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.
CLINICAL TRAINEES
Chasity Walters [S
he/Her]
Masters Intern cwalters.eac@gmail.com
Chasity is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Denver, building on her Bachelor of Science in
Health Sciences from Arizona State University. With experience as a licensed practical nurse, she brings a holistic approach to her role
as an MSW intern, focusing on empowering individuals through compassionate and strengths-based care. Outside of her studies, Chasity enjoys staying active through running
and yoga, and cherishes time with her family. Committed to making a positive impact on the health and well-being of others, she is dedicated to helping people, both professionally and personally.
Cassie Kamp [She/Her]
Masters intern
ckamp.eac@gmail.com
Cassie received her BA in Psychology and BS in Rehabilitation and Disability Services from Northern Illinois University. She is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago Jane Addams College of Social Work. She has experience working with clients in crisis and providing case management services while she worked as a Crisis Specialist. Cassie values holistic wellness, looking at each dimension of an individual’s personal experience and exploring ways she can help the person discover and work towards their personal goals in every aspect of their life. She has personal experience struggling with mental health conditions, helping her have a deeper understanding of others and relate to other people’s experiences. Her professional goal is to obtain her LCSW and provide trauma-informed care to youth and adolescents. In her free time, Cassie loves to make crafts, play board games, try new foods, travel, and spend quality time with her family and friends.
Vladanka Mitrovic (She/her)
Masters intern vmitrovic.eac@gmail.com
Vladanka graduated with her bachelor’s in Sociology from the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade pursuing her Master’s in Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy, at Touro University Worldwide, California. She has 7 years of experience working with children in a school environment but enjoys working with families, couples, and individuals of all ages. She is also Serbian (Croatian, Bosnian) speaking. She is passionate about helping others reach their goals and become their best version.
She enjoys spending time in nature with family and friends and reading books in nature.
Vladanka je diplomirala Sociologiju na Filozofskom fakultetu Univerziteta u Beogradu i trenutno pohađa zavrsne master studije iz oblasti Sistemske (porodicne) psihoterapije na Touro University Worldwide u Kaliforniji. Njen rad je posvecen porodicama, parovima i pojedincima svih uzrasta. Tečno govori srpski (hrvatski, bosanski) jezik. Usmerena je pružanju podrške u postizanju ciljeva i unapređenju ličnog razvoja svojih klijenata. U slobodno vreme uživa u boravku u prirodi s porodicom i prijateljima, kao i u čitanju knjiga.
Sameera Hussain (She/her)
Masters intern
shussain.eac@gmail.com
I went to East West University and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Behavioral Science. I am a current graduate student at University of Chicago in Social Work. I plan on giving back to the community with my skills and compassion.
Katty Juarez (she/her)
Masters intern
krjuarez.eac@gmail.com
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from North Central College in Naperville, IL. I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago. As a bilingual first-generation college student, my personal experiences with adversity have inspired me to break generational cycles and help others.
My journey has led me to work in various fields, including gaining first hand experience in prisons and working with children in daycares. I even had the opportunity to study abroad, where I compared treatment approaches in different correctional systems. Through these experiences, I have developed a strong desire to give back to my community and make a positive impact wherever I can.
In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my dog, friends, and family. I love to travel, paint, and go for walks, creating beautiful memories along the way. I am excited to meet new clients and am dedicated to providing support in any way I can.
Recibí mi licenciatura en Sociología con especialización en Psicología de North Central College en Naperville, IL. Actualmente estoy cursando mi Maestría en Trabajo Social en la Universidad de Illinois Chicago. Como estudiante universitaria bilingüe de primera generación, mis experiencias personales con la adversidad me han inspirado a romper los ciclos generacionales y ayudar a otros.
Mi viaje me ha llevado a trabajar en varios campos, incluyendo la obtención de experiencia de primera mano en las cárceles y el trabajo con niños en guarderías. Incluso tuve la oportunidad de estudiar en el extranjero, donde comparé enfoques de tratamiento en diferentes sistemas penitenciarios. A través de estas experiencias, he desarrollado un fuerte deseo de devolver a mi comunidad y hacer un impacto positivo donde quiera que pueda.
En mi tiempo libre, me gusta pasar tiempo de calidad con mi perro, amigos y familia. Me encanta viajar, pintar y pasear, creando hermosos recuerdos en el camino. Me entusiasma conocer nuevos clientes y me dedico a brindarles apoyo en todo lo que pueda.
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.
Samantha Diaz [She/Her/Ella]
Masters Intern
sdiaz.eac@gmail.com
Samantha is a bilingual clinical intern fluent in both Spanish and English, currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with a minor in Criminology, from Dominican University. Samantha’s passion for supporting her community emerged early in her academic journey, where she discovered her calling to provide social services and counseling. With a client-centered approach, she is dedicated to equipping individuals with resources tailored to their unique needs and advocating for their rights. Samantha aims to create a compassionate, judgment-free space for individuals facing mental health challenges, empowering them to speak openly and feel genuinely heard. In her free time, Samantha enjoys outdoor adventures and spending quality time with her dog and family.
Samantha es una pasante clínica bilingüe, fluida en español e inglés, y actualmente está cursando su Maestría en Trabajo Social en la Universidad de Illinois Chicago. Obtuvo su licenciatura en Psicología, con una especialización en Criminología, de la Universidad Dominicana. La pasión de Samantha por apoyar a su comunidad surgió temprano en su trayectoria académica, donde descubrió su vocación para brindar servicios sociales y asesoramiento. Con un enfoque centrado en el cliente, se dedica a proporcionar a las personas recursos adaptados a sus necesidades únicas y a abogar por sus derechos. Samantha aspira a crear un espacio compasivo y libre de juicios para quienes enfrentan desafíos de salud mental, empoderándolos para hablar abiertamente y sentirse genuinamente escuchados. En su tiempo libre, a Samantha le gusta disfrutar de actividades al aire libre y pasar tiempo de calidad con su perro y su familia.
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
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.
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。
McKenna Faber [She/Her]
Bachelors Intern mfaber.eac@gmail.com
McKenna received her associates degree at Peninsula College in Port Angeles, Washington. Currently, she is pursing her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at Aurora University. She aspires to become a school social worker, hoping to work with children and adolescents. She also has an interest in play therapy and she wants to work with a wide range of clients to broaden her knowledge. She favors a strength-based approach and is interested in emotional regulation. Outside of social work, she enjoys crocheting, embroidery, writing, and spending time with her cat.
MARICELA MARTINEZ [She/Her]
Bachelors Intern mmartinez.eac@gmail.com
I am currently working towards my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at Aurora University. I hope to build genuine bonds with my clients throughout my social work career. I enjoy working with children and adolescents. My interests include drawing, tennis, reading, and hanging out with friends.
Actualmente estoy trabajando para obtener mi Licenciatura en Trabajo Social (BSW) en la Universidad Aurora. Espero construir una relación auténtica con mis clientes a lo largo de mi carrera de trabajo social. Disfruto trabajar con niños y adolescentes. Mis intereses incluyen dibujar, tenis, leer y salir con amigos.
Desury Romualdo [She/Her]
Bachelors Intern dromualdo.eac@gmail.com
Desury Romualdo is currently in the BSW program at Aurora University. She has experience working with individuals of all ages and individuals on the spectrum. Growing up she was aware of many inequalities in society and noticed how language barriers can impact families as well as individuals. As a daughter of two immigrant parents, her goal is to use Spanish to help the Latino community, and has motivated her to learn American Sign Language. In the near future, she wants to provide services for the deaf community and utilize assisted animal therapy. During her leisure time, she loves being outdoors with her two cats and dog. She takes a special interest in gardening and plants. It brings her joy observing how plants grow and bloom into something beautiful. It reminds her of the growth and blossoming that her as well as others can accomplish.
Hola, mi nombre es Desury Romualdo y actualmente estoy en el programa de bachillerato en la Universidad Aurora. Tengo experiencia trabajando con personas de todas las edades y con individuos en el espectro. Al crecer, fui consciente de muchas desigualdades en la sociedad y me di cuenta de cómo las barreras del idioma pueden afectar a las familias, así como a las personas. Como hija de dos padres inmigrantes, mi meta es usar mi español para ayudar a la comunidad latina, lo cual me ha motivado a aprender el Lenguaje de Signos Americano. En un futuro próximo, quiero proveer servicios a la comunidad sorda y utilizar la terapia asistida con animales. Durante mi tiempo libre, me encanta estar al aire libre con mis dos gatos y mi perro. Me interesan especialmente la jardinería y las plantas. Me encanta observar cómo crecen y florecen las plantas, ya que me recuerda que tanto yo como los demás podemos crecer y florecer.
Joshua Grant Saria [He/Him]
Bachelors Intern jsaria.eac@gmail.com
Joshua is currently pursuing his Bachelor's degrees in Social Work and Psychology at 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. 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.
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.
MSW SUPERVISOR EXTRAORDINAIRE [EAC]
Hannah Biggs [She/Her]
LCSW hannahbiggs@innerhealingtherapy.co
I earned my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Western Illinois University and my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Aurora University. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Supervisor, I bring extensive experience in clinical supervision, guiding and supporting social workers to enhance their professional skills and clinical practice. My role involves overseeing the development and implementation of therapeutic techniques, providing constructive feedback, and ensuring adherence to ethical standards and best practices in social work.
I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment for my supervisees, aiming to empower them in their professional journey and ensure the highest quality of care for our clients. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a commitment to professional excellence.