Meet The Clinical Team
* = Not currently accepting new clients
Meet The Clinical Team
* = Not currently accepting new clients
FLOURISHING
AFFINITY
COUNSELING
Meet The Team!
Sex Positive. Trauma Informed. Culturally Competent
Clinical Therapist
​Specializations:
LGBTQIA+, Identity Development and Affirmation, Sexual Orientation Exploration, Gender Exploration, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Coping Skills, Relationship Concerns, Kink Exploration and Affirmation, Consensual Non-Monogamy and Polyamory Exploration
Client Care Director
​Specializations:
Insurance, Billing, Client Care Coordinating, Scheduling Assistance, Clinical Team Support.
Lauren Krpan
LCPC, RYT, CST
She/Her Pronouns
Founder, CEO, Supervisor
AASECT Certified Sex Therapist
Lauren sees clients in-person at the Lakeview office. ​​
Education:​
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University of Michigan Sexual Health Certification Program: Sex Therapy and Sex Education (2018)
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DePaul University - Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2016)
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Illinois State University - Bachelor of Science in Psychology (2011)
License, Certifications & Specialized Trainings:
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Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Illinois
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AASECT Certified Sex Therapist
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Certificate in Sex Therapy and Sexuality Education from University of Michigan, School of Social Work
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Gottman Method Couples Therapy: Level 1 Clinical Training
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Registered Yoga Teacher
Areas of Specialization:
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Sex Therapy
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Sexual Dysfunction
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Pain with Sex
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Women’s Concerns
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Performance Anxiety
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Consensual Non-Monogamy and Polyamory Exploration
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My name is Lauren Krpan and I created Flourishing Affinity Counseling in the hopes to give people a space to feel safe, heard, understood, and affirmed while navigating their concerns surrounding sex, relationships, and sexuality. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from DePaul University. I completed my post graduate training in sexual health at the University of Michigan's Sex Therapy and Sexuality Education program to become a certified sex therapist and sexuality educator. I am also a registered yoga teacher and incorporate mind/body teachings to clients navigating their concerns. I am also a certified member of the American Association of Sexuality Educations, Counselors, and Therapist (AASECT)
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I believe that people deserve to live a life experiencing a fulfilling and vibrant sex life. I'm passionate for counseling from a sex-positive approach and creating an accepting space to connect with your intimate values and identity. I primarily work with people who are experiencing sexual concerns, which can include desire discrepancies, loss of intimacy, anxiety surrounding sex, as well finding more fulfillment with sex. My specialty lies in helping people navigate sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, I am passionate about helping women find relief from painful sex and working with women who have been experiencing pelvic pain. I'm a LGBTQIA+, kink, poly, and sex worker affirming therapist.
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My clinical approach to counseling is warm, understanding, and also quite challenging. While working together I will also build your skill set, provide psychoeducation surrounding your concern, as well as potentially helping you build your care team to treat sexual dysfunction from a biopsychosocial approach. I used evidence based practices pulled from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Sensate Focus Therapy to help navigate thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Your therapy is unique to you and your goals. Together we will navigate and work towards growth, acceptance, empowerment, and achievement.
Nicolas Kertesz
LCPC, CRC
He/Him Pronouns
Clinical Therapist &
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
Nic sees clients in-person at the Lakeview office as well as Illinois residents virtually.
Currently Accepting Clients with BCBS PPO,
out of network benefits, out of pocket, and sliding scale.
Education:​
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Masters of Science in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling - Illinois Institute of Technology, 2022
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Bachelors of Science in Psychology - Illinois Institute of Technology, 2017
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License, Certifications & Specialized Trainings:
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Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Illinois
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Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapy: Level 1 Clinical Training
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Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)
Areas of Specialization:
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Couples Therapy
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Disability Concerns
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Life Transitions
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Mood Disorders
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Mindfulness
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Men’s Issues
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Sexual Health and Dysfunction
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Relationship and Dating Concerns
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Communication Skills
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Work-Life Balance
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My ultimate goal as a therapist is to help you be the very best version of yourself that you can be. It is my passion to help you through listening with warmth and understanding while also using evidence-based practices to bring you to growth and change. I bring a calm demeanor and non-judgemental attitude to sessions to inspire openness and honesty in order to promote an affirmative, positive environment for you to feel safe and heard in.
I help folks from a variety of backgrounds, such as veterans, new parents, BIPOC, queer and trans individuals, through maintaining a validating space and tailoring my approach to suit your specific needs. I keep an open mind and awareness of current social events to ensure I’m observing all of the nuances that come with your intersecting identities, in order to provide the best care possible.
Specifically, as a man, I encourage other men to explore and challenge their concepts of masculinity in a positive, healthy light. My biannual men’s workshop lends itself to providing clients with a safe, understanding space to open up about struggles with emotional expression, interpersonal relationships, and societal expectations, while receiving the support and validation of others with shared experiences. Additionally, I’ve helped men overcome sexual dysfunction such as anxiety around sex and erectile dysfunction. This includes men with disabilities, to which my status as a certified rehabilitation counselor lends itself.
This background as a rehabilitation counselor provides me with a unique understanding of the circumstances with which some individuals with disabilities may struggle with sexual function. Additionally, I can assist with working through the general difficulties surrounding self-esteem, finding accommodations for your home, and coping with the associated stigmas and attitudes of having a disability . This includes adapting to both congenital and acquired disabilities through providing processing, validation, and advocacy. I have experience in navigating some concerns around SSI/SSDI, and can assist in career exploration through my vocational rehabilitation experience.
I am also trained in Gottman Level One, which I combine with an emotional focused therapy approach in working with couples. Using these frameworks, I focus on providing space for all clients to find their voices, feel heard by their partner(s), and find constructive tools for overcoming relational issues. On top of this, I am kink- and poly-informed, allowing me to help clients seeking counseling for those often misunderstood areas of life.
When I’m not counseling, I'm acting, an avid gamer, a foodie, a gym enthusiast, an amateur guitarist, and a proud cat parent.
Iliana Connor
LPC
She/Her Pronouns
Clinical Therapist
Iliana sees clients in-person at the Lakeview office as well as Illinois residents virtually
Currently Accepting Clients with BCBS PPO,
out of network benefits, out of pocket, and sliding scale. ​
Education:​
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Northwestern University Masters in Mental Health Counseling (2019)
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Depaul University – Bachelor of Science (2010)
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License, Certifications & Specialized Trainings:
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Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Illinois
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Eye Movement Desensitization Response Therapy (EMDR) Basic Training Weekend 1 and 2 - Currently under supervision towards certification
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Areas of Specialization:
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​Trauma
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EMDR
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Existential issues
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Grief & Loss
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LGBTQIA+ concerns
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Dating & relationships
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Consensual non-monogamy & polyamory
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Kink Relationships
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Communication issues​
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Trust is a fundamental part of any positive connection, especially in therapeutic relationships. As a therapist, I deeply value trust as a fundamental part of my work and understand that trust is built differently from individual to individual. As a queer transgender woman, I understand that building an affirming, safe therapeutic environment is no small task. My goal as a clinician is to approach all of my clients with openness, humility, and a non-judgmental framework to understand their experiences.
I approach therapy from a feministic, sex positive and trauma-informed lens that seeks to acknowledge and overcome the profession’s historical and ongoing shortcomings when working with marginalized populations. My therapeutic approach sees healing and actualization as part of a larger emotional process that cannot happen without trust, acceptance, and processing trauma. Once these fundamental building blocks are in place, actualization, thriving, and joy become possible. This is something I believe all people deserve.
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I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and I received my master’s degree from Northwestern University. I am also trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing techniques through the EMDR Institute to treat the many iterations of trauma. Additionally in my trauma work I also utilize techniques related to cognitive processing therapy, as well as techniques from internal family systems. Being a transwoman myself, I have a lot of experience working with the LGBTQIA+ populations to provide an affirming space to explore the wide range of experiences possible in sexuality and gender. I am firmly against transmedicalism and any other exclusionary beliefs related to the LGBTQIA+ experience. In therapy I use techniques drawn from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. These techniques allow clients to move past shame into empowerment related to their sexuality and gender. While these areas are the focus of my practice, I also use techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to treat anxiety. Finally, all my practice is informed by an existential lens that seeks to acknowledge the existential weight intrinsic to the human experience. Using all these tools I hope to provide a therapeutic environment that can allow you to move towards actualization and living the life you deserve.
Allison Martone
LPC
She/They Pronouns
Clinical Therapist
Allison sees Illinois resident clients virtually only. In-person sessions are not an option.
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Currently Accepting New Clients with BCBS PPO, Out of Network Benefits, Sliding Scale.
Education:​
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Northeastern Illinois University – Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2023)
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DePaul University – Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting (2012)​
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License, Certifications & Specialized Trainings:
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Gottman Method Couples Therapy: Level 1 Clinical Training
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Areas of Specialization:
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LGBTQIA+
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Identity Development and Affirmation
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Sexual Orientation Exploration
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Gender Exploration
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Mood & Anxiety Disorders
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Trauma and PTSD
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Coping Skills
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Relationship Concerns
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Kink Exploration and Affirmation
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Consensual Non-Monogamy and Polyamory Exploration
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"There is freedom waiting for you, on the breezes of the sky, and you ask, 'What if I fall?' Oh but my darling,What if you fly?"
—Erin Hanson
Congratulations are in order; you've taken a huge first step. Whether you are brand new to therapy or looking for a different kind of treatment, choosing the therapist that's right for you takes careful consideration. You've arrived and are already beginning your journey toward transformation.
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My stance as a queer, non-binary feminist support my multiculturally sensitive and strengths-based approach. I welcome clients of all identities and intersections, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and persons with disabilities. I provide a safe stigma and judgment-free space for you to explore the multifaceted dimensions of who you are, what you feel, and how your thoughts impact your well-being.
I’ve received specialized training in trauma-informed counseling. I have a strong background of working with clients on issues related to trauma and PTSD, LGBTQIA+ concerns, navigating non-traditional relationships, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. My collaborative and creative approach peppered with a sense of humor and keen attention to detail creates a warm and secure environment for you to let yourself be authentic and vulnerable with a felt sense of security.
I hold a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. I use evidence-based treatment methods with a trauma-informed lens, including but not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and attachment theory.
In my free time, I like to paint, attend drag shows, visit live music venues, and romp & roll at Montrose Dog Beach with my little dude, Frankie. A few of my loves include Van Gogh, flower-scented candles, Michaels stores, and poetry.
Kacie Andrews
She/Her Pronouns
Clinical Intern
Kacie sees clients in-person at the Lakeview office as well as Illinois residents virtually.​
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Currently Accepting New Clients with BCBS PPO, Out of Network Benefits, Sliding Scale.
Education:​
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DePaul University (2026) – Clinical Mental Health Counseling
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Areas of Interest:
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Self-Esteem
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Daily Functioning
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Relationship Issues,
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Exploring Identity
Welcome to the next steps in your personal journey! You have overcome the challenging step to seek out support through counseling. I applaud the strength and willingness it takes to commit time to working on yourself. Whether it be issues with self-esteem, daily functioning, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or exploring your identity— my door is open for you to share your story. I am here to listen without judgement and will work with you to create a healing environment where you feel comfortable sharing about what in life has been weighing on you.
We all carry a unique story and through therapy I hope to encourage you to share this story with me through building a trusting relationship together. I work from a person-centered and strength- based approach as well as utilizing elements of narrative therapy. I am here to uplift, support, encourage, and challenge you to find congruence in your life.
I am currently working towards my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at DePaul University. I am an intern in training at Flourishing Affinity Counseling under the supervision of Lauren Krpan. I am originally from Wichita, Kansas. Outside of working towards my degree I am passionate about creativity, art, exercising, cooking, exploring the city, and time with loved ones.
Abner Clark
He/Him Pronouns
Clinical Intern
Abner sees clients in-person at the Lakeview office as well as Illinois residents virtually.​
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Currently Accepting New Clients with BCBS PPO, Out of Network Benefits, Sliding Scale.
Education:​
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Adler University – Master of Arts in Couples & Family Counseling (2026)
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University of Maine at Farmington – Bachelor of Arts in Biology (2009)
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University of Maine at Farmington – Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Minor: Philosophy (2006)
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License, Certifications & Specialized Trainings:
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Certificate in Sex Therapy from Adler University (2025)
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Areas of Interest:
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Relational Concerns
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CNM & Poly Exploration
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Mood and Anxiety Disorders
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Existential Dread
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Religious Trauma
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Kink Exploration
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Men's Issues
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Sexual Dysfunction
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Desire Discrepancies
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Attachment Wounds
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Sex Therapy
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Providing Sex Work Affirming Care
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Career Exploration
I view the project of therapy as a striving to generate new ideas and ways of living where old ones no longer serve us. This collaboration should center your voice and experience while I facilitate processing, alternative framing, and support. No matter what the challenge, opportunity, pain, or pleasure, therapy can normalize and ease the difficult experience of being human.
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As a married man, I understand that “relationships take work.” Yet, sometimes that work is unclear or overwhelming. From modern, app-based dating to the challenges of growing old together, I am inspired by the resilience and dedication of humans seeking meaningful connection. Where old communication patterns seem to fail, when unexpected change feels threatening, or when isolation becomes crushing, I see opportunities for growth and deeper relational satisfaction. Who is my best self? Is dating hopeless? How do I find connection without losing who I am? How can I grow without losing the connection I have? Let’s explore these challenges together!
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Throughout my life, I have navigated a broad array of relationship structures and sexual practices such as consensual non-monogamy, kink/BDSM, and sex work, both personally and relationally. I am uniquely positioned to work with each of these communities and identities though an affirming and sex-positive lens. In addition, I have earned Adler University’s sex therapy certificate, providing a theoretical knowledge to add to lived experience. However, whoever, and why-ever you love and play, I celebrate you and am looking forward to supporting you and yours on your path of exploration, attunement, and pleasure.
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With decades of blue-collar business management/entrepreneurship behind me and a career in therapy ahead of me, I am able to offer support for those who are facing major life transitions. Reinventing ones’ self is both terrifying and exciting! With the proper support, this process can be the gateway to a safer, more fulfilling experience. Additionally, my passion for philosophy and personal intellectual journey facilitate my work with neurodivergence/high I.Q., atheists/non-spirituals, and those suffering from religious trauma, existential dread, and nihilism.
I approach individuals and relationships with a systemic lens. Every person, intimate relationship, and family must be considered as part of a larger context, influencing and being influenced by people and factors beyond the therapy room. Because of this, relational work is rooted in symbolic experiential family therapy.
On an individual level, I leverage existential therapy to seek healing through the exploration of personal responsibility, freedom and agency, and finding meaning in life’s uncertainty. Ultimately, though, it is you who will steer our work together.
I am a transplant from coastal New Hampshire, inspired by the various ways humans express themselves and love each other. In my free time, I play competitive World of Warcraft, a ton of Zelda and Hollow Knight with my partner, boat, read, and sunbathe! I look forward to meeting you and yours where you are at and generating change together!