Meet the Team

Driven by a desire to create a practice that truly reflects my values, I founded Snow Lake to offer more than just exceptional client care - I envisioned a space where both clients and therapists feel valued and inspired. My goal was to design an environment that breaks away from the sterile, impersonal feel of traditional therapy offices, replacing it with a setting that is creative, welcoming, and immediately relaxing.

At Snow Lake, therapists are respected, fairly compensated, and encouraged to grow as clinicians. My husband Zac and I personally crafted our office to embody the warmth and creativity that fuel our work, ensuring every detail supports both healing and professional development.

When you choose to work with the clinicians at Snow Lake, you are never just another appointment-you are part of a community where your well-being truly matters. We invite you to experience a practice where compassion, innovation, and individualized care come together to support your journey

Stephanie Franzoni, LCPC CST

Founder & Owner

The Story Behind Snow Lake Counseling

The name Snow Lake Counseling holds a special place in Stephanie’s heart. It all started with a breathtaking hike near Seattle in 2018. Stephanie and Zac took on the Snow Lake trail—a stunning 7-mile adventure full of switchbacks, steep climbs, and unforgettable views. For this Midwestern gal, it was no small feat!

Little did they know, that hike would mark the last big adventure for a while. Shortly after, they boarded a cruise to Alaska, ready for more adventures. But on the very first night, Zac tore his ACL and meniscus while picking Stephanie up for a silly picture. (A romantic gesture gone hilariously wrong!) Their Alaskan escapade quickly turned into an exercise in teamwork, with Zac navigating the trip in a wheelchair and crutches.

Back in Chicago, they embarked on the long road of surgery, physical therapy, and navigating chronic pain—an emotional journey that tested their resilience. Through it all, Stephanie and Zac discovered their ability to face life’s challenges together, no matter how steep the climb.

When it came time to name Stephanie’s private practice, Snow Lake felt like the perfect fit. It’s a symbol of perseverance, partnership, and the strength it takes to tackle life’s switchbacks. Today, Snow Lake Counseling stands as a reflection of that spirit, supporting clients as they navigate their own journeys

Scenic view of a lake surrounded by evergreen trees and mountains under a clear blue sky.

Zac Franzoni, Co-Founder & Practice Manager

  • Zac plays a key role in managing scheduling, billing, and overall operations at Snow Lake Counseling. You can look forward to receiving a friendly message from Zac via the patient portal, including your estimated co-pay and reminders for completing new client paperwork. To streamline communication, we highly recommend all clients download the Simple Practice App.

  • Stephanie and Zac Franzoni established Snow Lake Counseling in 2021, a testament to their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on their community.

    Zac's dedication to serving the community shines through his multifaceted self-development journey. He is a highly acclaimed Chicago artist, a talented chef, and a successful entrepreneur.

    Furthermore, Zac's pursuit of a Master's degree in counseling psychology is a testament to his continuous growth and commitment to helping others.

  • In my freetime I enjoy camping, hiking, painting, and fishing. Basically anything outdoors makes me happy.

Our Mission

At Snow Lake Counseling, we believe everyone deserves a life filled with meaning and connection. Our mission is to support your journey toward fulfillment, making your well-being our priority. With flexible scheduling and both in-person and virtual sessions, we’re here for you, no matter how busy life gets. Rooted in allyship, our practice is a welcoming, affirming space for all abilities, backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship structures. At Snow Lake, you’ll always be seen, heard, and supported as you heal, explore, and grow.