos de crecimiento personal y bienestar emocional. Además, Miguel es bilingüe y habla tanto español como inglés.
En su tiempo libre, Miguel disfruta pasar tiempo con su familia, viajar, escuchar y tocar música, practicar artes marciales y explorar la naturaleza.
Angelica Flores es una consejera bilingüe con una Maestría en Consejería Clínica de Capella University. Brinda atención culturalmente competente a niños, adolescentes y adultos, creando un espacio seguro donde los clientes se sienten escuchados y apoyados.
Cuenta con experiencia en manejo de casos y servicios sociales, lo que le permite comprender los retos en distintas etapas de la vida. Como inmigrante mexicana, aporta empatía, resiliencia y sensibilidad cultural, apoyando a sus clientes en procesos de identidad, transiciones y crecimiento personal.
CLINICAL TRAINEES
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.
Chelley Cochran
Counselor in Training
ccochran.eac@gmail.com
Chelley Cochran is a counseling intern pursuing a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She holds a doctorate in education and brings over 30 years of experience in the field of education to her work with clients. Chelley has a strong foundation in human development and a deep appreciation for the complexities of growth and change across the lifespan.
Chelley is especially interested in working with adults navigating transitions related to aging, identity, relationships, and life stage changes. She approaches counseling with warmth, empathy, and a client-centered perspective, and is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and collaborative space for reflection and growth. Chelley practices under clinical supervision and is dedicated to ethical practice and lifelong learning.
Outside of her professional work, Chelley enjoys spending time with her three small Chihuahuas, practicing yoga, and going for walks. She is also currently learning Korean in preparation for future travel.
Jacqueline Beltran [she/her]
Masters Intern
jbeltran.eac@gmail.com
My name is Jacqueline Beltran, and I am proud to be born and raised in Aurora, Illinois. As the daughter of hard working Mexican parents, I learned the values of perseverance, dedication, and service from an early age. Their sacrifices and commitment to providing opportunities for our family inspired me to pursue a career focused on helping others.
As a bilingual social work intern, I am passionate about giving back to the community that helped shape who I am today. I am committed to advocating for individuals and families, fostering meaningful connections, and ensuring that all people feel welcomed, respected, and supported. Through my work, I strive to create inclusive environments where everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
Erika Gonzalez [she/her]
Masters Intern
egonzalez.eac@gmail.com
Erika Gonzalez earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from National Louis University and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work with a concentration in trauma at Chamberlain University. She aspires to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and hopes to one day open her own private practice. Erika is deeply passionate about supporting others and contributing to the mental health field. She is especially committed to creating a welcoming and safe environment for all individuals. Erika strives to ensure that every person feels respected, heard, and supported, regardless of their background or life experiences. Through empathetic, responsive, and culturally sensitive care, she hopes to empower individuals and families to enhance their well-being and build resilience within their communities. Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Erika enjoys spending quality time with her three children and family, creating meaningful memories together. When time allows, she also enjoys reading and baking.
Erika Gonzalez obtuvo su Licenciatura en Psicología en National Louis University y actualmente cursa su Maestría en Trabajo Social con concentración en trauma en Chamberlain University. Su meta es convertirse en Trabajadora Social Clínica Licenciada (LCSW) y, algún día, abrir su propia práctica privada. Erika siente una gran pasión por apoyar a otras personas y contribuir al campo de la salud mental. Está especialmente comprometida en crear un espacio seguro y cómodo para todas las personas. Erika busca que cada individuo se sienta respetado, escuchado y apoyado, sin importar su origen o experiencias de vida. A través de un enfoque empático, receptivo y culturalmente sensible, espera ayudar a las personas y a las familias a mejorar su bienestar y fortalecer la resiliencia en sus comunidades. Fuera de sus estudios y su desarrollo profesional, Erika disfruta pasar tiempo de calidad con sus tres hijos y su familia, creando recuerdos significativos juntos. Cuando tiene tiempo libre, también le gusta leer y hornear.
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.
Sarah Dietrich [she/her]
Masters Intern
sdietrich.eac@gmail.com
Sarah is currently pursuing her Masters of Social Work degree from Chamberlain University with a concentration in Medical Social Work. She attended Illinois State University where she received a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Public Health. She plans to take everything she learns to become a medical social worker in a hospital setting, where she aims to connect the broader perspectives of public health into a more personalized level of care.
When she isn’t working or interning, she enjoys going camping, kayaking, going on walks, and taking care of her dog, Forest. Besides her dog, she also has three cats named Gizmo, Mister, and Spencer.
Lizsette Mancilla [she/her]
Masters Intern
lmancilla.eac@gmail.com
Lizsette holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology from Roosevelt University. Lizsette is currently in her advanced practicum and completed her general practicum with East Aurora Counseling. Lizsette is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work with a concentration in trauma at Chamberlain University to obtain licensure as a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) with the intention of obtaining her LCSW. Lizsette specializes in LGBTQIA+ affirmative care, trauma, PTSD, and depression.
Lizsette has a strong passion for helping others and is dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment to her clients. Lizsette is compassionate and driven to build rapport by engaging individuals with warmth and authenticity. Lizsette loves to spend time with her family and kitties in her spare time.
Jazmin Carrillo [she/her]
Masters Intern
jcarrillo.eac@gmail.com
Jazmin has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northern Illinois University, and she is pursuing a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families. She is fluent in both Spanish and English. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and cats, watching movies and TV shows, and taking walks.
Jazmin obtuvo su licenciatura en Psicología de Northern Illinois University y está cursando una maestría en terapia matrimonial y familiar. Le apasiona apoyar a individuos, parejas, y familias. Es bilingüe en español e inglés. En su tiempo libre, Jazmin disfruta pasar tiempo con su familia y sus gatos, ver películas y programas de televisión, y salir a caminar.
Alexandro Perez [he/him]
Masters Intern
aperez1.eac@gmail.com
Alexandro Perez got his BA in Psychology from Texas State University, and is currently working towards his MSW at Aurora University. Alexandro is fluent in both English and Spanish. Alexandro loves obsessing over music and video games in his free time, or watching comedies with his family.
Alexandro Pérez (él) obtuvo su licenciatura en Psicología en Texas State University y actualmente cursa una maestría en Trabajo Social (MSW) en Aurora University. Alexandro habla tanto el inglés como el español. En su tiempo libre, él es un fanatico de la música y de los videojuegos, o ver películas de comedias con su familia.
Desi Bote [she/her]
Masters Intern
dbote.eac@gmail.com
Desi is currently pursuing her Master's of Social Work degree from Chamberlain University with a concentration in Trauma. She graduated from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where she received a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Liberal Arts & Sciences, Creative Writing: English Rhetoric & Composition. She currently works at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Chicago for five years and is an administrative scheduling trainer for the facility, and prior to that worked in the nonprofit sector with Asian immigrant populations with community organizing, political engagement & legal advocacy, and immigrant youth and adult learners for six years. She hopes to use her degree to serve individuals and communities across Chicago and become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in her own future practice and within institutions. Her hobbies include exploring cafes and bookstores, traveling, cooking, reading, and binge-watching the latest dating reality or food competition show on Netflix. She is a proud bunny owner of Macapuno, her Holland-Lop bunny.
CASE MANAGEMENT TRAINEES
Carlos Guerrero [he/him] Case Management Extern cguerrero.eac@gmail.com
Carlos Guerrero is currently exploring different career paths and building his skills along the way. While he has a limited hands-on experience, he’s eager to learn. Carlos values feedback, learns quickly, and is open to opportunities that help him gain new experience.
Christopher Nicolas [he/they] Case Management Intern cnicolas.eac@gmail.com
My name is Christopher Nicolas, and I am pursuing an Associate in Arts at Waubonsee Community College with an interest in psychology. I’m on the Dean’s List and am a part of two honor societies, Phi Theta Kappa and Psi Beta at Waubonsee. I will be transferring to Aurora University after I complete my associate’s degree to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I am very passionate about supporting my community and individuals who face adversity. A fun fact about me is that I love sharks and I like anime.
Carolyn Parker [she/her] Case Management Intern cparker1.eac@gmail.com
Hi, I’m Carolyn! As a Case Manager Intern currently completing my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), I am passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate life's many paths. I believe that every person’s life is a unique adventure, and I am honored to be a part of your journey toward wellness and growth. When I’m not at East Aurora Counseling, you can usually find me planning my next travel destination and embracing all the adventures life has to offer!
Deisy Ortega [she/her] Case Management Intern dortega.eac@gmail.com
Hi, my name is Deisy, I am currently attending Waubonsee Community College where I will be starting my second year as a student. I am studying for an Associate in Arts (AA) in psychology. I will be transferring to the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) once I earn my AA for psychology to continue studying for a Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in criminology. I love learning new things and growing as a person. In my free time I love going out with friends and enjoying the time we get to spend together.
Hola, me llamo Deisy. Actualmente asisto al Waubonsee Community College, donde comenzaré mi segundo año como estudiante. Estoy estudiando para un Grado Asociado en Artes en Psicología. Me transferiré a la Universidad de Illinois en Chicago (UIC) una vez que obtenga mi título de asociado en psicología para continuar mis estudios y obtener una Licenciatura en Psicología con una especialización secundaria en Criminología. Me encanta aprender cosas nuevas y crecer como persona. En mi tiempo libre, disfruto salir con mis amigos y aprovechar el tiempo que pasamos juntos.
Yvette Ortiz [she/her] Case Management Intern yortiz.eac@gmail.com
Hi, I’m Yvette Ortiz. I currently hold an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education and am pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work at St. Augustine College in partnership with Lewis University, with an expected graduation date of December 2026. I am also bilingual in English and Spanish.
I am passionate about supporting children, individuals, and families by creating welcoming and supportive spaces where people feel heard, respected, and valued. Through my background in early childhood and community work, I have experience supporting families through outreach, developmental resources, parent support groups, and community-based services. As someone who values compassion, cultural understanding, and human connection, I hope to continue growing in the counseling and social work field while supporting others, build resilience, and feel supported in their personal growth.
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Blake Aguilar [they/them] Front Desk Administrator
blakeaguilareac@gmail.com
Blake Aguilar provides office management for all 4 Client Centered Collaborative sites. 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 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.
Clarissa Tirado [she/her] Front Desk Administrator
ctirado.eac@gmail.com
My name is Clarissa, an administrative assistant supporting the team with coordination, organization, and communication to ensure smooth and efficient daily operations. I am detail-oriented, responsible, and reliable, with a strong focus on maintaining structure and clarity.
Mi nombre es Clarissa, asistente administrativa, apoyando al equipo con coordinación, organización y comunicación para asegurar operaciones diarias eficientes y ordenadas. Soy una persona detallista, responsable y confiable, con un fuerte enfoque en la estructura y la claridad.
Rosa Alba Ordoñez [she/her] Front Desk Administrator
rordonez.eac@gmail.com
My name is Rosa, I support the team with administrative and coordination tasks, helping maintain organized processes and effective communication. I am detail-oriented, reliable, and committed to providing consistent support to both the team and the individuals we serve.
Mi nombre es Rosa, yo apoyo al equipo con tareas administrativas y de coordinación, ayudando a mantener procesos organizados y una comunicación efectiva. Me considero una persona responsable, orientada al detalle y comprometida con brindar apoyo constante a todos.
Isabella Ponce [she/her] Front Desk Administrator iponce.eac@gmail.com
Isabella graduated from Aurora University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. During her senior year at university, she interned at EAC in a case management role supporting individuals, and is now working at EAC as a Front Desk Administrator. Isabella also plans to pursue her Master of Social Work degree in the near future.
In her free time, she enjoys cooking, spending time with her pets, and watching movies.