If you or someone you know is seeking help or information regarding Behavioral Health issues, call 708-424-9200, ext. 2118.
Poison control can be reached at 1-800-942-5969.
Crisis services are available through the Behavioral Health Division, or through 708-681-HELP evenings or weekends.
According to the National Center for PTSD, at least half of Americans have experienced a traumatic event. Approximately 1 in 10 men and 2 in 10 women will develop PTSD. There are four common symptoms of PTSD. Reliving the event, such as unwelcome memories triggered by an event that reminds you of what you witnessed. For example, the sound of a car backfiring can trigger memories of gunfire for a combat veteran. Another symptom is avoiding things that remind you of the event, such as avoiding certain people or situations that bring back memories. You may also feel more negative than you did before experiencing the traumatic event, or you may also feel on edge or jittery, finding it difficult to relax. Sudden anger or irritability may also occur.
The good news is that you can get treatment for PTSD. It is important to find a therapist who is familiar with treating PTSD and utilizes various treatment strategies that best meet your needs. Find someone who is a good fit for you. Veterans can visit www.va.gov/directory/guide/PTSD.asp for further information.
Melinda Antoskiewicz, LCPC
Ms. Antoskiewicz began her service with the Health District as a Clinical therapist in 1998. She was promoted in 2008 to the position of Behavioral Health Director. Melinda has led the Division through three successful CARF accreditation surveys (each survey occurs every three years) while maintaining a clinical caseload.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Melinda moved to the Chicago area to pursue a graduate degree. She earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology in 1985, and is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.
Prior to her position at Stickney Behavioral Health, Melinda was employed with Grand Prairie Services for 8 years. She held the position of Assistant Director of Training and Assistant Director of the Centre for New Beginnings, and was the recipient of the McAfee Award for Excellence in Social Service.
Ms. Antoskiewicz brings a rich background of clinical experiences and has a special interest in grief and loss, clinical supervision and services to the LGBT community.
Cherity Machnick, LCPC
Cherity Machnick is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She completed her clinical training with the Behavioral Health Division in 2001. Upon receiving a Master's Degree from Roosevelt University in 2001, Ms. Machnick began using her clinical training and experience to help residents with serious mental disorders, anxiety and depression. Mrs. Machnick also has experience in the field of Developmental Disabilities, and facilitating therapy groups. She is a resident of the southwest suburbs and enjoys nature and time with her family.
Sylvia Rabianski, LPC
Mrs. Rabianski earned her Masters Degree in Community Counseling from Argosy University in 2010 where she gained valuable experience working as an intern at Grand Prairie Services. She passed her licensing exam in 2013 and is currently designated as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Mrs. Zoltek provides therapy services to both Polish and English speaking individuals and has a special interest in working with individuals diagnosed with depression and anxiety.
Eioisa Rosales, LCSW
Eloisa Rosales joined the Behavioral Health Division in 2007 as the Division’s first bicultural, bilingual Spanish speaking Clinical Therapist. Ms. Rosales obtained a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2007, and is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Ms. Rosales’ parents migrated from Mexico to the United States in 1980, and she is the first in her family to earn a Master’s Degree.
Ms. Rosales previously worked with the DCFS system as a case manager. She also has experience working in a residential setting for individuals diagnosed with severe mental disorders. In her current role as a Clinical Therapist with the Behavioral Health Division, Ms. Rosales provides treatment primarily to children and adolescents, and also Spanish speaking adults. She does, however; provide therapy services to individuals of other ethnic backgrounds as well. Ms. Rosales has facilitated several social skills groups with adolescents, and has provided various workshops for parents including violence prevention and also parenting skills.The Behavioral Health Division welcomes practicum student, Devin Knor, BA.