Here at CCS, our staff is composed of professionals from multiple disciplines, who are dedicated to the health and well-being of your child. Working collaboratively with the therapists in the office, each is able to ensure your child gets the specific care they need as well as educate your family to continue to support the child. We see your family as our family, caring for and supporting them as such. Working collaboratively, our therapists are able to ensure the care your child deserves, plus the education your family needs for continued support.
“Meet the Team”
Carrie Cicciu-Singer
Carrie Cicciu-Singer, PT , C/TMR, CIMI
Owner & Physical Therapist
Carrie is a licensed physical therapist, who has been working in pediatrics since graduating from Saint Louis University. She had the fortune to work for both a hospital-based outpatient clinic, school, and a private outpatient clinic on the North Shore. Simultaneously, she was building her private practice as this was her dream. She has extensive experience handling preemies thru older children working with families to unlock each and every child’s full potential. Carrie prides herself on thinking outside the box and working closely with each family to tailor an individualized and collaborative treatment approach with each child’s team. Carrie is a credentialed evaluator and provider for Illinois Early Intervention, trained in Interactive Metronome, certified in Total Motion Release® (C/TMR) and became a Certified Infant Massage Instructor (CIMI) through Loving Touch International ®. She also has extensive education topics including Masgutova Neuro-sensorimotor Reflex Integration® (MNRI), sensory processing, Kinesio Taping, myofascial release, pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction, craniosacral therapy, Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT), visual motor skills, and autism spectrum disorder and most recently completed her foundations and infant training class using The Gillespie Approach(R). She is married to her high-school sweetheart and has three terrific and active kids, ranging in age from high-school through young adult, who have taught her more than anything on this journey.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy, Magna Cum Laude, Saint Louis University
Contact Info: [email protected]
Sarah House
Sarah House, PT, DPT, C/TMR
Physical Therapist / Clinical Supervisor
Sarah, a native Kentuckian, is a licensed physical therapist who received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Kentucky. She has had the opportunity to work in acute inpatient care, NICU, and private practice, which have provided her with a vast array of experience with children at all levels of development and medical complexity. She is certified in Infant Massage and Interactive Metronome. Additionally, she has trained in pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction and is currently working on her TMR training and the MNRI method.
She loves having the opportunity of getting to know the unique personalities and skills of every child she has the privilege to work with; and she is so thankful for the opportunity to work with families and children to maximize their potential and skills.
Education:
Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy, University of Kentucky
Contact info: [email protected]
Christine Gaiden
Christine Gaiden, PT, MPT, C/NDT
Physical Therapist
Christine is a licensed physical therapist who has been working in pediatrics since graduating with her Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from Saint Louis University. She has worked in hospital-based and private pediatric clinics since that time, as well as providing Early Intervention services and school-based P.T. services. Christine is a pediatric NDT-certified therapist, having completed the Bobath 8-week training in the Treatment of Children with Cerebral Palsy and the 3-week Baby Treatment course. She has a strong background in developmental biomechanics, TMR, baby treatment, Kinesio Taping /wrapping, myofascial release, pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction, sensory integration and a variety of other treatment techniques, including MNRI. She firmly believes in working as a team with the child and their family, using the best combination of treatment approaches to maximize that child’s functional gains. Christine loves to spend her time out of the clinic with her husband, 3 children, and 2 dogs!
Education:
Honors Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a minor in psychology Magna Cum Laude, Saint Louis University
Master of Science in Physical Therapy, Saint Louis University
Contact Info: [email protected]
Kaitlyn Plant
Kaitlyn Plant, PT, DPT, C/TMR
Physical Therapist
Kaitlyn is a licensed physical therapist who received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the College of St. Scholastica. She was the recipient of Minnesota’s APTA Outstanding Student Award. Kaitlyn has worked primarily in private practice pediatric clinics, with additional clinical experience in acute inpatient care and aquatic therapy. She has a strong understanding of pediatric development for a wide range of medical diagnoses and complexities, specifically cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, scoliosis, idiopathic toe walking, and spina bifida. Kaitlyn is currently expanding her training in TMR, MNRI, and NDT techniques to implement during therapy sessions. Kaitlyn is passionate about working with children with lifelong conditions and cultivating a family-centered approach to therapy.
Outside of the clinic, Kaitlyn is the youth, teen, and young adult PT advisor for the GBS/CIDP Foundation International. She is an active advocate for PT and has participated in events at state and federal levels. She is a volunteer adaptive ski instructor and Great Lake Mono Ski and Race Camp volunteer held in Duluth, MN! Kaitlyn loves to spend her time outside of the clinic hiking and disc golfing with her fiancé Mike, and dog Benny.
Education:
Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy, College of St. Scholastica
Bachelor of Science in Microbiology with a minor in child psychology, University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
Contact Info: [email protected]
Mary T. Wirth
Mary T. Wirth, MS, OTR/L, MNRI Core Specialist & Instructor, NDT trained
Occupational Therapist
Mary is an occupational therapist with over 40 years of experience. She has an extensive background working with infants, children, young adults, and adults, with a wide range of physical, developmental, sensory, and cognitive challenges. She has provided services in a range of environments: home-based, school-based, clinic-based, family conferences with intensives, and hippotherapy.
In addition to TMR, Mary brings a solid background of NDT, which has supported her in learning the MNRI approach. Mary has spent the last ten years learning and studying the MNRI method in-depth, which has truly filled in the missing links in her toolbox for supporting her patients for greater physical progress, sensory processing, and self-regulation.
Mary actively provides consultations, mentoring, and in-servicing on a weekly basis to other therapists in her area. It is the joy that comes from the work that drives her to support others in their learning journey to offer the best to their patients.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy, Mount Mary College,
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, University of Illinois – Chicago
Contact Info: [email protected]
Deb D’Amico Schmitz
Deb D’Amico Schmitz, MOT, OTR/L MNRI Core Specialist
Occupational Therapist
Deb has been working in pediatrics since graduating with her masters’s degree in Occupational Therapy. Prior to that, she worked at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in the department of Biological Sciences for over 20 years. Her strong background in biology has been helpful in giving her an understanding of the complexities of the children she works with.
She also continues to work on her advanced training in TMR. Additionally, Deb has training in craniosacral therapy, Therapeutic Listening, Yoga for the Special Child, and sensory processing. She feels that the best part of this job is that she gets to be a part of the successes each child attains. It doesn’t matter if they are big or small, each success is there to be celebrated and it is a privilege to be part of that celebration. Deb continues to threaten to move to Illinois and Carrie threatens to call her bluff!
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Concordia University Wisconsin
Contact Info: [email protected]
Sarah Ahmed
Sarah Ahmed, MOT, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Sarah is a licensed occupational therapist with several years of pediatric experience across varying disciplines. She has had the opportunity to work with children in multiple contexts including multidisciplinary therapy clinics, recreational facilities, a hippotherapy center, schools, daycares, and in-home. In her previous experiences, she has practiced the DIR Floortime Model, TEACCH Autism Program, Sensory Integration Theory, and Intentional Relationship Model. Sarah is currently expanding her knowledge MNRI and implementing the approach in treatment.
Sarah enjoys getting to know each child’s unique capabilities and recognizes the value of individuality they bring. She takes on an empathetic, family-centered approach and values collaborating with other therapists to provide the best outcomes. In her free time, Sarah likes spending time with family (including her adorable cats) and loves to explore different coffee shops!
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology Exercise Science and Health Promotion with a minor in psychology, Cum Laude, University of Illinois Chicago
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Summa Cum Laude, Elmhurst University
Contact info: [email protected]
Erin Kunkler
Erin Kunkler, OTD, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Erin is a licensed occupational therapist who received her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Tufts University. She has experience working in the school setting as well as teaching adaptive ski lessons in New Hampshire! Erin is currently learning more about MNRI to expand on her current treatment knowledge. She is passionate about working with kids and strongly values the holistic approach to therapy.
Erin loves getting to know each child and what makes them unique. She thrives in hands-on work and is driven by a desire to help every child and family live their best life! She believes in collaboration and is a life-long learner. When she’s not working, Erin enjoys spending time with her family and friends and taking her dog, Kenai, on long walks!
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Villanova University
Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Tufts University
Contact info: [email protected]
Skyler Stohle
Skyler Stohle, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech & Language Therapist
Skyler is a licensed speech and language pathologist with her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. She has had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings including pediatrics and adult skilled nursing facilities, providing her with a mix of skills and experiences. She has strong interests in the following areas: feeding, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), executive function, language and literacy. She is formally trained in PROMPT and she brings experience in play, language, and speech sound disorders to the team.
She believes that every child deserves a voice and is passionate about supporting families in helping each child find theirs. When she is not working, Skyler enjoys spending time with her family and dog, as well as trying new restaurants.
Education:
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with Highest Honors, Nova Southeastern University
Contact Info: [email protected]
Samantha Acance
Samantha Acance, MA, CCC-SLP
Speech & Language Therapist
Sam is a licensed speech-language pathologist who received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Ball State University. She has had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings including early education, pediatric and adult outpatient hospital, adult skilled nursing and sub-acute rehabilitation facilities, giving her a unique composition of skills and experiences. Sam is an SOS trained feeding therapist and is currently expanding her knowledge in pediatric feeding disorders and lactation counseling. She has a strong passion for working with children and families to provide them with individualized therapy services to support speech, language, and feeding needs.
When she is not at work, you will find her spending time with family, friends, and her dog, Olive, playing volleyball, and finding the best spots for food.
Education:
Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology, Ball State University
Contact Info: [email protected]
Jacklyn Schur
Jakclyn Schur, M.S., SLP-CF
Speech & Language Therapist
Contact Info: [email protected]
Jana Wagner
Jana Wagner, DT
Developmental Therapist
Jana received her bachelor’s degree in Education and Psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University and a master’s degree in Child Development with concentrations in Infancy and Trauma-Informed Care from Erikson Institute. Jana is a credentialed developmental therapist through the Illinois Early Intervention system.
She has experience working with children and adults in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, Special Olympics, and summer camp programs. She is trained in the DIR Floortime model. Jana is most passionate about integrating skills through a play-based, family-centered approach while creating an engaging, accessible, and fun environment for all.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Early Childhood Education, Special Education and Psychology, Palm Beach Atlantic University
Master of Science in Child Development with a concentration in Infancy and Trauma-Informed Practice, Erikson Institute
Contact Info: [email protected]
Sophie Stotter
Sophie Stotter, DT
Developmental Therapist
Sophie is a credentialed developmental therapist through the Illinois Early Intervention system and a lead teacher at CCS Clubhouse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Special Education and has deepened her knowledge with extensive coursework in Speech-Language Pathology.
Sophie is passionate about working with children in their early years, helping them to unlock their full potential. She is deeply aware of the crucial role that family plays in a child’s early development. Sophie actively incorporates this into her approach, ensuring that the support she provides extends to involve and empower families. By partnering with parents and caregivers, Sophie helps to create a supportive home environment that complements her therapeutic work.
When she’s not working, Sophie loves spending quality time with family and friends and exploring new restaurants in downtown Chicago. In the summertime, she volunteers at Experience Camps, a free one-week grief overnight camp for children who have lost a parent or sibling—a week that holds a special place in her heart.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Special Education, Magna Cum Laude, University of Kansas
Contact Info: [email protected]
Zeena Melody
Zeena Melody
Office Manager
Zeena has an AAS – Business Administration degree and has an extensive background in project management. She handles all our insurance and billing needs. Zeena is not only an employee of CCS, her son has also been receiving services with us for over 9 years. After stepping back from the corporate workforce to take care of her son, Carrie convinced her to work part-time at CCS. She is now full-time and loves being part of the CCS family. When she is not working, Zeena loves to crochet while sipping a hot cup of coffee.
Education:
Associates in Applied Science, Harper College
Contact Info: [email protected]
Madison Gottstein
Madi Gottstein
Client Relationship Coordinator/Office Coordinator
Madi is our office coordinator, helping with anything around the office. She graduated with an English degree from Illinois State University. She loves greeting all the kids that come into the office. When she is not at work, Madi can be found with a book and her dog, Axel, by her side.
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in English, Illinois State University
Contact Info: [email protected]
Mary Kate Pratt
Mary Kate Pratt
Clinical Support Specialist
Mary Kate is our Clinical Support Specialist, managing insurance benefits and authorizations. She has her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bradley University. She worked in a transition special education program before joining the CCS family. In her free time, she enjoys reading, attending concerts, and spending time with family.
Education:
Bachelor of Psychology, Bradley University
Contact Info: [email protected]
Ann Rappa
Ann Rappa
Human Resources Manager
Ann holds her accounting degree from the University of Illinois and is a Certified Public Accountant. Before leaving the workforce to raise her three children, Ann was an HR and Finance professional in the financial consulting industry, specifically Corporate Restructuring and Intellectual Property services. Ann is delighted to be back at work part-time supporting the CCS family! In her free time, Ann enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family, friends, and three bunnies.
Maya Seefeldt
Maya Seefeldt
Clinical Support/Aide
Maya is an aspiring pediatric psychologist. She has her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She intends to pursue further education in child psychology through a university graduate program. Maya is extremely passionate about the mental wellness of all people and is interested in practicing the various therapeutic approaches of supporting children socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. She strongly believes that everyone should have an enjoyable childhood to look back on and loves to be a part of making that happen.
Education:
Bachelor of Psychology, University if Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Contact Info: [email protected]
Let’s Get Started!
Please contact us for further information or to discuss your child’s health with a dedicated therapist.