Maria "Patti" Lorenzo
Hello, and welcome. I’m Patti Lorenzo, a licensed therapist who specializes in helping people develop a healthier inner dialogue and a more compassionate relationship with themselves. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, overthinking, self-criticism, emotional exhaustion, people-pleasing, or feeling “stuck” in old patterns that no longer serve them. Often, the way we speak to ourselves becomes our emotional environment—and therapy can help change that. My approach is supportive, practical, and focused on helping you create meaningful shifts in your everyday life. I believe therapy works best as a collaborative process, where we build awareness, identify patterns, and develop healthier ways of thinking, responding, and caring for yourself emotionally. I work especially well with women navigating life transitions, burnout, identity changes, menopause-related emotional shifts, relationship stress, and the pressure of always having to “hold it together” for others. In our work together, you can expect warmth, honesty, reflection, and gentle accountability. My goal is not only to help you feel heard, but to help you better understand yourself and move toward lasting emotional growth.
Dr. Paula Alvarez
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.
Dr. Cassandra April
I am Dr. Cassandra April, licensed clinical professional counselor, adjunct professor, and author, located in the Chicago area. I am an African-American female and have been in the field of counseling for over 30 years. I have helped people from all walks of life, of all ages, representing various cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses. I look forward to working with you!
Debbie Chirikos
I have been a career clinical social worker for 40 years. I have chosen to be a counselor my entire professional, adult life, because I love it! I have done this in multiple states across America, Hawaii and Canada. I am curious and driven to expand my skills and knowledge, and be a change agent for my clients. I want my skills to be fresh and relevant in a changing social landscape. To me, there no distractions when I am engaged with my clients. I am as fully attuned to my client as I can be and want nothing more than for my client's success and resolution of their problems, and the things in their life that are painful or self-defeating. I have a Bachelor's and Masters degree in Clinical Social Work. I attended universities in Colorado. I think I can best help clients who want to do the hard work, look at themselves and with my support and guidance, make real changes in their life that move them toward their authentic selves. Clients who embrace non-judgmental feedback will be comfortable with me. Clients who have repeated self-defeating behaviors will find me patient and tolerant of their struggles. Clients who understand that humor is a tool to heal will be comfortable with me. I think mental health is something that we groom. Finally, working with a motivated client and reaching those moments of confidence and calm together is a satisfaction like no other. I believe all people who are suffering have the seeds within them to solve their own problems. Sometimes we just need a partner in that journey . Sometimes, we just want to talk to someone who will listen to us!
Tamela Polanin
Hello, Thank you for taking the first step in better living. Our mental health is very important. My name is Tamela, I would love to be your therapist. I look forward to working with you. Just a little about me to help break the ice, I am a mom of 3 boys, one is grown and has a son of his own, the other 2 are 16 and 15. I am married to my second husband now for 17 years. We live in the country and raise registered pygmy goats. I have worked in mental health for 20 years. We all want to live our best life. I know trauma on a personal level and treating trauma has become my passion. I use a client centered approach where you are the master of your own life; I am merely here to walk beside you as a guide. My hope is to empower you to work through your trauma and life’s challenges. I provide trauma-focused, client-centered therapy to all ages and all backgrounds. I am well versed in EMDR, TF-CBT, and Reproductive loss Counseling. I believe that trauma is a journey and not one person’s journey will be the same as the next. You are not alone. I will traverse this journey beside you.
Dr. Nicole Ford
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience working in both private and public sectors . Life changes happen and I work with clients to build coping and resiliency skills. I help clients manage stress, anxiety, trauma, racial identity, self-esteem, and confidence Respect, empathy, and listening provide the foundation for any dialog and treatment plan. Your unique and specific needs are addressed in a collaborative manner whereby you are the expert. Think about it this way, you're in the driver seat and I'm the GPS system that provide directions based on the information you provide. You decide what goals to work on and your amount of effort as demonstrated by actionable steps. Occasionally, we may have to re-route when the interventions are not providing the desired outcome. We discuss the best way to get to your destination with regular check-ins to gauge if the sessions are effective for you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Kayla Bell
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 5 years, I am deeply dedicated to the mental health field and committed to providing compassionate, ethical, and evidence-based care. I approach each client with empathy, authenticity, and intentionality—meeting individuals where they are while supporting them in their journey toward healing, growth, and resilience. My practice is rooted in advocacy, emotional wellness, and holistic support. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges. By combining clinical expertise with genuine human connection, I help individuals develop healthier coping strategies, increase self-awareness, and build the confidence needed to move forward with purpose and clarity. I utilize therapeutic interventions tailored to each client’s unique needs, recognizing that healing is not one-size-fits-all. Through collaboration, trust, and a strengths-based approach, I work alongside clients to foster meaningful progress and lasting emotional well-being. Dedicated to lifelong learning and professional growth, I remain committed to delivering high-quality care that honors the dignity and experiences of every individual I serve.
Glen Ensinger
I am licensed in Illinois , Colorado and Georgia with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Juanita Dunn
I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Jessica Hobart
I am licensed in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin with 7 years of professional work experience. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have evening and weekend availability.
Leonard Tedesco
I am licensed in New York with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Brittany Meredith
I am licensed in Illinois with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Traci White
As a licensed clinician, I have experience working with children, adults, and geriatric age groups. I have worked in community based mental health programs, in-home counseling, long-term healthcare facilities and private practice settings. I have supported individuals facing many different experiences including domestic violence survivors and their families, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Adjustment Disorder, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Depression and Anxiety related disorders, and other various mental health disorders. I work from a trauma-informed approach by creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for therapy while supporting you to gain a whole understanding of your over all mental health. I will support you in building trust and safety as you build confidence to overcome maladaptive emotions and behaviors. You are not alone on this journey. Growth and healing is possible as you explore the glimmers of life and find your light within. It is a honor to work with each individual as they share their unique experience. I value building rapport with each individual during the therapeutic process.
Haley Bichsel
As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication skills, and discover their life purpose. I have extensive experience addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and managing significant life transitions. My therapeutic practice focuses on creating a compassionate, collaborative environment where individuals can explore their inner experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I'm committed to providing personalized support that honors your individual strengths and goals. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients build resilience, enhance emotional well-being, and cultivate healthier relationships with themselves and others. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, seeking deeper self-understanding, or working through difficult life changes, I'm here to support you with empathy and professional expertise.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Energy, Illinois
Finding a therapist near you in Energy, Illinois starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Illinois is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Illinois, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Illinois, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Illinois
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Illinois, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Illinois
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Illinois
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Illinois, including residents in Energy.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Illinois do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Energy, Illinois
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Energy and the surrounding IL area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.