Erika, a proud Latina immigrant born and raised in Mexico City, embodies a life dedicated to understanding and navigating multiple cultures. Fluent in both English and Spanish, her bicultural background enriches her approach, making her a relatable and empathetic ally in the therapeutic process. After moving to the USA to attend St. Mary’s University in Minnesota, she embraced her new identity, combining her passion for social justice with her commitment to mental health advocacy.
Psychotherapist
Bilingual Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist
Welcome to Urban Summit Psychotherapy. We are a team of passionate, culturally responsive therapists committed to serving marginalized communities and those breaking generational cycles and glass ceilings. Founded by Erika—a resilient Latina immigrant, first-generation college graduate, and fierce advocate for social justice—our practice is rooted in lived experience, empathy, and the power of transformation through healing.
We specialize in various modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques. Our therapists work with individuals facing stress, anxiety, and relationship concerns. We believe in a holistic approach, and we’re here to guide you on your journey toward wellness.
Together, we create a safe, empowering space for self-discovery, healing, and growth—where every voice is heard, every identity affirmed, and every step forward is celebrated.
“You are not a problem to be solved. You are a story to be told.” – Unknown
“When we heal ourselves, we heal generations.” – Unknown
Therapeutic Approach
Erika draws from an extensive toolbox, including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), psychodynamic and relational therapies, mindfulness, and trauma-informed practices. Her approach is holistic and tailored, with a special focus on ego state therapy and parts work to support deep, lasting healing.
Specialization:
Erika’s specializes in complex trauma, dissociation, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and intergenerational/family-of-origin issues. She is especially passionate about helping clients explore protective parts that guard against shame and vulnerability. Using an IFS-informed lens, she guides clients in understanding these parts with compassion, opening space for healing, balance, and greater connection to their core Self.
Education:
Erika earned her doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Adler University, where her dissertation explores EMDR modifications with bilingual clients. She earned her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology and her undergraduate degree from Winona State University. She is EMDR-certified by EMDRIA and trained in IFS Level 2. Her research and clinical work center on trauma, identity, endurance athletes, and culturally responsive care.
Hobbies:
An avid endurance athlete, Erika finds balance and clarity through running, biking, rock climbing, and swimming. These pursuits not only fuel her resilience and connection to nature but also enrich her therapeutic presence with clients.
Education
Shannon is a 2013 graduate of Adler University’s Couples and Family Therapy Master’s program. She holds certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Adlerian Positive Discipline (PD), and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Education
Alejandra holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice at the University of Chicago and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychologyfrom the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Therapeutic Approach
Her style is collaborative, warm, and person-centered, grounded in radical acceptance. Alejandra integrates evidence-based practices such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing to support clients in reconnecting with their values, building on their inner strengths, and fostering meaningful change.
Specialization
At Urban Summit Psychotherapy, Alejandra works with adults navigating life transitions, identity development, anxiety, and depression. She brings a culturally attuned lens to her work, with particular focus on the effects of intergenerational trauma and systemic stressors in the lives of first-generation and BIPOC individuals.
Hobbies: In her free time Alejandra enjoys listening to live music, playing the piano, and spending time with family and friends.
Madeline is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor focusing on the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, ADHD, chronic pain and illness, life transitions, and interpersonal difficulties. She uses an integrative, biopsychosocial approach to help clients improve their physical and emotional well-being and to strengthen their interpersonal relationships.
Therapeutic approach:Madeline’s goal is to help clients foster deep personal understanding and growth to create long-lasting change. She has a specific interest in supporting clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds in exploring gender, sexuality, and identity development. My understanding of diverse identities and backgrounds is informed by my experience as an LGBTQIA+ individual.
Specialization: Madeline is passionate about helping clients cultivate deep personal insight and long-lasting change. EMDR-trained and trauma-informed, she brings a compassionate, strength-based approach to therapy—infused with empathy, humor, and cultural sensitivity.
As an LGBTQIA+ individual, Madeline offers a unique understanding of diverse identities and specializes in supporting clients exploring gender, sexuality, and identity development. Her integrative style draws from relational therapy, DBT, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness practices to promote healing, resilience, and emotional well-being.
Education: Madeline earned her B.A. in Psychology from Knox College and her M.A. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. She is dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive space where clients can grow, heal, and thrive.
Hobbies: In her personal time, Madeline enjoys long-distance running, playing piano and crosswords, going to the theater, reading, and gardening.
Daniela is a highly versatile and dedicated healthcare leader with 23 years of experience in administrative support and physician practice management operations. Known for fostering a strong and positive work atmosphere, she brings exceptional multitasking skills and the ability to quickly prioritize tasks to achieve successful outcomes. Daniela is detail-oriented and has advanced expertise in HCPCS coding systems and guidelines.
As our Billing Coordinator, she utilizes her skills to coordinate and verify benefits while addressing any questions related to scheduling or billing. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Daniela is an excellent communicator who connects seamlessly with a diverse range of people.
Education:
Daniela attended Saint Mary’s University in Minnesota and completed her advanced training at Purdue University.
Specialization:
Daniela brings over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry and has specialized in medical billing for the past five years. As our Billing Coordinator, she expertly handles benefit coordination and verification and is happy to assist with any questions regarding scheduling or billing.
Hobbies: Daniela enjoys spending quality time with her family, friends, and dog. An avid reader, she’s always ready to share a great book recommendation, so don’t hesitate to ask!
Hello and welcome to Urban Summit Psychotherapy!
We are thrilled to introduce you to our newest team member, Kylo, an 18-month-old European Boxer with a heart full of love and a passion for helping others.
Kylo may be young, but he already understands the importance of healing and companionship. His gentle spirit and playful nature create a comforting atmosphere for everyone who walks through our doors. As he begins his journey as a therapy dog, Kylo is dedicated to supporting you in your healing process and helping you achieve your personal goals.
Whether it’s a wag of his tail or a nuzzle of affection, Kylo is here to remind you that you are never alone. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs of therapy, fostering a space where growth and connection flourish.
Join us in welcoming Kylo to the Urban Summit family! We can’t wait for you to meet him and experience the joy he brings to our community.
With love,
The Urban Summit Team
