Healing Through Connection
Our Mission
At Reconnect Psychotherapy, PLLC, our mission is to deliver compassionate, culturally attuned, and evidence-based mental health services tailored to the unique needs of Latinx/Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ communities. We are dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment where individuals, relationships/couples, and families feel valued and celebrated for their identities, backgrounds, and experiences. Through bilingual (English & Spanish) and virtual services, we strive to break barriers to mental health care, empowering clients to build resilience, embrace growth, and create meaningful change—wherever they are.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be a beacon of hope and healing for the Latinx/Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ communities. We aim to pioneer culturally competent mental health care that fosters inclusivity, celebrates diversity, and empowers individuals, relationships/couples, and families to embrace their authentic selves. By offering virtual services and respecting the nuances of LGBTQIA+ identities and the cultural values of Latinx/Hispanic communities, we envision a future where every person feels accepted, supported, and empowered to lead a fulfilling, balanced life.
The Team
DR. PABLO PAGÁN-RIVERA
(He/Him/His)
Licensed Clinical Psychologist & Founder
Illinois - License No. 071.010663
Authorization to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (PSYPACT) – Mobility No. 21676
Dr. Pablo Pagán-Rivera iis a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Psychologist with nearly a decade of experience providing affirming, culturally responsive care to Latinx/Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ communities in Illinois and in PSYPACT-participating states. In 2022, he founded Reconnect Psychotherapy, PLLC with the mission of offering inclusive mental health services that foster connection, healing, and empowerment.
Professional Background
Dr. Pagán-Rivera earned his Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology from Albizu University in Puerto Rico. After relocating to Illinois in 2019, he completed advanced training in Clinical Forensic Psychology and LGBTQIA+ Mental Health. He brings expertise in evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, and the Gottman Method for Couples Therapy. Dr. Pagán-Rivera has extensive experience in psychological assessment, including evaluations for pre-surgical readiness, diagnostic clarification, worker’s compensation, and veteran disability claims. He also provides letters of support for gender-affirming care, clinical supervision for early-career professionals, and consultation to organizations on culturally responsive practices.
Areas of Expertise
Dr. Pagán-Rivera specializes in supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals as they navigate identity development, discrimination, and trauma; Latinx/Hispanic clients managing cultural values, intergenerational dynamics, and systemic stressors; and young professionals and Veterans facing life transitions, stress, and purpose-related challenges. He also offers comprehensive psychological testing and diagnostic evaluations, tailored to help each client gain clarity and receive appropriate, personalized recommendations.
Therapeutic Approach
Dr. Pagán-Rivera approaches his work with deep curiosity, humility, and a commitment to shared power in the therapeutic relationship. Whether through therapy or psychological assessment, he collaborates with clients to explore their experiences, build insight, and identify practical strategies for healing and growth. His assessments are designed not only to clarify diagnoses but also to help individuals better understand themselves and the barriers they face, while offering clear, actionable recommendations. Across all services, he blends evidence-based practices with mindfulness and cultural sensitivity to create a space that honors each client’s lived experience.
DR. NICOLE VÉLEZ-PAGÁN
(She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Illinois - License No. 071.011159
Authorization to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (PSYPACT) – Mobility No. 21837
Dr. Nicole Velez-Pagán is a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Psychologist with seven years of experience specializing in culturally responsive therapy for diverse populations. She joined Reconnect Psychotherapy in 2024, offering a safe and inclusive space for emotional growth and healing, while fostering strong client relationships grounded in empathy and trust. Dr. Velez-Pagán provides services to Latinx/Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ communities in Illinois and PSYPACT-participating states.
Professional Background
Dr. Velez-Pagán earned her Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology from Albizu University in Puerto Rico and is licensed in Illinois. After relocating to Illinois in 2020, she pursued advanced training in Clinical Forensic Psychology. She has experience in outpatient clinics, forensic settings, and correctional facilities. Dr. Velez-Pagán is skilled in evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and the Gottman Method for Couples Therapy. She offers individual therapy, relationship counseling, and psychological testing, with a focus on cross-cultural services that are compassionate and culturally attuned.
Areas of Expertise
Dr. Velez-Pagán specializes in working with Latinx/Hispanic women, young adults, immigrants, and LGBTQIA+ individuals, helping them navigate the intersection of cultural expectations, identity, and emotional health. She provides support in managing family dynamics, societal pressures, trauma, anxiety, and identity challenges, empowering clients to embrace their authentic selves. Dr. Velez-Pagán also offers comprehensive psychological testing and diagnostic evaluations, tailored to each client’s needs, offering clarity and personalized recommendations.
Therapeutic Approach
Rooted in feminist theory, Dr. Velez-Pagán’s therapeutic approach emphasizes empowerment, equality, and cultural sensitivity. She tailors evidence-based techniques to meet clients’ unique needs, creating a supportive space for self-exploration, resilience-building, and personal growth. In her psychological assessments, Dr. Velez-Pagán works collaboratively with clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and the challenges they face, offering clear and actionable recommendations for personal and emotional well-being.
DR. CARLOS RIVERA-BABILONIA
(He/Him/His)
Pre-licensed Psychotherapist in Clinical Psychology
Dr. Carlos Rivera-Babilonia is a bilingual (English & Spanish) pre-licensed psychotherapist in Clinical Psychology with six years of experience working under the supervision of Dr. Pablo Pagán-Rivera. With a focus on culturally sensitive care, he provides empathetic, theory-based support to help clients build resilience and confidence in navigating life’s challenges.
Professional Background
Dr. Rivera-Babilonia holds a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Albizu University in Puerto Rico and has completed a pre-doctoral internship in Clinical Forensic Psychology and a post-doctoral fellowship in Clinical Correctional Psychology. He has worked in outpatient, forensic, and correctional settings, utilizing evidence-based modalities such as CBT, REBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy. He specializes in individual therapy and culturally sensitive treatment, fostering personal growth and resilience in clients from diverse backgrounds.
Areas of Expertise
Dr. Rivera-Babilonia focuses on neurodivergent identities, particularly within men, young adults, and the Latinx/Hispanic community. His expertise includes supporting neurodivergent individuals with ADHD and other cognitive differences as they navigate challenges related to self-regulation, societal expectations, and cultural pressures. For Latinx/Hispanic men, he addresses struggles with traditional masculinity and emotional vulnerability, while for young adults, he provides guidance through transitions to independence. His approach emphasizes embracing neurodiversity, building resilience, and developing coping strategies for personal and professional success.
Therapeutic Approach
Rooted in a neurodivergent-affirming and humanistic philosophy, Dr. Rivera-Babilonia’s therapeutic approach prioritizes self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience. He integrates mindfulness practices and evidence-based methods within a culturally sensitive framework, offering a non-judgmental space where clients can address ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. His goal is to help clients foster self-acceptance, develop coping tools, and thrive in their unique journeys.
ADRIANA RODRIGUEZ-IRRIZARY, LSW
(She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Social Worker
Illinois - License No. 150.116718
Adriana Rodriguez-Irizarry is a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Social Worker with six years of experience providing trauma-informed, culturally sensitive therapy. She specializes in supporting immigrants and survivors of trauma, particularly those from the Latinx/Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ communities. Working under the supervision of Dr. Pablo Pagán-Rivera, Adriana offers compassionate care that helps clients heal from past trauma, build resilience, and navigate the emotional and cultural challenges that shape their identities.
Professional Background
Adriana holds a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Albizu University in Puerto Rico and a Master of Social Work from Northern Kentucky University. With extensive experience in trauma-informed care, she is skilled in evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and motivational interviewing. Adriana has also worked as an adjunct professor, case manager, and program officer for an Immigration and Refugee Services organization, where she developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by immigrants, particularly within the Latinx/Hispanic community. Specializing in individual therapy, Adriana provides culturally responsive treatment to immigrants, survivors of trauma, and individuals from marginalized communities, helping them navigate obstacles and build resilience.
Areas of Expertise
Adriana is dedicated to supporting Latinx/Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ individuals as they navigate the emotional and cultural challenges tied to identity, belonging, and healing. Her work also focuses on immigrants and survivors of trauma, including those impacted by domestic violence and human trafficking. Adriana creates a safe, compassionate space where clients can process their experiences, rebuild their sense of self, and strengthen their resilience. She is especially attuned to the unique pressures of immigration, such as acculturation stress, shifting family roles, and adapting to life in a new cultural landscape.
Therapeutic Approach
Adriana’s approach is rooted in trauma-informed care and emphasizes a collaborative, client-centered process. She believes in meeting clients where they are, with a deep respect for their experiences and cultural backgrounds. Adriana understands that healing from trauma is a personal journey, and she provides a non-judgmental, supportive environment to help clients process their past and navigate life’s challenges. Whether addressing trauma, cultural identity, or emotional well-being, Adriana empowers clients to rebuild their lives with confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self.
GRACE HENSOLD, RDN, LDN
(She/Her/Hers)
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
(License No. 164.007298)
Grace Hensold is a Licensed & Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) at Reconnect Psychotherapy, where she offers personalized nutritional counseling to support mental, emotional, and digestive health. With over seven years of experience, Grace specializes in disordered eating, stress-related eating behaviors, and chronic condition management. She is passionate about providing culturally affirming care for Latinx/Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ clients, recognizing how identity, cultural values, and personal experiences shape one’s relationship with food.
Professional Background
Grace has worked as an outpatient dietitian in various settings, including chronic disease management, oncology, and nutrition counseling for disordered eating. Her experience has deepened her understanding of the unique challenges faced by Latinx/Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ communities, especially around body image and eating behaviors. A recognized leader, Grace served as President-Elect for the Central Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and received the Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year Award in 2022. At Reconnect Psychotherapy, she collaborates closely with the therapy team to provide integrated care that addresses clients' emotional, mental, and nutritional needs.
Areas of Expertise
Grace’s areas of expertise include supporting clients with disordered eating, emotional eating, and stress-related eating behaviors. She offers culturally sensitive nutritional guidance, particularly for Latinx/Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ clients, helping them understand how cultural identity and values shape their relationship with food. Grace specializes in mindful eating practices, guiding clients to reconnect with their bodies and adopt a balanced, non-restrictive approach to food. She also helps clients address body image issues and heal from trauma, shame, and negative experiences through nutrition-based strategies that promote self-compassion and a healthier relationship with food and their bodies.
Therapeutic Approach
Grace’s therapeutic approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and client-centered. She meets clients where they are, acknowledging their unique challenges, particularly around past shame and negative experiences with food and body image. Grace creates a safe, affirming space for clients to explore their relationship with food while honoring their cultural values. By collaborating with Reconnect Psychotherapy's therapy team, she ensures integrated care that addresses mental, emotional, and physical health, empowering clients to heal, embrace their bodies, and make lasting, positive changes.
SHAELEN DILLARD
(She/Her/Hers)
Client Services Specialist
Shaelen Dillard is the Client Services Specialist at Reconnect Psychotherapy, where she plays a key role in helping clients navigate their initial steps toward mental health care. As the first point of contact, Shaelen ensures that every client feels welcomed, supported, and understood, offering a seamless, stress-free experience from the moment they reach out. Her work includes helping clients identify the right clinician, verifying insurance coverage, and coordinating appointments to make the process as smooth as possible. With her genuine commitment to care, Shaelen works to build strong, trusting relationships with clients, empowering them to take the first steps in their healing journey.
Professional Background
Shaelen has been working in client services since 2021, with experience in both mental health and addiction recovery settings. This background has given her a deep understanding of the challenges clients face, especially when seeking support during difficult or vulnerable times. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s in applied sciences, expanding her knowledge while continuing to provide essential client support. Her experience has honed her ability to handle a variety of client needs with care and professionalism, ensuring that each person receives the attention and support they deserve.
Areas of Expertise
Shaelen specializes in streamlining the client intake process, offering clarity and guidance during what can often feel like a complex and overwhelming journey. She excels in helping clients navigate insurance inquiries, find the right therapist, and prepare for their first appointment. Whether clients need assistance with logistical details or emotional support during the initial steps, Shaelen creates a welcoming, judgment-free space. Her compassionate approach ensures clients feel safe and supported as they begin their path toward therapy and healing.
Client Services Approach
At the core of Shaelen’s approach is her belief in empathy, patience, and respect. She is dedicated to providing a personalized experience, working closely with each client to address their unique needs and questions. Whether helping clients with insurance verification or guiding them through the process of selecting a clinician, Shaelen’s goal is always to create a smooth, reassuring experience. Outside of her professional role, Shaelen values the importance of self-care and balance. As a devoted dog mom to two Labradors, a part-time college student, and a nature enthusiast, she enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time outdoors. These activities help her recharge and show up fully for others, both in her personal life and at Reconnect Psychotherapy.
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