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Meet The Team

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Lorell Marin
Founder/CVO 

 M.Ed, LCSW, BCBA, DT 

Lorell Marin, M.Ed, LCSW, BCBA, DT, is the Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of LEEP Forward, a pediatric clinic that is innovative and focusing on a neurodiverse population. In 2001, she founded LEEP Forward. LEEP Forward is a  developmental therapy clinic and therapeutic preschool. Lorell has always honored each child’s and families' individual differences and believes your approach also needs to be tailored. There is not just one way to provide support. LEEP Forward  was fueled by her expertise in multiple approaches to create individual programs that allow each child to become curious, confident life long learners themselves. .

As a lifelong learner, Lorell has recently completed training to become an Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist and Trauma-Informed Care practitioner. Lorell started her career as a special education teacher and has trained in a variety of additional certification programs, including level 2 DIR(R) practitioner, RDI (Relationship Development Intervention), The Play Project, Mendability, SCERTS, TEACCH, Social Thinking programs, and more. Lorell continues to demonstrate her commitment to ongoing learning and development. Her biggest teachers have always been her clients. 

Lorell prioritizes listening to her clients and honoring their journey. She knows that with the right support, the children she works with will take over the world, and that's a world worth creating.This evident with her latest endeavor which includes creating innovative programming that continues to support her clients as they grow, including teen and adult programming.

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Dana H, MS, DT

Chief Clinical Executive Officer

Dana is a credentialed Developmental Therapist and has been a Lead Therapist at LEEP Forward since 2013 and has also worked as the Transition Coordinator. Dana received her professional DIR-FCD Model certificate in Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Development through the Profectum Foundation. She implements the DIR® Floortime model in the therapeutic preschool groups. Dana received her undergraduate degree in ElementaryEducation from the University of Wisconsin and taught in the public schools in Aiken, South Carolina. Dana returned to Chicago and graduated from The Erikson Institute with a Master’s in Science with a focus in working with children with special needs. 

Dana is a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and in her free time loves to explore the culinary world of Chicago with her husband, Harley.

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Elena M

Chief Operating Officer 

Elena is the Chief Operating Officer and Administrative Executive at LEEP Forward, where she is deeply committed to ensuring that families feel taken care of and supported throughout their journey. Her passion for the organization shines through in her dedication to nurturing both the staff and the community, making LEEP a special place for all involved.

Born in Chicago and a graduate of DePaul University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce, Elena brings a strong sense of compassion and expertise to her work. Drawing from her personal experience in advocating for her own son and years of helping families find the resources they need, she is a trusted advocate for the community. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and making her son laugh.

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Leigh M, MS OTR/L 

Program Director

Leigh received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Therapeutic Studies and Occupational Therapy in a 5-year accelerated program at Boston University.  After earning her Master’s degree, Leigh moved back to Chicago for her clinical fieldwork rotations. Though pediatrics was her original passion, Leigh wanted to gain experience working with a variety of populations and spent the first 5 years of her practice working with adult and geriatric populations in hospitals, inpatient rehabs and skilled nursing facilities. 

 

Leigh joined the LEEP team in 2017 and has worked her way up from an occupational therapist to a senior occupational therapist and most recently has transitioned into the role of Clinical Director. During her time at LEEP, Leigh has learned and accomplished so many things! She loves working with and learning from a multidisciplinary team approach and has focused her continuing education on sensory based movement disorders. In addition, Leigh has a passion for sensory friendly and inclusive design within homes and businesses and has enjoyed helping families design sensory play rooms within their homes.  

 

In her spare time, Leigh enjoys exercising, interior design, spending time with family and friends, and traveling the world!

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Shana T, M. Ed

Program Director

Shana has her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Special Education. Shana started working at Leep Forward in 2016, and worked as a lead teacher for 5 years at Leep Forward. For the past two years Shana has been a special education teacher in public and charter schools in Chicago. After two years away, she decided to return to her home at Quantum Leep Academy & Leep Forward! Shana is excited to return as the Program Director, and continue to use her passion of collaborating academics with the DIR and ABA models. Shana believes In order for any learning to take place, strong and meaningful relationships are the foundation. all learning can be fun and engaging! In order for any learning to take place, strong and meaningful relationships are the foundation.

 

This past summer Shana got married in Chicago to her now husband, Michael! In her free time you might find Shana playing with her dog Rigby, spending time with her siblings, nieces, and nephews who live in Chicago, traveling as much as possible, and crafting of all kinds!

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Nick R

Program Director

Nicholas was born in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, with three brothers and a large family. When it was time for college he didn’t go far, receiving his undergraduate degree at the University of Illinois-Chicago. Nicholas has also received his DIRFloortime® certificate promoting basic functional emotional development and higher functional development through International Council on Development and Learning (ICDL).

He first became a part of the LEEP family in 2013 by volunteering his free time, but it didn’t take long before he realized this work was his true passion and joined the team full time. Nicholas has moved and explored all across the states, living in both California and Boston working with all ages from infants to young adults but always seems to make it back to his true home, Chicago. One of Nicholas’s favorite quotes is, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” and loves to bring the fun, joy and play into every group and activity he is a part of!

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Kim F, OTD OTR/L 

Occupational Therapist (Department Head) 

Kim grew up in upstate New York with her three siblings before moving to Cincinnati, Ohio. She graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science, in Health Promotion, Nutrition, and Exercise Science. She fell in love with the idea of working with children and went on to get her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from The Ohio State University. During Kim’s doctoral capstone, she spent a year researching and implementing evidence-based, sensory-based interventions for youth who have experienced trauma. Throughout graduate school, she continued to work with children in a variety of contexts, from preschools, to community centers, to assisting with aquatic research. Kim loves using the power of play to communicate with children, helping them achieve their highest potential physically, emotionally, and socially. She recently moved to Chicago to start her career as an occupational therapist and is excited to be a part of the incredible LEEP Forward team!

 

During Kim’s free time, she enjoys discovering new restaurants in Chicago, fostering service dogs, and spending time outside with friends and family.

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Alex N, MS CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist (Department Head) 

Alex was born and raised in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. She received her Bachelor’s of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She went on to earn her Master of Science in Speech, Language and Learning from Northwestern University. 

 

Alex is passionate about fostering meaningful relationships with her clients and their families to create an environment that promotes development. Alex has experience working with a wide variety of pediatric clients, including those with language delays and disorders, phonological and articulation disorders, and autism spectrum disorder. She’s a firm believer in the undeniable value of an interdisciplinary approach to care and she’s excited to be a part of the teams at both LEEP Forward and Quantum LEEP Academy. After work, Alex enjoys trying new restaurants around the city, listening to live music, and traveling with family and friends.

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Nico S, MA, MSW, BCBA, LSW

Social Worker/Clinical Supervisor (Mental Health Department Head)

Nico was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago. He then moved into the city of Chicago to attend the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for both his undergraduate degree in psychology and his master’s degree in social work. Nico has extensive experience working with children with diverse needs in multiple settings including client’s homes, therapeutic clinics, and in-patient psychiatry. After working in these settings throughout his education and post graduation, Nico decided to further pursue his education within Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and complete an additional master’s degree in ABA through Arizona State University where he graduated and became board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) in 2021.

 
Nico currently provides both social work and ABA services to children individually and within groups at Quantum Leep Academy where he continues to enjoy supporting children and their families achieve their goals.

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Sara L, OTD, OTR/L 

Occupational Therapist

Sara was born and raised in the north suburbs of Chicago before heading out to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for college. At the University of Pittsburgh, Sara graduated with her bachelor's degree in Health Services and her clinical doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy. Sara is passionate about providing occupational therapy services for people of all ages in order to help them achieve their highest potential. Sara worked at a therapeutic horseback riding facility for more than 10 years serving children and adults with social, emotional, and physical needs. Sara has since spent time in Chicago and New York expanding her knowledge in various settings including hospitals, inpatient rehab, home health, and outpatient services. Sara recently moved back to Chicago and is so excited to be part of the LEEP Forward team!

 

In Sara's free time she loves traveling, trying new restaurants, and spending quality time with friends and family.

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Corrine P, OTR/L 

Occupational Therapist

Corrine grew up in East Lansing, Michigan, where she attended Michigan State University. After graduating from MSU with a Bachelors in English, Corrine moved to Chicago to teach in Chicago Public Schools. Corrine received her Masters in Occupational Therapy from University of Illinois at Chicago in 2021 and began her career as an OT. 
 

As an Occupational Therapist, Corrine strives to use a neurodiversity affirming approach to help clients and families accomplish their personal goals. Corrine particularly enjoys participating in play-based therapy that incorporates the clients' own interests and strengths. In her spare time, Corrine enjoys playing board games and snuggling with her cats. 

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Zoey Z, OTR/L 

Occupational Therapist 

Zoey was born and raised in the great city of Chicago. She moved to St. Louis where she attended Washington University in St. Louis for her undergraduate and graduate studies, earning her Masters in Occupational Therapy in 2022. After earning her Master's, Zoey moved back home to Chicago and has worked in pediatrics ever since. She has a passion for providing client-centered and strengths-based therapy to meet clients where they’re at and to help them reach their fullest potential. Zoey’s areas of interest include sensory processing and integration, fine motor skills, and executive functioning.

 

In her free time, Zoey enjoys spending time outdoors, crocheting, and trying new restaurants in the city.

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Abbey L, MS CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist/ Feeding Therapist 

Abbey is from Moline, IL of the Quad Cities. She received her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Speech & Hearing Science from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her Master’s degree at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, UT. She has experience working with children on a wide variety of skills including expressive language, auditory comprehension, implementation of augmentative and alternative communication, phonological and articulation disorders, fluency, social skills, voice, and expanding their food repertoire. She believes that the only thing more rewarding than advocating for her clients is seeing her clients learn to advocate for themselves.

 

During her time in graduate school out west, Abbey fell in love with the outdoors and continues to enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring new places. She also enjoys embroidery, cooking, rollerblading with her dog, live music, and spending time with her pets.

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Izzy N, MS CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist/ AAC Coordinator

Izzy was born and raised in the western suburbs of Chicago as the youngest of four children, however she has been back and forth between living in Texas and Chicago. Izzy received her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX in May 2019. She received her Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL in May 2021. Izzy holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) and is licensed in the state of Illinois. Throughout her professional career, Izzy had the opportunity to work in the public schools and outpatient settings with children of all ages with a wide variety of speech and language disorders including receptive/expressive language disorders, articulation disorders, fluency, autism spectrum disorders, Down Syndrome, social skills, auditory processing disorders, and other developmental delays.

 

As a speech language pathologist, Izzy is committed to celebrating vulnerability, showcasing differences, finding commonalities, and employing creative techniques so that her clients can thrive at their own pace and in a style that suits them. Izzy is thrilled to be a part of the teams at both LEEP Forward and Quantum Leep Academy.

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Emma S, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Emma is new to Chicago from the suburbs of Detroit. She received her Bachelor's degree at Michigan State University and her Master's degree in Speech Pathology at the University of Toledo in 2021, where she went on to receive her CCC's and become ASHA certified. Emma's past experiences include working with both children and adults with a variety of speech and language needs in both outpatient settings and within an elementary school environment.


Emma is excited to join LEEP and develop relationships with the students as well as their families. Encouraging differences is important to Emma and she is looking forward to collaborating within the transdisciplinary team to help foster every individual's needs!
In her spare time, Emma enjoys exploring the city, spending time with friends and family, and missing her two family dogs back at home!

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Megan K, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist

Megan was born and raised in St. Joseph, Michigan. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Butler University and her Master of Science degree in Speech, Language and Learning from Northwestern University. She has experience working with children of all ages and skills, including those with articulation and phonological disorders, expressive and receptive language delays and disorders, implementing augmentative and alternative communication, fluency, autism spectrum disorder, and Down syndrome. Megan is interested in engaging children in therapy using evidence-based interventions and play-based approaches.


Outside of work, Megan enjoys farmers markets, Cubs games, baking, walking along the lake, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends. Megan is excited to be a part of the LEEP Forward team!

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Brianna G, DPT

Physical Therapist 

Brianna grew up in Chicago, Illinois and just recently moved back from St. Louis, Missouri to continue her career as a physical therapist. She obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science with a minor in Education and went on to get her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Saint Louis University. Brianna started her career as a physical therapist in an Assisted Living Facility and then transitioned into the school districts around the St. Louis area. Brianna loves challenging kiddos with gross motor activities and helping them maximize their potential. In addition to work, Brianna enjoys concerts, rollerblading, spending time with friends and family, and all things Disney.

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Erin V, MS, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor 

Erin was raised in Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan. She attended Michigan State University where she received her bachelor's degree in Kinesiology in 2019. She then moved to Chicago to attend The Chicago School of Professional Psychology where she received a master's degree in ABA. In March of 2022, Erin passed her boards to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. After working at QLA as an AC for a little under a year, Erin continued her career at QLA as a BCBA. Throughout high school, college, and in her master's program she was lucky enough to have worked and volunteered in different settings and fields, such as hospitals, schools, clinics and camps, with children of all abilities and ages.

 

Erin has always loved working with children, and is so excited to continue that work at LEEP. In her free time, Erin loves to hangout with her dog Winnie, explore chicago with her friends, and watch MSU football!

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Maddie H, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor/BCBA

Maddie was born and raised in Minnetonka, MN. She attended Miami University and received her bachelor’s degree in Special Education. While in school, Maddie discovered Applied Behavior Analysis while working at an educational placement center for learners on the autism spectrum and other developmental disabilities. Maddie went on to receive her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Throughout schooling, Maddie has worked with individuals ages 2 to 22 with intellectual and developmental disabilities as a Direct Support Professional, adaptive sports coach, respite provider, academic tutor, and social skills instructor. Maddie has most recently worked with learners on the autism spectrum ranging from 2 to 10-years-old within a therapeutic clinic setting providing ABA services. As a sibling of someone with developmental disabilities, Maddie understands the value of meeting learners and their families where they are, embracing their individuality and goals, developing strong trusting relationships, and teaching skills with the ultimate goal of improving quality of life.

 

In Maddie’s free time, she’s often spending outside time with her Australian Shepherd, Bodie. She also loves to hike, paint, cook, listen to podcasts, and spend time with friends and family.

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Katrina G, LSW, MSW 

Social Worker 

Katrina Gainey, known as Kat, is a Licensed Master Social Worker with a deep commitment to supporting children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Originally from Columbia, South Carolina, Kat earned her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Winthrop University and completed an accelerated Master of Social Work (MSW) program with a clinical practice concentration at the University of Houston-Main.

 

With five years of experience in diverse settings—including residential, private practice, outpatient, and educational environments—Kat has honed her skills in addressing socio-emotional development and emotional regulation. Her specialization includes working with children diagnosed with ADHD, ASD, OCD, and ODD. Kat is dedicated to staying current with the latest research and techniques to provide the most effective support for these populations. Kat has a strong background in organizing social skills groups, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and delivering individualized therapy and interventions. Her passion lies in advocating for all children, particularly those with neurodevelopmental disorders, to enhance their overall wellbeing.

 

Outside of her professional life, Kat enjoys traveling, listening to music, weightlifting, hiking, and cooking. She is enthusiastic about continuing her work with the exceptional professionals at Leep Forward and Quantum Leep Academy, aiming to make a meaningful impact on the children she serves.

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Anthony P, LSW, MSW

Social Worker 

Anthony was raised in the suburbs of Chicago. This is where he discovered his passion for working with children. He volunteered as a youth leader for four years at his church. After high school he moved to Texas where he received his bachelor’s degree from Prairie View A&M University. Upon graduation he moved back to Chicago to pursue his master’s degree at Loyola University. Anthony has experience providing individual, family, and group mental health services to clients from a wide range of backgrounds. Nothing brings him greater fulfillment than bringing a smile to a child’s face and helping them navigate the struggles of everyday life.

 

In his free time Anthony likes to spend time in nature, hangout with his sisters, and read.

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Ofelia R, MSW LSW

Social Worker

Ofelia was born and raised in Chicago, near Rogers Park. She graduated from Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) with both a BSW and MSW, and is a licensed social worker (LSW). During her MSW program, Ofelia interned at an agency where she ran skills groups for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). During grad school, she was a mental health therapist for children and adolescents. Ofelia has always been passionate about working with children and adolescents. Before completing her BSW, Ofelia had also worked at a daycare and as a full-time nanny.

Outside of work, Ofelia enjoys being in the kitchen. She enjoys making new dishes and trying out new flavors. During the pandemic, she also picked up baking as a new hobby. She likes visiting different coffee shops and exploring new restaurants. Did I mention she is a foodie? She also enjoys reading mental health related memoirs. Although she may not be very artistic, she enjoys anything related to arts and crafts and playing instruments (and also going to concerts).


 

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Sarah H, MSW

Social Worker

Bio Coming Soon...

 

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Yvonne C, LCSW 

Social Worker

Bio Coming Soon...

 

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Rachelle K, DT 

Clinical Supervisor 

Rachelle grew up in southeast Michigan and received her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from University of Toledo and her master’s of Education from Ashland University. Prior to moving to Chicago, she lived in Columbus, Ohio where she taught 1st grade for 9 years years and worked as an Intervention Specialist through the Ohio Autism Scholarship Program for 2 years. As an Intervention Specialist she worked 1:1 in the homes for school aged children with Autism. When Rachelle moved to Chicago, IL she began working at Leep Forward as a Lead Therapist while pursuing her Developmental Therapist credential. She is now a Developmental Therapist Clinical Supervisor for Leep Forward and happy to be a part of the Leep Family! She enjoys working collaboratively with Leep’s comprehensive team to support the children and their families at Leep Forward.

 

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, and hiking.

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Alyse S, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor 

Bio coming soon...

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Brooke Y, BCBA

Clinical Supervisor 

Brooke is a Chicago-based Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). After growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, Brooke went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Michigan State University and her Master’s Degree in Behavior Analysis from the University of Cincinnati. Brooke has experience working with autistic individuals between the ages of 2-12 years old across clinic, home, and community settings.

Her favorite part about of being a BCBA is getting to be a part of her learner’s growth as they progress in their independence and confidence! She is passionate about teaching functional communication, utilizing naturalistic teaching styles, and fostering unique interests in each of her learners. 

 

In her free time, Brooke loves walking the Chicago lakefront and exploring new restaurants and bookstores in the city!

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Brittiny L 

Medical Biller 

Bio Coming Soon...

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Kristell B 

Medical Biller 

Bio Coming Soon...

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Heather V

Schedule Coordinator

Heather grew up in southwest Wisconsin and has made Chicago her home for over seven years. She received her Bachelor's Degree in English and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin before working as a paralegal in immigration and environmental law for several years. Through this experience, she discovered her love of working with people from all walks of life. Heather has enjoyed working with children volunteering in after school programs in the past, and is excited to spend more time in an academic environment at Quantum LEEP Academy. 

 

In her spare time, Heather loves crafting including knitting, crocheting and sewing, as well as hanging out with her cat/best friend, Errol.

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Aria K 

Leads Coordinator 

Bio Coming Soon!

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Lea M

Lead Classroom Facilitator 

Lea was born and raised in Illinois. Lea is passionate about helping the growth with her clients, and fostering meaningful relationships with clients and families. She is a firm believer of inclusion. After work Lea enjoys spending time with her son and family, listening to music, trying new activities, and looking for new recipes to cook.

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Alex K 

Lead Classroom Facilitator 

Bio Coming Soon!

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Caroline L

Lead Classroom Facilitator 

Caroline grew up in Tennessee where she completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at the University of Memphis. After graduation, she decided to move to Chicago where she pursued her second Bachelor of Arts at DePaul University where she graduated in Criminology. Before coming to LEEP Forward, Caroline worked with kids in an arts and crafts setting, creating a playful yet instructional environment for them to learn and express themselves in. Since then, she has always had a strong passion for working with kids and getting to explore how they see the world! She hopes to one day use her education and experience to work further in helping with the protection and rights of children in the criminal justice system.

 

In her free time, Caroline loves to read (and is working towards her goal of having her home certified as an Illinois library), travel, work on her second novel, hang out with her crazy puppy named Nova, and spend time with her friends.

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Jada B 

Lead Classroom Facilitator 

Jada was born in Cleveland, Ohio however moved to Chicago during grade school. Jada attended The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in Developmental Psychology. Jada has always loved working with children since she started babysitting in her teen years. Jada has always had a passion for working with children, whether it is volunteering at a preschool or becoming involved in her church’s youth group.

 

After college, Jada worked in the Chicago public school system as a Teacher’s aide working with children from preschool through elementary school. In the future, Jada plans to go back to school to earn her master’s degree in Psychology and continue working in the behavioral health field.

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Izzie L

Lead Classroom Facilitator 

Isabelle or Izzie grew up in Skokie. She received a bachelor's in Neuroscience from Baylor University in Waco, TX this past May. Izzie has always had a passion for working with children and has worked with different age groups throughout her life whether it be volunteering at a summer camp or tutoring kids one-on-one. She plans to further her education after taking a gap year and hopes to pursue a master's in behavioral analysis and become a BCBA.

 

When Izzie is not working, she likes to read, listen/play music, and bingeing shows.

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Audrey T 

Lead Classroom Facilitator 

Bio Coming Soon!

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Emily R

Assistant Clinician

Emily was born and raised in Springfield, IL. She received her B.A. in psychology at Illinois State University. Following graduation, Emily moved to Chicago with her four best friends, and now works at QLA! She has worked in ABA for almost 2 years, and has worked with children for most of her life.

 

She enjoys the beach, spending time with loved ones, playing piano, and collecting beach glass!

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Raina K 

Assistant Clinician

Raina grew up in the south suburbs of Chicago but has been living the city life since getting their Bachelor's in Psychology from DePaul University in 2020. Currently they are working towards their Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with the goal of continuing to work with children who have diverse needs and their families.

 

Outside of work, Raina is an avid lover of nature, live music, and art!

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Macklyn K

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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David M

Assistant Clinician

David is recent graduate from DePaul University. David is currently in the process of obtaining his master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at DePaul. Being a Chicago native, David has experience working with children in Chicago Public Schools under the Cities Mentor Project. Working with kids in communities across Chicago, David enjoys working as both a friend and a mentor, and is eager to work with LEEP Forward at Quantum Leep Academy and help whoever he can.

 

In his free time, David loves to exercise, write, play games, and play piano. David is beyond thrilled to learn and grow as a person within Leep Forward!

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Erin H

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Gwen R

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Dia I

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Celeste D

Assistant Clinician

Celeste is a Chicago native. She received her undergraduate from Northeastern Illinois University, in which she obtained a double major of Psychology and Sociology. Currently, she is studying at North Park University in which she will obtain her master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. In the future she would like to become a licensed therapist that caters to children and adolescents. Celeste always encourages a playful and respectful environment for a child's development. She believes that children learn about themselves not just through biological and physiological changes, but also through external factors including relationships and play! She believes her life would be incomplete if she isn't working with children.

 

In her spare time she loves to binge watch Netflix, try new restaurants and thoroughly enjoys reading or having a cookout with her family!

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Heaven C

Assistant Clinician

Originally from Chicago, Heaven grew up in St. Paul, MN. She returned to Chicago to attend school at Loyola University Chicago, where she obtained her BS in Psychology with a minor in Psychology of Crime and Justice. She is currently continuing her studies at Loyola in the MS Criminal Justice Program. Heaven has always enjoyed working with children and has done so through volunteering at her local Boys & Girls Club, as well as her past internship working with Cook County Juvenile Probation. She hopes to continue her passion by working with and building relationships with the children at LEEP Forward!


In her free time, Heaven enjoys reading, playing with her dog, Deuce, and spending time with her siblings.

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Duncan G

Assistant Clinician

Although Duncan was born just outside of Seattle, his family moved to Chicago when he was about a year old and he has lived there ever since. In high school Duncan enrolled in an urban gardening internship run by After School Matters and sponsored by the Chicago Botanic Garden. Duncan attended college at Syracuse University in New York where he graduated in the spring of 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in sociology. During his final two summers in college Duncan interned at the Chicago Botanic Garden as a teacher for their science first program for middle school and high school students. The summer after he graduated, Duncan worked as a horticultural intern at the Heritage Museums and Gardens in Sandwich, Massachusetts before returning home to Chicago. He is considering obtaining a master’s degree in psychology in order to enter the field of clinical therapy.


When he is not at work, Duncan enjoys gardening, walking, hiking, listening to music, watching movies, and spending time with friends and family.

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Karla H

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Debs R

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Lily L, RBT 

Assistant Clinician

Lily grew up on the South side of Chicago. She attended Vassar College, and graduated with her Bachelor's in Psychology in 2023. Her time at LEEP has inspired her to pursue further education in ABA, with hopes of becoming a BCBA in the future!

 

In her free time, Lily loves going to the lake, taking care of her plants, and spending time with her siblings.

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Quinn W

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Michelle S

Assistant Clinician

Michelle, raised in the Chicago suburbs, graduated from DePaul University with a Bachelor of Arts in Relational Communication & a minor in Graphic Design. She is experienced working with special needs individuals and children of all ages. She has worked as an Inclusion Companion, Direct Support Professional, Respite Worker, Art Class Facilitator, and in a variety of educational settings including Preschool, Daycare, High School, Montessori, and Forest School. Michelle is dedicated to empowering individuals, celebrating process, and fostering nurturing and creative environments for learning.

 

Michelle loves sustainable crafting, art for catharsis, farmers markets, dancing, poetry and spending time in nature.

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Eleanor B

Assistant Clinician

Eleanor was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. After receiving her BS in Psychology from the University of Iowa, she returned home to Chicago with a passion for Developmental Psychology. Eleanor enjoys working with children and aiding them in receiving an individualized education that is tailored specifically for them.

 

She is so excited to join the LEEP Forward team and can't wait for the opportunities ahead of her! In her free time she enjoys playing with her two cats, spending time with her nephew, skiing, gardening, and going for walks.

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Kobe W

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Kayla S

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Maeve K

Assistant Clinician

Maeve is from the northern suburbs of Chicago. She finished her Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Design and Visual Communications at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Currently, she’s working on her Master's in Social Work at DePaul University in Chicago. Maeve completed internships as a project engineer and facilitator at Discovery World and Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in Milwaukee. There, she taught kids and families about sciences, math, and history through crafting, creating, and science experiments. Once she gets her degree, Maeve hopes to work as a therapist for the neurodivergent community.

 

Outside of work, Maeve loves making art, stargazing, and cooking for friends and family.

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Loren M

Assistant Clinician

Loren grew up in Colorado and completed her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts at St. John’s College. After college, Loren completed an Americorps year, working as an admissions coach and counselor with high school students from across the country. Loren then enrolled in law school, but after completing her first year she realized that she preferred working in education. After moving to Chicago, Loren took a position at the Museum of Science and Industry, leading informal educational experiences for children of all ages. Loren is considering obtaining a master’s degree in social work.


Outside of her workplace, you can find Loren playing with her two cats, knitting, or listening to audiobooks.

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Erika S

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Sage Y

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Alicia A

Assistant Clinician

Alicia grew up on the south side of Chicago. She recently graduated from Trinity College in Hartford, CT, earning a bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Community Action, concentrating on Educational Policy. During her time at Trinity, Alicia focused on child development, volunteered at a family autism center, and worked at a daycare. She also pursued her passion for dance as a member of the Trinity College Dance Company. Alicia thrives in environments that foster professional growth and learning.

 

In her free time, she enjoys catching up with friends and spending time with her family.

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Angela M

Assistant Clinician

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Vivien R 

Assistant Clinician

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Erica M

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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Tamara S

Assistant Clinician

Bio Coming Soon!

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