Our Staff

Richard Schwartz, PhD. Creator and developer of Internal Family Systems therapy

Richard Schwartz, PhD is the creator and developer of Internal Family Systems Model of therapy. Richard has consulted with Castlewood for the last 6-7 years, training our staff and working individually with clients. Richard earned his Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Purdue University, after which he began a long association with the Institute for Juvenile Research at the University of Illinois at Chicago, and more recently at The Family Institute at Northwestern University, attaining the status of Associate Professor at both institutions. He has dedicated more than 25 years of service to troubled families and individuals and has extensive experience working with clients who suffer from eating disorders. He has published four books and over 60 articles on a variety of topics in psychotherapy. In 2000, Richard Schwartz founded The Center for Self Leadership in Oak Park, Illinois. Starting June 1st, 2010 Dr. Schwartz will join the Castlewood clinical team in an expanded role. Dr. Schwartz will continue his speaking and teaching, nationally and internationally, but when not on the road can be found at Castlewood. At Castlewood, Richard will continue to develop and train our staff in Internal Family Systems therapy. He will provide consultations with clients and facilitate individual and group IFS sessions.

Laura Cowlen, Psy. D, ATC, Life Coach

Laura has a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology, an American Psychological Association approved program, where she specialized in family and couple psychotherapy. She graduated from the Adler School of Professional Coaching—Southwest Campus, an International Coach Federation approved program, and has received additional training in parent coaching. After several years of providing psychological services, Laura was drawn to the coaching profession because of its strength-based and solution focused approach.  She naturally views individuals as creative, whole, and resourceful and enjoys supporting others in living the highest vision of their lives. Laura facilitates individual and group life coaching sessions at Castlewood.  She also facilitates group outings with our step down clients to help them develop life skills, and practice creating a full life in recovery. She believes that people excel when we build upon and celebrate the best that is within them.

Marcio Guzman - Psy.D., Anxiety Disorders Director

Marcio served in the U.S. Air Force and then completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Illinois. Later, he earned his Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, his Master of Science degree in Pharmacology, and his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Midwestern University. Marcio is trained in evidenced-based cognitive and behavioral therapies such as CBT, DBT and ACT. He is also trained in Internal Family Systems and robustly incorporates mindfulness into his therapeutic approach. In addition to his interest in eating disorders, Marcio specializes in OCD and related anxiety disorders such as Social Anxiety Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Panic Disorder. Marcio meets with clients individually, conducts individual and group exposure therapy, and facilitates CBT and anxiety management groups.

Whitney Bliss, MA Step Down Program Coordinator

Whitney earned her Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Family Therapy from Saint Louis University. She is trained in Internal Family Systems and has been with Castlewood since 2006. Whitney currently holds the position of Step Down Program Coordinator. In her present role, Whitney seeks to create a safe environment where clients can practice applying the skills they have learned in the residential program in real world experiences while still having consistent community support.