Welcome to Guiding Light Counseling. Where Mental Wellness Shines.
Counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and more...
630-447-9056
About Us
Who We Are
At Guiding Light Counseling, our mission is to provide compassionate mental health and substance abuse counseling services tailored to the unique needs of our clients. We believe in fostering a supportive environment that promotes healing and growth to help our clients reach their goals. We employ an exceptional team of empathetic and culturally competent professionals specially trained to provide exceptional counseling services to individuals, couples, families, children and adults. We value diversity and are proud to serve people of all racial, ethnic and/or religious backgrounds, abilities, neurodiversity, gender and sexual orientations.
Who We See:
- Individuals - Couples - Families - Groups
- Employees (EAP Servies)
- Adults - Teens - Children - Elderly
- LGBTQIA - Neurodiverse
We Treat a Variety of Issues, Such as:
- Depression - Anxiety - Trauma - PTSD
- Anger Management - Domestic Violence
- Rape/Sexual Violence/Molestation
- Parenting Issues - Stress
- Grief/Loss - Addiction - Hoarding
* Other
* We are happy to speak with you directly if you are in need of a service, you do not see listed above, please call our office at (630) 447-9056
Why Counseling?
Studies show that those who seek mental health counseling for their issues have much better outcomes. Find out some of the benefits of counseling in this video.
Struggling at Night?
We understand. Here at GLC, we offer late evening sessions especially for those who need someone to talk to after dark. Check out our video on nighttime depression and anxiety.
Meet the Team
Dr. Kimberly Duris, Ed.D., LCPC, CADC, Clinical Director
Dr. Martha Jarmuz, Ed.D., LCPC, CCTP, Clinical Supervisor
Dr. Martha Jarmuz, Ed.D., LCPC, CCTP, Clinical Supervisor
Dr. Duris is the clinical director for Guiding Light Counseling. Dr. Duris has worked in community mental health for 20+ years. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and other Drug Counselor. Dr. Duris’ clinical experience includes working with adolescents who have been dually diagnosed with a mental ill
Dr. Duris is the clinical director for Guiding Light Counseling. Dr. Duris has worked in community mental health for 20+ years. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and other Drug Counselor. Dr. Duris’ clinical experience includes working with adolescents who have been dually diagnosed with a mental illness and a substance abuse disorder, adults with chronic, severe mental illness, and general counseling experience in the field of community mental health.
Dr. Martha Jarmuz, Ed.D., LCPC, CCTP, Clinical Supervisor
Dr. Martha Jarmuz, Ed.D., LCPC, CCTP, Clinical Supervisor
Dr. Martha Jarmuz, Ed.D., LCPC, CCTP, Clinical Supervisor
Martha Jarmuz is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 25 years of experience working in community mental health and systems of care. Her educational background includes a doctorate of education specializing in counselor education and supervision and a master's degree in counselin
Martha Jarmuz is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 25 years of experience working in community mental health and systems of care. Her educational background includes a doctorate of education specializing in counselor education and supervision and a master's degree in counseling psychology. Dr. Jarmuz has worked with youth and adult clients with a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, mood disorders, health challenges, major life transitions, trauma, grief, and loss. As a supervisor, she embraces a compassionate and collaborative approach to mentoring and counselor training, and aims to inspire supervisees in their growth and development. In addition to serving as a supervisor at Guiding Light, she is an Assistant Professor in the Psychology Department at Lewis University and maintains a private counseling practice.
Matt Caston, M.A. LCPC, C-DBT, Clinical Supervisor
Dr. Martha Jarmuz, Ed.D., LCPC, CCTP, Clinical Supervisor
Matt Caston, M.A. LCPC, C-DBT, Clinical Supervisor
Matthew Caston is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with several years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of personal and clinical issues (mood, anxiety, behavior, life transition, men’s/women’s issues, personality, relationships, trauma, etc.). As a therapist, Matthew strives to mee
Matthew Caston is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with several years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of personal and clinical issues (mood, anxiety, behavior, life transition, men’s/women’s issues, personality, relationships, trauma, etc.). As a therapist, Matthew strives to meet people “where they’re at.” His overarching goal as a clinical supervisor and therapist is to assist counselors-in-training and clients with recognizing their potential and how they can transform lives. He works with parents, coaches, teachers, students, and families to help them move in the direction they most need to create the change they seek.
Susan Sperling, M.A., LPC
Jaclyn Vittorino Chavez, M.A., QMHP
Paola Morales Cassidy, M.A., LPC
My name is Susan Sperling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and former intern of Guiding Light Counseling. I obtained a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling with a concentration in children and adolescents, from Lewis University. I have a desire to help promote healthy social, emotional and behavioral practices in a
My name is Susan Sperling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and former intern of Guiding Light Counseling. I obtained a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling with a concentration in children and adolescents, from Lewis University. I have a desire to help promote healthy social, emotional and behavioral practices in a safe environment. I believe this will contribute to the individual success of students and their families.
In my free time I enjoy reading, practicing yoga, and hiking. I love being outdoors, traveling to new places and experiencing new things. I enjoy working with the students, their families and staff at Valley View School District.
Paola Morales Cassidy, M.A., LPC
Jaclyn Vittorino Chavez, M.A., QMHP
Paola Morales Cassidy, M.A., LPC
My name is Paola Morales Cassidy and I have been a Counselor for almost 5yrs. I achieved my MA from Concordia Chicago University with an LPC. I specialize in working with children but have worked with all age ranges. I enjoy using ACT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, with my clients so they can clear their minds and flow with the struggle
My name is Paola Morales Cassidy and I have been a Counselor for almost 5yrs. I achieved my MA from Concordia Chicago University with an LPC. I specialize in working with children but have worked with all age ranges. I enjoy using ACT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, with my clients so they can clear their minds and flow with the struggles of life instead of fighting against it.
In my free time I enjoy playing video games, writing stories, crafting, and spending time with my wonderful husband and cats!
Jaclyn Vittorino Chavez, M.A., QMHP
Jaclyn Vittorino Chavez, M.A., QMHP
Jaclyn Vittorino Chavez, M.A., QMHP
Jaclyn Vittorino is a master' s-level counselor who has worked with Guiding Light Counseling since 2015. She has worked at multiple schools in the Valley View school district, including elementary, middle, and high school levels. Jaclyn is the Assistant Program Director for Guiding Light's program with Valley View School District. She ear
Jaclyn Vittorino is a master' s-level counselor who has worked with Guiding Light Counseling since 2015. She has worked at multiple schools in the Valley View school district, including elementary, middle, and high school levels. Jaclyn is the Assistant Program Director for Guiding Light's program with Valley View School District. She earned a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lewis University.
Yaa "Yaya" Afriyie, M.A., LPC (IL), LPC-A, LCDC-I (TX)
Yaa "Yaya" Afriyie, M.A., LPC (IL), LPC-A, LCDC-I (TX)
Yaa "Yaya" Afriyie, M.A., LPC (IL), LPC-A, LCDC-I (TX)
My name is Yaa Afriyie (Yah Af-ree-yay), lovingly referred to as “Yaya”. I am Licensed in both Illinois and Texas, seeing clients virtually only in both states. I’m also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I earned my master’s degree in counseling psychology at Lewis University and completed my internship at Guiding Light Counseling
My name is Yaa Afriyie (Yah Af-ree-yay), lovingly referred to as “Yaya”. I am Licensed in both Illinois and Texas, seeing clients virtually only in both states. I’m also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I earned my master’s degree in counseling psychology at Lewis University and completed my internship at Guiding Light Counseling under the exceptional leadership of Dr. Kimberly Duris. I work with individuals, groups and couples age 16+ of all races, religions, backgrounds, sexual orientations, and neurodiversity, with issues from depression, anxiety, domestic violence, trauma, post-partum depression, PTSD, and anger management. I also specialize in nighttime anxiety and offer very late evening sessions (9, 10, 11 p.m. CST) Currently, I take self-pay only, but insurance acceptance coming!
Sylvia Kupiec, M.A. QMHP
Yaa "Yaya" Afriyie, M.A., LPC (IL), LPC-A, LCDC-I (TX)
Yaa "Yaya" Afriyie, M.A., LPC (IL), LPC-A, LCDC-I (TX)
My name is Sylvia Kupiec. I have been working with Guiding Light for about 2 years now. I graduated with my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with a concentration in child and adolescent at Lewis University in August 2023. I am currently working towards my state licensure. I completed my internship at Guiding Light and
My name is Sylvia Kupiec. I have been working with Guiding Light for about 2 years now. I graduated with my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with a concentration in child and adolescent at Lewis University in August 2023. I am currently working towards my state licensure. I completed my internship at Guiding Light and am looking forward to continuing providing therapeutic services and support throughout the Valley View school district. I enjoy working with a population of ages 5+, young adults, and families. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I love to watch movies, travel and spend time outdoors with my husband and dog
Gloria E. Castro, M.A., QMHP
Yaa "Yaya" Afriyie, M.A., LPC (IL), LPC-A, LCDC-I (TX)
Gloria E. Castro, M.A., QMHP
My name is Gloria Castro. I have been working with Guiding Light since 2022. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Counseling from Lewis University. Since then I have been practicing with Guiding Light Counseling in Valley View School District helping students navigate a
My name is Gloria Castro. I have been working with Guiding Light since 2022. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Counseling from Lewis University. Since then I have been practicing with Guiding Light Counseling in Valley View School District helping students navigate a range of challenges as well as helping each individual meet their unique needs.
I believe early intervention and compassionate guidance are key to fostering resilience , self-awareness, and long-term emotional health. I am passionate about supporting the emotional and psychological development of students within the school environment. I provide a safe, supportive space where children feel heard, valued, and empowered.
Outside of my professional role I value balance and connection. I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy trying new things such as visiting new places and food. I like to connect with nature and read.
Constance Fisher - Intern Counselor
Constance Fisher - Intern Counselor
Constance Fisher - Intern Counselor
Constance is an experienced educator whose aim is to inspire young people to realize their optimum selves through a holistic mindset and nurturing personal fulfillment. She received her B.A. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; and graduate degrees from St. Xavier University and National Louis University. She is on track to b
Constance is an experienced educator whose aim is to inspire young people to realize their optimum selves through a holistic mindset and nurturing personal fulfillment. She received her B.A. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; and graduate degrees from St. Xavier University and National Louis University. She is on track to become a licensed therapist through the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Lewis University. She has a passion for emotional/behavioral health, financial literacy, STEAM, community development, and history; additionally, when not serving the youth, you can find her exploring the globe, catching a live theater production, or creating new memories with friends and family.
Kim Konieczny - Intern Counselor
Constance Fisher - Intern Counselor
Constance Fisher - Intern Counselor
My name is Kimberly (Kim) Konieczny and I am currently a student at Lewis University finishing up my master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling. I received my bachelor’s in psychology from The University of Illinois at Springfield in 2017 and have been working with children ever since! I worked at a psychiatric residential treatment fa
My name is Kimberly (Kim) Konieczny and I am currently a student at Lewis University finishing up my master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling. I received my bachelor’s in psychology from The University of Illinois at Springfield in 2017 and have been working with children ever since! I worked at a psychiatric residential treatment facility with children and young adults for over a year, and I currently have been working at KinderCare Learning Centers for over 6 years as a Lead Toddler Teacher. In my free time I like to play with my cat, watch movies, try new restaurants, and meet up with friends and family. Working with kids has always been a passion of mine and getting to work with them makes me incredibly happy to go to work every day!
Elyse Panzella - Intern Counselor
Constance Fisher - Intern Counselor
Elyse Panzella - Intern Counselor
COMING SOON!
My name is Elyse Panzella. I am an intern at Guiding Light Counseling and Valley View School District. I am a graduate student at Lewis University, pursuing my degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in children and adolescents. I am committed to creating a welcoming, safe environment and building
COMING SOON!
My name is Elyse Panzella. I am an intern at Guiding Light Counseling and Valley View School District. I am a graduate student at Lewis University, pursuing my degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in children and adolescents. I am committed to creating a welcoming, safe environment and building relationships with everyone I work with. I am very grateful to be a part of Guiding Light!
Cooper Jones - Intern Counselor
Starr Camargo - Intern Counselor
Starr Camargo - Intern Counselor
My name is Cooper Jones! I'm working toward obtaining my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (child emphasis) at Lewis University. Before working with Guiding Light, I provided mental health services in a community mental health setting. There, I gained invaluable experience working with diverse and vulnerable populations
My name is Cooper Jones! I'm working toward obtaining my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (child emphasis) at Lewis University. Before working with Guiding Light, I provided mental health services in a community mental health setting. There, I gained invaluable experience working with diverse and vulnerable populations. I also found a passion in working with parentified teens and children. As a counselor, I believe each individual is doing the best they can with the life they were given; our job as counselors is to help clients find acceptance within themselves and guide them toward success. Outside of my professional and school work, I enjoy cross stitching, visiting National Parks, and watching comedy specials.
Starr Camargo - Intern Counselor
Starr Camargo - Intern Counselor
Starr Camargo - Intern Counselor
My name is Starr Camargo. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Lewis University. I am new to the world of counseling, as a clinician, and this means I bring a fresh perspective, unwavering commitment, and plenty of enthusiasm to each session with me. The therapy process is something I hold dea
My name is Starr Camargo. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Lewis University. I am new to the world of counseling, as a clinician, and this means I bring a fresh perspective, unwavering commitment, and plenty of enthusiasm to each session with me. The therapy process is something I hold dear to me as I know the benefits it can have. I have a deep desire to work with each client through life’s challenges and help them achieve their personal goals. I am committed to creating a safe space for all clients to express their thoughts and emotions. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, playing with my dogs, and cozying up in bed. I look forward to starting this process together!
*Resources in Will & DuPage Counties
Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Text "START" to 88788
IDHS: Domestic Violence Prevention and Intervention
www.dhs.state.il.us 1-877-TO END DV or 863-6338
Safe Harbor Crisis Center
815-729-0930 www.safeharborhope.org
Guardian Angel Community Services
24-Hr Domestic Violence Hotline 815-729-1228
National Special Victims
(Family Violence Advocacy) www.specialvictims.org
Crisis Line of Bolingbrook 630-759-4555
Will County Crisis Hotline 815-722-3344
DuPage County 24-Hr Hotline
"FAMILY SHELTER SERVICE" 630-469-5650
Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault (ICASA)
217-753-4117 www.icasa.org
National Sexual Assault Hotline 800-656-HOPE (4673)
*While we strive to ensure the accuracy, we make no representations or warranties or guarantees regarding their completeness, reliability, or accuracy. The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, mental health, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Guiding Light Counseling (GLC) is not responsible for any damages, losses, or liabilities arising from the use of these services. Your use of these services is at your own risk.
Food & Shelter
Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence
Northern Illinois Food Bank
South Suburban Center
171 S. Larkin Ave, Joliet, IL 60436
815-846-1041
West Suburban Center (Main Office)
273 Dearborn Court, Geneva, IL 60134
630-443-6910
Micro Pantries www.micropantries.net
Will County Continuum of Care
www.willcountycoc.com 815-723-2500
Will County Center for Community Concerns
www.wcccc.net 815-722-0722
Daybreak Shelter 815-774-4663
611 E, Cass St Joliet, IL 60432
Morningstar Mission
(Drop-in Center) 815-722-5780
364 E. Washington St Joliet, IL 60433
Bridge Communities 630-545-0610
DuPage Homeless 630-682-3846
703 W. Liberty Dr. Wheaton, IL 60187
Midwest Center for Homeless Veterans
433 S. Carlton Ave Wheaton, IL 60187
www.helpaveteran.org 630-871-8387
DuPage County Community Services Program
Residents can Dial 2-1-1 for info & resources
www.dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/community_services/programs.php
LGBTQ+
PFLAG DuPage
Partners in Pride - Bolingbrook, IL
630-299-9004
wellness@mypartnersinpride.com
Youth Outlook
The Trevor Project
The Alive Center for Teens
(Naperville Aurora) www.alivecenter.org
630-778-6093 info@alivecenter.org
Other Resources
Domestic Violence
Other Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Text or Dial 988 www.988lifeline.org
Will County States Attorney
Victims/Witness Services Unit
815-740-8079 www.willcountysao.com
DuPage County Victims & Witness Services
630-407-8000 www.dupagecounty.gov
Illinois Crime Victim Compensation Fund
www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov 800-228-3368
Will County Substance Use Treatment and Recovery Services 815-727-8480
www.willcountyhealth.org/substance-use-treatment-and-recovery-services
Will County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition 815-727-5380
DuPage County Health Dept.
Substance Use Treatment 630-682-7400 www.dupagehealth.org/177/Substance-Use-Treatment
Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances
833-234-6343 www.hub.helplineil.org/findhelp
HOPEDUPAGE
www.hopedupage.org/181/Find-Treatment-Support
Catholic Charities-DuPage County
3040 Finley Rd., Suite 200
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Phone: 630-495-8008
Hope House Hotline: 800-941-8681
www.catholiccharitiesjoliet.org
Autism Services
Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley
830 South Addison Ave, Villa Park, IL 60181 630-620-4433
www.easterseals.com/dfv/programs-and-services/autism-asd-services
Easterseals Joliet Region
212 Barney Drive, Joliet, IL 60435
815-725-2194
www.easterseals.com/joliet/programs-and-services/autism-asd-services
To Find Help in Your Area
Food, Housing, Health, Work, Legal, more... www.findhelp.org