Pillars of Wellness

05/07/2026

🔦Clinician Spotlight: Sarah Herbert, MA, LMHC-A
We’re proud to spotlight Sarah Herbert, MA, LMHC-A, who recently accepted the role of OCD & Anxiety Exposure Specialist at Pillars of Wellness!

Sarah brings a grounded presence, deep curiosity, and a truly collaborative approach to her work—qualities that shine throughout her newest blog, “Who Really Am I? Identity, Values, and Sexuality Explored Through an ACT Lens.”

Her writing explores one of the most profound questions many clients face: Who am I beneath expectations, pressure, or past versions of myself? Through the lens of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Sarah offers a compassionate path forward—one rooted in noticing, values, and self-acceptance rather than rigid answers. Her blog is an affirming, steadying read for anyone navigating identity, sexuality, or internal conflict.

Sarah earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Valparaiso University and has experience supporting a wide range of clinical needs, including trauma, relationship concerns, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ identity exploration. She draws from CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy and creates a space where clients can share openly, explore who they are, and move at a pace that feels safe.

Her supervisor, Ashley Wolke, shared:
“Sarah is an intelligent, bold, and passionate clinician who brings a rare energy to her work. Watching her grow into a practiced therapist has been a true privilege. I look forward to seeing the unique therapist she continues to become.”

👉 Read her full blog here:
https://www.pillarsinspires.com/who-really-am-i-identity-values-and-sexuality-explored-through-an-act-lens/

Sarah is accepting new clients and is committed to providing a safe, affirming, growth-oriented environment for anyone exploring identity, anxiety, or the challenges life brings.

📞 219-323-3311
🌐 pillarsinspires.com

✨ Help us celebrate Sarah and her work by sharing this spotlight!

05/04/2026

As we welcome in Maternal Mental Health Month, Pillars would like to announce our New Mom’s Support group (virtual)!
Motherhood can be quite isolating and for many of mom’s our mental health gets put on the back burner. This group is a space to challenge that. Creating space to find and offer support to other moms, while building an understanding of the changes in body, hormones, and identity that comes with motherhood. If this sounds like a space you need please reach out to Pillars for more information.
Thank you to Karmyn Boller, Celeste Bowyer Chapko and the Maternal Mental Health team.

📲219-323-3311
🖥️pillarsinspires.com
📧info@pillarsinspires.com

05/04/2026

In today’s climate, many people are feeling the emotional weight of constant media exposure—especially within BIPOC communities and the clinicians who support them. Secondary trauma is real, and the impact of repeated exposure to stories of harm and injustice can show up as anxiety, exhaustion, and a persistent sense of unease.

You are not “too sensitive.” Your body is responding exactly as it was designed to—by trying to protect you.

Creating boundaries around media, checking in with your body, and leaning into community care are essential steps toward healing and staying grounded during difficult times.

Visit the link below to read more from Alexa Zapata, MSW, LSW!

https://www.pillarsinspires.com/secondary-trauma-and-media-exposure-what-bipoc-communities-and-clinicians-are-carrying-right-now/

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need support, you don’t have to navigate this alone.
Call Pillars of Wellness at (219) 323-3311 or visit pillarsinspires.com to connect with a clinician today.

Media coverage of immigration raids and racial violence can trigger secondary trauma in BIPOC individuals and clinicians. Explore signs, coping tools, and support.

04/29/2026

Clinician Spotlight: Alexa Zapata, MSW, LSW

We are honored to spotlight Alexa Zapata, MSW, LSW, the Inclusive Care Services Program Lead at Pillars of Wellness. Alexa brings a deep sense of heart, intentionality, and cultural attunement to her work—qualities that shine throughout her newest blog, “Why Inclusive Care Services Matters Now More Than Ever.”

Born in Mexico and fluent in Spanish, Alexa offers a therapeutic space where individuals can show up as their full selves. She works with tweens through emerging adults, supporting clients navigating trauma, interpersonal violence, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ identity exploration, relationship challenges, and the complexities of growing up between cultures.

Her supervisor, Brittany Sperka, shared:
“Alexa has a heart for people. She shows up for every client with intentionality and care, taking the time to truly understand their unique journey and provide the support they need to succeed. Her curiosity and commitment to learning fuel her ability to serve well. As the current leader of our Inclusive Services, Alexa works tirelessly to create an environment where everyone who walks through our doors — or picks up the phone — knows they belong.”

Alexa’s blog highlights why identity-centered and culturally responsive care matters now more than ever. She speaks powerfully about the need for intentional, affirming therapy that honors a client’s culture, language, lived experiences, and the systemic challenges they may face.

👉 Read her full blog here: https://www.pillarsinspires.com/why-inclusive-care-services-matters-now-more-than-ever/

Alexa is accepting new clients via telehealth and meets each person exactly where they are, weaving empowerment theory, trauma-informed care, and multicultural perspectives into her work.

📞 219-323-3311
🌐 pillarsinspires.com

✨ Help us celebrate Alexa and the heart behind Inclusive Care Services by sharing this spotlight.

04/29/2026

💚 Mental Health Awareness Game 💚 ⚾
May is Mental Health Awareness Month — and we're celebrating it the right way.

🗓 Tuesday, May 12th, 2026 📍 Lake Central
Come out and cheer on Lake Central vs. Crown Point softball while we together! Mental health matters — on and off the field.

👕 Rep the cause! Grab your awareness shirt for just $20 🔗 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScyJ48WSGVf0V52hpSruZAvhLH7-h6c3z2Ukf8eErjdmzE72g/viewform

Let's pack the stands and show our community that we're in this together. 💪 🟢 Proceeds go back to the program to support any mental health initiatives. AAshley Michalski-Glover

04/21/2026

🧠 Organization isn’t about willpower, it’s about brain skills.
In this insightful blog, James Shuler, MRC, LPC, CRC, ADHD‑RSP, explains why organization is rooted in executive functioning, and how these skills can be strengthened at any age. From school and work to home life, learn how evidence‑based strategies and structured support can reduce stress and improve daily performance.

✨ If disorganization has been holding you back, this perspective can be a game‑changer.
👉 Read more from Pillars of Wellness and connect with our team at 219‑323‑3311 or info@pillarsinspires.com.

Learn how executive function skills impact organization at home, school, and work. Discover evidence-based strategies to strengthen your organizational abilities.

04/20/2026

🎥 Hear From Dr. Brianna Henning DSW, LCSW: Chronic Illness Counseling at Pillars 🌿

We’re excited to share a new video introduction from Dr. Brianna Henning, DSW, LCSW, lead clinician of our Chronic Illness Counseling Program, as part of our broader Pillars Inspires revamp.

Dr. Henning brings specialized training in chronic illness counseling, psychosocial care, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based interventions. Her approach offers grounded, compassionate support for individuals navigating the emotional impact of long-term medical conditions — including stress, grief, identity shifts, chronic pain, and lifestyle disruption.

✨ Program Highlights:
• Whole-person, trauma-informed care
• Evidence-based tools for coping and adjustment
• Individual, group, and caregiver support options
• In-person & telehealth availability

💙 Watch the video and explore the program here:
https://www.pillarsinspires.com/centers-of-excellence/chronic-illness-counseling/

📞 219-323-3311
📧 info@pillarsinspires.com



https://youtu.be/W6nPvcW-soU?si=1wKsC3gllD654aEm

Chronic Illness Program at Pillars of Wellness

04/20/2026

Pillars is proud to be a part of the Hobart High School Brickies "Take Care of Your Mind" 2nd Annual Community Mental Health Fair! We hope to see you there.
https://www.facebook.com/share/18k7yQNMn1/
"Thriving, struggling, or somewhere in between? This space is for you!
✨Interactive tables & activities to relax
🐶 Comfort dogs
🧠 Real & practical coping tools
🎨 Face painting for the kiddos
🥨 Light refreshments
🎁 Giveaways
Stop by for a bit or stay the whole time.
An event for the whole family to enjoy!

Community Partners:
Powers Health: Blood Pressure Screening, Heart Health Education, & Sleep Hygiene
Music Therapy at Valparaiso University
Pillars of Wellness: Counseling Resources
Save. Send to a friend. ✈️
📆 Add to calendar!"

04/16/2026

Today is World Semicolon Day, a reminder that your story can continue.
The semicolon has come to symbolize a pause rather than an end, reflecting resilience and the possibility of support during difficult moments.
We stand with individuals and families navigating mental health challenges, and we honor the strength it takes to move forward, especially on the days when that feels hard. 💙

If continuing feels overwhelming, reaching out for support is a healthy and valid step. You don’t have to carry it alone.
Support the message. Wear the reminder.
👉 https://pillarsshop.com/products/unisex-heavy-cotton-tee
📲 219‑323‑3311
📧 info@pillarsinspires.com
🖥️ pillarsinspires.com

04/15/2026

Jessi Morgan Jessi Kiefor, MA, LMHC, NCC, Director of our OCD & Anxiety Exposure Services, puts it simply:
Knowing the cycle isn’t the same as breaking it.

This carousel breaks down what actually drives OCD, how it attaches to what matters most to you, and why understanding the core fear is key to effective treatment.

Comment "Courage" for a free resource on what actual treatment looks like!

pillarsinspires.com
+219-323-3311

04/13/2026

🌿 Pillars of Wellness will be offering Yoga Classes, instructed by our very own Korynn Amm MA, LMHC-A, NCC

🧘‍♀️ Korynn shares: “On a personal level, yoga has helped me find my way back to myself — to my body — in a deep, meaningful way—helping me heal, soften, and learn to let my guard down with more acceptance. I feel honored to share this practice with others, especially those who are curious or on their own healing journey. There’s something so special about coming home to yourself—and witnessing others do the same.”

We are excited to create space for providers like Korynn to share practices that support healing, nervous system regulation, and reconnection. Offering opportunities like this is part of how Pillars puts our commitment to wellness into action. 💙

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1985538447947?aff=oddtdtcreator

🧘‍♀️ Virtual Yoga Class
📅 May 13 | 6:30–7:30 PM
🔗 Scan the QR code to sign up