Your Recovery Begins Here

Our Services

Initial Appointment

New Patients

Duration: 60 Minutes

During an initial appointment, the mental health provider will ask the patient a series of questions about their mental health history, symptoms, and any previous treatments they have received. They will also ask about the patient's medical history, family history, and any current stressors or challenges they are facing.

Besides conducting a clinical interview, the mental health provider may also administer psychological tests or assessments to gather additional information about the patient's mental health. This may include questionnaires or scales that measure symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions.

Based on this information, the mental health provider will make a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan. This may include medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these interventions.

Initial appointments typically last for 50-60 minutes, depending on the patient's individual needs and the provider's assessment. After the initial appointment, the mental health provider will typically schedule a follow-up appointment to check in with the patient and assess their progress, depending on the patient's individual needs.

Follow-Up Appointments

Current Patients

Duration: 30 Minutes

These appointments allow the mental health provider to check in with the patient and assess their progress since the last visit. During a follow-up appointment, the mental health provider will review the patient's symptoms, medication regimen, and any changes that have occurred since the last visit. This will include therapy and discuss any changes in the patient's mood, behavior, or functioning and any side effects they may be experiencing from their medication.

Based on this information, the provider may make additional adjustments to the patient's medication regimen, recommend a different medication, or provide additional recommendations for managing the patient's mental health. The clinician will also provide ongoing support and guidance to the patient, helping them manage their mental health condition and achieve their treatment goals.

Follow-up appointments are an essential component of ongoing mental health care, as they help ensure that patients are receiving the most effective and safe treatment for their mental health conditions. They also provide an opportunity for patients to ask questions, raise concerns, and receive ongoing support from their mental health provider.

The frequency of follow-up appointments will vary depending on the patient's individual needs and the recommendations of their mental health provider. Some patients may require weekly or monthly appointments, while others may only need to follow up every few months or as needed.

Medication Management

Current Patients

Duration: 15 Minutes

These appointments focus on evaluating and adjusting the patient's medication regimen for their mental health condition. The purpose of these appointments is to ensure that the patient is receiving the optimal benefit from their medication while minimizing any potential side effects.

During a medication management appointment, the mental health provider will review the patient's symptoms, medication history, and any side effects they may be experiencing. Based on this information, the provider may make adjustments to the patient's medication dosage, recommend a different medication, or provide additional recommendations for managing the patient's mental health.

Medication management appointments are typically shorter than traditional therapy sessions, as they focus solely on the patient's medication regimen. These appointments are an essential component of comprehensive mental health care, as they help ensure that patients are receiving the most effective and safe treatment for their mental health conditions.

Conditions We Treat

Bipolar and Mood Disorders

Mood fluctuations can affect your quality of life greatly. Understanding your personal signs and symptoms are important and can be used as a guide for avoiding the negative impairments that cause difficulty.

Traumatic Stress

We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health care. That's why we offer specialized treatment for PTSD to help those who have experienced trauma find a path to healing. Our team of experts utilizes evidence-based techniques to provide compassionate care that will help you take the first step toward a more fulfilling life.

Schizophrenia and Psychosis

Psychosis can impact your lived experience. How it affects you is also meaningful, as we all interpret the world in our own way. How to balance that in the lived world is an essential part of treatment.

Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are inherent to the human experience. Approaches to treatment very, from addressing the source or turning the volume down. We can tailor medication management and therapy to meet your needs.

Stimulants and Benzodiazepines

We recognize that these medications can be effective for certain conditions, but we believe that alternative treatment options should be explored before resorting to these medications.

About Me, and My Approach.

I am a dedicated nurse practitioner, who is board certified in Psychiatric Mental Health by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I completed my doctorate at the University of Illinois at Chicago and have spent my career treating severe mental illness and overlapping diagnoses.

I am passionate about promoting my patients' mental well-being, and I am committed to delivering personalized care to individuals in need. I understand that mental health plays a crucial role in overall wellness and I am dedicated to supporting my patients on their journey to recovery and emotional stability.

In recognition of the challenges patients often face when seeking mental health services, my practice embraces a virtual practice. By leveraging technology, we use a virtual platform that enables patients to access mental health care conveniently from anywhere, eliminating the need for stressful commutes or geographical barriers. This virtual approach ensures that individuals can receive the support they need in a comfortable and accessible manner, enhancing their overall treatment experience.

With a patient-centered approach, evidence-based interventions are used to assess, diagnose, and develop individualized treatment plans, including medication management and psychotherapy. My comprehensive approach focuses on empowering patients to actively participate in their mental health journey and make informed decisions about their treatment. Every step fosters a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship with my patients by attentively validating concerns and providing a safe space for open dialogue. Embracing an empathetic and non-judgmental demeanor creates an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding while promoting a collaborative and effective treatment process.

I am here to help you, whether you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health concerns. Experience the convenience and quality of virtual care as you embark on your path toward mental well-being. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier and happier life.

Education

2018

University of Illinois at Chicago

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Board Certified

2011

North Park University

Bachelors of Science

Nursing

Meet the Team

Clinician

Bernard Vonderhaar, DNP

Our practice is passionate about providing our patient's the highest level of care and service. With years of experience in the healthcare industry, I have the expertise to treat various mental health conditions. I am committed to delivering personalized, compassionate care that meets each patient's unique needs and goals. My goal is to help you navigate the complexities of mental healthcare and achieve the best possible outcome. I understand that every patient's journey is unique, and my team and I will work hard to create a supportive environment where you can feel comfortable and confident in your care.

Office Manager

Adriana Vonderhaar

As the Office Manager and a Certified Pharmacy Technician, I am dedicated to ensuring that our patients receive the highest quality of care and service. My unique blend of office management and healthcare enables me to provide a holistic and efficient approach to patient care. I'm here to support you every step of the way, so please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Independent Therapist

Karla Lagos, LCSW

Website: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/karla-m-lagos-oak-lawn-il/902156

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 17 years of experience helping people navigate life's challenges. I understand that seeking therapy can be a daunting step, but I'm here to create a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard and understood.

My journey to becoming a therapist began with a deep desire to help others. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and went on to pursue my Master's in Social Work from Dominican University. Throughout my career, I've honed my skills working with individuals, families, and couples in both non-profit and private settings. I'm also fluent in Spanish and English, making me accessible to a diverse clientele.

Schedule an Appointment

Insurance Information

At this time, our practice is accepting the following insurance plans:

Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois

We are currently in the process of applying to be credentialed with other insurance companies. We will update this section as soon as we are able to accept additional insurance plans.

Please check back frequently for updates, or feel free to contact us directly to inquire about our current insurance acceptance status. Thank you for your patience and understanding.