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Dr. Aurea P. Thomas received her medical degree in the Dominican Republic and completed her residency at Lincoln Medical and Health Center, New York. She is licensed by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Thomas is fluent in Spanish. In her spare time, Dr. Thomas enjoys reading and traveling.   

Michelle Ubau received her Master of Science in Nursing from University of Illinois at Chicago. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Michelle strongly believes that a community is only as strong as its members, which is why she is compassionate about community health and providing the best care possible to her patients. She sees herself as a partner, working with individuals on goals for achieving their optimal health. In her spare time, Michelle loves running, trying new restaurants, spending time with her family and friends, and watching the Chicago Bears and Blackhawks games. She is also an adjunct faculty member with Elmhurst College’s Nursing and Health Sciences department.

Dr. Gerena received her medical degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and completed her residency at Lutheran General Hospital. She is licensed by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Gerena is fluent in Spanish and when not working enjoys reading cooking and spending time with family and friends. Dr. Gerena is committed to providing quality care to all her patients.

A Chicago native Mary Jean Mendizabal received her bachelor's degree from Western Illinois University and completed her physician assistant and master's in medical science degrees from Malcolm X College and Saint Francis University. She is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and is also a member of the American Association of Physician Assistants. "My philosophy of care is to focus on preventive medicine" she says. Mendizabal is fluent in Spanish. In her free time she enjoys painting and wood working.

Dr. Patel received his medical degree from the University of Illinois Medical School and completed his residency at Rush Presbyterian Medical Center in Chicago. Board-certified in family practice Dr. Patel speaks Spanish and Gujarati. He states his philosophy of care is "to provide excellent medical care to my patients."

Barbara received both her psychology and bachelor of science in nursing degrees in Buffalo New York and completed her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania. She is passionate about pregnancy prevention and general health care for adolescents and feels that the best part of being a Certified Nurse-Midwife is the variety of activities she has during the day and getting to know patients. In her free time she can be found knitting, reading a good book, traveling to different countries, or watching movies. Barbara is fluent in Spanish.

Christianna Benson earned her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Medicine from Michigan State University and is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and is a member of the American Academy of Physician Associates. Christianna chose to work in a community health center to build long-term relationships with patients and reduce barriers to accessing high-quality care. Her philosophy of care centers on partnership, empowerment, and collaborating with patients on care plans that align with their goals. She strives to create a welcoming space where patients feel comfortable asking questions and actively participating in their health journey. Outside of work, Christianna enjoys exploring new coffee shops and restaurants, trying new recipes, and traveling. 

Lisa Ziems received her Master of Social Work from the University of Chicago. She is licensed by the state of Illinois and is a member of the National Association of Social Workers. Lisa is committed to providing high quality behavioral health services to her patients, as a means of empowering them and their families. She finds that working on a community level is a great way to provide crucial resources and information. When not working, Lisa enjoys spending time with family, singing and playing basketball. Lisa is fluent in Spanish.

Alberto Gonzalez earned his Master in Clinical Social Work from Loyola University and is licensed through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Alberto wanted to serve his local community and works alongside them to improve their mental health and decrease the biases against mental health care. He is dedicated to providing high quality, patient-centered care to all of his patients. Outside of work, Alberto enjoys camping, going to the movies, and going on road trips. He is fluent in Spanish.  

​Dioscelina Salgado is a Registered Dietitian and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Nutrition from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She is licensed through the Illinois Dept of Professional Regulations. Dioscelina believes patients can improve their quality of life through healthy eating. She is committed to providing quality health care by educating patients about nutrition-related diseases and prevention. When not working, Dioscelina enjoys reading, practicing yoga, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. She speaks fluent Spanish.    

Family Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, Behavioral Health

Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Internal Medicine, Behavioral Health

Laura Halprin is a Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and graduated with her Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. She is certified through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board and is a member of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Her philosophy of care is to provide comprehensive care that also addresses the root causes of health while practicing racial justice and health equity. She believes in empowering individuals and communities through trauma-informed care that is patient and family-centered. Outside of work, Laura enjoys spending time at the lake with her dog, game nights with friends and family, and testing new recipes in her kitchen. 

Juanita Uribe earned her Masters Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and is licensed through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Juanita has spent her career serving individuals, couples, and families throughout various Chicagoland communities and specializes in helping people through difficult transitions, as well as managing anxiety, depression, and building resilience. She works collaboratively with clients to set and achieve meaningful goals and create a strong, therapeutic relationship. Outside of work, Juanita enjoys spending time with family and traveling. She is fluent in Spanish.  

Sydney Yotter graduated from Midwestern University with a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies. She is certified through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Illinois Academy of Physician Assistants. Sydney works to create a positive impact within the community by eliminating barriers to quality health care. She takes the time to form trusting relationships with her patients and makes their physical and mental health her priority. Outside of work, Sydney enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her dog.