Meet the Dayrise Team
Our experienced, dedicated therapists and care coordinators are here to support clients of all ages in overcoming mental health challenges, achieving balance, and thriving in life.
Clinical Leadership Team
Jami Aitken, LCSW
Megan Buetifkofer, LCPC
Our Care Team
Ray Chukwudi, LSW
Rayven Cornelio, LCSW
Kailyn Donovan, LCSW
Rhealee Fernandez, LSW
Kelsey Fontano, LCPC
Jenni Ford, LCPC, ATR-BC, LMHC
Colleen Horgan, LCSW
Lauren Hughes, LSW
Cyndi Marquez, LPC
Elias Oseni, LPC
Liz Pusateri, LPC, NCC
Cameren Rutz, LSW
Amanda Scott, LCPC, NCC
Genice Pryor
Emily Vickers
Executive & Outreach Team
Beth Burrough
Mark Jackson
Jeff Beseda
Krystyna Olejnyik
Meet The Director of Clinical Services:
Jami Aitken, LCSW
When we opened Dayrise in the Chicago area, we sought a leader who embodies our core values of Integrity, Compassion, Empathy, and Dedication. We found that in Jami Aitken, LCSW, a seasoned mental health professional who has been serving individuals and families since her graduation from Western Illinois University’s School of Social Work in 2000.
Jami’s diverse experience spans outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings, where she has developed a specialization in depression, anxiety, trauma, and family therapy. Her goal as the director of our clinical team is to foster open communication, build supportive connections, and create strategies for mental well-being tailored to each client’s needs.
Jami also holds an additional degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago Jane Addams School of Social Work, with formal training in CBT, further strengthening her expertise.
Meet The Director of Operations:
Megan Buetikofer, LCPC
Megan brings a wealth of experience working with clients facing co-occurring mental health challenges, including athletes navigating sports-related pressures and life transitions. A former collegiate athlete herself, Megan understands the stressors unique to athletes as well as individuals in life transitions. Her expertise in sport and health psychology and trauma-informed care allows her to help clients gain insight, build resilience, and develop skills for a meaningful life.
Megan earned her master’s degree in counseling psychology with a specialization in sport and health psychology from Adler University and holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bowling Green State University. She is licensed in Illinois as a Clinical Professional Counselor.
Megan’s Experience:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Sports Psychology
Meet Our Therapist:
Ray Chukwudi, LSW
Ray Chukwudi is a calm, compassionate, and intentional therapist with 10 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, families, and caregivers across a variety of settings, including clinics, schools, homes, and universities. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, and relationship challenges. Ray integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, and Trauma-Informed Care to help clients develop emotional awareness, build coping skills, and strengthen their support systems in a safe and empowering environment.
Ray earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Washington and holds a BA in American Studies from Carleton College. Her therapeutic approach focuses on collaboration and trust, allowing space for each client’s unique story and goals to guide the process. Ray has a special passion for working within family systems, particularly around the child/guardian or client/support person relationship. Her work is rooted in the belief that healing happens through connection, understanding, and intentional practice.
Outside the therapy room, Ray finds joy in music—she’s a lifelong vocalist and active choir member. She also enjoys reading hardcover books, walking, practicing yoga, and visiting museums. Ray brings creativity, resilience, and a deep respect for the therapeutic process to every client interaction.
Ray’s Experience
- Anxiety
- Depression
- PTSD
- Trauma
- Relationship Challenges
- Family Systems
- Coping Skills
Meet Our Therapist:
Rayven Cornelio, LCSW
Rayven is a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish) with experience supporting individuals and groups across various mental health settings, including private practice, inpatient care, outpatient PHP/IOP, and group therapy. Her goal is to empower clients by creating a safe, non-judgmental space where they can regain control of their lives.
Rayven earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Jane Addams School of Social Work and her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Benedictine University. She is a licensed Social Worker in Illinois.
Meet Our Therapist:
Kailyn Donovan, LCSW
Kailyn brings a wealth of expertise to her practice, with a background in child welfare, foster care, and clinical settings. Specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and behavioral challenges, she uses a client-centered approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral techniques, developmental models, and relationship-focused frameworks. Kailyn’s compassionate approach creates a safe, collaborative environment where clients can explore coping skills, social connections, and personal growth. Outside of work, Kailyn enjoys time with her dog, Kane, and true crime podcasts.
Kailyn’s Experience
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- ADHD
- Behavioral Disorders
- Child Welfare
Meet Our Therapist:
Rhealee Fernandez, LSW
Rhealee, a Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work graduate, is passionate about supporting clients in overcoming trauma, life challenges, and building meaningful relationships. Her background includes roles as a case manager and job coach, along with certifications in Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma. She employs strength-based therapy, DBT, CBT, Queer Affirmative Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy, creating a trusting environment where clients feel valued. When not working, Rhealee enjoys theater, weightlifting, and time with her cat, Veruca.
Rhealee’s Experience
- LGBTQIA+ Support
- Play Therapy
- Depression
- PTSD
- Eating Disorders
Meet Our Therapist:
Kelsey Fontano, LCPC
Kelsey graduated from Roosevelt University with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and has specialized training in DBT, ACT, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and family systems approaches. With experience across outpatient settings, she supports clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and more. Passionate about fostering self-discovery, Kelsey creates a safe, empowering environment where clients feel understood and motivated to grow. Kelsey’s personal experiences enrich her empathetic approach. Outside of therapy, she enjoys baking, crafting, and spending time with her dogs.
Kelsey’s Experience
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Substance Abuse
- Eating Disorders
- Personality Disorders
Meet Our Therapist:
Jenni Ford, LCPC, ATR-BC, LMHC
With over 15 years of experience, Jenni graduated from Adler University with a master’s in Counseling Psychology specializing in Art Therapy. She is passionate about helping clients discover their strengths, develop mood management skills, and feel more connected. Jenni’s diverse experience spans various populations, from young children to Alzheimer’s patients, with specialties in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and trauma care. Outside of work, Jenni enjoys knitting, board games, and Marvel movies.
Jenni’s Experience
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Substance Abuse
- Eating Disorders
- Personality Disorders
Meet Our Therapist:
Colleen Horgan, LCSW
Colleen Horgan (she/her) is a compassionate and experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades in the field. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and her Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University. Throughout her career, Colleen has supported individuals, couples, and families across a wide range of challenges—including trauma, anxiety, depression, co-occurring disorders, and addiction recovery. She is EMDR-trained and holds multiple certifications in crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and trauma-focused care.
Colleen’s therapeutic approach is eclectic and person-centered, drawing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. Rooted in Rogerian principles of unconditional positive regard and empathy, she creates a safe, judgment-free space for clients to heal, grow, and rediscover their inner strength. She is especially passionate about working with women and trauma survivors, helping clients navigate life transitions, build coping skills, and cultivate self-worth.
Outside of therapy, Colleen finds joy in time spent with her husband, their young daughter, and their two energetic dogs. A proud Swiftie, Colleen loves attending concerts and traveling with her family to create lasting memories.
Colleen’s Experience
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Trauma & PTSD
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Anxiety & Depression
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Co-occurring Disorders & Addiction Recovery
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Personality & Mood Disorders
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Family & Couples Counseling
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Women’s Issues
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Grief & Loss
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Crisis Intervention
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Stress & Anger Management
Meet Our Therapist:
Lauren Hughes, LSW
Lauren Hughes, LSW, earned her Master’s in Social Work from Aurora University in 2024. She brings over two years of experience, including internships, where she specialized in grief counseling, psychoeducation, and high-acuity mental health treatment. Lauren is trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and grief therapy for individuals of all ages.
Lauren’s therapeutic approach blends evidence-based techniques and client-centered care. She empowers clients to overcome barriers, align with their values, and build meaningful lives. When not working, Lauren enjoys reading romance novels and creating mood-based playlists.
Lauren’s Experience
- OCD
- Anxiety Spectrum Disorders
- Grief Counseling
- Neurodiversity
- Mood Disorders
Meet Our Therapist:
Cyndi Marquez, LPC
Cyndi Marquez is a compassionate therapist dedicated to supporting adolescents, young adults, and families through life transitions, anxiety, relationship challenges, and ADHD. With experience in community mental health, private practice, and DCFS residential care, she brings a well-rounded perspective to her work. Cyndi integrates Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches to help clients set meaningful goals, build coping skills, and move toward the version of themselves they aspire to be.
Cyndi earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University Chicago in 2023. As a bilingual clinician and advocate for underrepresented communities, she is especially passionate about working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and breaking down the stigma around mental health. Her therapy style is grounded in empathy, representation, and empowerment—creating a space where clients feel heard, supported, and capable of change.
Outside the therapy room, Cyndi enjoys watching scary movies, eating spicy food, and exploring new adventures with her one-year-old son. Her personal experiences growing up in a culture where mental health was stigmatized continue to inspire her commitment to advocacy, representation, and healing.
Cyndi’s Experience
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Life Transitions
- Relationship Challenges
- Adolescents & Young Adults
- Coping Skills & Goal Setting
Meet Our Therapist:
Elias Oseni, LPC
Elias is a skilled and empathetic therapist with over three years of experience supporting teens, young adults, and families through challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and LGBTQ+ issues. He holds certifications in Motivational Interviewing, CPI Nonviolent Crisis Intervention, Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk (AMSR), and is a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP). Elias uses evidence-based approaches such as CBT, person-centered care, and solution-focused therapy to foster growth in a supportive and judgment-free environment.
Holding a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University and a BA in Psychology from Augustana College, Elias also brings personal resilience and a deep understanding of trauma to his work. In his free time, he enjoys biking, tennis, exploring new cuisines, and traveling—having visited countries like Nigeria, Italy, Jamaica, and Spain.
Elias’ Experience
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Grief
- Coping Skills
Meet Our Therapist:
Liz Pusateri, LPC, NCC
Liz is a warm, thoughtful, and genuine therapist with experience supporting children, teens, adults, and families across both community mental health and private practice settings. She has worked with clients from diverse cultural, religious, gender, and sexual identity backgrounds, addressing a wide range of challenges including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, trauma, and behavioral issues. Liz integrates evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to help clients process emotions, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and build practical coping skills in a supportive and collaborative environment. She also offers family counseling, parent coaching, and—when requested—pastoral counseling that draws on her Christian/Catholic background.
Liz earned her Bachelor of Arts in Clinical Psychology and Human Development & Family Studies from Franciscan University of Steubenville in 2022 and completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling there in 2024. She brings a client-centered and holistic approach to therapy, prioritizing a safe and comforting space where clients feel truly heard. Liz believes in collaborative goal-setting and encourages clients to step outside their comfort zones to foster growth and resilience. She is especially passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, OCD, and trauma stemming from difficult family dynamics. Outside of therapy, Liz enjoys crocheting and can often be found working on blankets, sweaters, and cardigans she makes herself.
Liz’s Experience
- Anxiety
- OCD
- Depression
- ADHD
- Trauma
- Behavioral Issues
- Family Counseling & Parent Coaching
- Pastoral Counseling
Meet Our Therapist:
Cameren Rutz, LSW
Cameren, a graduate of UIC’s Jane Addams College of Social Work, brings expertise in crisis prevention, youth counseling, and support for at-risk communities. With experience across crisis intervention, outpatient clinics, and transitional programs, she is skilled in helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, identity issues, and life transitions.
Cameren’s Experience
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Substance Abuse
- Eating Disorders
- Personality Disorders
Meet Our Therapist:
Amanda Scott, LCPC, NCC
Amanda is a licensed professional counselor with experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults. With specialized training in anxiety, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder, she draws from her background in education to help clients build coping skills and pursue meaningful life changes. Amanda’s therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that growth comes from feedback, not failure, and she encourages clients to work toward their personal goals. In her free time, Amanda enjoys reading, time with her dogs, and audiobooks.
Amanda’s Experience
- Anxiety
- ADHD
- OCD
- Depression
- Life Goals
Meet our Outreach and Partnerships Manager: Krystyna Olejnyik
Krystyna Olejnyik, she/her, brings nine years of experience in the mental health field, having worked in various roles from direct care to director-level positions. Most recently, she spent two years focusing on outreach, where she excelled in connecting individuals and families with the resources and support they need. Krystyna is passionate about helping people find the best options for care, celebrating their recovery, and guiding them toward a more fulfilled life.
Krystyna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Saint Xavier University, which she completed in 2015. Her commitment to the mission at Dayrise Wellness is deeply aligned with her personal values, and she is excited to be part of a team that prioritizes intentionality and thoughtfulness in everything they do. She looks forward to contributing to and growing with Dayrise, as she continues to help others on their journey to better mental health.
Outside of work, Krystyna enjoys watching movies and documentaries, reading books, and spending time with her family, especially her nieces. A fun fact about Krystyna is that she is bilingual and speaks Polish fluently.
Meet our Care Coordinator: Genice Pryor
Genice (she/her) brings a unique blend of experience in healthcare support and event management to Dayrise Wellness. With over ten years as a personal assistant in healthcare, she has honed her skills in client support, administrative management, and compassionate care. Her deep commitment to mental health stems from a strong belief in making resources accessible and free of stigma. Genice is dedicated to fostering environments where clients feel accepted, heard, and empowered to take steps toward a healthier life.
In her free time, Genice enjoys a range of creative pursuits, from jewelry-making to balloon art. She’s an avid reader, particularly of murder mysteries, and loves watching documentaries. Cooking and hosting gatherings are her passions, creating memorable experiences for friends and family. A fun fact about Genice? She’s a reptile lover and proud caretaker of a 13-year-old ball python named Lady Py.
Thrilled to be part of Dayrise, Genice is excited to contribute to its mission, advocating for accessible mental health care and enhancing outreach within the community. She looks forward to helping expand Dayrise’s impact and ensuring that clients feel valued on their wellness journey.
Meet our Care Coordinator: Emily Vickers
Emily Vickers (she/her) brings a strong background in psychology and mental health support to Dayrise Wellness. With experience in patient care coordination, intake support, and mental health research, she is passionate about ensuring clients have a smooth transition into care. Emily has a particular interest in Cultural Psychology and how cultural influences shape behavior and mental well-being. She is committed to making mental health resources accessible and helping individuals take the first steps toward healing.
In her free time, Emily enjoys taking her chihuahua to the dog park, reading, thrifting, and crafting. She also loves completing puzzles and hammocking when the weather allows. A fun fact about Emily? She’s a true connoisseur of denim jackets!
Excited to be part of the Dayrise team, Emily looks forward to guiding clients toward the care they need and being a supportive presence throughout their journey. She is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and empowering experience for every individual seeking support.
What You Can Expect From Our Dayrise Team
Navigating mental health challenges can be overwhelming for individuals and families alike. Our compassionate team is here to support you with tools, resources, and personalized therapy, fostering growth and resilience for all ages.
Count on our clinicians and care coordinators to be:
- Compassionate
- Empathetic
- Dedicated to supporting clients across all life stages
- Skilled in evidence-based therapeutic models
We know that every client has the potential to thrive. We’ll help you create the path.
Contact Us
Ask a question or book an appointment below. For emergencies call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.