In life, there’s a fire in all of us that burns brightly. Sometimes, it leads us to our destination by giving us life. Other times, it burns everyone we know and love. Your inner fire needs to be controlled, and a counselor based in Peoria can help you control any fire you may face in life. 

Peoria means “prairie fire,” which is the perfect symbolism for life. Your life can be like a fire, and it’s up to you to figure out how to contain it and use it for good. Speak to a Peoria-based counselor to see what they can do for the fire in your life.

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Dr. Carol Gandolfo

Offering therapy in AZ
License: PsyD,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

For over twenty years I have worked with numerous populations. I received my education in California and then interned at a homeless shelter, with a license psychologist, at a counseling center and then at a Developmental Disabilities State Hospital. I took on every case available to me in order to round out my experience. I have worked with families and individuals in the areas of domestic abuse, family issues, childhood issues, and substance abuse issues. I then spent several years working for two Developmental Centers focusing on developmental disabilities such as Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorders and forensic issues. I provided expert testimony for recommitment hearings and competency training. Since leaving California, I have volunteers on the Critical Incident Stress Management team for a fire department, mentored with women coming out of prison, and served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. My volunteer work focused mainly on Trauma and Suicidality.

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Melissa Monahan

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuse
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Most recently, I have worked with individuals who are struggling with substance use and are involved in the criminal justice field. Many of these individuals also struggle with anxiety and depression and have experienced traumatic life experiences which have contributed to their continued substance use. I work from a client-centered approach and want to work with you in a way in which you are comfortable. I'm laid back and don't believe in labeling people. I utilize motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral interventions to assist with challenging troubling thoughts and increasing your confidence to identify solutions to your biggest struggles. You know yourself the best, I'm just here to assist with the resolutions that make the most sense for your situation. Beginning therapy an be scary, but taking that first step is so worth it!

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Alexis Kirkendall

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LCSW,CPP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

I am an independently licensed social work with over 20 years of experience working with children, teens and families. I've worked with clients that have an array of concerns including depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, relationship issues, parenting challenges, and complex trauma. My therapeutic style is engaging and inviting. I believe all people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral, Adlerian theory, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, play therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I will customize our sessions and treatments plans to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and walk this journey with you.

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Manzie Lohrey

Offering therapy in AZ
License: MA, ,LPC
Coping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix Arizona, with over 10 years of experience combined working as a Practitioner and subsequently as a Professional. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including relationship issues, anxiety, depression and parenting difficulties. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. It truly takes courage to seek a more fulfilling, rewarding and happier life. I'm here to encourage, support, validate and inspire you. If you are ready to, I am. I look forward to working with you.

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Dorothy Carskadon

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
25 years of experience

Please call me Dorrie. I have been a counselor for 24 years primarily working with Veterans and their families. I am excited to be on Better Help to use my clinical experience on this online platform. I like to use worksheets and journals to get to know you when we are not doing sessions. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of South Carolina. I use positive psychology, cognitive behavioral approach and emotional literacy to guide you through your issues. Positive psychology helps you to explore yourself through recognizing the positives in your life and accentuating them. The cognitive behavior approach helps you look closely at the decisions you make and the emotional literacy approach looks at how your emotions effect your decisions. I call myself a resource counselor because I will give you lots of material - handouts, worksheets, and internet links - to review and hopefully apply to your life. I am Christian and believe using the Bible that expresses wisdom and encourages love. God made each of us unique and "God saw that it was good." As an experienced therapist, I will adjust my style to your needs. My goal is to help you enjoy life.

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Caitlyn Schmidt

Offering therapy in AZ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Welcome, My name is Caitlyn Schmidt and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama. I have 7 years of clinical experience in working with clients presenting with a wide range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, low self esteem, lack of motivation, anger and stress. We can work together to help you get through any personal, relationship, family or career issues you may be struggling with. I find it is just as important to take care of your mental health as it is to take care of your physical health in order to be the best possible version of yourself. I know how hard it can be to reach out for help and to take the necessary steps towards changing your life for the better and I am here to support and empower you on your journey!

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Jill Miller

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LISW-S,LICDC,SAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
15 years of experience

ABOUT ME: Hello, my name is Jill Miller and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker, Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor and a Substance Abuse Professional in the State of Ohio and also a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Arizona. I believe that in order to have a successful relationship and outcome with my clients that there needs to be mutual trust, understanding and good rapport. I use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on what issue one is having in their life. The modalities may include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing Skills and learning new coping skills. My areas of expertise include mental health and substance abuse and I have worked my entire career in those fields. I believe in meeting people where they are and not forcing an agenda on to another person. I have experience working with adults 18+ and I feel that you will find my demeanor calming and non-judgmental. I am available mainly in the evening and on weekends and I hope to be able to assist you on your search for a more pleasant, happy future. SPECIALTIES: · Anxiety and Stress · Depression · Bipolar disorder · Coping with life changes · Career Difficulties · Self-esteem · Anger Management Also experienced in: Panic and Panic Attacks, Codependency, Family Conflicts and Coping with life changes Clinical Approaches: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing Skills and learning new coping skills. Years of Experience: 15 years Services Offered: Messaging, live chat, phone and video Licensing: LISW-S: I.0800419 .SUPV (expires 2025), LICDC: 131071 (expires 2025) LICSW Massachusetts - 126464 (expires 5/1/2026) LCSW Arizona - 21635 (expires 5/31/2025)

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Sherrie Kaelin

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LMHC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Sherrie Kaelin. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey, Georgia, Arizona and Texas as well as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Nevada with over 24 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, career challenges and coping with life changes. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client centered and solution focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Kristilee (Kristi) Cappaert

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Iowa. I have over five years of counseling experience in Illinois and Iowa. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, marital, life balance and job stress. Throughout my clinical career, I have worked with all different populations from children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Deciding to get therapy can be a scary and I commend you on taking the first step and I look forward to working with you. I utilize many different treatment approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Reality Based, Person-Centered and Mindfulness. My approach is to empower you to work towards the life you wants. It will be my job to guide you on your journey by helping you to gain insight to your behaviors, belies and automatic thoughts. As we get to know each other, we will figure out what interventions will work best for you. Counseling can make you feel vulnerable and I believe in creating a safe space for every one of my client. I look forward to hearing from you and starting this journey together.

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Leah Little

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LMSW,CAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Leah Little, LMSW, CAADC is a fully licensed clinical social worker in the states of Michigan and Illinois, and a certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor. She obtained her MSW from the University of Michigan, with a concentration in mental health and interpersonal practice. Her graduate training was conducted at Michigan Medicine, in the Psychiatric Emergency Services. During this internship, she obtained extensive training in various evidence-based treatments, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Later in her career, while in government service with the U.S. Veteran’s Health Administration, Leah was trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET). Leah has over a decade of work experience providing individual, family, and group therapy to adolescents and adults in community non-profit, hospital, and private practice settings. Her areas of treatment focus include life transitions, grief/loss, relationship or family issues, general stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, or coping with past trauma. Leah strives to create a safe, welcoming atmosphere where you can openly share thoughts and feelings, talk about your dreams and goals, be unashamed to cry, and maybe even laugh a little.

How to find counseling in Peoria

Finding the best therapist close by in Peoria can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Peoria. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Peoria, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Peoria or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Peoria area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Peoria, elsewhere in Maricopa, or in the greater state of Arizona.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Peoria area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Peoria therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Peoria due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Peoria may not take health insurance, some in the state of Arizona may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Arizona you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Peoria, Arizona working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Peoria above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Peoria helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Peoria therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Peoria therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Peoria therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in AZ, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 85342 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Peoria counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Peoria licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Peoria, Arizona can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Peoria has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Peoria.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Peoria:

85342, 85345, 85373, 85380, 85381, 85382, 85383, 85385

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