As the owner of Good Therapy, Abby Koch, LCSW, is expert at creating a comfortable environment where every client feels safe sharing feelings in order to strengthen every step towards optimal mental health. Specializing in couples’ therapy and helping parents who struggle with anxiety, depression, and life transitions, Abby cares for an average of 20-25 clients per week, while finding endless inspiration in helping all of her clients realize their unique therapeutic goals.

Abby embarked on her career 20 years ago, after she earned her Bacherlor’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Iowa, followed by her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Chicago’s Loyola University. She began working at Thresholds, helping the severely mentally ill embrace their lives independently before her professional path led to her experience as a crisis worker for children and adults. She then gave her expertise in Early Intervention before volunteering in India, supporting children suffering extreme poverty.

Precious time away from the office is spent with family and friends, working out, and reading. Her best Sunday involves waking up early to work out, being an enthusiastic spectator at her children’s athletic events, followed by dinner at home with close friends.

Abby considers her mother, a single mom who raised two kids while working full-time, her hero because she demonstrated that no matter the challenge, you can accomplish anything. Her mother also instilled in Abby a unwavering work ethic and a drive to always help others.

Known by colleagues and clients for her genuine, authentic spirit, it’s practically impossible for Abby to even imagine pursuing any other profession, as she has known that this is the kind of work she has been called to do since she was in fourth grade. That call never disconnected.

Having worked as hard as she did to get to where she is today, Abby is a passionate advocate about her work, constantly driven to discover better support for her clients.

Dr. Nelson holds a Bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. With over nine years of clinical experience, she has volunteered in a domestic violence shelter, published research on teen sexual development, and is an adjunct professor. Dr. Nelson is certified in treating perinatal mental health disorders and has additional training in specialized stressors related to pregnancy, postpartum, and infertility.

As the Director of Psychological Services, Dr. Nelson conducts assessments for ADHD, learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and various mood and personality disorders. She provides psychotherapy, primarily using psychodynamic and interpersonal approaches, to help adolescent girls and women with trauma, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and identity/sexuality concerns. Dr. Nelson believes in an interactive, empowering approach to support her clients’ therapeutic growth.

Outside of work, Dr. Nelson enjoys activities such as spending time with her dog, traveling, being in nature, trying new restaurants, and cooking. She has a personal goal of visiting all U.S. National Parks, having visited 10 so far.

Teryn is a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University, specializing in School Social Work. Her undergraduate degree is in Social Work with a minor in American Sign Language.

Teryn has experience as an elementary school social worker, primarily working with students with mild to severe disabilities, including Autism, Down Syndrome, TBI, and Deaf/Hard of Hearing. She also has experience as a registered behavior technician in Applied Behavior Analysis. Teryn utilizes the client’s strengths and interests in her therapeutic approach, which may include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, play therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and mindfulness.

In her free time, Teryn enjoys being outdoors, practicing yoga, doing puzzles, and spending time with her cat and family dog.

Jean holds an MSW from the University of Illinois’ Jane Addams School of Social Work, with 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. She currently works full-time as a school social worker at a middle school, where she has been practicing for over a decade.

Jean supports clients struggling with a range of issues, including attention concerns, depression, anxiety, anger, behavioral problems, and emotion regulation. She meets clients where they are, helping them rediscover their strengths and work towards their goals. Jean’s compassion, empathy, and life experiences foster a strong therapeutic relationship as she guides clients on their journey of self-improvement.

In her free time, Jean enjoys spending time with her fiancé, two dogs, and four children. She also likes cooking, crafting, music, gardening, being outdoors, triathlons, reading, and spending time with her family.

Katherine earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in psychology from Aurora University. She continued her education at Aurora University and graduated with her master’s degree in Social Work.

 Katherine is experienced in working with children, teens, and adults with a wide range of needs such as neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. She specializes in a variety of therapeutic interventions that may include DBT, CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Family-Oriented therapy, and Expressive Therapy. She prioritizes creating an inclusive and trauma-informed environment where her clients can feel seen, heard, and understood. Her goal as a clinician is to provide support and guide the client through the trials and tribulations of their life.

In Katherine’s free time, she enjoys spending time with her dog Luna, family, and friends. Her hobbies include spending time in nature, meditation, yoga, and painting.

Samantha holds a Master’s in Social Work from Aurora University. She is a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC), a Co-Occurring Disorder Professional (CODPI), and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Samantha has experience and training working with substance misuse and crisis intervention.  Samantha’s current area of specialty includes trauma, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, depression, addiction, and mood and personality disorders among adolescents and adults.

Samantha takes a creative approach to therapy and utilizes her background in art.  Her therapeutic philosophy is to empower individuals to be active in their therapeutic process by providing a comfortable and non-judgmental space to grow and heal. Samantha’s approach includes polyvagal theory for trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy interventions, and psychoeducation.

Samantha is a hockey mom who spends much of her free time at the rink. She has volunteered as a youth hockey coach and enjoys creating a fun and positive sports experience for kids. Samantha also enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, and being outdoors.

Kerry is passionate about helping couples work through the mediation process with a future-focused, results-orientated mindset. As a neutral third party, she believes mediation is an effective method for resolving parenting, settlement, and financial issues in a collaborative manner, on your terms. Mediation can help establish a positive foundation for your future. Through mediation, you are able to customize your divorce and parenting plan, allowing you to put your needs and your children’s needs first.

Kerry has her Divorce Mediation Certificate from Northwestern University, SPS and also brings over 25 years experience as a Financial Advisor. She has assisted couples with financial planning before, during and after the divorce process. She recognizes the importance of a good financial plan for each individual as they move forward.

Kerry is a proud parent to her four children and enjoys spending time at their sporting events. Kerry is also an avid college football fan and enjoys watching games with family and friends.

Jonathan has his Master’s in Mental Health Counseling at Adler University.  He graduated with his Associate’s in Recording and Music Technology and went on to graduate with a Bachelor’s in Entertainment and Media Business. While his path to the mental health field may be unconventional, his life experiences have been influential in his decision to focus on the counseling profession. 

Jonathan has found passion in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and the LGBTQIA+ community. He assists his clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.

At some point in everyone’s life, they face difficult situations that can seem impossible to overcome. Jonathan’s goal is to create a relationship with his clients where they feel comfortable sharing in a non-judgmental environment.  Jonathan believes in finding everyone’s strengths and using those as tools throughout their therapy journey. 

In his free time, Jonathan enjoys being with his family, listening to music, and recording his podcast. One of his favorite things to do is go to a concert or a standup comedy show. Jonathan finds peace in taking yoga classes as well as finding a great trail to hike. 

Shannon came to Good Therapy Counseling with the intent to help people gain access to the treatments they may need. She understands that life can have its challenges and will provide calm and patient support to those she works with. Shannon graduated from Northern Michigan University with her Bachelors in Sociology and Human Services. She has experience working and volunteering with surivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence, as well as those struggling with addictions. Shannon understands the complexity of breaking down cycles and forming healthy routines. She will help assist clients wherever possible, so that they may be connected to the resources they require. In her spare time, Shannon enjoys working with animals and running agility with her dog.