MEET OUR DOCTORS
At Halsted Eye Boutique and Eye See Ravenswood locations, our team of experienced and compassionate Optometrists is dedicated to providing you with personalized care. We believe that evaluating the overall health of our patients is essential to ensuring optimal visual and eye health outcomes.
Our team takes a holistic approach to personalized patient care, utilizing the latest technologies and techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions. We use non-invasive diagnostic technology that eliminates the need for dilating drops and detects dry eye, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and even cancer before they impact your daily life. We also incorporate homeopathic and natural therapies to provide the most comprehensive and effective treatment options available.
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our dedication to listening to your concerns and tailoring our treatments to meet your unique needs. Our team of dedicated Doctors is committed to providing you with the highest level of personalized attention and care to support you in achieving optimal visual and overall health.
DR. JOANNA SLUSKY
Dr. Joanna Slusky is an Integrative Medical Optometrist with nearly twenty years of experience. She emigrated from Poland with her Mother at age twelve with two suitcases, five-hundred dollars, and without the ability to speak English. A quick study, she achieved a 4.0 GPA, attended Northwestern University, and graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Illinois College of Optometry. In 2007, during freshman year of Optometry school, she began caring for Chicagoland's eyes with the opening of Halsted Eye Boutique; expanding in 2021 with the acquisition of Eye See Ravenswood.
Her passion for eyes began over twenty years ago when her grandfather, a primary care Doctor, was diagnosed with an eye tumor during an eye exam. Further diagnostic testing revealed an advanced case of prostate cancer. He passed away six months later, leaving a lasting impression on her; the eyes are the barometer of overall systemic health.
Dr. Joanna Slusky is a "Dry Eye Expert" and a "Contact Lens Specialist." In addition to providing comprehensive annual & wellness eye examinations, her holistic approach includes:
- Medical management of eye manifestations of ocular & systemic diseases (glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, keratoconus, diabetes, thyroid, high blood pressure, cholesterol, high risk medications, and even cancer)
- Emergency care (pink eye, stye, scratched cornea, ulcer, flashes/floaters, retinal detachment)
- Preventative eyecare (dry eye, styes, blepharitis, sun & blue light damage, computer vision syndrome, cataracts)
- LASIK / Cataract / Lid Surgery co-management
- Pediatric vision care (including Ortho - K and Myopia Control)
- Esthetics (Rosacea, Acne, Eczema, Droopy Lids)
Dr. Slusky incorporates nutrition, nutraceuticals, as well as safe skincare and makeup recommendations to support her patients needs and health goals. Her patients rave about her personalized approach to medicine, patience, friendliness, and ability to improve their vision to a level of clarity and comfort they didn’t know was possible. She takes a holistic approach to medicine & helps her patients achieve the clearest, most comfortable vision with the most appropriate resources available.
In her free time, her passions include photography, art, music, dance, theater, fine dining, fitness, travel, and philanthropy. She is a member of The Service Club of Chicago and Young Presidents Organization (YPO), and a longtime supporter of causes that have the most meaning to her: Eyesight (Optometry Giving Sight, Eversight, Lighthouse for the Blind) and Cancer (H Foundation, Bear Necessities, Imerman Angels, and A Silver Lining Foundation). BONUS: Dr. Slusky is fluent in Polish and Russian, and understands Ukrainian and Spanish.
Due to her extensive experience, Dr. Slusky is available by appointment only. Please check her availability online or text us at (773) 549 - 1111 to inquire about potential sooner dates. Thank you for your understanding!
DR. ANGELA KUMAR
Dr. Angela Kumar was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Molecular & Cellular Biology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and then continued her education at the Illinois College of Optometry. Dr. Kumar - a member of the American Optometric Association and Illinois Optometric Association - is dedicated to continuous learning of newest advancements in our field and thoroughly addressing all of your eye care needs.
She is patient, compassionate, enthusiastic, and willing to go the extra mile to make sure you get the best care possible.
She specializes in primary care, ocular disease, contact lenses, as well as the management of Dry Eye Disease. Dr. Kumar is committed to working with you to improve your visual experience and quality of life. She is also happy to see children of all ages and will make sure your child gets a thorough (and fun!) examination. Whenever necessary, she'll also support your child's visual journey with Myopia Control, to slow down the progression of their prescription.
In her free time, she enjoys traveling, baking, trying new fitness classes (to offset her sweet tooth), and spending quality time with family and friends.
BONUS: Dr. Kumar is fluent in Malayalam and Spanish!
DR. KRYSTYNA KATZ
Dr. Krystyna Katz was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Psychology: Natural Sciences at Loyola University Chicago with a minor in Bioethics. She then continued her education at University of Missouri- St. Louis College of Optometry, and graduated as a member of the Gold Key International Optometric Honor Society (the highest honor for leadership and service that a student of optometry may receive). Dr. Katz is also very active in serving the underprivileged. While in optometry school, she coordinated with St. Louis University Hospital to organize weekend events to offer free eye exams to those in need. She also worked to raise money for Student Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (SVOSH) and was fortunate enough to receive sponsorship to go on a SVOSH mission trip to Haiti to serve those in need. She looks forward to more optometric mission trips in the future and to continue serving her community.
Dr. Katz is a member of the Gold Key International Optometric Honor Society, American Optometric Association, Illinois Optometric Association, and the Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity. She specializes in the treatment and management of Dry Eye Disease, and is always excited to learn more about cutting edge technology to better care for her patients. Her passion for dry eye management grew during a rotation near St. Louis where she had the opportunity to manage some severe cases and learn from a well renowned dry eye practitioner in the area. She is motivated to continue helping patients find relief from their dry eye disease. She also enjoys prescribing specialty (scleral & hybrid) contact lenses to support better comfort and visual outcomes for our keratoconus and severe dry eye patients. She is caring, kind, patient, and always sure to treat her patients as if they were her own family.
In her free time, Dr. Katz enjoys spending time with her husband, Aric, daughter, Everleigh, spoiled dog Griffin, and their friends and families. They are also excited to welcome a baby boy in Spring of 2023! She also loves traveling, SPENGA classes (spin, HIIT, and yoga!), reading a good book, trying new restaurants and coffee shops (she's always excited to hear about new suggestions), and cooking!
Dr. Ekta Patel
Dr. Ekta Patel is originally from Bettendorf, Iowa and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and minor in Psychology from Loyola University Chicago. She continued her education at Rush University in Chicago, IL and received a Masters of Science in Biotechnology. She then completed her optometric education at the Chicago College of Optometry.
She specializes in primary care and ocular disease, as well as the management of Dry Eye Disease. She has the passion and determination to stay updated on all of the new cutting-edge technology in the field of optometry for her patients. While in school, Dr. Patel gained extensive training in ocular disease, as well as worked alongside some of the top Cornea specialists in Illinois. She is kind, compassionate, and will be sure to go above and beyond for her patients.
In her free time, she is an avid volleyball player, loves a good yoga class, and is always looking for a new hike to go on. If she’s not in the office she’s planning her next adventure. If you have any travel suggestions, please let her know! Dr. Patel currently lives in the West Loop area and loves exploring restaurants and hidden gems of Chicago!
BONUS: Dr. Patel is fluent in Gujarati!
Dr. Tracy Becherer
Dr. Tracy Becherer is originally from Arlington Heights, Illinois and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from Miami University of Ohio. She began her optometric education at Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago and graduated as a member of the Gold Key International Optometric Honor Society with clinical honors. While in school, Dr. Becherer gained extensive training in dry eye and cornea clinic, and enjoys using the latest advances in eye care technology to help treat Dry Eye Disease. She also has a passion for vision therapy, and was on the executive board of three organizations that specialize in neuro-optometry and vision therapy. She worked closely with highly skilled Optometrists and vision therapists during her clinical externship rotation in San Diego, where she fell in love with treating binocular vision dysfunctions, and appreciates the real-world impact vision therapy has for patients of all ages.
If you’re not seeing Dr. Becherer in the office, you’ll likely find her exploring local antique malls or thrift shops searching for vintage glass. She collects vintage swung vases, and loves antiquing with her family! She also plays tennis, and on nice days you can find her on the tennis courts with friends. Dr. Becherer resides in the Lincoln Park area with her boyfriend, and loves exploring all the Chicago neighborhoods, and trying new restaurants.
Dr. Becherer looks forward to providing high quality vision care to the greater Chicagoland area, while also developing strong relationships with all patients, parents, educators, and other healthcare providers.
Meet Our Team
At Halsted Eye Boutique, we prioritize your satisfaction and well-being. Our team takes time to listen to your needs and concerns to provide personalized recommendations that’ll perfectly suit your unique style and vision needs. Whether you're searching for a stylish new pair of glasses or require assistance navigating the often-complicated world of insurance, our compassionate professionals are here to guide you through every step of the process.
At both of our locations, we’re committed to go above and beyond to provide top-tier eye care services and unparalleled attention to detail. From our comprehensive eye exams to our vast selection of frames and lenses, we take pride in offering a range of services and products that are tailored to your specific needs. We believe that everyone deserves to be well cared for and to feel great about themselves, and we’re honored to play a role in helping you achieve that.
If you're seeking a caring, detail-oriented approach to eye care, look no further than the Halsted Eye Boutique. Visit us today to experience our unique blend of expertise, personalized service, and unwavering dedication to your well-being.
Jeimy
Jeimy is our Practice Manager and has been with Halsted Eye Boutique since 2009. Over a decade of Paraoptometric care and Optical experience have equipped her to answer any questions you may have about your visit. Jeimy is very proud to lead our team in providing the best possible eye care experience as our #1 priority. Her bachelor's degree in business management and dedication to our practice shows with every new idea she brings to ensure patient care and satisfaction. Her take on new technology and trends helps our practice grow with our patients. In addition to devoting time to making Halsted Eye Boutique the best choice for your eye care, she's a super-mom to her 2 beautiful daughters and son, as well as a devoted wife to her high school sweetheart (of the past 14 years!). BONUS: She loves to bake & is fluent in Spanish!
Marina
Marina originally joined Halsted Eye Boutique in 2013. She began her journey in the eye-care field as an Optician and advanced her career to become a Certified Ophthalmic technician (COT) where she studied the medical and technical parts of Ophthalmology and Optometry while learning about the anatomy of the eye.
We were delighted to have Marina join our team again earlier this year. Her vast knowledge of ophthalmic lens materials and designs allows her to knowledgeably assist our patients with the selection of eyewear and lens technology that guarantees patient satisfaction. Marina enjoys her free time weight lifting, jogging and spending quality time with her husband.
BONUS: Marina is fluent in Greek!
Kalina
Kalina joined Halsted Eye Boutique in 2021, and has worked as an Optician since 2018. She graduated from University of Iowa with a degree in Health and Human Physiology. During undergrad she studied a semester in London comparing various healthcare systems and volunteering at local clinics. Kalina shares her time between Halsted Eye Boutique and Eye See Ravenswood, and is dedicated to providing the best overall care for patients, while also finding the best frames to fit the patient's style and everyday life. As a single cat mom, in her free time she enjoys skiing, painting, traveling, photography, music, and spending quality time with her family. BONUS: Kalina is fluent in Polish!
Marina
Marina originally joined Halsted Eye Boutique in 2021. She graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago with a Bachelors in Biology and Psychology. She has previous healthcare and patient care experience since 2019 from her time at Northwestern Hospital. She is planning on going to grad school as a Physician's assistant to further expand her knowledge in medicine. She finds joy in setting patients up with eyewear that matches their personality and style. In her free time she enjoys trying new local stores and restaurants, watching new shows, spending time with her family and friends, and reading. BONUS: Marina is fluent in Arabic.
Nancy
Nancy has been exclusively loyal to private practice since her career began nearly 2 decades. She began her journey in the eye-care field as a Front Desk Receptionist and advanced her career to become ABO certified Optician and then a Certified Ophthalmic technician (COT) where she studied the medical and technical parts of Ophthalmology, Optometry, and Optics while learning about the anatomy of the eye. She also has experience working with Dry Eye, Keratoconus, and Scleral lens patients as well as pre-op and post-op care. We were delighted to have Nancy join our Halsted Eye Boutique team in 2019, although Dr. Slusky and Nancy began working together back in 2010! Nancy's vast knowledge of ophthalmic lens materials and designs allows her to knowledgeably assist our patients with the selection of eyewear and lens technology that guarantees patient satisfaction. In her free time, Nancy loves to cook, listen to her old records, camp and spend quality time with her 3 kids. BONUS: Nancy is fluent in Spanish!
Rachelle
Rachelle has worked as an Optician since 2018 and joined our team in the spring of 2022. Her interest in the optical field began at young age, due to her high prescription, discomfort wearing contacts and difficulty finding well fitting eyewear. Rachelle understands how challenging it can be picking out new eyewear or finding an eye doctor who listens to your symptoms and addresses your needs. She is dedicated to providing the best overall care for patients and helping them find eyewear that fits their facial features, personality and style. Seeing how happy patients are at the end of their exam and when finding the perfect eyewear fills her heart and reminds her exactly why she chose this job. While finishing up her degree at Roosevelt University in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Rachelle also shares her time between Halsted Eye Boutique and Eye See Ravenswood. On her free time, Rachelle enjoys going to the gym, trying new restaurants and spending time with her friends and family.
Gloria
Gloria joined our Halsted Eye Boutique team in 2020. She has been working as an Ophthalmic Technician / Front Desk Coordinator and has moved her way up to Front desk & Technician Supervisor using her detail-oriented skills and positivity! She loves being able to take care of our patients and staff and shares her time between Halsted Eye Boutique and Eye See Ravenswood. She is always available to answer any questions or concerns! On her off days, Gloria loves painting, kayaking with her kids and walking her dogs! BONUS: Gloria is fluent in Spanish!
Dayam
Dayam joined our Halsted Eye Boutique team in the summer of 2022 after graduating with a bachelors degree in Health Science. She's always eager to learn more about the eye as she hopes to become an Optometrist one day! She enjoys welcoming patients, pretesting, and interacting with her teammates while sharing her time between Halsted Eye Boutique and Eye See Ravenswood. In her free time, Dayam enjoys cooking, hiking and spending time with her family. BONUS: Dayam is fluent in Spanish!
Suri
Suri joined the Halsted Eye Boutique team in 2023. With over 9 years in the customer service industry and Insurance industry, she is ready to help customers with all of their needs. She enjoys working with people and is excited to provide top-tier customer service at our Ravenswood location. In her spare time, she likes to go on nature walks, go to the movie theater and visit bookstores. She's also fluent in Spanish!