DEDICATED TO FOSTERING GROWTH
At Birchwood Wellness Group, we're more than just counselors – we're individuals drawn to healing based on our own unique experiences. We believe that change is not only possible but inevitable, and it takes courage to grow. Our commitment to personal and professional growth allows us to provide the best care to our clients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with experience in IOP/PHP programs and private practice. I have a doctorate in Counselor Education & Supervision and am a clinical lecturer for the master’s program in counseling at Northwestern University where I also obtained my master's degree. I am also an experienced yoga instructor with a research focus on the benefits of yoga in clinical work. My counseling philosophy is that trust in the relationship between client and counselor is the cornerstone to successful treatment. It's important that I get to know, your history & needs as we begin the healing process.
With empathy and non-judgement, we will explore the “whys” that influence your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. If you are an adult who is struggling, we will partner together to find the best course of treatment on your terms. I use an integrative approach rooted in psychodynamic theory with a variety of interventions such as somatic experiencing, polyvagal exercises, CBT, DBT, and ACT. Additionally, I am CPT certified for trauma treatment. I introduce mindfulness concepts early on to provide relief from even the most troubling symptoms. You shouldn't have to wait any longer to feel better. I believe suffering is optional. Let’s get you back in the driver’s seat of your life.
Dr. Fitzgerald also facilitates workshops, retreats, and training programs for organizations and mental health professionals seeking evidence based approaches to resilience and well-being. Click the link to find out more!
Amy Stump, MA, LPC
I have considerable experience in working with depression, anxiety, and adjusting to new life stages and relationships. As a nonbinary neuro spicy person, I am passionate about working with queer (LBGTGEQIAP+) neurodiverse people. I provide a safe (and at times brave) affirming space to folx from late adolescence to older adults. I support individuals from a fat-positive, sex-positive, and kink aware lens.
As a therapist, I believe that the source of suffering stems from outside of us as individuals – that your response to being disempowered and oppressed is real and valid. Having to survive in our environment over time can make us feel like we are doing this alone, that no one else could possibly feel the same. You are not alone.
You deserve to be met with empathy and curiosity for your lived experience; for someone to not just see, but highlight your strengths which is essential for therapy to have an impact. I can’t do the work for you, but I can show up and be real with you.
My therapeutic style is to work collaboratively with my clients using a variety of therapeutic tools to discover and customize what thriving can look like for you. From engaging in special interests to incorporating music, writing, art, poetry or play, I welcome you to express yourself! As your therapist, I wish to meet you where you are at with warmth, tenderness, and curiosity. You deserve to feel heard, held and understood.
Lisa Cross, MA, LCP
As a seasoned therapist for the last ten years with both international and local experience, I work from a place of deep appreciation for those who have moved to Illinois from another country. I believe where we grew up has a massive impact on our personality, and it’s important to include cultural identity into counseling sessions.
Working with trauma is my “bread and butter”, having started my training in a sexual assault referral center. Beyond trauma, many of my clients are looking for support with grief and loss of people (bereavements or loss of relationship) as well as more abstract losses like time, opportunities and health. I also work with people who’ve recently become parents and find that they’re having to confront difficulties they experienced when they were younger.
It’s very important to me that my clients feel a sense of control with their therapy and that they have the kind of sessions that they’re looking for, so I’m very open to questions and feedback to ensure we meet your expectations. My way of working is Person-Centered Mindfulness-Based Approach, and I integrate this with Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Psychodynamic Approach. We focus on strengths and preferred futures to show where clients are headed and how to see progress along the way. I believe that counseling changes lives, and I’m excited to see part of your journey by working together with you!
Carly Saitelbach - Clinical Mental Health Post-Graduate Intern
Many of us learn that acceptance has to be earned, through what we achieve, who we’re with, or how others see us. Over time, trying to be enough can leave us anxious, exhausted, and disconnected from ourselves. My work with adults often addresses grief, complex trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions.
Therapy isn’t about “what’s wrong with you,” but “what happened to you.” With a trauma-informed approach, we’ll gently explore patterns shaped by your relationships and experiences. Together, we can get curious about the ways you’ve learned to cope, and give those parts of you the care they need.
Our sessions are a place to slow down and exhale, where you don’t have to perform, mask, or prove your worth. You’ll leave feeling grounded and kinder toward yourself with tools to carry forward.
I've recently completed all of the coursework required for my masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University and am working to complete my clinical hours. I have immediate availability and provide discounted sessions if you are currently without insurance. Please reach out to myself or my supervisor Dr. Kari Fitzgerald, PhD, LCPC, the founder and owner of our practice.
There's no need to carry your sadness, loneliness, or heartache a moment longer. I'd be happy to speak with you today, and help you find relief.
Lisa Joly - Practice Manager
I have over 20 years experience in the medical field working directly with patients and insurance companies. In 2018, I began working in mental health administration and have assisted in the development of Birchwood Wellness Group. I understand the complexities of the billing and insurance systems and how important it is for people to receive quality care. I am your first point of contact at BWG and will work with you to find the right clinician at an affordable cost. Getting started can be stressful but I am here to help make it easier for you
Julia Provencher - Clinical Mental Health Intern
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, and finding the right support makes all the difference. Every person carries a unique story shaped by their experience, relationships, and identity, and that story deserves to be met with respect, care, and cultural sensitivity.
My approach is rooted in psychodynamic theory, with a belief that understanding the deeper patterns and experiences that have shaped a person is central to lasting change. Drawing from multiple therapeutic frameworks, I integrate a range of evidence-informed interventions tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. My practice is trauma-informed, meaning that safety, trust, and collaboration are foundational to the therapeutic relationship and guide every aspect of our work together. I am committed to creating a safe and inclusive space where individuals from all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and affirmed.
I am currently completing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University and seeing clients as a supervised clinical intern at Birchwood Wellness Group. I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most powerful catalysts for healing, and I am deeply committed to approaching each person with curiosity, warmth, and genuine care.
If something here resonates, I would love to connect.
