Meet Our Staff

Carolyn Khan, MA, LCPC, CDVP

Executive Director

Mrs. Carolyn Khan is the Executive Director of Bridges to New Day, nfp.  Mrs. Khan has a master-degree in counseling from Governors State University. She is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and a certified domestic violence professional (CDVP). She is a founding member of the organization. She has worked in the social service field for over 20 years. In her career, she developed and implemented a program that provided services to preschools and grade schools after a violent incident occurred in the community. And she trained staff and developed a parenting program that provided in-home visitation as well as parenting groups in both English and Spanish. In addition, she has provided counseling to adults, children, couples and families. Mrs. Khan is past president of the Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional Board. She is past president of the Illinois Mental Health Counselors Board.  he is currently President Elect of the Illinois Counseling Association and Strategic Planning Chair.  Mrs. Khan has presented numerous presentations on a variety of issues though out Illinois on such subjects as; effects of violence on children, domestic violence, interventions with children, adolescents and adults exposed to violence, helping children deal with loss; program development; and more.

Karen Olalde MS Ed, LCPC, CDVP

Assistant Executive Director 

It is my vision that every person encounters obstacles on their life journey, and I want to help empower children and adults and families to prevail over these obstacles that are impacting their lives. I value the fact that each child or adult is uniquely capable of interpreting their own experience, and has the courage to address the impact their experiences have on their lives. Everyone has the resiliency to reach their full potential, and I would like to help with the journey.    

My office is conveniently located near the heart of Romeoville, where it can easily be accessed from the surrounding towns or the nearby highway. There is ample parking in front of my office, which is set back from the road, giving it privacy and a quieter setting. The office is located on the second floor which can be accessed by a short flight of stairs.  I provide office hours during the week, starting at 9:00 in the morning, and continue all the way through the evening, with my last appointment slot at 7:00 at night.  

During your initial session we will discuss your unique experiences and how they are impacting your life.  Together we will develop a plan that best suits your needs to achieve your goals.  

Irina Sheppard

Therapist

I became a therapist because I have a passion to help individuals reach their full potential.  As a therapist, I believe that everyone can benefit from having a safe space to process one's own thoughts and lead their life in a way to improve their overall self being. I work with families, couples, individuals, and children in a non-judgmental environment , where everyone's unique story can be heard with understanding.

Aimee Nawrocki

Public Relations Specialist

As the public relation specialist I work on fundraising so that we can continue to provide affordable counseling and free domestic violence programs. You'll "see" me by visiting our social media pages or reading our email newsletters. After graduating college I started working for nonprofits, so that I could help make a difference. I joined Bridges To A New Day, because I believe that everyone deserves access to affordable mental health services.

Laura Olalde

Office Manager

As Office Manager, my primary role is to welcome clients, assist with appointment scheduling, manage billing and insurance, and ensure the logistics of the day-to-day operations of the agency are executed professionally and efficiently. I have an Associate’s Applied Sciences Degree: Executive Assistant, a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Psychology and enjoy working in an administrative support capacity in an environment related to my field of study. I am committed to supporting a team of caring professionals so they can focus on providing services which improve the lives of clients and the quality of life in the communities the agency serves.  

GROWING ACCOMPLISHMENTS

  • In our initial year (2004-2005), we served 234 adults and children.

  • In 2018/2019, we provide services to 571 adults and children.

  • By the end of FY19, we had served 3,909 adults and children.