Meet Our Team of
Health Care Specialists
At Portrait Health Centers, we have created an environment where the staff is warm and friendly, the doctors are accessible, and all patients are treated with care and respect
Rockford, IL
Portrait Health Centers 4615 E. State Street, Suite 202 Rockford, IL 61108 P: (847) 868-3435 F: (847) 859-5885 Map |
Ask a Patient Coordinator
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Sara Garl M.S.Ed. LCPC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
_____________________________________________
Education: Northern Illinois University
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Rockford, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Included, but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Trauma, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, Adjustment Disorders, Chronic Pain, Aging Issues, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Grief, Suicide, Marital and Premarital, Adoption, Infertility, Obsessive-Compulsive, Eating Disorders, Obesity, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Adolescent Issues, Asperger’s, Academic Underachievement, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Parenting, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, Teen Violence, PTSD, Pet Loss and Grief and Women's Issues
Therapy is a creative process built on a strong partnership. I believe the best outcomes start with honoring your own experiences, inherent wisdom and strengths. I believe that forging a path toward healing is best accomplished through compassionate understanding and acceptance of the past. My job is not to judge. It is to listen, support and guide you in understanding the areas in your life that may need attention. Together, we will identify goals and create a thoughtful, wise life plan in which healthy, effective change is possible.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Rockford, I work with a number of evidence- based treatments to help clients. My therapeutic framework is grounded in the area of Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, in particular Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Additionally, I have a Master’s in Teaching and have spent many years as an educator and counselor in the public school setting working with at-risk students.
I strive to live in the present moment and utilize mindfulness meditation as a cornerstone of my own self-care practices. My interests include spending time in nature and with animals, reading, and achieving new personal goals. I own a registered therapy dog and believe in the power of animals to heal and comfort. The practice of therapy is endlessly fascinating, and I am passionate about keeping abreast of new ideas and practices in the counseling profession.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Rockford, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Included, but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Trauma, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, Adjustment Disorders, Chronic Pain, Aging Issues, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Grief, Suicide, Marital and Premarital, Adoption, Infertility, Obsessive-Compulsive, Eating Disorders, Obesity, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Adolescent Issues, Asperger’s, Academic Underachievement, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Parenting, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, Teen Violence, PTSD, Pet Loss and Grief and Women's Issues
Therapy is a creative process built on a strong partnership. I believe the best outcomes start with honoring your own experiences, inherent wisdom and strengths. I believe that forging a path toward healing is best accomplished through compassionate understanding and acceptance of the past. My job is not to judge. It is to listen, support and guide you in understanding the areas in your life that may need attention. Together, we will identify goals and create a thoughtful, wise life plan in which healthy, effective change is possible.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Rockford, I work with a number of evidence- based treatments to help clients. My therapeutic framework is grounded in the area of Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, in particular Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Additionally, I have a Master’s in Teaching and have spent many years as an educator and counselor in the public school setting working with at-risk students.
I strive to live in the present moment and utilize mindfulness meditation as a cornerstone of my own self-care practices. My interests include spending time in nature and with animals, reading, and achieving new personal goals. I own a registered therapy dog and believe in the power of animals to heal and comfort. The practice of therapy is endlessly fascinating, and I am passionate about keeping abreast of new ideas and practices in the counseling profession.
Noelle D. Bennett, MA, NCC, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
_____________________________________________
Education: Concordia University-Chicago
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Locations: Rockford, IL & Saint Charles, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Addiction, ADHD, Adoption, Alcohol Abuse, Anger Management, Anxiety, Career Counseling, Child or Adolescent, Chronic Illness, Chronic Impulsivity, Chronic Pain, Chronic Relapse, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Domestic Abuse, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Gambling, Grief, Hoarding, Infertility, Infidelity, Internet Addiction, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Marital and Premarital, Men's Issues, Obesity, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Peer Relationships, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum, Racial Identity, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, Sex Therapy, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Addiction, Sleep or Insomnia, Spirituality, Sports Performance, Stress, Substance Abuse, Suicidal Ideation, Teen Violence, Trauma and PTSD, Video Game Addiction, Women's Issues, LGBTQ+ Concerns
I have earned by B.A. from Illinois Institute of Technology with a major in psychology. I went on to pursue my Master's Degree at Concordia University-Chicago in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. While working at Serenity Counseling Solutions, Associates in Behavioral Sciences, and Concordia University-Chicago I provided services to a diverse population of clients with varying concerns.
I love to utilize theories that work best for my individual clients. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and person-centered therapy are the theories that I tend to draw from the most frequent. In order to get the most out of counseling, I believe it is important for the client and I to establish a strong rapport. Before any work can be done, it is most important that the client knows that I am listening and care about what they are talking about in the session.
While in college, I played both volleyball and softball. In addition to continuing my love for those sports, I love to read, hike, watch movies, and get outside as much as possible.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Locations: Rockford, IL & Saint Charles, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Addiction, ADHD, Adoption, Alcohol Abuse, Anger Management, Anxiety, Career Counseling, Child or Adolescent, Chronic Illness, Chronic Impulsivity, Chronic Pain, Chronic Relapse, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Domestic Abuse, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Gambling, Grief, Hoarding, Infertility, Infidelity, Internet Addiction, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Marital and Premarital, Men's Issues, Obesity, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Peer Relationships, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum, Racial Identity, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, Sex Therapy, Sexual Abuse, Sexual Addiction, Sleep or Insomnia, Spirituality, Sports Performance, Stress, Substance Abuse, Suicidal Ideation, Teen Violence, Trauma and PTSD, Video Game Addiction, Women's Issues, LGBTQ+ Concerns
I have earned by B.A. from Illinois Institute of Technology with a major in psychology. I went on to pursue my Master's Degree at Concordia University-Chicago in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. While working at Serenity Counseling Solutions, Associates in Behavioral Sciences, and Concordia University-Chicago I provided services to a diverse population of clients with varying concerns.
I love to utilize theories that work best for my individual clients. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and person-centered therapy are the theories that I tend to draw from the most frequent. In order to get the most out of counseling, I believe it is important for the client and I to establish a strong rapport. Before any work can be done, it is most important that the client knows that I am listening and care about what they are talking about in the session.
While in college, I played both volleyball and softball. In addition to continuing my love for those sports, I love to read, hike, watch movies, and get outside as much as possible.
Karen L. McWilliams, CDE, RD, LDN
Licensed Dietitian
_____________________________________________
Education: Kansas State University
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Locations: Rockford, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Obesity and Weight Management, Type Two Diabetes, Bariatric Support, Digestive Issues, Diabetes Type Two. Obesity, Overweight, Healthy Eating, Wellness, Celiac and Gluten Intolerance, Sports nutrition, Disordered Eating, All types of Eating Disorders, Digestive Issues i.e. Crohns, Shortened Bowel Syndrome, Lactose Intolerance, Weight Gain, Weight Loss, Pediatric Nutrition, Prenatal Nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Breast Feeding, Pre-Diabetes, PCOS, Insulin Resistance, Gout, All Cardiac Issues: HTN, HPL, CHF, CAD. Ages 4 to Geriatric
Approach: Changes in lifestyle, eating habits and exercise require an open mind and even more trial and practice. My goal is to get to know you, to find the simplest tools for your needs, while giving you professional level information to cause real change.
Our sessions are your time to identify obstacles and possibilities. As a dietitian and wellness coach with experience I will continually work with you to take steps for change, with your approval first.
I have worked in private practice, physician’s offices, hospitals, and other types of community clinics and corporate settings--meeting with individuals and families -and facilitating groups.
My work experience was in Nebraska, Arizona, Washington, and now Illinois.
Presenting nutrition and wellness topics that meet the interest and level of thinking of those in attendance is always key.
About Me: As a wife, a mom, and a grandmother from the Midwest, I continually strive for wellness in my own life. Gardening, jogging, family ancestry, reading, music, and time with friends and family help me to enjoy each day, and fill my bucket. With continual updates in nutrition, these hobbies and daily habits, remind me of my own responsibility for self-care.
Our health is all we have! I look forward to getting to know you!
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Locations: Rockford, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Obesity and Weight Management, Type Two Diabetes, Bariatric Support, Digestive Issues, Diabetes Type Two. Obesity, Overweight, Healthy Eating, Wellness, Celiac and Gluten Intolerance, Sports nutrition, Disordered Eating, All types of Eating Disorders, Digestive Issues i.e. Crohns, Shortened Bowel Syndrome, Lactose Intolerance, Weight Gain, Weight Loss, Pediatric Nutrition, Prenatal Nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Breast Feeding, Pre-Diabetes, PCOS, Insulin Resistance, Gout, All Cardiac Issues: HTN, HPL, CHF, CAD. Ages 4 to Geriatric
Approach: Changes in lifestyle, eating habits and exercise require an open mind and even more trial and practice. My goal is to get to know you, to find the simplest tools for your needs, while giving you professional level information to cause real change.
Our sessions are your time to identify obstacles and possibilities. As a dietitian and wellness coach with experience I will continually work with you to take steps for change, with your approval first.
I have worked in private practice, physician’s offices, hospitals, and other types of community clinics and corporate settings--meeting with individuals and families -and facilitating groups.
My work experience was in Nebraska, Arizona, Washington, and now Illinois.
Presenting nutrition and wellness topics that meet the interest and level of thinking of those in attendance is always key.
About Me: As a wife, a mom, and a grandmother from the Midwest, I continually strive for wellness in my own life. Gardening, jogging, family ancestry, reading, music, and time with friends and family help me to enjoy each day, and fill my bucket. With continual updates in nutrition, these hobbies and daily habits, remind me of my own responsibility for self-care.
Our health is all we have! I look forward to getting to know you!
Andrea Contreras, RDN, LDN
Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist
_____________________________________________
Education: Northern Illinois University
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Rockford, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Including, but not limited to: Adult Nutrition, ADHD, Addiction, Arthritis, Asthma, Autism, Behavioral Modification, Bariatric Support, Cancer, Cardiovascular Disease, Celiac Disease, Child Nutrition, Cholesterol, Chronic Fatigue, Colitis, Corporate Wellness, Crohn’s Disease, Eating Disorders, Fibromyalgia, Food Allergies, Food Sensitivity, Diabetes, Digestive Issues, Geriatric, Gluten Free, Health Coaching, High Blood Pressure, Headaches/Migraines, Immune Diseases, IBS, Lifestyle, OBGYN, Osteoporosis, Pain Management, Pediatric Nutrition, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Skin Problems, Sleep, Sports Nutrition, Stress Management, Medical Nutrition Therapy, Menu Planning, Mindful Eating, Postpartum Nutrition, Prenatal Nutrition, Vegetarian, Vegan, Weight Management, Wellness Counseling
Education and Experience: I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition, Health, and Wellness from Northern Illinois University. I then went on to complete an 8-month, 1,200-hour internship through the University of Delaware. During this time, I gained experience interviewing clients and then planning and directing nutritional care activities for them. Some of the rotations I completed include a hospital, catering facility, long term care, outpatient diabetes clinic, bariatric clinic, weight management, and a WIC center.
My Philosophy: People often feel that changing their eating habits takes an all or nothing effort, and that can be overwhelming. Truth be told, focusing on making one small change daily is more manageable and will still make a big impact in the long run. I believe that balance and variety are key in maintaining a healthy diet. As a person dedicated to improving community awareness of healthy eating, I truly enjoy educating individuals regarding food choices and health outcomes. After all, making healthier choices is a lifestyle change that should be enjoyable if it is to be maintained over the long term.
About Me: In my spare time I enjoy walking/running outdoors, painting furniture, playing with my children and my dogs, cooking (especially baking), and listening to music. I love to organize as well, so I can often be found “updating” various rooms in my house.
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Rockford, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Including, but not limited to: Adult Nutrition, ADHD, Addiction, Arthritis, Asthma, Autism, Behavioral Modification, Bariatric Support, Cancer, Cardiovascular Disease, Celiac Disease, Child Nutrition, Cholesterol, Chronic Fatigue, Colitis, Corporate Wellness, Crohn’s Disease, Eating Disorders, Fibromyalgia, Food Allergies, Food Sensitivity, Diabetes, Digestive Issues, Geriatric, Gluten Free, Health Coaching, High Blood Pressure, Headaches/Migraines, Immune Diseases, IBS, Lifestyle, OBGYN, Osteoporosis, Pain Management, Pediatric Nutrition, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Skin Problems, Sleep, Sports Nutrition, Stress Management, Medical Nutrition Therapy, Menu Planning, Mindful Eating, Postpartum Nutrition, Prenatal Nutrition, Vegetarian, Vegan, Weight Management, Wellness Counseling
Education and Experience: I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition, Health, and Wellness from Northern Illinois University. I then went on to complete an 8-month, 1,200-hour internship through the University of Delaware. During this time, I gained experience interviewing clients and then planning and directing nutritional care activities for them. Some of the rotations I completed include a hospital, catering facility, long term care, outpatient diabetes clinic, bariatric clinic, weight management, and a WIC center.
My Philosophy: People often feel that changing their eating habits takes an all or nothing effort, and that can be overwhelming. Truth be told, focusing on making one small change daily is more manageable and will still make a big impact in the long run. I believe that balance and variety are key in maintaining a healthy diet. As a person dedicated to improving community awareness of healthy eating, I truly enjoy educating individuals regarding food choices and health outcomes. After all, making healthier choices is a lifestyle change that should be enjoyable if it is to be maintained over the long term.
About Me: In my spare time I enjoy walking/running outdoors, painting furniture, playing with my children and my dogs, cooking (especially baking), and listening to music. I love to organize as well, so I can often be found “updating” various rooms in my house.
Ashley Spickler, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
_____________________________________________
Education: Olivet Nazarene University
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Rockford, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Included but not limited to: ADHD, Adoption, Anger Management, Antisocial Personality, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Child or Adolescent, Chronic Illness, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Developmental Disorders, Divorce, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Grief, Infertility, Internet Addiction, Learning Disabilities, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Marital and Premarital, Narcissistic Personality, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Peer Relationships, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum, Racial Identity, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, Spirituality, Sports Performance, Stress, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma & PTSD.
Educational Background: After graduating with my master’s degree in Professional and School Counseling from Olivet Nazarene University, I have worked as a School Counselor, a community-based Child Therapist, and a Crisis Interventionist. In addition to PHC, I currently work as a School Counselor at a local elementary school, so I can offer insight and possible solutions regarding school-based problems.
Therapeutic Approach: I believe the most important aspect of counseling is establishing a safe and supportive relationship between the client and counselor. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches in my counseling sessions, developing new interventions based on each client’s individual needs and interests. To me, therapy is a team-based process, and I will work WITH you to develop personalized goals and outcomes. I will walk alongside you/your child providing support, understanding, and guidance as needed.
About Me: When I am not working, you can find me spending time with my family and friends, eating tacos, enjoying the sunshine outdoors with my dog, reading a good book, watching football, or traveling the world. I have been to almost twenty countries across five continents, and I believe these experiences help me relate to clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds. I look forward to meeting you!
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
Office Location: Rockford, IL
Schedule Appointment Online (Rockford Office)
Specialties: Included but not limited to: ADHD, Adoption, Anger Management, Antisocial Personality, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Child or Adolescent, Chronic Illness, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Developmental Disorders, Divorce, Eating Disorders, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Grief, Infertility, Internet Addiction, Learning Disabilities, Life Coaching, Life Transitions, Marital and Premarital, Narcissistic Personality, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Peer Relationships, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum, Racial Identity, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, Spirituality, Sports Performance, Stress, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma & PTSD.
Educational Background: After graduating with my master’s degree in Professional and School Counseling from Olivet Nazarene University, I have worked as a School Counselor, a community-based Child Therapist, and a Crisis Interventionist. In addition to PHC, I currently work as a School Counselor at a local elementary school, so I can offer insight and possible solutions regarding school-based problems.
Therapeutic Approach: I believe the most important aspect of counseling is establishing a safe and supportive relationship between the client and counselor. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches in my counseling sessions, developing new interventions based on each client’s individual needs and interests. To me, therapy is a team-based process, and I will work WITH you to develop personalized goals and outcomes. I will walk alongside you/your child providing support, understanding, and guidance as needed.
About Me: When I am not working, you can find me spending time with my family and friends, eating tacos, enjoying the sunshine outdoors with my dog, reading a good book, watching football, or traveling the world. I have been to almost twenty countries across five continents, and I believe these experiences help me relate to clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds. I look forward to meeting you!
Portrait Health Patient Coordinators
_____________________________________________
Phone: (847) 868-3435
Email Me
*Available at all Portrait Health Centers Locations
As the title implies, a Patient Coordinator is the guide who literally takes your hand and leads you through the initial evaluation and serves as your advocate when the team of specialists design personalized treatment plans. Nobody should ever have to walk alone when learning about the treatment options and deciphering between myths and facts in healthcare. A Portrait Health Patient Coordinator will educate you and your family on the latest treatment options and will work to ensure that the focus remains on identifying the cause, and not merely treating the outward symptoms the patient is experiencing. Each Portrait Health Patient Coordinator is experienced in pediatric, adolescent, adult and senior care, and becomes your guide and advocate at Portrait Health Centers. Contact us to speak with a Patient Coordinator.
Email Me
*Available at all Portrait Health Centers Locations
As the title implies, a Patient Coordinator is the guide who literally takes your hand and leads you through the initial evaluation and serves as your advocate when the team of specialists design personalized treatment plans. Nobody should ever have to walk alone when learning about the treatment options and deciphering between myths and facts in healthcare. A Portrait Health Patient Coordinator will educate you and your family on the latest treatment options and will work to ensure that the focus remains on identifying the cause, and not merely treating the outward symptoms the patient is experiencing. Each Portrait Health Patient Coordinator is experienced in pediatric, adolescent, adult and senior care, and becomes your guide and advocate at Portrait Health Centers. Contact us to speak with a Patient Coordinator.