Our History

Dr. Kenneth Phillips opened a private practice in Wheaton in 1986. He shared office space with Jim Cassens, Ph.D., and developed associations with a number of therapists. An ongoing affiliation with Central DuPage Hospital prompted the location of an office in Danada in 1990.

In 1994 Dr. Cassens joined the practice as its clinic director and with medical director, Ken Phillips, MD, the practice grew to include over twenty professionals providing medical care, counseling and testing for individuals (adults and children), families and other specialized groups.

In 2004, with Dr. Cassens’ death, Barrett McRay, PsyD, and Steve Jones, LCPC, stepped into the role of directors of psychological services. Both have been with Alliance a number of years and their combined expertise has contributed to Alliance’s continued growth.

In recent years, ACA has added several new staff with a focus toward creating a full service child mental health clinic within the larger Alliance. There are two child psychiatrists and several psychologists and therapists to meet the unique needs of children and families.

Today Alliance Clinical Associates is a collaborative network of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and social workers) dedicated to delivering the highest quality mental health services. The goal is to help each person find hope for healing and to achieve greater personal growth and wholeness.

The staff members, representing a variety of denominations, are all committed to serve patients with a faith sensitive perspective. Many of ACA’s professionals also have seminary degrees and carry leadership roles in their respective churches. Many have served on mission fields all over the world and are experienced with intercultural and cultural transition issues affecting missionaries and their families.

Several of our professionals also have teaching positions at Wheaton College and other prestigious institutions. Over the years Alliance has contributed to the development of many therapists who have received training here. Furthermore, supervision, and regular, in-house collaborative sessions among our professionals, contribute to peer support, staff development and, ultimately, overall patient care.