Tanya Gluzerman, Psy. D., President & Director of training, Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Tanya Gluzerman is a bilingual psychologist fluent in English and Polish who serves as President & Director of Training at Pica & Associates Psychological Services. She earned her doctorate in clinical psychology in 2010 from Midwestern University and subsequently completed a postdoctoral fellowship at New Connections Academy where she was trained to work with children and adolescents diagnosed primarily with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Upon completion of her post-doc, she partnered to establish Pica & Associates in 2011. Dr. Gluzerman has over a decade worth of experience with children, adolescents, adults and families in inpatient, residential, forensic, outpatient, and school-based settings. Her particular areas of interest include anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory integration, eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. She has a particular interest in family therapy and working with individuals transitioning into young adulthood, especially those who are struggling to find their voice. Dr. Gluzerman functions as primary clinical supervisor for staff working primarily with children and adolescents.

In her free time, Dr. Gluzerman likes to exercise, hike, travel, and play with & train her German Shepherd therapy dog, Chomsky. She also has a keen interest in developing recipes for people who have alternative or restrictive food lifestyles including gluten free, low carb, and vegan. 

Dr. Gluzerman’s Publications

Michael Pica, Psy. D., VICE President, Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Michael Pica serves as Vice President at Pica & Associates Psychological Services. He earned his doctorate in clinical psychology in 1999 from Central Michigan University, bringing to the practice over 20 years of clinical experience. Prior to establishing Pica & Associates in 2011, Dr. Pica worked in various outpatient, residential, forensic, and inpatient settings, including serving as clinical director of a child and adolescent psychiatric unit. He has published extensively on dissociative disorders, psychological assessment, clinical training, anger management, and assessed danger to others. Dr. Pica works primarily with adolescent and adult patients who struggle with anxiety, depression, anger management issues, conduct disorder, bipolar/mood disorder, schizoaffective disorder, substance use, borderline and narcissistic personality disorder. Dr. Pica provides couples, marital, and family therapy as well as ongoing clinical supervision to staff who provide therapy services to adolescents and adults.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Pica serves as an active clinical consultant of Mental Health Services for Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans, highlighting his dedication to community service and advocacy.

Dr. Pica is the founder of the Educative-Experiential (EE) Model, an innovative psychotherapy framework designed to integrate core foundational psychological principles with lived-experiential flow to maximize therapeutic impact. His work on the EE Model was recently featured in the Psychotherapy Bulletin of the Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy (APA Division 29).

In his free time, Dr. Pica enjoys exercise, hiking, travel, creative writing, watching Italian soccer, playing with the office therapy dog, Chomsky, listening to 70’s rock music, and over-indulging in cologne.

Dr. Pica’s Publications

Morgan Pappas, Psy. D., Licensed Eligible Psychologist

Dr. Morgan Pappas completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Schaumburg. She began working at Pica & Associates in 2017 to complete her Post-Doctoral Fellowship requirements. As a therapist, she works with a multitude of issues and diagnoses including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, life transitions, marital issues, domestic violence, and sexual assault. She is passionate about women’s issues and her doctoral research consisted of developing a treatment plan for decreasing postpartum depression while increasing the mother-infant bond to create a secure attachment for the infant. Furthermore, Dr. Pappas’ training in Health Psychology has provided her with a comprehensive understanding in the areas of acute and chronic pain management, stress reduction, hypnosis, and relaxation techniques.

Dr. Pappas’ approach to therapy is an eclectic use of several theoretical orientations such as interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, emotional focused therapy, and feminist theory. Additionally, Dr. Pappas received substantial training in conducting diagnostic testing and evaluations during her doctoral internship at the Kane County Diagnostic Center.

Outside of the office, Dr. Pappas enjoys spending time with her family and friends, baking, and being outdoors.

Christine (Dunn) Lombardo, Psy. D., Licensed Eligible Psychologist

Dr. Christine (Dunn) Lombardo earned her doctoral degree in clinical psychology at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University, Schaumburg.  Her clinical interests include ADHD, FASD, OCD, PTSD, attachment styles, cross-cultural psychology, and occupational stress. Prior to her current career in clinical psychology, she worked as a juvenile detention officer.  Dr. Lombardo has experience in treating clients for a variety of mental health conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, learning and developmental disabilities, personality disorders, and marital and family issues.  She has provided treatment to children, adolescents, adults, family, and couples from a diverse population of cultural backgrounds.  She also has experience working with the LGBTQ adolescent and adult population.  Dr. Lombardo completed her clinical psychology internship through the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (WDOC), an APA-accredited site, where she provided individual therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing evaluations.  Additionally, she has conducted neuropsychological, forensic evaluations, and academic evaluations through other training sites.  

Dr. Lombardo uses an integrative approach in her application of therapy treatment interventions that include but are not limited to the following: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Family Systems, Interpersonal, and Child-Centered Play Therapy.  She has a positive, empathic, creative, and engaging interpersonal style and a good sense of humor.  She believes in the importance of building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance to enhance the growth process for individuals in treatment.  

Dr. Lombardo enjoys spending leisure time with her husband, family, friends, and pets.  She enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and biking.  Other hobbies include exercising, reading, drawing, painting, cooking, baking, and watching movies and series.

Christine Creighton, MS, LCPC, ATR-BC, ADHD-CCSP, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor & Board Certified Art Therapist, ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider

Ms. Christine Creighton earned her Master of Science in Art Therapy from Mount Mary University in 2012. Ms. Creighton comes with a range of clinical art therapy experiences with children, adolescents, and adults with behavioral or emotional challenges, ADHD, complex trauma, grief/loss, major life transitions, persistent mental illness, and neurodevelopmental disabilities. She has clinical experience working in school-based treatment settings for adolescents, day programs for adults with disabilities, in-home behavior therapy for children with autism, and outpatient mental health treatment for adults.

Ms. Creighton embraces a multi-sensory approach to treatment that is firmly grounded in expressive modalities like: art making, expressive play, movement, and music. Art Therapy creates an additional means of expression that goes beyond words and verbal processing. This fosters opportunities for creative problem solving, builds tangible coping tools, externalizes stress, and builds self-confidence. The expressive arts offer unique possibilities including but not limited to: making art while talking to reduce anxiety, engaging in an art directive focused on a specific challenge or emotion, gently exploring the narratives of art imagery, visually organizing thoughts, or making tangible feelings that cannot be expressed in words such as traumas. Additionally, Ms. Creighton incorporates evidence-based coping techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), applied behavioral models, and Executive Functioning Skill Building/ADHD Coaching to actively meet the individual needs of her patients.

Ms. Creighton has extensive knowledge and experience with adults with profound to mild intellectual disabilities, and specializes in using the creative arts to build social, coping, sensory integration, and life skills. In the fall of 2019, Ms. Creighton received her certification as an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, completing additional hours and training on ADHD assessment and treatment, Introductory Psychopharmacology, and Educational Management of ADHD.

Personally, Ms. Creighton is an active person who loves to paint, draw, bake, exercise, and garden.

SARAH RICCIO, PSY.D, Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Sarah Riccio earned her doctoral degree from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology at National Louis University. Prior to earning her doctorate, Dr. Riccio graduated from the City University of New York at Brooklyn College with a master’s degree in experimental psychology. During this time, she was the Lead Research Assistant for a study that focused on identifying the early physiological and emotional factors that contribute to future antisocial and criminal behavior. Additionally, her research data was used for a study that was recently published in Brain Sciences.

Dr. Riccio’s primary interest is in psychological assessment and diagnosis. She gained diagnostic experience in inpatient and community health settings, and also worked in a juvenile correctional facility providing therapy and crisis intervention to adolescent offenders. Dr. Riccio completed an additional forensic psychology internship focused on writing specialized Court ordered evaluations, such as those determining competency to stand trial, treatment amenability, and specific intent/insanity. She later completed her pre-doctoral internship at the Kane County Diagnostic Center where she provided therapy to adult and adolescent offenders and conducted psychological evaluations for the 16th Judicial Circuit Court. She has additional experience working in a neuropsychology private practice, where she provided neurofeedback services and conducted psychological and neuropsychological assessment. As a result of her clinical exposure, Dr. Riccio emphasizes the importance of neurocognitive functioning when considering differential diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and personality disorders.

During her free time, Dr. Riccio likes to travel back to New York to see her family, go shopping, and watch true crime documentaries with her 10-year-old shih tzu, Benji.

MONICA SCHABERG, MA, LPC, LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR

Ms. Monica Schaberg is a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her Bachelors in Psychology from Northern Illinois University in 2010 and her Masters in Community Counseling from National Louis University in 2014.  Ms. Schaberg has worked in a variety of clinical settings including residential, therapeutic day schools, after school programs for children with special needs, in homes to provide ABA therapy, and in the mental health department of the Kane County Jail.

Ms. Schaberg’s primary interest is working with children and adolescents.  She uses a person-centered approach and will bring in elements of play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and family systems therapy.  She believes that no two cases are the same and will adapt her approach based on the individual's needs.  She also believes that when working with children, it is important to take time to build rapport and trust.  Ms. Schaberg does this by exploring the child’s interests and finding ways to bring those interests into the session.

When not working with clients, Ms. Schaberg enjoys spending time with her son and her husband.  They also have a “zoo” at home that includes a dog, three cats, and a pair of guinea pigs. Her hobbies include painting, reading, raising butterflies in the spring/summer, and playing video games with her son.

Nanci Galindo, MS, Psychotherapist

Ms. Nanci Galindo is a bilingual psychotherapist at Pica & Associates, dedicated to helping clients navigate through their unique challenges with a compassionate, strength-based approach. She holds a Masters degree in Rehabilitation and Disability Services and Rehabilitation Counseling from Northern Illinois University.

Her clinical experience includes supporting survivors of domestic violence, facilitating healing in family settings involved with DCFS, and guiding group therapies that foster personal growth. Nanci uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, ensuring each person feels heard and empowered.

Outside of her professional role, Ms. Galindo enjoys reading, arts and crafts, painting, and exploring diverse cuisines with her family. She also loves spending time with her beloved pets and embracing the simple joys of life.

Ms. Galindo is here to support you on your path to wellness. Let’s connect and start this journey together.

KARLA VELAZQUEZ, BA, PSYCHOMETRICIAN

Ms. Karla Velazquez is a graduate student in the process of obtaining her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Practice from Roosevelt University. Karla attended Aurora University to receive her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Degree with a minor in Spanish 2023. She is bilingual in Spanish and English, along with this she is a part of the Latino community. She has first had knowledge of understanding different cultures. With the opportunity of knowing both languages and cultures it allows for a better understanding of different challenges one may face.

Her occupational experience ranges from being an intake coordinator, group facilitator, bilingual text crisis counselor, and psychometrist. Her clinical goals are to assist individuals of different ages, genders, races, and ethnicities. She has a true passion for this field and is excited to learn more. 

During her free time, Ms. Velazquez loves to hang out with friends and family, try new restaurants, bake and working out.

Jasmyn Steele Diagnostic Extern

Mrs. Jasmyn Steele is a doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology, Military track program at Adler University. She earned her Masters in Industrial Organizational Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Mrs. Jasmyn has a background and clinical experience in human resources and project management serving marginalized communities such as people of color, LGBTQ, and Veterans. She has built and implemented wellness and recognition programs in corporate environments and created community movement events with collaboration with licensed professionals to use dance as a therapeutic modality.

Jasmyn is active in research and has presented at several regional conferences such as the Midwest Psychological Association, and the Midwest Ecological Regional Conference. Her current projects are focused on the impact of birth order on Military Veterans' mental health outcomes and reintegration into civilian life.

Outside of school, Jasmyn co-owns a specialty Fitness Studio, teaches classes, knits and crochets, and takes long drives in her stick shift car.

Vernice Barrimond, M.A. Psychometrician

Ms. Vernice Barrimond is a Psychometrician at Pica & Associates and a doctoral (PsyD) student in Clinical Psychology at Wheaton College, where her concentration is Trauma. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The Ohio State University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Wheaton College.

Vernice provides psychological, neuropsychological, psychoeducational, and diagnostic assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. Her assessment work emphasizes neurodiversity, differential diagnosis, and trauma-informed, strengths-based conceptualization across a wide range of presenting concerns. She is committed to using assessment as a tool for insight, clarity, and empowerment for clients and families.

Her broader clinical interests include trauma- and stressor-related disorders (including PTSD and complex trauma), mood and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, faith integration, racial and cultural identity development, trauma-informed care, and community psychology. Vernice’s training spans outpatient, inpatient, private practice, and community mental health settings, with a strong emphasis on culturally responsive and evidence-based practice.

Vernice is also active in scholarship. Her research examines how the Black Church fosters post-traumatic growth through positive religious coping in the context of high rates of trauma and PTSD within Black communities. She has recently co-authored a peer-reviewed publication exploring the Black Church’s response to community violence and racism (https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2025-82115-001) and co-authored a textbook chapter titled People From the African Diaspora. 

Outside of her professional work, Vernice enjoys traveling, exploring new hobbies, engaging in meaningful conversations, enjoying humor, and spending time with loved ones.