Pamela J. Reiss
Executive Director

Pam has been involved in Wellness Place since 2003 serving in various volunteer and leadership roles. In 2007 she joined the staff as Chief Operating Officer and was appointed to the role of Executive Director in 2008. Pam also serves as an officer on the Board of Directors for the Cancer Health Alliance of Metropolitan Chicago.
www.cancerhealthalliance.com

Clinical Specialists

Russ Gould
Prostate Cancer Specialist

Russ Gould is a prostate cancer specialist with Wellness Place and patient advocate with the National Institute of Health, Scientific Programs of Research Excellence (NIH SPORE). Russ is also a lecturer, Us TOO International chapter leader, past vice chairman of the Us TOO Board of Directors, and 13-year survivor of advanced prostate cancer. Russ has counseled thousands of men, many of whom are long term survivors of advanced prostate cancer, to help develop action plans toward a better outcome. His unique depth of knowledge and experienced ability to recognize the challenges of prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment and management makes him an exceptional source of information for participants at Wellness Place.

Kathy Hill, MS, LCPC
Oncology Clinical Specialist

As a licensed clinical professional counselor and registered nurse for more than 25 years, Kathy brings extensive oncology experience to her work. She specializes in breast, blood and brain cancers, is versed on the latest clinical trials/research, and facilitates support groups in these interest areas. She holds a Masters’ degree in counseling. Kathy recognizes the unique challenges people encounter during a cancer journey and is passionate about helping them navigate through it with hope.

Lori Mackey, MA, ATR-BC, CCLS

Art Therapist/Child and Adolescent Specialist

As a Board Certified, Registered Art therapist and a Certified Child Life Specialist, Lori enjoys sharing the expressive healing qualities of art with cancer survivors of all ages. Lori has been working with oncology patients and their families for over 7 years and has developed a passion for pediatric and adolescent populations. Lori holds a Masters degree in Art Therapy and as an artist enjoys photography, painting and mixed media. She is dedicated to helping children and teens find their way through their own illness or that of a loved one.

Diane Schermitzler, MSW, LSW
Clinical Specialist

Diane is the newest member of the clinical staff at Wellness Place. As a licensed social worker with a focus on spiritual connections, Diane is interested in the many elements of life that contribute to the well being of people of all ages. Diane has a master’s degree in social work with an emphasis on working with the elderly.

Katherine A. Scortino, RN, MA, LCPC
Oncology Clinical Specialist

Kathy is a licensed clinical professional counselor and registered nurse with a lifelong interest in the ways that illness impacts individuals and their families. She focuses on the resilience of the human spirit in her individual counseling and in her group work with survivor, family caregivers, healthcare professionals, and persons dealing with grief and end of life issues. Kathy has a master’s degree in counseling psychology and is committed to helping people find healthy and effective ways to respond to life-changing events.

Development and Administrative Staff

LeeAnn Atwood
Senior Director of Development and Marketing

Dana Brendecke
Database Coordinator

Eileen O’Brien
Finance Manager

Karen Victor, RN
Program Manager

Annette Wegener
Administrative Assistant

Kara L. Williams
Outreach/Development Manager

Graham Witt
Administration