Meet The Team – Higher Ground Wellness Group

Maurice Cosby - Clinical Intake Coordinator

As the first point of contact for clients seeking support, she excels in assessing individual needs, coordinating initial evaluations, and matching clients with the most suitable therapists and care options. Maurice Cosby brings over 20 years of expertise in client relations, administrative coordination, and mental health care to her role at Higher Ground Wellness Group. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, Maurice ensures a smooth and supportive onboarding process, making every client feel heard, valued, and empowered on their wellness journey.

Dr. Felicia M. Owens - Director of Clinical Services

Dr. Felicia M. Owens earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. As a Licensed Mental Health Professional, she has over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, families and couples across various settings.

While Dr. Owens is experienced with providing traditional evidence-based practices and treatments to clients, as a person of faith and ordained minster, she understands how important it is for individuals to receive counseling in a setting that is directed by their preference and faith journey. Through the integration of faith and counseling, Dr. Owens serves individuals who are seeking a safe space to heal, while still representing their spirituality, beliefs, and values.

As an EMDR and IFS trained therapist, Dr. Owens specializes in trauma, grief, loss and recovery. She is passionate about serving individuals along with couples who are struggling with ways to move through life’s most painful and challenging experiences in a more healthy and constructive way.

“Loss can turn your world upside down and afterward you may question if things will ever be the same. Days, months or even years after, you may feel a range of emotions without knowing how to process them. The truth is, life will change but healing is possible. While there is no right or wrong way to grieve or heal, there are ways that I can assist you with recovering from your experiences, while uncovering your own capacity for resilience, growth, and recovery.”

Dr. Lafay Erving - Clinical Supervisor

My role is dedicated to supporting the growth and development of emerging therapists through reflective, strengths-based supervision. I provide a collaborative and supportive space where associate therapists can deepen their clinical skills, explore their professional identities, and navigate the challenges of early clinical practice. Supervision focuses on building clinical insight, ethical decision-making, and confidence in working with diverse client needs, all while fostering self-awareness and resilience as a developing clinician.

Dr. Alexis M. Westbrook - Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Supervisor

Are you navigating the weight of depression, trauma, or life transitions that have left you feeling disconnected from yourself? Perhaps these struggles are affecting your relationships, work, or overall ability to thrive. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or burdened by life’s demands, know that these challenges, while difficult, are not impossible to overcome. I believe that a more fulfilling life is possible. With over 15 years of clinical experience working with clients, my approach begins with identifying the root causes of your struggles and helping you understand how they may be creating obstacles to your growth. Together, we’ll work on breaking down these barriers to help you achieve the personal transformation you’re seeking.

Mary Urgo-Licensed Professional Counselor

You may be feeling disconnected, weighed down by anxiety or low mood, or caught in patterns that no longer serve the person you’re becoming. Maybe you’ve reached a season of life where the old version of yourself doesn’t quite fit and you’re ready to explore who you are now.

I support teens, adults, and seniors as they navigate anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, identity shifts, and major life transitions. Together, we’ll create space for reflection, healing, and growth at your own pace.

For those who feel most grounded in movement and nature, I also offer Walk and Talk Therapy, a refreshing alternative to traditional office sessions. Meeting outdoors can ease the pressure of sitting face-to-face, reduce stress, and foster a greater sense of openness and clarity.

My approach is integrative and evidence-based, meaning I draw from a range of therapeutic methods to tailor our work to your unique needs. You’ll find warmth, compassion, and the occasional well-timed laugh in our sessions because healing doesn’t always have to feel heavy.

In this space, there’s no judgment, just genuine support as you reconnect with your values, rebuild confidence, and begin shaping a life that feels more aligned and authentic.

When you’re ready to take that next step, I’m here to walk with you.

Chaun PridGeon - Doctoral Associate Therapist

I am a doctoral associate with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology, specializing in clinical work with intimacy and relationship dynamics. I bring extensive experience supporting individuals, couples, and families in navigating identity development, trauma recovery, emotional regulation, and challenges within their family systems.

My therapeutic approach is grounded in warmth, cultural responsiveness, and experiential learning, with the belief that healing happens through meaningful connection—emotionally, relationally, and somatically.

Whether you are moving through life transitions, facing relationship difficulties, or feeling emotionally overwhelmed, I strive to create a collaborative space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered on your path toward clarity and well-being.

Kiara Miller - Associate Child & Adolescent Therapist

I’m currently completing my Master’s in Counseling Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have a strong background supporting neurodivergent children and teens, and I bring patience, empathy, and a deeply attentive presence to my work.

I also enjoy working with adults navigating stress, anxiety, life transitions, communication challenges, and unresolved family or childhood experiences. I strive to offer a warm, grounded space where clients can slow down, feel understood, and gain emotional clarity.

Whether I’m supporting a child’s growth or helping an adult reconnect with balance and purpose, I’m committed to meeting each client where they are and walking alongside them with compassion and care.

Oreoluwa Taiwo - Associate Therapist

I am a counseling associate who brings a culturally attuned and compassionate perspective to therapy, grounded in respect and the belief that healing is not one-size-fits-all. I aim to create a safe, inclusive space where clients can explore identity, life transitions, and emotional challenges without judgment.

My experience in high-pressure healthcare settings, including the Cardiovascular ICU at Loyola University Medical Center, has shaped a calm, grounded presence and a deep appreciation for human resilience. I take a person-centered, culturally responsive approach that honors each client’s unique story and strengths.

Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship concerns, cultural identity questions, or seeking greater clarity, I’m here to walk alongside you toward deeper self-understanding and growth.

Simi Oludemi - Associate Therapist

I am a Counseling Associate and graduate student at Governors State University. My background in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has strengthened my patience, empathy, and commitment to meeting each person with compassion and respect.

I strive to create a supportive, welcoming environment where clients feel safe to be vulnerable, understood, and genuinely seen. I believe meaningful healing begins when individuals can explore their experiences without judgment and feel supported throughout the process. I am passionate about helping clients gain clarity, build on their strengths, and move toward greater well-being.

While I enjoy working with individuals from all backgrounds, I have a particular interest in supporting adults, couples, and children as they navigate life transitions, personal challenges, and growth. Wherever you are in your journey, therapy can be a meaningful step toward positive change.