About Me Hi, I’m MJ. I’m an individual, family, and marriage counselor licensed in Illinois, and I’ve been doing this work for over 20 years. In that time, I’ve helped people navigate just about everything—depression, anxiety, stress, relationship ups and downs, parenting challenges, career changes, ADHD, and all the messy parts of life in between. I also work a lot with people who’ve experienced trauma, whether sexual, physical, or emotional. I often tell clients, “If you can tell me something I haven’t heard before, I’ll give you my Mickey Mouse watch.” And let me tell you, Mickey is still sitting right on my wrist—so you can imagine the stories, struggles, and victories I’ve walked through with people. **How I Work** My approach is warm, down-to-earth, and interactive. I’m a big believer in looking at the whole person—your emotional world, your physical well-being, and your sense of meaning or spirituality—because all of those pieces matter. That might sound fancy, but really, it just means I want to help you feel at home in your own skin and help who you are on the inside match how you show up in the world. I don’t do judgment or labels. I do respect, compassion, honesty, and a whole lot of common sense. (Truly—common sense might be my strongest therapeutic orientation!) I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused work, EMDR, and humor when it fits. Sometimes a small shift in perspective—and maybe a laugh—can open the door to real change. **A Bit About EMDR** I also offer EMDR, which is a powerful method for processing trauma, reducing emotional triggers, and moving past old patterns that keep you stuck. If you’ve tried “talking it out” and still feel something lingering, EMDR can help your mind and body finally let go. **What Telehealth With Me Is Like** Reaching out takes courage. Truly. And choosing to let someone into your world—especially through a screen—can feel strange at first. But once we get going, most people find telehealth surprisingly comfortable and personal. This platform works more like email, so responses aren’t instant like texting. I usually reply within 24 hours. If you prefer phone or video sessions, those are available by appointment. I’d love to walk alongside you as you make the changes you’re ready to make. Looking forward to working with you, MJ

Hello, I am Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins, PhD, NCC, LCMHC, CCMHC, LCAS, CCS, SAP, MAC. I am a board certified clinical mental health counselor and addiction counselor with nearly 20 years of experience in behavioral health. I am licensed as a clinical counselor in the states of North Carolina, Illinois, and Alaska. I have a PhD in General Psychology from Northcentral University. I also have a master's degree in Community Counseling and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Chicago State University. I have worked in an adult inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient behavioral clinic, community-based mental health services, and residential substance abuse treatment programs. My counseling style is person-centered. I have a diverse therapeutic approach to counseling. However, my primary approach includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I specialize in mood disorders, anger management, addictions education, and relapse prevention. I believe that everyone has a story to tell; and I am here to listen. Giving voice to your concerns and issues is the first step to healing. We can accomplish this together. It would be my honor to work with you to assist you in reaching your healthy goals. Please let me know if you would prefer weekly sessions, and I will do my best to accommodate.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the state of Illinois and have 10+ years of experience in counseling. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings and have experience supporting clients with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, grief, self-esteem, and substance abuse. I have a strength-based perspective in my counseling approach and I believe that every human being has great worth/value and should be treated with respect, quality care, and compassion. Reaching out for support is a big and important step as well as a great start to your healing journey! There is HOPE! It brings me joy knowing that people reading this are considering reaching out for support. If you are interested in partnering with me on your healing journey, I am looking forward to hearing from you!

Hello! Janet Craig here. I come to Betterhelp with 30+ years of social work/advocacy/counseling experience. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. I have worked in a variety of settings (child welfare, hospice, and the schools), and am comfortable helping people of all ages explore what makes them tick, what causes them pain, and how they can best take care of themselves. Being a human being is hard work no matter your age or life experience. I am especially skilled in helping parents with a variety of parenting issues, and have a passion for working with parents of teenagers. Raising a family is one of life's biggest and most important challenges. I'm here to help parents navigate new territory as their kids grow through adolescence. As a bereavement counselor, I have helped individuals and families cope with loss and it's resulting aftermath. Grief can feel very lonely and overwhelming at times. Sometimes it helps to sort out thoughts and feelings with someone outside the family. That's where I come in. My approach is one of compassion, careful listening, and guiding individuals toward meeting goals that they set for themselves. I firmly believe that people have the capacity to heal themselves, and that no one has to make that journey alone. My approach to my life and profession is that of acceptance, respect and kindness. The bumper sticker on my car says, “Human kind (be both).” My life's motto. EXPERTISE parenting grief/loss stress management relationship issues self-esteem anxiety coping skills

I am an IL Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 excited that you have decided to start improving your own mental health.

As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I bring over two decades of compassionate, client-centered experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced challenges people face, from relationship dynamics and workplace stress to personal identity and emotional wellness. I specialize in helping clients navigate difficult transitions, manage anxiety and depression, and develop stronger communication and coping skills. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to cultivate self-love, overcome social barriers, and rediscover their sense of purpose. With expertise across diverse areas including women's issues, young adult challenges, trauma recovery, and family dynamics, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and build resilience. My commitment is to walk alongside you, offering genuine understanding and practical strategies tailored to your unique journey.

Just like you, I am an agent of change! Licensed in Illinois with 3 years of professional therapeutic work experience, I sincerely enjoy helping those that need it the most navigate their human experience. I have significant experience in partnering with clients for developing and engaging with coping, self compassion and self care practices in response to stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, complex trauma, & even internal challenges like lack of motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. You deserve peace & you can have more joy. Taking the first step to engaging with life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. My therapy modalities & expertise include CFT, CBT, DBT, ACT, RFT, & FAP therapy; I also utilize Trauma Recovery Models, EMDR and Motivational Interviewing in my practice as needed. I am fond of using innovative evidenced based practices, so let’s connect, assess, and find what works best for you on your journey.

I am licensed in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!

I am licensed in Illinois with more than 40 years of professional work experience. My experience includes helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, ADHD & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

My name is Valorie James, and I hold licenses to provide counseling services in Illinois, Michigan and Indiana. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self-esteem, & confidence and much more. I also have experience working with individuals coping with life changes. My counseling approach is both focused and professional but also relaxed. I am known for being supportive, attentive, and impartial. I focus on identifying your strengths and helping you maximize them to overcome obstacles and/or manage them effectively in your life. I am available to assist you in addressing current challenges and provide a safe space for honest communication. You have taken the first and most crucial step by reaching out for help. After your review of this message, should you choose to move forward, feel free to view my calendar and choose a day an time that fits you best. Cheers on taking steps to participate in counseling, regardless of whether this is your first go around or not. I recognize it takes courage and thank you for considering me to help you on this journey.

Nigel Turk (they/them) is a licensed professional counselor with a strength-based, trauma-responsive, and diversity-affirming approach to therapy interventions. They are themselves queer (genderfluid and bisexual) and neurodivergent (ADHD and autism) and are passionate about supporting marginalized communities; individuals exploring identity, self, and relationships; and any individuals who are seeking support and compassion from a provider who brings a personalized, curious, and collaborative focus to therapy.

I’m a licensed therapist in Illinois with 16 years of experience supporting clients through depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and workplace stress. My approach is warm, culturally attuned, and rooted in creating a safe space where you can explore your emotions without judgment. As a bilingual, bicultural therapist, I understand how important it is to feel seen and understood. I work with young adults navigating life transitions, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, people-pleasing, and career challenges. I have particular expertise in women’s issues, attachment dynamics, and caregiver support. Clients often share that they feel comfortable opening up with me, even about vulnerable topics. Together, we’ll uncover what’s holding you back and build tools that help you feel more grounded, confident, and empowered. If you’re ready to better understand yourself and move toward the life you want, I’d be honored to support you.

As a licensed therapist serving Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering young adults through transformative healing experiences, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma recovery. My approach is rooted in cultural sensitivity and understanding, particularly for individuals experiencing workplace stress, discrimination, and personal identity struggles. I create a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore self-love, communication patterns, and pathways toward personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients develop resilience, process challenging experiences, and reconnect with their inherent strengths. Whether you're wrestling with isolation, shame, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise.

As a licensed clinical social worker with 20 years of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional issues. My practice focuses on helping clients address depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions with compassion and expertise. I am particularly passionate about working with women, older adults, and individuals experiencing anxiety, isolation, or life transitions. My approach centers on fostering self-love, exploring life purpose, and developing resilient coping strategies. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past challenges, and cultivate personal growth. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I'm committed to providing personalized, empathetic guidance tailored to individual needs. My therapeutic work emphasizes understanding caregiver stress, women's issues, and the nuanced emotional experiences that emerge during significant life stages. I believe in empowering clients to develop deeper self-understanding and meaningful strategies for emotional well-being.