Student Counseling - IL

Counseling services at the Downers Grove, IL campus.

Emergency Help

IL Emergency Counseling Services

Counseling Overview

The counselors in Student Counseling Services help you set goals to manage your emotions, function more efficiently, and be successful. We believe you have the ability to be resilient and can help you develop that resiliency.  

While we may be able to accommodate walk-ins, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment. In addition, the Dean for Student Services maintains an open-door policy and is readily available to discuss your questions or problems about life on campus.

If it is during regular business hours and the counselors are unavailable, please contact the Office of Student Counseling at 630-515-7145

OR

If you or someone you know is thinking about harming themselves, call Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room.

Hours and Location

Location: The Counseling Center is located in The Commons, Suite 111. 

Appointments Available:

  • Monday: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. CST
  • Tuesday and  Wednesday : 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. CST
  • Thursday: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. CST
  • Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. CST

Our Staff

Carrie Torgerson, Ph.D., LCSW

I have more than 30 years of experience in mental health. I've worked in psychiatric hospitals as well as in outpatient settings. As a clinical social worker, I've provided individual, marital, family, and group therapy to emerging adults and adults. I have been with Midwestern University since 2001, initially as the counselor and now as the Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Counseling Services.

Paul Quanbeck, LCSW

Prior to Midwestern, I worked for 12 years as a full-time therapist in Hinsdale, Illinois. I also worked in specialized foster care, including pediatric AIDS foster care program, in Cook County while I attended graduate school for my degree in counseling.  I have been counseling students at MWU for more than 10 years.

Emily Shewski, MSW, LCSW

Prior to joining the counseling center team, I worked as a medical social worker, providing therapy to individuals, families, and groups in both the outpatient and hospital setting. My areas of interest include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress management, and managing and adjusting to chronic health conditions. I have worked with individuals at all stages of the life course, with a particular interest in the young adult population.

Marko Sipka, LCPC, CCATP

I have worked in the mental health field for nearly 10 years. I have worked with individuals, couples, and groups in college counseling and inpatient and outpatient settings. I have counseled people with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, family and interpersonal relationships, stress management, trauma, and grief/loss. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. 

Gricel Serrano, LCPC

I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I received my Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Since 2011, I have worked in a variety of settings including Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Psycho-social Rehabilitation (PSR), Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), inpatient psychiatry, private practice, and various community mental health agencies. More recently, I worked at Columbia College of Chicago with emerging artists. My theoretical style draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I strive to help my clients improve their mental health and live authentic lives. I have experience treating clients for depression, anxiety, and identity formation issues.

Options for After Hours

After normal business hours, for immediate service, please utilize one of the free resources listed below.

Academic Live Care

Visit MWU Telehealth to register. Service Key: ALC. When making appointments, a price will be listed. To remove the cost, enter the coupon code which can be obtained from your student portal under the icon - ALC. For Technical Support, call 866-882-0343.

Telemedicine for: 

  • Psychiatry 
  • Counseling 
  • Urgent Care 
  • Nutrition
  • Internet Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Financial Wellness
  • Student Assistance Resources 

24/7 In the Moment Counseling

Live phone counseling when you need to speak to someone immediately at 855-850-4301 or text “hello” to 61295

Please note: using the phone number will connect you with a counselor, whereas, the text number may direct you to an intake person instead of directly connecting you with a counselor. 

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Crisis line is confidential and open to anyone who needs help. 

  • Dial 988

     

 

In Case of Emergency

Dial 911, go to the nearest hospital emergency room, or dial the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Contact Us