Adolescents struggling with substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health conditions often need more support than weekly therapy sessions can provide. A teen partial hospitalization program offers structured, intensive clinical care during the day while allowing teens to return home each evening.
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Contributors

Nick Howell
A McHenry County native, Nick graduated from Eureka College with a B.S. in Business Administration and Financial Economics. With over a decade of experience in the healthcare industry, Nick joined NIRC in 2021. His expertise lies in quality, financial, and operational improvement, as well as strategic planning and implementation. Certified in Six Sigma, Lean, and Agile project methodologies, Nick is dedicated to leading and developing high-performing teams while continually striving for personal and professional growth. He is also actively involved in his community, volunteering with local organizations focused on supporting people in recovery. Nick is committed to making a positive impact both professionally and personally, and is excited to bring his skills and experience to NIRC to help improve the healthcare services in McHenry County.

Bernadette Tomczak, RN, BSN
Bernadette Tomczak has over 11 years of progressive leadership experience in substance use, mental health, and behavioral health. She oversees nursing operations across all levels of care at Northern Illinois Recovery. She has supported clinical operations, developed multidisciplinary teams, and ensured high standards of compassionate, client-centered care across detoxification, residential, and co-occurring disorder programs.
Known for her steady leadership in high-acuity environments, Bernadette is committed to creating structured, supportive systems that allow both clients and staff to thrive. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University and is passionate about continuous improvement, staff development, and mission-driven care that promotes sustainable recovery.

Shannon Murphy, RN
Shannon has been with NIRC since 2022, starting as a Staff Nurse before advancing to Nursing Team Lead and then transitioning into her current role as Nurse Manager. In this role, she balances direct client care with leadership responsibilities, overseeing nursing operations while continuing to work alongside her team on the floor.
Shannon has been a licensed nurse since 2021 and previously worked on a cardiac-neuro unit in a hospital, where she gained valuable experience caring for patients with complex medical needs. Prior to becoming a registered nurse, she spent five years working as an EMT, developing a strong foundation in patient care and advocacy.
Shannon has played a key role in developing and strengthening the nursing department and remains passionate about delivering high-quality, compassionate care that supports each client's recovery journey.
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