I’m Tatiana Almanza, and I’m often one of the first people you’ll connect with at Tailwinds! As the Front-of-House Client Care Coordinator, I bring more than five years of experience supporting patients across a variety of healthcare settings, including pediatric and family medicine practices as well as same-day surgery environments. I understand that reaching out for care can feel overwhelming, and I strive to make every interaction feel welcoming, clear, and supportive.

My role is to help guide clients through each step of the front-end care experience, from scheduling and registration to insurance verification and care coordination. I take pride in making sure questions are answered, details are handled accurately, and appointments are set up smoothly so clients can focus on what matters most—taking care of themselves or their loved ones. My strong understanding of clinical workflows and medical terminology helps me anticipate needs and communicate clearly with both clients and our clinical team.

I’m known for staying calm and organized in fast-paced environments while maintaining a compassionate, client-centered approach. Whether I’m assisting a new client, supporting a returning one, or coordinating behind the scenes, I aim to bring consistency, professionalism, and warmth to every interaction.

Protecting client privacy and confidentiality is extremely important to me. I’m committed to upholding HIPAA standards and following clinical protocols with care and attention, ensuring that all personal information is handled respectfully and securely at all times.

Above all, I want every person who connects with Tailwinds to feel supported, respected, and genuinely cared for from the very beginning. I consider it a privilege to be part of the first step in each client’s journey, and I’m here to help make that experience as smooth and reassuring as possible.

I’m Tatiana Almanza, and I’m often one of the first people you’ll connect with at Tailwinds! As t... Read More

I’m Bob Agnoli, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over three decades of experience supporting individuals and families through some of life’s most difficult transitions. I understand that change—even when it’s clearly for the better—can feel daunting, and I approach therapy with patience, respect, and a deep appreciation for each client’s resilience. My work is grounded in a strengths-based, collaborative approach that honors clients as active participants in their own growth and healing.

Much of my career has been dedicated to working in underserved communities and within complex systems, where I’ve focused on addressing trauma and unmet needs through a trauma-informed, systemic lens. I place strong emphasis on helping clients understand and regulate their nervous systems, strengthen the mind–body connection, and develop skills to better connect thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This foundation allows clients to build stability, insight, and long-term resilience.

My clinical focus is working with older adolescents and adults who are navigating trauma recovery, anxiety, grief and loss, and life stressors. I have extensive experience supporting individuals with post-traumatic stress and complex trauma, as well as those impacted by intimate partner violence. I also incorporate mindfulness-based practices to help clients increase emotional awareness, reduce reactivity, and cultivate a greater sense of balance and control.

As a culturally-sensitive male clinician, I have a particular passion for working with men around issues of identity, healthy masculinity, fatherhood, and emotional expression. I strive to create a therapeutic space where men feel safe exploring vulnerability, strength, accountability, and personal values without judgment. This work often includes addressing the effects of trauma, relational patterns, and societal expectations that can interfere with authentic connection and well-being.

In addition to my clinical work, I’ve spent many years in leadership and training roles, supervising clinicians, developing programs, and educating professionals and communities on trauma, domestic violence, ethics, and risk assessment. These experiences continue to inform my clinical practice and reinforce my commitment to accessible, client-centered care. I view therapy as a partnership, and I’m honored to build bridges with clients as they work toward transformative change.

I’m Bob Agnoli, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over three decades of experience supportin... Read More

Megan is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not currently in-network with UnitedHealthcare/United Behavioral Health/Optum.

Hi there! I’m Megan Larabee, a master’s-level clinician with specialized training in child and adolescent mental health. I approach therapy with warmth, curiosity, and compassion, and I strive to create a space where clients—especially young people—feel safe, supported, and understood.

My clinical work has focused primarily on working with children and adolescents, helping them navigate emotional challenges, identity development, stress, and life transitions. I enjoy partnering with clients to understand their inner world and build on their existing strengths. I also collaborate closely with families and caregivers when appropriate, recognizing the important role relationships and environment play in a young person’s growth and well-being.

My therapeutic style is grounded in person-centered, strengths-based, and psychodynamic approaches. I tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs, using thoughtful assessment and collaborative goal-setting to guide the work. I have experience conducting intakes, developing individualized treatment plans, and using standardized assessment tools to support ethical, evidence-based care. Above all, I value meeting clients where they are and moving at a pace that feels respectful and empowering.

In addition to my clinical training, my background across a variety of professional settings has strengthened my adaptability, reliability, and ability to connect with people from diverse walks of life. I bring a calm, attentive presence to my work and take pride in maintaining high standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical practice. I believe these qualities are essential to building trust and fostering meaningful therapeutic relationships.

I’m deeply committed to ongoing learning and personal growth as a clinician. I value reflective practice, collaboration, and supervision as essential parts of providing high-quality care. It’s a privilege to support clients as they build insight, resilience, and confidence, and I’m honored to walk alongside them as they work toward emotional wellness.

Megan is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not current... Read More

I’m Lourdes, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting individuals’ mental health and overall well-being. I bring nine years of experience as a registered nurse working in inpatient, high-acuity psychiatric settings, where I developed a strong foundation in caring for individuals with complex and acute mental health needs.

My clinical interests include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychotic disorders. Throughout my nursing career, I’ve worked extensively in inpatient psychiatry with individuals experiencing mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders. I also have experience caring for individuals undergoing Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), which has further strengthened my understanding of comprehensive psychiatric treatment.

In my role as a PMHNP, I enjoy working with adults who may be struggling with mood and anxiety-related concerns. I value a compassionate, collaborative approach to care and strive to work alongside individuals to develop treatment plans that are thoughtful, respectful, and tailored to their unique needs and goals.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and my dog, watching movies, and exploring different cultures and cuisines.

I’m Lourdes, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to ... Read More

Mariah is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not currently in-network with UnitedHealthcare/United Behavioral Health/Optum.

Hi, and welcome! If you’re a parent looking for support for your child or teen - or a young person navigating challenging emotions - I’m delighted you’ve found your way here.

Growing up today can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, social pressures, school stress, or just not feeling like yourself, these struggles can impact daily life, self-esteem, and relationships. I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults (ages 6-20), helping them find clarity, build resilience, and gain more control over their emotional world.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and goal-oriented. I combine solution-focused strategies with holistic methods - including mindfulness, creative expression, and body-based tools - to support healing from the inside out. Therapy with me isn’t one-size-fits-all. I meet each client where they are, helping them identify what matters most, set realistic goals, and develop practical tools to feel better and thrive.

Whether your child is struggling to open up, your teen is feeling lost, or you’re a young adult ready to make meaningful changes, I’m here to support the journey forward - with compassion, structure, and a deep respect for each person’s unique path.

Let’s work together to turn confusion into confidence and challenges into growth.

Mariah is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not curren... Read More

I’m Dean Rashkow, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience working alongside individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s challenges. I believe that therapy works best when clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and respected, and I strive to create a space that feels safe, collaborative, and nonjudgmental from the very first session. My approach is grounded in the belief that meaningful change grows out of strong relationships and thoughtful, client-centered care.

My clinical experience spans a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship and marital challenges, and major life transitions. I’ve worked in diverse settings—from community mental health and protective services to private practice—which has shaped my ability to meet clients with flexibility and understanding. I enjoy working with adults at different stages of life and tailoring therapy to their unique goals, strengths, and circumstances.

In my work, I draw from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and strengths-based interventions. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, I collaborate closely with clients to develop treatment plans that feel practical, meaningful, and aligned with what matters most to them. My goal is to help clients build insight, emotional regulation skills, and coping strategies they can carry into their daily lives.

I place a strong emphasis on rapport and trust, and I’m often told that clients feel comfortable opening up quickly in our work together. I approach therapy with empathy and curiosity, meeting clients where they are without judgment. I also believe that progress doesn’t only come from major breakthroughs—small, consistent steps forward are just as important and often just as powerful.

What I value most about this work is the opportunity to learn from my clients and to witness their resilience, growth, and capacity for change. I see therapy as a collaborative process, and I’m committed to walking alongside clients as they work toward greater clarity, connection, and a more fulfilling life.

I’m Dean Rashkow, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience worki... Read More

Maxine is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not currently in-network with UnitedHealthcare/United Behavioral Health/Optum.

I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist who believes healing happens in spaces where people feel deeply seen, understood, and supported. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, low mood, emotional overwhelm, attention and focus challenges, substance use concerns, and the impact of past or ongoing stress and trauma. My approach is grounded, relational, and paced with care, honoring each person’s lived experience and nervous system needs.

As a counselor and art therapist, I integrate both talk therapy and creative expression to support clients working through self-doubt, negative self-image, fears, grief and loss, and questions of identity and self-understanding. You do not need to consider yourself “artistic” to benefit from art therapy—creative processes can offer a gentle and accessible way to explore emotions that may be difficult to put into words.

I often support clients who are navigating complex or painful relationships, adjusting to change, and managing social and family stressors, including the emotional demands of parenting. My work is informed by an understanding of how early relationships, attachment patterns, and past experiences can shape the way we relate to ourselves and others. Together, we focus on building safety, insight, and self-compassion while strengthening your capacity for connection and resilience.

I provide an affirming, inclusive space for LGBTQ+ individuals and those exploring identity, intimacy, and sexual concerns. Therapy with me is collaborative and attuned, with careful attention to boundaries, pacing, and choice—ensuring the work feels supportive rather than overwhelming.

On a personal note, in my free time I am often spending time with my kids, reading, enjoying outdoor activities, or making art. I identify not only as an art therapist, but also as an artist, and I make time each day for my own creative process. Art has been an essential part of my personal mental health journey and has been deeply healing, shaping both who I am and how I show up for my clients.

I believe therapy can be a place not only to heal from past experiences, but also to deepen self-awareness, restore confidence, and move toward a life that feels more authentic, connected, and sustainable.

Maxine is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not curren... Read More

Let’s face it—life and relationships can be tough. For some, building connections seem effortless. You know who I’m talking about. The coworker with (a little too much) energy to spare; the class clown who never fails to get a laugh; the relative who jumps at the chance to host the next family gathering. For others, moving through the world sparks anxiety that causes us to fall back on unhealthy patterns and creates conditions for suffering.

My work with clients and families focuses on building confidence, autonomy, and social skills to resolve life challenges. I have over a decade of experience serving adults, teens, and families in therapy.

Alongside my counseling work, I am an experienced testing psychologist with deep mastery of neuropsychological and psychological assessments for those seeking accommodations in work or school. I also administer presurgical testing to support clients planning to improve their lives through bariatric or pain management surgery. I have administered over 500 evaluations for clients seeking clarity on struggles such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and learning disabilities. My streamlined approach to assessments ensures clients receive comprehensive reports without waiting months for testing results.

I administer psychological evaluations for all clients aged 3 and older. I also hold certification in ADOS-2 administration for comprehensive autism evaluations, including those required by applied behavior analysis (ABA) programs.

Success in therapy depends on the ability of the therapist and client to connect genuinely and openly. I work with clients to create a strong foundation for growth based on their individual needs and the latest evidence-based approaches. If you or your family are struggling to build the kinds of connections you want, please don’t hesitate reach out today.

Let’s face it—life and relationships can be tough. For some, building connections seem effortless... Read More

I am Virpal Sidhu, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide compassionate care for children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.

With 27 years of nursing experience, including service as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army, I bring both empathy and discipline to our work together. My goal is to help you find balance, peace, and confidence in your everyday life.

I take a holistic approach to mental health care by incorporating advanced biological treatments with modern-day therapies. It starts with an initial assessment as we work together to identify how to decrease your symptoms and build a treatment plan. The first session will last from 45-60 mins where I will create a safe, non-judgmental space to address your concerns. I will ask what you have noticed about yourself. We will explore your goals/strengths and the types of support you have. We will partner to determine what you want from treatment and how that intersects with your personal circumstances.

I look forward to being your guide in identifying the most appropriate treatment options based on your unique biological, psychological, medical, and social needs.

I am Virpal Sidhu, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I provide com... Read More

Hi, I’m Nevida Khetarpal, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a strong commitment to family-centered, trauma-informed care. I work with individuals, couples, children, and families to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and address the impact of generational trauma. I believe that healing happens within connection, and my goal is to help clients feel supported as they navigate anxiety, stress, family conflict, and life transitions.

My clinical work is deeply rooted in family systems and attachment-based perspectives. I specialize in family therapy and parenting support, helping families better understand one another, set healthy boundaries, and build more effective patterns of interaction. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and parents, and I enjoy supporting families as they move toward greater stability, emotional regulation, and mutual understanding.

I take an evidence-based and culturally responsive approach to therapy, drawing from modalities such as trauma-informed care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and play-based and experiential interventions when appropriate. I collaborate closely with clients to create treatment plans that feel practical, meaningful, and aligned with their values. My focus is on helping clients develop coping skills, strengthen emotional awareness, and create lasting change within their family systems.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked in a variety of settings including outpatient therapy, partial hospitalization (PHP)/intensive outpatient (IOP) programs, crisis services, and community-based mental health organizations. These experiences have shaped my ability to remain calm and grounded in high-stress situations while providing compassionate, structured support. I place a strong emphasis on safety, trust, and consistency, especially when working with families navigating complex emotional or relational challenges.

I also value the importance of cultural identity and language in the therapeutic process. I provide therapy in English and am fluent in Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu, as well as conversational in Spanish, allowing me to support clients from diverse backgrounds in a way that feels accessible and affirming. I view therapy as a collaborative journey, and I’m honored to walk alongside clients as they work toward healing, connection, and healthier relationships.

Hi, I’m Nevida Khetarpal, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a strong commitment to fa... Read More

I’m Thamir Khader, MD, a board-eligible psychiatrist with comprehensive experience across inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and telepsychiatry settings. I completed my General Psychiatry residency at Cooper University Health Care and went on to complete one year of fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry through Drexel University/Tower Health. I earned my undergraduate degree in Public Health Policy from the University of California, Irvine, which continues to inform my systems-oriented and patient-centered approach to care.

In addition to my work with Tailwinds, I currently serve as the Medical Director of Inpatient and Outpatient Psychiatry at CGH Medical Center in Illinois, where I provide clinical oversight across multiple care settings. In this role, I also supervise psychiatric nurse practitioners and work closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure high standards of evidence-based, compassionate psychiatric care.

Originally from California, I enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, and being with my family. In my clinical work and leadership roles, I bring a thoughtful and grounded approach, emphasizing individualized treatment, clinical excellence, and compassionate leadership.

I’m Thamir Khader, MD, a board-eligible psychiatrist with comprehensive experience across inpatie... Read More

Hello! I am Jennifer Curtin and I am thrilled you have made the decision to focus on what matters most in this life—you! I am a queer therapist who has had about 14 years as a private practice and outpatient counselor. I received my Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University and have invested the majority of my clinical training in working with LGBTQ+ folks, trauma and relationship systems. I use a warm, humorous and light style that incorporates science, humanness and understanding into every session. I am deeply committed to gender affirming, minority stress informed , trauma informed care. I am truly excited to work with you.

Your first session will be all about making you feel comfortable and understanding what to expect in every session. First, I’ll ask you what you would like to focus on in your work. If you aren’t sure where to start, I use a gentle, curious approach to learning all about you to help identify some potential areas to start. Then, we work together to find an approach that works best for you. The most important ingredient in effective therapy is a strong bond between client and therapist. My aim is to make you feel safe, help you understand what therapy is and is not and ensure we are a good fit. I love to joke with my clients that this should be the best hour of your week.

I have a really unique way of taking evidence-based treatments and effective plans and translating them into a conversational, relational approach. You might recognize the strategies and tools from other therapists, but the way I deliver aims to make every part easy to apply in every day life. I use humor, life experience and science in my approach and many of my clients feel seen and heard immediately. I work exceptionally well with transgender folks and their families as well as people coming out and into identities across all ages and stages.

I love working with people 13 years old and older who are tired of working with therapists that do not understand their intersecting identities and truly desire to be seen. Whether you are looking to work on identity, gender affirmation, what has happened to your in your life or the anxieties and moods that go along with them, I am here to help you understand how biology, our societal systems and your personality impact your world. If you find that your relationships are not fulfilling or if you are tired of feeling like you are deeply misunderstood, I can help. If you are struggling to help your teen navigate finding themselves in a healthy and safe way, I am here.

Hello! I am Jennifer Curtin and I am thrilled you have made the decision to focus on what matters... Read More

Dr. Jefferson is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not currently in-network with UnitedHealthcare/United Behavioral Health/Optum.

I’m Dr. Kyshema Jefferson, and I’ve been providing professional services in the mental and behavioral health field since 2017. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Benedictine University, my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University, and my PhD in Community Psychology from National Louis University. My training and experience span multiple clinical settings, including adolescent substance use treatment, alternative school environments, private practice, and nonprofit adoption services, allowing me to support clients across a wide range of developmental stages and life circumstances.

I’ve dedicated my career to supporting both the current and next generation of mental wellness seekers, with an emphasis on prevention, self-awareness, and empowerment. My doctoral research explored self-care practices among African American and Caucasian parents of adolescents, highlighting gaps in awareness around healthy coping strategies, engagement in psychotherapy, and appropriate interventions. This work reinforced my belief that education, culturally responsive care, and intentional self-care practices are essential to long-term mental and emotional well-being.

In my clinical work, I specialize in supporting individuals and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, crisis situations, and major life transitions. I also work extensively with adolescents, parents, couples, and individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community. I’m deeply passionate about working with multicultural populations and helping clients feel seen, understood, and respected within the therapeutic space.

I use a range of evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT and Trauma-Focused CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness Meditation, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Reality Therapy. My approach is collaborative and tailored, allowing us to work together to identify goals, build coping skills, and develop strategies that support meaningful and sustainable change.

In our sessions, we take time to explore concerns deeply while creating a plan that feels supportive, realistic, and aligned with your values. Many of my clients notice a gradual reduction in symptoms within the first month and continued improvement over time. I also welcome clients who use therapy as a space to process everyday life—both the challenges and the joys. I believe mental health is not a destination, but a journey grounded in hope, growth, and connection. You are not alone in this process, and your feelings truly matter.

Dr. Jefferson is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not... Read More

Gabriela is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not currently in-network with UnitedHealthcare/United Behavioral Health/Optum.

I’m Gabriela Sanchez, a bilingual counselor passionate about supporting individuals on their journey toward healing, self-understanding, and emotional well-being. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have dedicated my work to helping clients feel safe, heard, and empowered as they navigate life’s challenges. I strive to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental therapeutic space where clients can explore their experiences openly and at their own pace.

My clinical interests include working with trauma survivors and individuals navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and major life transitions. I’m especially drawn to working with adolescents and adults, and I bring a trauma-informed, client-centered approach to every session. Much of my experience includes supporting individuals impacted by domestic violence, crisis situations, and complex life stressors, which has shaped my deep respect for resilience and personal strength.

Throughout my training and professional work, I’ve provided individual counseling, facilitated groups, and supported clients through advocacy and case management. I’ve worked in shelter settings, community mental health programs, and healthcare environments, allowing me to understand clients within the broader context of their lives and systems. I place strong emphasis on building trust, fostering self-compassion, and helping clients develop practical coping skills that support emotional regulation and stability.

As a bilingual clinician, I offer therapy in both English and Spanish and value the importance of culturally-responsive care. I’m committed to meeting clients where they are and honoring their unique identities, backgrounds, and strengths. Collaboration is central to my approach, and I work closely with clients to identify goals that feel meaningful, achievable, and aligned with their values.

I believe therapy is a space for both healing and growth, where clients can better understand themselves and move toward lasting change. My role is to walk alongside you with empathy, patience, and support as you build insight, resilience, and confidence. Navigating change can be both challenging and rewarding. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey.

Gabriela is in-network with Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO, Aetna PPO, and Cigna PPO. She is not curr... Read More

Many people come to therapy because they are caught in familiar patterns, unsure of why they feel the way they do or how to move forward differently. Others might be facing a new and unfamiliar challenge or transition. Or maybe you appear high-functioning on the outside but carry a sense that something isn’t quite aligned. In therapy, you may be seeking clarity, healing, and a deeper understanding of yourself—especially in the context of your relationships, identities, and life story.

I’m Caroline Lavelock, a licensed clinical psychologist providing individual therapy to adults in Illinois. I offer culturally responsive, trauma-informed therapy for people who want to explore emotional and relational patterns, reconnect with their authentic selves, and make meaning of past and present experiences. I specialize in helping people work through anxiety, trauma, family and relationship challenges, and life transitions. I often work with millennials and Gen-Z adults, adult children of immigrants, and individuals navigating cultural and identity-related concerns, including people who are curious about or integrating ADHD into their self-concept. I am also certified in group psychotherapy and in integrative approaches to mental health, and I can provide support for using nutrition as a tool to support your mental health.

My approach is primarily psychodynamic, with integration of ACT and DBT skills when helpful. Together, we look for patterns and themes that may be keeping you stuck or disconnected from yourself, build insight into their purpose and origin, and explore other options that are a better fit for who you really are. Rather than offering quick advice, I support your autonomy and curiosity, helping you decide what fits, what no longer does, and how change might unfold in a way that honors your cultural, emotional, and relational needs. I provide my therapy sessions in a casual virtual environment, so come as you are, and let’s get into it!

Many people come to therapy because they are caught in familiar patterns, unsure of why they feel... Read More