Therapy isn’t just about milestones—it’s about progress that feels meaningful for your child and family. Starting early allows us to meet your child where they are, celebrate every win, and help them grow in ways that matter most to you.
We hear this a lot. Here's why:
Laura Corrado received her Bachelors degree from Illinois State University and her Masters degree from Kaplan University. As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Clinical Director at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Laura oversees clinical and operational oversight for her team at the Lake Bluff location. She also provides support to her team of BCBAs, ACCs, and RBTs.
For Laura, helping children express themselves is the most rewarding part of the job, and she loves how gaining these skills positively impacts their lives across all environments. When Laura is not keeping with busy with work related to her clients, you can find her spending time with her children and her husband.
Sierra Jones received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Carthage College, and Doctoral degree from Rush University in Occupational Therapy. As the Assistant Clinical Director of Occupational and Physical Therapy at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Sierra maintains a partial caseload and supports the OT and PT departments by providing clinical leadership and ensuring quality of care. Sierra is accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
For Sierra, building bonds with the clients is the most rewarding part of the job. Sierra’s passion for helping people gain and build independence can be traced back to childhood when she watched a loved one struggle with the loss of independence due to an illness, and became inspired by the work of the OT in helping her loved one gain her confidence, spirit, and independence back. Ask her how to juggle, it’s her secret talent. When Sierra is not keeping busy with friends and family, you can find her hanging out with her dog and reading in the park.
Kayleen received her Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and a Bachelor's in Psychology from St. Leo University. Kayleen previously worked as Clinical Director at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, overseeing the ABA department at Lake Bluff as well as the Diversity, Equity Inclusion and Belonging Committee (DEIB).
For Kayleen, client progress is the most rewarding part of the job. She loves providing mentorship to students and Behavior Therapists to reach their true potential. Kayleen's passion for pediatric therapy can be traced back to 2005, when her baby brother received OT, and SLP services.
Ask her about how to dance - it’s her secret talent! When Kayleen is not keeping busy with her Lake Bluff Team, you can find her on a run, or traveling with her husband and beautiful daughters.
Ryan Emry received his Bachelor of Science from The Illinois Institute of Technology, and his Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
As an Area Director at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Ryan works as a clinician while also supporting a great team of Behavior Therapists, Behavior Analysts, Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, and Physical Therapists, across multiple centers.
For Ryan, watching our children learn and grow is the most rewarding part of the job.
When Ryan is not keeping busy at the clinic, you can find him spending time with his wife and two amazing daughters.
Liza received her Bachelors of Arts in Speech and Hearing Sciences with Minor in Psychology from Indiana University, and a Masters of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
As Vice President of Clinical Quality & Training at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Liza oversees the clinical operations of the Chicagoland locations, as well as provides internal clinical support to our BCBAs, leads the internal ABA apprenticeship fieldwork study program preparing students pursing their master’s in ABA to become BCBAs, and also serves as our internal ACE coordinator providing internal continuing education events to our team of BCBAs.
In addition to her role at NSPT, Liza also has served as an adjunct professor at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology teaching master’s courses to future BCBAs. For Liza, expanding the reach of our services to new communities and areas where there are limited options on comprehensive pediatric therapy providers is the most rewarding part of the job, and she loves growing the field through her work with student mentorship.
Kendall received her Masters of Science in psychological science from the University of North Florida, and her certificate in ABA from Purdue Global. As a BCBA at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Kendall provides clinical support for her clients and their families. She also works closely with her team providing clinical guidance and collaborating with other disciplines.
For Kendall, the most rewarding part of the job is watching her clients develop communication skills to express their wants and needs, and she loves to celebrate every win with her families! Kendall’s passion for ABA can be traced back to her first exposure to the field. She fell in love with it and instantly changed career paths! When Kendall is not keeping busy with work, you can find her exploring different parks with her son or reading a new book.
Margarita earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Illinois Springfield and her Master of Arts in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis) from Arizona State University.
As the School Readiness Program Coordinator at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Margarita oversees Prep School program development, staff training, and curriculum design and implementation. For Margarita, watching clients achieve meaningful milestones is the most rewarding part of her work. She takes great joy in celebrating every step toward independence and growth.
Margarita’s passion for early childhood development began during her time working with children with special needs, where she witnessed firsthand the profound impact of early intervention and compassionate support.
Betty Lupia is an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist licensed in Illinois. Betty attended Elmhurst University in Elmhurst, Illinois where she received her undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2017. She graduated with her master’s degree in speech-language pathology from Midwestern University in 2019.
Betty has been working as a pediatric speech-language pathologist at North Shore Pediatric Therapy (NSPT) since August of 2021. Prior to working at NSPT, Betty worked as a contracted SLP for U-46 in Elgin where she worked with students pre-k through 8th grade in general, exceptional needs, and autism population classrooms. Her areas of competence and interest include: programming and developing of low tech and high-tech AAC systems, DTTC for treatment of childhood apraxia of speech, diagnosis and treatment of phonological/articulation disorders, diagnosis and treatment of language disorders ages 18 months-21 years, diagnosis and treatment of childhood fluency disorders.
Guadalupe Mercado is a board-certified occupational therapist with experience working with the pediatric population. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Carroll University with an emphasis on public health and a minor in Psychology. Also, she earned her master's in occupational therapy from Carroll University.
Guadalupe has practiced with the pediatric population in various settings such as outpatient rehabilitation, hippotherapy, school, daycare, and clinic. Within these sites, she has treated children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, coordination disorders, developmental delay, and sensory processing disorders. Guadalupe has taken continuing education courses including the SOS Approach to Feeding and Interoception-based course.
When not at work, Guadalupe enjoys hanging out with family and friends, going on vacation, concerts, working out, cooking, and reading.
Francesca Orlando received her Master of Occupational Therapy from Elmhurst University, and a bachelor’s degree of science from Central Michigan University. As an Occupational Therapist at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Francesca provides compassionate, as well as fun and engagement treatments.
For Francesca, being with the kids is the most rewarding part of the job, and she enjoys making new connections people. Francesca’s passion for OT can be traced back to undergrad when she volunteered for a summer camp working closely with other OTs. When Francesca is not keeping busy with work, you can find her swimming, painting, and playing with her dog.
Alicia received her Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science with a concentration in Speech-Language Pathology, and a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School.
As an Assistant Clinical Coordinator at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Alicia oversees/provides creating and implementing behavior support programs and skill acquisition targets under the supervision of their BCBA, in addition to assisting with implementing data collection procedures with CentralReach to evaluate progress and treatment fidelity for different skills and domains. In addition to ABA therapy, Alicia has collaborated with other clinicians (SLP’s, PT’s, and OT’s) to further assist clients with generalizing skills across settings.
For Alicia, supporting growth in milestones for children in diverse cultures, where curiosity sparked in human development, communication differences, and the unique world of neurodiversity is the most rewarding part of the job.
Alicia's passion for pediatrics can be traced back to her senior year of high school, when she started her own research on the Deaf community and neurodevelopmental disabilities. On her off time, Alicia enjoys spending time with her adorable standard poodle and travel.
Magali is currently attending Ball State University to obtain her Master's in Applied Behavior Analysis to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. As a Lead Assistant Clinical Director at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Magali works with other BCBAs to help create goals for our clients, as well as trains and supports other staff members. For Magali, the most rewarding part of the job is seeing clients and staff flourish and make progress. Magali enjoys being outdoors, gardening, playing with her cats, volunteering with kids at church, and road trips with her husband.
Jocelynn received her Bachelors of Social Work degree from Greenville University in 2017, and her Masters of Social Work from Aurora University in 2020. As a mental health therapist at North Shore Pediatric Therapy, Jocelynn provides mental health services to youth and working with their families.
For Jocelynn, the most rewarding part of the job is seeing how much a child can grow and better understand their mental health and embracing their therapeutic journey. Jocelynn enjoys building a strong therapeutic relationship with the clients through play and using a child-centered approach. Jocelynn has experience working with youth that have emotional dysregulation, ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma.
When Jocelynn isn't working, she is spending time with her family and watching the Chicago Cubs.
Anna Zahn is a licensed physical therapist who is excited and passionate about serving the pediatric population, as she has always wanted to work with children since she herself was a child. She earned her Associate of Applied Science degree from Gateway Technical College and began work as a physical therapist assistant in 2018. She went on to complete a Bachelor of Applied Health Science degree at University of Wisconsin–Parkside, and continued her education further by achieving a Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in 2022.
Anna’s previous pediatric experiences include a 12-week clerkship at Little Steps in Highland Park, Illinois where she treated children who presented with torticollis, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, developmental delays, hypotonia, seizure disorders, orthopedic injuries, and a variety of rare genetic disorders. She also participated in the Early Intervention program, assisting the treatment of children aged 0 to 3 years old in the child’s home or a neutral environment. When she’s not working with kids, she enjoys her hobbies of creative writing, reading, crafting, and being active.
How We Care
From the very first conversation, we get to know your child as a whole person — their strengths, their personality, what makes them light up. Then we build a plan around them and your family's everyday life, because real progress has to fit the people living it.
Every plan starts with the child in front of us, not a standard package of hours. We look at who your child is and what they need right now, and we adjust as they grow.
A plan only works if your family can live it. We weigh your routines, your priorities, and your family's wellbeing so therapy supports your whole household, not just a calendar.
We guide and coach you every step of the way, because the most meaningful progress keeps going at home, long after a session ends.
Your child is never a diagnosis or a number to us. We get to know the person you love, and we measure success by the moments that matter to your family.
Talk with our Lake Bluff team about the right support for your child. After filling out our form, you'll find: free consultations, a complimentary benefits check, and a quick, personal reply from our team.
Contact usEvery service below exists to close a real gap in your child's day — at home, at school, with friends. Here's what we work on, and why it matters.
Our BCBAs build programs around your child's strengths, interests, and what matters most to your family, then adjust constantly as they grow, learn, and surprise everyone. Great ABA is playful, connected, and shaped by your child’s voice, and that’s the standard we’re known for.
Explore ABA Therapy at NSPT →
Our mental health clinicians support children ages 3+ in understanding their emotions, building regulation strategies, and feeling more at home in their own minds, while keeping families informed and connected throughout.
Explore Mental Health and Social Work →Our physical therapists support children who are building gross motor skills, coordination, strength, and balance — because every child deserves to move through the world on their own terms.
Explore Physical Therapy →Our in-house neuropsychologists provide comprehensive autism evaluations for children 18 months and up. No referral maze. No 9-month wait.
A full picture of your child's strengths and support needs, delivered with care and honesty.
Whether your child is building their first words, expanding their language, or exploring new foods and textures, our speech-language pathologists meet them exactly where they are and open doors to richer communication.
Explore Speech and Feeding Therapy →OT builds the daily living skills that shape a child's confidence — getting dressed, holding a pencil, navigating sensory experiences.
Our occupational therapists work alongside your child to make those moments feel more manageable and more theirs.
Our Lake Bluff center sits on Sherwood Drive, inside the Lake Forest Pediatrics building and easy to reach for families across town, from neighboring Lake Forest, Libertyville, and Highland Park, and for military families stationed at nearby Naval Station Great Lakes. Whether you're coming from the Lake Bluff Metra station, Sunrise Park, or the lakefront beach, getting your child to consistent, weekly therapy shouldn't mean a long drive—and here it doesn't.
We work hand-in-hand with the schools your kids actually attend. That means coordinating with Lake Bluff School District 65 and Lake Forest High School District 115 on IEP goals, evaluations, and the language that shows up in your child's school day. You'll see support that lines up with what their teachers and therapists are already doing, not generic recommendations.
And because Lake Bluff is built for families—Sunrise Park and the lakefront beach, Blair Park, and a historic, walkable village center by the Metra—we focus on the real-world skills that let your child take part: regulating in a busy playground, joining a team, ordering for themselves on a Saturday outing. Therapy that travels off the mat and into their actual life here.
Yes. Our Lake Bluff clinic at 917 Sherwood Drive, Suite 201 provides center-based ABA therapy for children with autism, plus autism testing, neuropsychology testing, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work, and mental health services. We serve families across Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Libertyville, Highland Park, and the surrounding North Shore.
We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield and accept many major plans, including Optum, United Healthcare, Tricare, Multiplan, and NorthShore. We'll run a complimentary benefits check so you know your coverage before your child starts.
We support children from as young as 18 months through the teen years. Early autism testing is available for children 18 months to 4 years, and ABA programs are tailored to each child's age, strengths, and goals.
We work hard to keep wait times short. After you reach out, our team walks you through a benefits check, paperwork, and an assessment, then builds a personalized plan so your child can begin as soon as possible.
Our Lake Bluff location is a dedicated pediatric therapy center with private one-on-one therapy rooms, sensory and gym space, and our Blossom Prep classroom for school readiness. It's also home to our neuropsychology and social work team. Care here is center-based; ask our team about the options that best fit your family.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based therapy that helps children build communication, social, and daily-living skills through individualized, play-based teaching led by a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA).
Yes. We offer early autism testing for young children and can guide your family through the evaluation process and next steps if a diagnosis is identified.
Families come to our Lake Bluff clinic from Lake Forest, Libertyville, North Chicago, Highland Park, Highwood, and Gurnee — including military families stationed at Naval Station Great Lakes. We're in-network with Tricare.
Yes. We proudly support military families stationed at Naval Station Great Lakes, and we're in-network with Tricare. Our Lake Bluff clinic is a short drive from base, and our team can verify your benefits and help your child get started quickly — including during a PCS move or deployment.
North Shore Pediatric Therapy is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield and accepts most major plans — including Optum, UnitedHealthcare, Tricare, Multiplan, and NorthShore. Before your child begins, we run a complimentary benefits check on your behalf, so you understand your coverage up front.
Not sure about your plan, or whether you need a referral?
Call us at 877-486-4140 and our team will walk you through every step.
North Shore Pediatric Therapy provides compassionate, neuroaffirming care for children and families. Our expert team offers autism testing, ABA therapy, speech, occupational, and physical therapy. For over 25 years, we’ve partnered with families to help every child grow, learn, and thrive.
Services at North Shore Pediatric Therapy and Gracent Pediatric Therapy centers are provided by affiliated professional corporations.
