Who We Are

We see you, we hear you and we can help.

Gina Johnson MSW, LCSW

Owner, consultant, therapist, speaker, LEGO enthusiast

In 2006, I came out as gay in a small Midwestern town.
Choosing to be true to myself came at a high price – the support of my family and most all of my friends. Within one year, I packed my bags, closed my mental health practice and attempted to start a new life in a new town.

At that time, I could not see the light at the end of the tunnel. I felt lost, hopeless,  powerless and confused. I was in a lot of pain, but I didn’t want to face it or myself.  Instead, I projected my pain onto others and made quite a mess of my life, for a few years.

I finally realized I needed help and support facing myself, the reality of my life and life in general. I started weekly therapy and committed to the process of developing a relationship with myself  – healing, knowing, accepting and being my true self – rather than the self the world wanted me to be.

Through all of this, I’ve learned many things and one of the most important being – we’re programmed by our culture, education, families, friends and media to “perform” life according to strict parameters that prevent us from “being” our true selves.

I am committed to a lifelong path to learn, grow, create and connect. I’m living my life’s purpose and I want other people to experience this too.

I love working with people and teams, seeing them light up with “aha” moments of self-knowledge, learning new psychological skills, discovering their strengths and realizing, “Hey, I am not broken!”

I earned my Masters of Social Work from the University of Illinois and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Throughout my career I have earned many professional accolades, but I’m most proud of the inner work I’ve done and continue to do to better know, accept and be my true self.

When I’m not at blueprint, I’m still engaging in the practices I teach. I also enjoy meditating, stand-up paddle boarding, my animals, taking improv classes, finding new music, and building legos (because play is so important!).

Lindsay Haitz MA, LPC, ACC

Counselor, coach, event planner, creative

This work is a lifelong journey of healing and growth.  My approach to therapy/coaching is to be future-focused on your growth/goals and address the healing that needs to occur along the path forward.  The things that you need to “let go” of (and that are no longer serving you) will inevitably pop-up as we focus on where you want to go and who you want to be. 

For many years, I felt like someone forgot to give me a copy of the “rules” for life.  My goal became to help and understand myself and then support others who felt this way. 

I had a difficult childhood, marked by pain and trauma. When people ask me “where I am from” I am not sure how to answer it because we moved all across the US (i.e. GA, IA, MI, OH, TN, FL, CO, MA).  

I wanted to find a way to be stable, happy and thrive but I had no idea how.  

Life is hard. It’s messy. There are parts of my journey that I am embarrassed about. Some are big. Some small. We all have pieces of ourselves and our life that when we put it down on paper, in black and white, don’t look “good”. 

There are choices I have made that I would go back and do differently now, if I could.  But I can’t.  You might feel this way too. 

So what do we do? How do we reconcile the best that we could do (with the knowledge we had at the time) and what we would do differently now.  

I believe pain is our greatest gift because it shows us the areas that we are out of alignment.  We need to acknowledge the psychic pain we have because it is telling us something. Something that we deep down want to know. 

We could all benefit from a therapist/coach in our lives. I have one!  I am always striving to find creative ways to continue my inner work while making things practical and fun! 

In short, my vision is to help you better know yourself, accept yourself and then be yourself in your life.  I would love to support you on this journey. 

Jasmine Conyers, MS, LPC

Counselor, avid reader, nature-lover

Being a therapist is one of the most fulfilling roles in my life. I take pride in creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable enough to shed their protective outer layers at their own pace. 

To accept another person is to accept oneself, and my goal is to accept you for who you are, who you’ve been, and who you will become. Healing and growth are lifelong processes, and allowing me to be part of your journey is an invitation to assist you on your path to healing.

Through my own personal journey, I’ve gained valuable insights into my past, present, and my future self. I’ve challenged and redefined the labels that society and I have placed upon me. I’ve discovered that labels like “perfectionist”,”first born”, “a lady”,”college graduate”, and “sensitive”, don’t define me entirely. 

Similarly, as a mom, I’ve encountered unrealistic expectations, just as many of us do in various roles like student, friend, sibling, or partner. I’ve learned that I can choose to embrace or discard these labels as they no longer serve me. 

I once believed I’d be stuck on the South side of Chicago, living from shelter to shelter, but that label no longer defines me, just as yours don’t have to define you. Let me assist you in breaking free from the chains of labels that no longer align with your true self.

Therapy can be uncomfortable, but this discomfort often stems from uncertainty and concerns about how we’re perceived by others or our own expectations. Let’s embrace this discomfort together and make it a catalyst for transformation. 

My commitment is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where we can be comfortable with the uncomfortable, helping you uncover your authentic self.  If you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and breaking free from limiting labels, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Allow me the privilege of assisting you in finding the path to becoming your most authentic and fulfilled self.

Danae Gonzalez, MS, LPC

Authentic Counselor, Growth Seeker, and I Value The Following: People, Animals, and Nature

As a counselor, I have good days and bad days. I understand how it feels to go through turmoil, to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and experience the rainbow after a storm. 

Experiencing my personal traumas and personal victories has strengthened me to be an authentic and an empathetic counselor.

I have learned that caring for myself is vital to my overall well-being. By caring for myself this ensures everyone in my life, including myself, receives the best version of me. I will not expect you to do anything I am not willing to do, and this includes being vulnerable. I am the first to admit, “I am not perfect”, “I am not all good nor all bad”, and “I am just me”. I choose to give myself grace and self-love through my imperfections, and this is a continual process.

I cultivate a nonjudgmental and calming therapeutic environment where you can process what you need to process. 

I provide Spanish Counseling, Christian Counseling, and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have worked in residential and outpatient settings for Mental Health and Substance Use. I currently work with individuals who are 5 years old and up.

For those of you who are ready: I am here to support, value, and walk with you on your healing journey and explore the root causes that are hindering growth in your life. I can teach you to love yourself, accept yourself, to live as your authentic self; and begin healing. 

I want you to feel in control of your healing journey, and I would be happy to navigate your journey with you. I am looking forward to getting to know your past self, current self, and future self.

Ian Hulette, MSW, LSW

Avid Learner, Therapeutic Partner, Curious Human

I strive to offer an alternative to traditional psychotherapeutic concepts.  The world has changed, needs and expectations have changed, so why shouldn’t psychotherapy?  There is quite a block to progress when you go into a session today with high hopes, only to be met with antiquated structures and outdated dynamics from 50 years ago.  The fundamentals are good, but psychotherapy is ever-evolving.  Let’s try something different!

I firmly believe that Shame is the primary driver of negative behaviors, negative thinking, and modern struggle in Western culture.  We experience shame differently here because our society is all about the individual.  We all feel shame but are often unaware how it lurks in our mind, prompting and prodding.  I know shame! As a survivor of severe childhood trauma, significant rural poverty, multiple combat tours in the Army, homelessness, addiction, and even incarceration for substance use, I understand how shame can shape and destroy a life.  But, there is hope in resilience.  It takes work.  It takes un-learning what we have been taught.  It takes courage.  Together, we can work to explore and build the skills needed to move effectively and healthily through shame.

My approach combines foundational talk therapy and shame resilience with psychological skill-building based around the neuroscience of how the brain/mind works.  We have been taught the mind and body are separate. I believe the mind is as much the body as any organ. Since we remember the past, we believe we can predict the future.  But all of that ruminating and anticipating removes us from the very life we are living in the here and now, the Present.  All of that mind/body separation and thinking combines to form anxiety, depression, demoralization, envy, and shame.  My favorite therapeutic tool is questioning: Why? Where did we learn that? Who does that serve?  How helpful is that?  Zen Buddhism instructs that we are better off unlearning something every day.  Let’s work to reintegrate your mind and body in the Present!

I hope we can journey together through all of the memories, relationships, excitements, disappointments, sadness, anxieties, and elations of your life in an effort to unpack the blocks and tear down the defense that hides the beautiful experience that is you.  You are worthwhile.  You are valuable.  You are human.  Let’s bring you to life!

I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from UIUC.  I am also a Certified Financial Social Worker.  I am a Veteran, father of 3, and husband.  I was raised in the Midwest value system.

Madison Chamberlain MSW, LSW

Counselor, social worker, loves reading, cat mom

As a therapist, I’ve discovered that true empowerment comes from realizing that we hold the reins of our own lives.

My passion lies in guiding clients to recognize their strength and autonomy, helping them embrace their authentic selves without judgment or skepticism.

A key aspect to this journey is the practice of self-acceptance and forgiveness. Just as we extend compassion to others, it’s crucial to extend that same kindness and understanding to ourselves.

Having struggled with my own battles with anxiety, depression, body image struggles, and an eating disorder, I understand firsthand the importance of self-compassion and forgiveness in overcoming mental health struggles.

In my practice, I focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), an approach that emphasizes changing thought patterns to positively influence behavior. Together, we’ll explore and challenge the beliefs that may be holding you back, empowering you to cultivate healthier habits and perspectives.

I believe therapy is a collaborative journey where discomfort can lead to transformation. By creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I aim to support you in embracing the uncomfortable, facilitating deep self-discovery and growth. If you’re ready to reclaim control of your life, cultivate self-compassion, and embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery, I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

I recognize the importance of meeting clients where they are at in their journey.

Each individual comes with their own unique experiences, challenges, and strengths, and I honor and respect that diversity. I approach each session with a sense of curiosity and openness, recognizing that I have much to learn from each individual who walks through my door.

Whether you’re just starting to explore therapy or you’ve been on this path for some time, I will meet you with empathy, understanding, and without judgment.

My commitment is to provide a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to take charge of your own growth and healing.

Julie Schubach, MSW, LSW

Counselor, Expressive Arts Facilitator, Tap Dancer, Nature-lover, Lifelong Grower

In our fast-paced world it’s easy to lose track of who we are, what we need, and where we’re
headed. It can be difficult to cultivate community or to break out of unfulfilling routines, and life transitions can throw us off center.

I value creating a safe, supportive space for you to slow down, express yourself authentically, and connect with your true self so that you can live your fullest, most vibrant life.

I am passionate about offering invitations for people to reclaim their birthright of creativity and utilize creative modalities as a path to self-discovery and healing.

I want others to know what it feels like to follow creative impulses, to trust the process and allow life to unfold organically, to
play and get curious about what emerges, to utilize different modalities of expression, to cultivate nourishing rituals, and to move more authentically and openly through life.

I enjoy supporting individuals in adopting a lens of curiosity and self-compassion, in building resilience in later life and in navigating life transitions. I delight in self-expansion and take my inspiration from the natural world.

I seek to help others connect to natural cycles and their own inner rhythms. It can be uncomfortable to look at yourself honestly and dive into your inner world.

As your therapist, I will sit beside you as you navigate the discomfort and will dance with you as you experience the joy of growth and connection. If you want to not only talk it out but also to paint, collage, write, drum, vocalize, and move it out, come see me.

I would be honored to be a part of your journey of healing and growth.

Jason Casteel, MSW, LSW

Counselor, Social Worker, Book and Music Lover, Dad!

Hi there! My name is Jason and my hope as a counselor is to guide clients on their journey through as they discover autonomy, empowerment, and self-determination. I want to meet each client where they are in the present moment and explore individual needs as we build necessary skills for the future.

Every person we meet is unique, and I believe understanding the “whole” of the individual is a key to exploring and cultivating authenticity. Building a foundation of self-compassion and kindness to oneself is a wonderful place to begin.

Having struggled with trauma as a teen which led to more than a two-decade battle with alcohol use disorder, I found psychological tools to learn new coping strategies for everyday life.

Many of these skills and strategies can be taught in sessions and are part of DBT Skills modules. Other valuable skills I utilize are EFT/Tapping as well as Polyvagal exercises to assist in the regulation of one’s nervous system.

I was born and raised in East Central Illinois and have lived in several small towns around the Champaign-Urbana area almost my entire life.

I have a BS in Addictions Counseling from Indiana Wesleyan and a Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University. My past focuses have been working with teens and young adults, families, adults facing life changes, and couples as well.

I have been able to work with clients who may have found themselves struggling with a substance use disorder, eating disorder, or disordered eating and these skills and tools can provide the regulation they need to feel whole and empowered once again. Once we are regulated we can begin to realize our next steps to success, and with substance use disorders and eating disorders regulation can often mean starting with consistent and adequate nutrition and looking at sleep hygiene.

Some fun facts about me: I love books, mainly psychology books or sobriety biographies. I love music, anything with a guitar from The Beatles to Foo Fighters to Pink Floyd, I like watching my kids perform, and I love meditation!

I am committed to each client individually and recognizing that everyone comes to counseling for a different reason and at a different stage. I feel honored to be a part of everyone’s journey.

Jae Vickery, MSW, LSW

Counselor, plant mom, chess lover, lifelong learner

Self-awareness is your superpower. If you’re feeling stuck in cycles of overwhelm, anxiety, or disconnection, know that balance and stability are within reach. I’m here to help you rebuild your foundation, rediscover your strengths, and create meaningful growth.

I’m a therapist and dimensional wealth counselor specializing in consumption and financial therapy. My work is rooted in holistic wellness and mindfulness, guiding you to transform your relationship with food, money, and yourself.

Using my Momentum Methodology, I partner with clients to break chronic cycles of overwhelm and take intentional, actionable steps toward a life of clarity, purpose, and abundance.

As a former D1 student-athlete, I understand the complexities of high-performance environments—the pressure to succeed, the struggle to balance multiple identities, and the silent battle with burnout. My own experience navigating these challenges fuels my passion for helping individuals cultivate a strong sense of self beyond their achievements. Whether you’re an athlete, a high achiever, or someone feeling lost in transitions, identity development is a crucial part of sustainable growth.

With experience in eating disorder therapy, I’ve also supported individuals navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and performance challenges—whether in athletics, the workplace, or personal endeavors. As a financial therapist, I emphasize the importance of aligning your financial well-being with your mental and emotional health. I believe investing holistically in every dimension of your life is the key to long-term stability and connection.

Through talk therapy, mindfulness, breathwork, and an action-oriented approach, I create a compassionate yet structured space for you to explore limiting beliefs, build inner trust, and embrace new habits. Together, we’ll focus on cultivating the self-awareness and accountability needed to move forward.

If you’re ready to explore the connections between your behaviors, beliefs, and goals, I’d be honored to support you. Let’s work together to transform your challenges into opportunities for growth and create a life that feels balanced, abundant, and fully yours.

Hayley Buesing, LSW MSW

Empath. Professional Goofball. Comedian. Bookworm. Cat Mom.

I believe that the relationship we build is at the heart of therapy. Trust, openness, and mutual respect are key. I strive to create an environment where you can feel safe and comfortable, without judgment, as we work through your challenges. My goal is to support you in finding your own path forward, whether that means gaining insight into your feelings, developing coping strategies, or simply finding peace and acceptance in your own skin. I work collaboratively with my clients, creating a compassionate space where you feel seen, heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we will explore what’s important to you, and I will walk alongside you as you uncover your strengths, heal, and grow.

Having struggled personally with anxiety, depression, loneliness, and shame, I understand the significance of self-compassion and forgiveness in overcoming mental health challenges. Mental health is not something we “cure,” it is an everyday practice.

In my practice, I use a humanistic approach that is personally tailored to my clients’ strengths. My interventions and techniques are pulled from evidence-based modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness strategies. I also provide education on the nervous system and how the human body operates and responds to different situations. I lean into a person-centered approach and normalizing the human experience. I strongly believe in meeting people where they are at.

I have experience supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, bullying, conflict, and trauma.

I look forward to joining you on your mental health journey!

Emily Braden, LSW

Social Worker, Professional Development Enthusiast, Dog Mom

I’m a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) dedicated to supporting children, teens, and young adults as they navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with individuals ages 5-30 years old, providing a safe, compassionate space for healing, growth, and self-discovery
I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, with a focus on mental health. I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps individuals process and heal from trauma and distressing life experiences.
My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, integrating EMDR and play with other evidence-based therapies. Whether you’re working through anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, I tailor our work to fit your unique experiences and goals.
I am committed to creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Angela M. D. Merceret, MSW student intern

 
Focused on Compassion,  Empowerment, Trauma-Informed Support, & Mental Health Advocacy

I understand that life throws us curveballs. I also know that there are tools we can use to help us manage those curveballs and see our way through to the other side. Within my history, I have struggled with bullying, body image, domestic abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) postpartum depression (PPD), cancer, a connective tissue disorder, an anxiety disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

My passion is de-stigmatizing mental health. If we can walk into an emergency room with a broken leg and know that we will heal then why can’t we walk into an emergency room with a mental health crisis, and know that we will heal?

Though I am new to the profession, I am not new to the journey of acceptance and mental health. I finally figured out what I want to be when I grow up when I came through the other side of a traumatic birthing experience bringing my son into the world, and the subsequent severe postpartum depression that walloped me upside the head in 2018.

I am a mom, and I love nothing more than being a mom, and I am slowly but surely finding my identity outside of that. Acknowledging that I can “love being a mom” and that “it is also one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life” can exist at the same time has been life-changing for me.

My goal is to meet you where you are at this very moment and work together with you to help you be the best version of yourself that you can be.

Matt Campbell

Billing Specialist

Hello! I’m one of the newest members of the blueprint team, having joined in September 2023.

I provide administrative support for our counselors–and also our clients!–by handling the practice’s billing and insurance duties.

My work is fully remote, but you might occasionally see me around the office and at events and retreats.

I’m also new to Chicago, having moved there shortly after starting work with blueprint.

In addition to discovering all that the city has to offer, my interests include reading, playing tennis, listening to vinyl records, and writing and recording my own music.

Emily Corum

Administrative Assistant

Hello! I’m Emily, the in-house Administrative Assistant. My job is to seamlessly facilitate communication between clients, therapists, and all our team members. I have a passion for mental health, so I have chosen a workplace that supports that passion. I have spent quite a bit of time in a therapist’s office and know how challenging it can be. Bringing warmth and kindness to every conversation is my top priority.

In my free time, I enjoy horseback riding, yoga, hiking, and pretty much anything outdoors. I also love to curl up with my one-year-old dog, Addis.