About

About Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling

Serving the Chicagoland area since 2003. Board-certified psychiatrists, licensed therapists, and compassionate support staff all under one roof.

Years Of Experience

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Chicagoland Locations

Psychiatric Providers

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Services Offered

Our Story

Built on a simple belief everyone deserves quality mental health care.

Established in 2003, Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling provides compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for children, adolescents, and adults in Naperville, Warrenville, Arlington Heights, and the surrounding communities.

Our team of board-certified psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists/counselors, and psychiatric providers offers comprehensive services, including psychiatric evaluations, psychological evaluations, medication management, individual therapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We treat the full spectrum of mental health conditions from anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and trauma to complex, treatment-resistant, and diagnostically challenging cases through personalized, evidence-based treatment plans designed to help every patient achieve lasting mental wellness.

Our Mission

Empowering people through compassionate, evidence-based care

We believe mental health treatment should be accessible, individualized, and free of stigma. Every patient that walks through our doors receives care tailored to their unique history, goals, and life circumstances. We don’t just treat symptoms – we treat people.

What Makes Us Different?

Care That Fits Your Life

In-person appointments at three convenient Chicagoland locations, plus Telehealth for all Illinois residents. Same-week appointments often available.

A Team You Can Trust

Our providers are board-certified, experienced, and genuinely invested in your wellbeing. We take time to listen and build real relationships with our patients.

Advanced Treatment Options

Beyond traditional psychiatry, we offer TMS therapy, Spravato, pharmacogenetic testing, and clinical trials through AMR Conventions Research giving patients access to the latest in psychiatric care.

Your Experience With Us

Beginning with your first contact with Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling, the care and compassion you receive will be unparalleled. This is exemplified by our

Ease of contact by phone, e-mail, our website, or online partners like PsychologyToday / WebMD
Friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful administrative staff
Streamlined intake process
Availability of providers to accommodate your needs
Helpful reminder calls/emails/texts
Welcoming providers as they offer you either tele-health or in-person services
After-hours support provided by the answering service

Testimonials

I met Dr. Gaonkar in the hospital and he was extremely kind and understanding which is what you need when you are going through major depression and anxiety. He didn’t make me feel inferior! I recommend him to anyone that needs a trustworthy doctor. Thank you for all you did for me.

I have seen Dr. Gaonkar for years and find him to be so kind, so supportive and spends a great deal of time with me each visit to assure my life is stable and going well. He is so respectful and open to any information I feel may benefit me. Wonderful human being altogether!

Dr. Samar Mahmood is a really excellent psychiatrist I have been seeing for about 4 years. She is understanding and intelligent, and even when I have to make appointments with her for refills, she takes time to have a brief “counseling” session with me. I have gotten really great counseling and advice from her, and she is welcoming and helpful.

Dr Lee is an incredible psychologist. I’ve seen him since high school and he uses primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat anxiety and depression. He also has an existential or philosophical approach to his treatment, which is sustainable in terms of adopting an overall perspective change to life and not merely treating symptoms.

Dr. Shah has helped improve the quality of my life. She is a caring, competent, and personable doctor. I cannot say enough good things about her.

Meet Our Providers

Our team of board-certified psychiatrists, licensed therapists, and psychiatric specialists are here to support you.

Alexandra DeSimone, MA, LCPC

Anne Dickinson, PsyD, LCPC, CADC

Cheryl Zaabel, MS, LCPC

Dan Lee, LCP, PsyD

Dan Novak, LCPC, MS

Eric Mueller, LCSW, CADC

Your Questions Answered

What services does Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling offer?

We offer a comprehensive range of mental health services including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual therapy, couples and family counseling, child and adolescent psychiatry, TMS therapy, Spravato treatment, genetic testing, and clinical trials through AMR Conventions Research. Telehealth is available statewide across Illinois.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we accept most major insurance plans. Contact our office directly and we’ll help verify your coverage before your first appointment.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can call us at (630) 416-8289, fill out our online appointment request form, or request a consultation through our website. We typically respond within one business day.

Are you accepting new patients?

Yes, we are currently accepting new patients at all three of our locations in Naperville, Warrenville, and Arlington Heights. Same-week appointments are often available.

Do you offer telehealth?

Yes, virtual appointments are available to patients across all of Illinois for most of our services.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication. Therapists focus on talk therapy and behavioral strategies. Many of our patients see both, and our team is designed to support that kind of integrated care.