We may not be able to solve all of life’s problems, but we can certainly make a plan.

The name Snow Lake Counseling holds a special place in Stephanie’s heart. It all started with a breathtaking hike near Seattle in 2018. Stephanie and Zac took on the Snow Lake trail—a stunning 7-mile adventure full of switchbacks, steep climbs, and unforgettable views. For this Midwestern gal, it was no small feat!

Little did they know, that hike would mark the last big adventure for a while. Shortly after, they boarded a cruise to Alaska, ready for more adventures. But on the very first night, Zac tore his ACL and meniscus while picking Stephanie up for a silly picture. (A romantic gesture gone hilariously wrong!) Their Alaskan escapade quickly turned into an exercise in teamwork, with Zac navigating the trip in a wheelchair and crutches.

Back in Chicago, they embarked on the long road of surgery, physical therapy, and navigating chronic pain—an emotional journey that tested their resilience. Through it all, Stephanie and Zac discovered their ability to face life’s challenges together, no matter how steep the climb.

When it came time to name Stephanie’s private practice, Snow Lake felt like the perfect fit. It’s a symbol of perseverance, partnership, and the strength it takes to tackle life’s switchbacks. Today, Snow Lake Counseling stands as a reflection of that spirit, supporting clients as they navigate their own journeys

The Story Behind Snow Lake Counseling

Stephanie Franzoni, LCPC CST Founder & Owner

  • I specialize in working with a wide range of mental health challenges, with a particular focus on helping individuals navigate their relationship with substances and address sexual and relational difficulties. My approach is non-judgmental and centered on harm reduction and self-remediation. Together, we will create a personalized plan to reduce substance use and alleviate any feelings of shame related to past or current coping mechanisms.

    As an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I address various sexual and relational concerns, including sexual dysfunction, BDSM/Kink, and consensual non-monogamy. My work is centered on fostering self-awareness, promoting sexual agency, and exploring personal sexual values.

    In sex therapy, I often utilize cognitive-behavioral interventions, which examine how thoughts and behaviors influence emotions and overall well-being. My goal is to provide a safe space for exploration and growth, empowering you to reclaim your sense of self and well-being.

  • My approach is goal-oriented and solution-focused, emphasizing that meaningful change occurs both within and outside of the therapeutic setting. I work collaboratively with my clients to develop practical inter-session tasks that help maintain progress between appointments. My integrative style draws from various therapeutic techniques, including relational therapy, narrative therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, SMART Goals, and mindfulness-based practices.

    In our sessions, you'll have a space to explore and process your unique experiences. I will meet you where you are, honoring your perspective and values. My goal is to support your mental health while empowering you to take active steps toward your personal growth and well-being.

  • I am clinically licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin. I am available for virtual appointments in both states. However, I am only available in person in Illinois.

    Illinois license number: 180.014775

    Wisconsin license number: NO. 10251 - 125

  • As an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, I am uniquely qualified to work with issues relating to sexuality and relationships. I have completed over 150 continuing education hours related to sexuality.

  • The therapeutic alliance is one of the determining factors for a successful therapeutic relationship. Therefore, I encourage you to view me as an imperfect human like yourself. Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy camping, hiking, and reading. I have three large dogs, two Chow Chows and one adorable mutt. When I am not spending time in nature or reading, I enjoy cooking, doing yoga, and spending time with my family and friends.

    • AASECT Certified Sex Therapist

    • Populations Served: Individuals 18+

    • Specialties: ADHD, ASD, harm reduction approach to substance use, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder

    • Therapeutic Approach: Goal-focused, holistic, solution-focused, integrated

    • Availability: Virtual & in-person options available

Crystal Bernard, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH

  • As a dedicated mental health professional with a rich, multicultural background, I offer comprehensive support for a wide spectrum of psychological concerns. My practice is built on a foundation of inclusivity, empathy, and evidence-based techniques, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

    - Marginalized Communities: With a particular focus on BIPOC individuals, I bring a nuanced understanding of the intricate challenges faced by underrepresented groups.

    - Women's Empowerment: Addressing gender-specific issues and promoting resilience in the face of societal pressures.

    - Religious Trauma Recovery: Guiding clients through the complex journey of healing from religious wounds.

    - Emerging Adults & College Students: Supporting young adults as they navigate critical life transitions and identity formation.

    - Spirituality Integration: Skillfully incorporating spiritual elements into therapy, aligning with each client's personal beliefs and values.

    As a biracial practitioner, I bring a deeply personal and professional understanding of the multifaceted nature of racism and ethnic discrimination. This insight allows me to create a therapeutic environment that is not only safe but also profoundly validating for clients grappling with issues of identity and cultural conflict.

    My unwavering priority is to foster an inclusive, affirming space where individuals from all walks of life feel genuinely seen, heard, and valued. Through collaborative exploration and tailored interventions, I strive to empower my clients to overcome obstacles, embrace their authentic selves, and cultivate lasting mental wellness.

  • I am dedicated to being your compassionate guide on a transformative journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and profound healing. My practice is founded on creating a sanctuary—a safe, nurturing space where you can courageously explore your challenges, cultivate resilience, and embrace your authentic wholeness.

    At the core of my philosophy is an unwavering belief in your innate capacity for growth and transformation. Through fostering a strong, trusting therapeutic alliance, I gently encourage the power of vulnerability and self-awareness. Together, we'll navigate life's complexities, uncovering deeper insights and understanding that illuminate your path forward.

    My approach is:

    - Inclusive and affirming, honoring your unique identity and experiences

    - Sex-positive, embracing all aspects of human sexuality with openness and respect

    - Strengths-based, recognizing and amplifying your inherent capabilities

    - Solution-focused, empowering you with practical strategies for positive change

    Drawing from a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities—including DBT, CBT, psychodynamic, and holistic approaches—I craft a personalized care plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. This integrative method ensures that our work together is not only deeply meaningful but also highly effective in creating lasting positive change.

    Embark on this journey of self-discovery with a trusted ally by your side. Together, we'll unlock your potential, nurture your growth, and help you step into the fullness of who you're meant to be.

  • Enhancing my therapeutic toolkit, I'm currently honing my skills under the expert guidance of Stephanie Franzoni, LCPC, CST. This specialized supervision is empowering me to provide more nuanced and effective support for clients exploring complex areas of human sexuality. My evolving expertise now encompasses a deeper understanding of sexual dysfunction, the intricacies of kink, and the delicate balance of navigating desire discrepancies within relationships. This advanced training allows me to create an even more inclusive, knowledgeable, and compassionate space for clients seeking to enhance their sexual well-being and intimate connections.

    • Afro-Latinidad & Mental Health Counseling 

    • Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy 

    • Religious Trauma and the Nervous System 

    • Helping Anxious High Achievers 

    • Mindful Sex

    • Finding Your New Normal: Healing Attachment Wounds

    • Trauma-Informed Treatment Methods

    • LGBTQ+ Clients and Trauma Related Issues 

    • Non-Violent Crisis Intervention  

    • Wellbeing: Burnout & Depression

    • Stress Awareness & Management 

    • Reconnecting Couples with Solution-Focused Therapy

    • The Pitfalls of Modern Intimacy

  • I am currently apart of:

    • American Counseling Association

    • Illinois Counseling Association 

    • Chi Sigma Iota - Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International 

    • Association of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness (ACSSW)

  • Outside of my professional endeavors, I find immense joy and balance as a proud dog mom to my beloved pup, Macy. My passions extend to the world of literature, reflective journaling, and immersing myself in the beauty of nature. I cherish the meaningful moments spent with friends and family, nurturing connections that enrich my life. I am committed to embracing a holistic approach to well-being, weaving intentionality and care into every facet of my personal and professional journey. This philosophy not only enhances my own life but also informs the compassionate support I provide to others, ensuring that every interaction is grounded in mindfulness and authenticity.

    • Populations Served: Individuals, BIPOC, emerging adults/college students

    • Ages: 18+

    • Specialties: Anxiety, depression, life transitions, women’s health

    • Therapeutic Approach: Holistic, psychodynamic, solution-focused

    • Availability: Virtual only, afternoons, evenings, and weekends

Eme Swaggthorne, MA, ATR-P Counselor & Art Therapist

  • Being a queer practitioner, I am passionate about healing some of the hurt in the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that community change starts with individuals, so striving to provide LGBTQ+-informed care to the people with whom I work is an essential part of my therapeutic offering. Queer people experience many of the same things that anybody does; however, there are some experiences that are exclusive to the LGBTQ+ community, and it’s important in my work to not only validate said experiences for you but to work with you to make meaning and direction out of them. To this end, my approach stays sex-positive, BDSM/kink-affirming, and open to all of the beautiful ways our community fosters and maintains relationships.

    I also have a background working with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities and find a similar passion in therapeutically meeting with and advocating for individuals with IDDs. Our society has created many unnecessary barriers for individuals with IDDs to have full and equal participation and accessibility in many ways, and the therapy I provide aims to help the individual work with or through these barriers. Regardless of if the person I am working with does or does not have an IDD, I adapt my therapeutic approach to best fit their needs and wants and give them agency to utilize our time together in ways from which they think they would most benefit.

  • Because no one approach works with every individual, I work from a present-focused and strengths-based framework and adapt my process to best fit who is sitting in front of me. I borrow techniques and perspectives from person-centered and Adlerian theories which help to produce a holistic understanding in me of your background, your present being, and goals for the future. I believe that our therapeutic relationship is an important part of our work together, so holding a safe space for you to explore and expound upon your thoughts, feelings, and experiences is of my utmost priority.

    I hold a provisional license to practice art therapy, and often encourage those with whom I work to utilize artmaking in their therapeutic journey. Every person has the power to create, and with that creation can come healing. Artmaking is not a requisite of our work together–if that’s not your thing, I am happy to use my other skills to provide you a more traditional therapeutic experience. If you are open or eager to draw, paint, sculpt, or create art in (almost) any other way, then artmaking may be a useful, cathartic tool we can use together to reach your therapeutic goals.

  • Like you, I am a full person beyond our therapy sessions. I am an eclectic artist and musician, and enjoy spending my time engaging with the many different facets of the queer community. At home, I find peace in baking, exercising, meditating, spending time with my family, and going on walks with my dog.

  • I bring a sex-positive and inclusive approach to all my sessions, fostering a safe and supportive environment for exploring sexual health and wellness. Under the supervision of Stephanie Franzoni, LCPC, CST, I work with a range of sexual health concerns, including libido differences, consensual non-monogamy (CNM), kink/BDSM, and erectile challenges. Whatever your concerns may be, I’m committed to collaborating with you to identify your goals and develop a tailored plan to help you achieve them.

    • Populations Served: LGBTQIA+, consensual non-monogamy, substance use, ADHD

    • Ages: 18+

    • Specialties: Queer population, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs)

    • Therapeutic Approach: Person-centered with Gestalt and Adlerian influences, incorporates art therapy

    • Availability: In-person & virtual, evenings and weekends

Zac Franzoni, Co-Founder & Practice Manager

  • Zac plays a key role in managing scheduling, billing, and overall operations at Snow Lake Counseling. You can look forward to receiving a friendly message from Zac via the patient portal, including your estimated co-pay and reminders for completing new client paperwork. To streamline communication, we highly recommend all clients download the Simple Practice App.

  • Stephanie and Zac Franzoni established Snow Lake Counseling in 2021, a testament to their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on their community.

    Zac's dedication to serving the community shines through his multifaceted self-development journey. He is a highly acclaimed Chicago artist, a talented chef, and a successful entrepreneur.

    Furthermore, Zac's pursuit of a Master's degree in counseling psychology is a testament to his continuous growth and commitment to helping others.

  • In my freetime I enjoy camping, hiking, painting, and fishing. Basically anything outdoors makes me happy.