Christine Widuger, PsyD
she/her/hers
Christine Widuger
PsyD, Post-Doctoral Resident, she/her/hers
When choosing a career path, Christine Widuger had one motivation: to find her voice and to share it with others. Originally, she thought that meant singing and performing on stage. However, she discovered something more important: finding her voice and then helping others to find their voice too. Dr. Widuger earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Loyola University Chicago. She went on to earn her masters in counseling and doctorate in psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. Her focus became advocating for populations who struggled to have their voices heard. Her attention was drawn to working with families involved in the legal system and youth populations to provide additional support and advocacy of mental health needs. She continues to work with a wide range of age groups from young children to adulthood through individual and family therapy services.
Dr. Widuger has worked in multiple settings including: private practice, outpatient clinics, partial hospitalization programs, in school services, specialized behavioral programs, and nonprofit community outreach organizations. She focused her experiences on supporting individuals with symptoms of anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Selective Mutism, Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental delays, learning disabilities, divorce reaction, eating disorders, self-injury, and adjustment difficulties. She primarily utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems Theory in the therapy sessions.
Strength based treatment and positive psychology is the driving force behind Dr. Widuger's approach to providing therapeutic support. She believes that by focusing on a person's strengths anyone can discover their voice and achieve their goals. Therapy is designed with smaller, attainable goals to increase an individual's confidence and self-awareness as they continue moving towards greater opportunities and success. Dr. Widuger encourages each person to take a moment in the spotlight and let their unique voice be heard.
Christine Widuger
Manuel Meza, LCSW
he/him/his
Manuel Meza
LCSW, He/Him/His
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Manuel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who completed his master at Jane Addams College of Social Work. He believes we all have the capacity to change and grow given the appropriate tools and skills.
Manuel prioritizes creating a safe and trusting environment in which a client can work towards their goals in a comfortable, supportive setting. He uses Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing and family systems theory as a way to help his clients achieve their goals.
Manuel has worked with teens and young adults in a residential setting. He has experience helping others work through their depression, anxiety, trauma, and anger. He currently works with adults experiencing homelessness who have a mental health diagnosis and also conducts crisis assessments at Cook County Hospital ED.
Jessica Piña, LSW
she/her/hers
Jessica Piña
LSW, She/Her/Hers
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Jessica Piña is a Licensed Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work from Lewis University. As a clinician, Jessica believes that therapy should be a process where the client works together with the therapist to gain an increase of self awareness and personal growth. She works with every client through an empathetic and strengths based perspective to create a trusting and safe environment. Every person deserves to feel seen, heard and empowered to embrace one’s self. To do so Jessica believes in utilizing a variety of treatments tailored to best fit each person’s needs and goals.
Jessica has experience working with children, adolescents and adults across different cultural backgrounds. She has experience working with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self harm, trauma, self esteem and family systems.
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Jesus Ruan
he/him/his
Jesus Ruan
He/Him/His, Student Clinician
Jesus Javier Ruan is completing his Doctorate degree in clinical psychology at Roosevelt University. In the past year, Jesus has worked as a therapist across three schools in Chicago as part of his practicum with United Stand. Now, he is entering his diagnostic practicum at Hartgrove Hospital and working as a therapist for AMS Wellness. Jesus is under the supervision of Dr. Alicia Viera, Illinois licensed clinical psychologist.
In therapy, Jesus places an emphasis on establishing an accepting and mindful approach to treatment; while also helping clients to identify and work towards their goals. Individuals who struggle with difficult emotions often find themselves ‘stuck’ and unsatisfied. Jesus relies on his expanding knowledge of current and credible therapy approaches to provide clients the tools to live a more fulfilled life.
His clinical interests include working with adolescents and adults with a variety of struggles (Depression, anxiety, relationships, and more). Jesus’s experience with working with individuals across many cultural backgrounds and mental health difficulties have prepared him to adapt to the needs of his clients.
Alex Taheri, M.A.
he/him/his
Alex Taheri, M.A.
He/Him/His, Student Clinician
Alexander Taheri is currently completing his Doctorate degree in clinical psychology at Adler University Chicago. In the past year, Alex has completed his diagnostic practicum at a private practice specializing in neuropsychological assessment. During his time administering psychological assessment, he worked with a diverse population across the lifespan presenting with a wide array of symptomatology. Previously, Alex earned his master’s degree in psychology from Pepperdine University in California.
In therapy, Alex focuses on a strength based, humanistic approach where he fosters a safe, non-judgmental, and accepting stance when working with clients. Knowing therapy can be new territory for many individuals, he aims to meet clients where they are comfortable and embark on a collaborative journey to achieve any goals. Alex enjoys incorporating mindfulness-based interventions when appropriate in recognizing the importance of emotional regulation and the mind-body connection. Alex continuously works under the supervision of Dr. Melissa Salinas and also engages in consultation with other experienced clinicians at AMS Wellness to further develop his clinical skills.
Cindy Martinez
she/her/hers
Cindy Martinez
She/Her/Hers, Student Clinician
Cindy Martinez is completing her Doctorate degree in clinical psychology at Adler University. Currently, Cindy is a Therapy Extern under the supervision of Dr. Salinas. Cindy has worked in multiple settings including: in school services, residential care, domestic violence shelter, and nonprofit community outreach organizations.
Cindy has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across many cultural backgrounds and settings. Her clinical interests include working with adolescents, adults, and couples with a focus on trauma, grief, life transitions, depression, and anxiety.
Cindy’s approach to therapy is nonjudgmental, evidence-based, and tailored to each individual and the challenges they face. She feels it is essential to create an inclusive safe space for individuals to feel heard, encouraged, and accepted. Cindy works collaboratively with clients to develop resources, insights, and experiences with greater choices, flexibility, and connection to their values.
Rachel Goluboff
she/her/hers
Rachel Goluboff
She/Her/Hers, Student Clinician
Rachel Goluboff is completing her Doctorate in clinical psychology with a child and adolescent emphasis at Adler University. Currently, she is a therapy extern under the supervision of Dr. Viera. Rachel has worked with children and families in diverse environments, including preschools, elementary schools, developmental research, and community mental health with individuals ages 1 to 26.
Rachel enjoys working with clients of all ages but has a particular interest in working with children and adolescents, especially in early childhood. Her clinical interests include trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, neurodevelopmental disorders, transitions, and family conflict.
Rachel's therapeutic approach is client-centered, collaborative, and goal-oriented. Building strong connections with her clients and their families is crucial to creating a safe and supportive space for open expression. She believes in building strong connections with her clients and their families, as well as creating a safe and supportive environment for open expression. Rachel aims to support her clients and their loved ones as they learn to navigate the complicated and sometimes scary years of childhood and adolescence.
Kaitlin Martin
she/her/hers
Kaitlin Martin
She/Her/Hers, Doctoral Extern
Kaitlin Martin is completing her Doctorate degree in clinical psychology at Adler University. Currently, Kaitlin is a therapy extern under the supervision of Dr. Melissa Salinas. She has worked with children and families throughout various school systems and nonprofit communities.
Kaitlin has experience with children and adolescents from diverse backgrounds and settings. She is interested in continuing her work with children and adolescents as well as expanding her experience with couples and families. Kaitlin’s clinical interests include trauma, life transitions, family conflict, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
In therapy, Kaitlin uses a strength-based, client-centered approach. She is collaborative in nature and focuses on creating a safe, compassionate, and accepting environment for all clients. She believes a solid foundation of mutual trust and respect is pivotal for the therapeutic relationship. Kaitlin aims to walk with her clients through their ever-changing lives and help them grow in ways that align with their individual values.
Ruben Castrejon
he/him/his
Ruben Castrejon
He/Him/His, Master's Intern
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Ruben Castrejon is currently completing his Master's in Counseling Psychology at The Chicago School. Ruben believes that therapy should be a conversation between client and clinician, where the client guides the session and change can happen collaboratively.
Ruben's approach to therapy is solution-focused, and goal-oriented. He utilizes a cognitive-behavioral modality, focused on creating non-judgmental spaces where clients can feel comfortable during sessions. Ruben believes that therapy is not a linear process and that it is a journey that takes time and patience. Ruben aims to incorporate mindfulness techniques in sessions to promote and work on emotional regulation for clients and reduce emotional distress.
Ruben's clinical interests include working with children and adolescents, experiencing mood and anxiety disorders, transitional conflict, family conflict, academic stress, and ADHD.
Munnaza Siddiqui
she/her/hers
Munnaza Siddiqui
She/Her/Hers, Doctoral Extern
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Munnaza Syed Siddiqui is a doctoral student in clinical psychology at Adler University, specializing in children and adolescents. She is an Advanced Extern working under the supervision of Dr. Viera. Munnaza has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and parents from many ethnic backgrounds and circumstances in various settings, including a therapeutic day school as a teaching assistant, an inpatient children's hospital, and a private clinic.
Munnaza enjoys working with children aged 1 to 9 but is interested in expanding her skills to include couples and families. Her clinical interests include neurodevelopmental diseases, anxiety management, family conflict, and behavioral concerns.
Munnaza's therapy approach is nonjudgmental, client-centered, and collaborative, tailored to each client's needs and goals. She believes in building strong relationships with her clients and their families while offering a safe and supportive environment for open conversations. Munnaza enjoys helping the community, especially immigrants and refugees. Her goal is to reduce the stigma and adverse perspectives towards mental health that exist among the ethnically diverse community.
Layan Abdelhadi
she/her/hers
Layan Abdelhadi
She/Her/Hers, Doctoral Extern
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Layan Abdelhadi is completing her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Adler University. Currently, Layan is a Therapy Extern. In the past year, she completed her diagnostic practicum at United Stand Family Counseling Center, where she worked with a diverse population of children and adolescents ranging in symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, learning disorders, trauma, and anxiety.
Layan has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults of many backgrounds. Her clinical interests include working across the lifespan, couples, and families with focuses on trauma, neurodivergent disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Layan’s approach to therapy is creating a safe space in which each individual is accepted, accommodated, and feels validated. She believes that inclusivity and acceptance allow individuals to feel heard and encouraged. Layan works with individuals and families to attain and access resources and insight.
Jasmyn Alladin, LPC
she/her/hers
Jhasmyn Alladin
LPC, She/Her/Hers, Doctoral Extern
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Jhasmyn Alladin is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School. Currently, Jhasmyn is a therapy Extern under the supervision of Dr. Viera. Her academic journey began with dual bachelor’s degrees in Biochemistry and Human Development, specializing in Child and Adolescent Development. She has also received master’s degrees in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Trauma and Crisis Intervention and in Clinical Psychology.
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Jhasmyn is committed to utilizing a holistic therapeutic approach. She places great importance on establishing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where clients can thrive. Her practice is centered around fostering personal growth, building strong therapeutic relationships, and empowering clients through their unique strengths. Jhasmyn employs a variety of therapeutic techniques in an integrative manner, with a particular emphasis on relational cultural approaches informed by trauma awareness.
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Jhasmyn’s professional experience spans various clinical settings, including nonprofit community mental health organizations, in-home care, residential facilities, hospitals, and a neuropsychological testing center. She has worked extensively across the lifespan, providing care to children, adolescents, and adults from diverse cultural backgrounds. Her clinical interests encompass at-risk youth, individuals coping with trauma or adverse experiences, anxiety, depression, and families involved with the Department of Child and Family Services.
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Caitlin Wolf, M.A.
she/her/hers
Caitlin Wolf, M.A.
She/Her/Hers, Doctoral Extern
Caitlin Wolf is a dedicated and passionate third-year student in the Clinical Psychology PsyD program at The Chicago School. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Iowa and further honed her expertise with a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School. Caitlin is working under the supervision of Dr. Salinas, at AMS Wellness.
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Caitlin has extensive experience in testing and assessment across the lifespan, with a particular focus on children and adolescents facing complex trauma and significant behavioral and emotional challenges. Her diagnostic practicum at a local therapeutic day school provided her with valuable hands-on experience, solidifying her commitment to this vulnerable population.
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Beyond her professional pursuits, she finds balance and relaxation through meditation and yoga, and enjoys unwinding with a bit of junk reality television. Caitlin's holistic approach to life and therapy underscores her dedication to fostering resilience and well-being in her clients.
Elizabeth Tomashek
she/her/hers
Elizabeth Tomashek
She/Her/Hers, Doctoral Extern
Elizabeth Tomashek is completing her Doctorate degree in clinical psychology at Adler University in Chicago. Currently, Elizabeth is an Advanced Therapy Extern. Elizabeth has previous work experience in multiple settings including an inpatient and outpatient behavioral hospital, elementary and middle schools, and an Applied Behavioral Analysis Center for Autism.
Elizabeth has experience working with children, adolescents, and families with various presentations and cultural backgrounds. She enjoys working with the pediatric population as her clinical interests lie in child development, parenting, attachment, trauma, and the justice system.
Elizabeth’s therapeutic approach is a fusion between Adlerian Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Therapy with Elizabeth is a non-judgmental, strength-based, encouraging, and collaborative space. Creating a safe environment where individuals can feel comfortable expressing their authentic selves is highly valued, as well as building autonomy and advocacy skills. Therapy is catered to where the individual is at in the present moment and helps them work on desired goals. Under the supervision of Dr. Viera, Elizabeth also engages in consultation with other AMS Wellness clinicians to further build skills, provide adequate services, and advocate for youth.
Kayla Nelson
she/her/hers
Kayla Nelson
She/Her/Hers, Doctoral Extern
Kayla Nelson is completing her Doctorate degree in clinical psychology at Roosevelt University. She is entering therapy practicum at AMS Wellness under the supervision of Melissa Salinas, an Illinois licensed clinical psychologist. She has a variety of experiences working with children and adolescents such as being program director at Friendship Circle International. This role involves working with teens and young adults who have disabilities by facilitating programs where individuals can learn, connect, and thrive. Kayla also worked in the Chicago Public School system supporting students through individualized tutoring and socio-emotional development.
In therapy, Kayla prioritizes working with diverse backgrounds and creating a safe space where clients can express themselves and navigate their experiences in a judgment-free environment. This is utilized through a client-centered, humanistic approach that values collaboration and strong therapeutic alliance. She believes goal-oriented techniques and emotion regulation are key to reducing emotional distress.
Kayla’s clinical interests include working with children and adolescents experiencing anxiety disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disabilities, family conflict, and more.
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Ricky Rocket
she/her/hers
Ricky Rocket
She/Her/Hers, Doctoral Extern
Ricky Rocket is completing her Doctorate degree in clinical psychology at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. Currently, Ricky is a diagnostic extern under the supervision of Dr. Alicia Viera. She has experience working with children and families in a variety of settings such as education, children’s entertainment and volunteering at non-profit organizations. Ricky is concentrating on child and adolescent populations with clinical interest in pediatrics, family systems, the justice system, trauma, and attachment. As a diagnostic extern, she is interested in focusing on individual strengths and advocating for the specific needs of the client.