Meet Our Team
ALEXIS DILLON, CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER
Hi, my name is Alexis Dillon and I am a cofounder of Melanated Wellness. I became a personal trainer because I truly enjoy helping individuals achieve their personal fitness goals. My process of personal training starts with clients accepting accountability and understanding the importance of health and fitness.
I gained this knowledge through earning my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Sports and Recreation Management and working in the fitness industry for over five years. I believe the key ingredient to living a complete life starts with your health and fitness.
My purpose here at Melanated Wellness is to provide personal fitness services to the black community at an affordable price to ensure the overall health and longevity of our community. While for some people personal training may seem intimidating and unattainable, my goal is to make your experience transformational and uplifting! I want to instill confidence in each person I encounter. My motto is “you look good, you feel good, you do good.”
HEATHER PERKINS, AM., LCSW
I am Heather A. Perkins (cofounder of Melanated Wellness), I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the State of Illinois. I have over 10 years working with youth and families. I obtained a bachelor’s degree from DePaul University where I double-majored in African and Black Diaspora Studies and English. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Chicago, School of Social Service Administration
Deciding to attend therapy takes courage and achieving change takes commitment, I am the right therapist if you are ready to start living the life you dreamed but feel stagnate; Maybe you battle with childhood trauma, family conflict, imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, stress, low-self-esteem, racial identity issues, or simply need a sounding board as you process the range of human emotions.
I believe therapy is instrumental when making permanent life changes and breaking generational curses. I meet you where you and provide a nonjudgmental environment filled with compassion and empathy. My therapeutic approach is influenced by trauma-informed psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
CHEYANNE HANEY, INTERN, MSW
Greetings, I am Cheyanne Haney, a graduate student in the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Aurora University; I am a cum laude graduate in the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program. I obtained my associate degree from Waubonsee Community College with a concentration in psychology. In addition, I received a certification in domestic violence and sexual assault training from Mutual Ground.
As an intern for Melanated Wellness, I will develop connections to community resources and complete administrative tasks. But, more importantly, I will be providing therapy to our community. Our community's lack of mental health professionals inspired me to continue my education. As a result, I will provide effective treatment to clients going through life challenges and difficult transitions. I am passionate about working with at-risk youth and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, low-self esteem, chronic illness, and trauma. I will provide treatment plans customized to your needs and goals. Let us work together on breaking generational curses and creating a mindset that encourages self-love and healthy goals.