Sandra Roberts
I am a Christian counselor licensed in the State of Illinois. I attended Lincoln Christian College and Seminary (now Lincoln Christian College) where I earned both my BA and an MA in Counseling. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years experience with with all ages in various settings, including in person and online telehealth, office. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect. When you reach out for help, I will be supportive and non-judgmental. My style is warm and approachable. While I am a Christian counselor and lean heavily on God's truth, it is not my goal to force people into what I believe. While I enjoy working with a variety of people and situations, I have extensive experience with parenting and anger management, including classes for those ordered by the court or for those completing a service plan with DCFS. I also prepared and taught a curriculum for dating (red flags, what to look for, what to avoid, etc.) I have helped clients with depression, anxiety, and healing from domestic violence, childhood abuses and traumas.
Gary Schmidt
Feeling overwhelmed, lost, or ready for change but not sure where to start? I offer a warm, grounded space to untangle what’s been weighing on you and rediscover your sense of peace and purpose. My approach helps you build real insight, emotional balance, and the confidence to move forward on your own terms. Healing happens at your own speed and I’m here to support you through it all as a trained trauma-informed IFS therapist. My role is to guide, listen, and adapt to what you need as we go. Everything we do will be built on mutual trust and consent, and I’ll use research-backed methods to make our work together as effective as possible.
Troy Gibson
I hope this finds you well. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in IL with many years of experience working in mental health counseling. I have worked with a diverse range of clients dealing with a variety of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem, as well as relationship concerns. I have also helped many clients experiencing minority stress and or minority trauma. I approach therapy with a sensitivity and predilection for multicultural factors. I have varied experience in multiple settings, including providing individual and group therapy at an inpatient hospital unit and an outpatient hospital unit; as well as providing individual and couples therapy at a private practice. I would describe my style as conversational, strengths based, insight-oriented, and fun. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for us to explore and gain insight while promoting self empowerment. My clinical approach draws from Gestalt therapy and also incorporates Solution-Focused and mindfulness interventions. With me you can expect to be challenged to explore the origin of your problems, develop new awareness, identify pattern behaviors, work through unfinished business and create new strategies for change. Overall, I want to meet you where you’re at and collaborate to make sure our time together works best for you and your needs. I value your courage in taking the next steps on your path to wellness. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey. "When we talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. " - Fred Rogers
Angela Mitchell
Hello, my name is Angela Mitchell and I have Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has had the privilege of gaining counseling experience for over 14 years in a variety of Mental Health settings. I have experience in counseling individuals, couples and facilitating groups. Some of the modalities that I may include in therapy are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. My goal is to encourage you and walk with you in order to help aid you with finding balance in your life. Change for the better can sometimes be challenging but the payoff has the potential to resolve issues, experience greater clarity, confidence, and certainty. I look forward to meeting and working with you!
Teresa Cortas
As a licensed therapist in Illinois with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth. My practice centers on helping clients explore deeper meanings, overcome feelings of guilt and shame, and develop resilience through significant life changes. I have a compassionate, affirming approach that particularly supports LGBTQ+ individuals, women experiencing workplace or personal challenges, and those working through midlife transitions. My therapeutic style creates a non-judgmental space where clients can authentically explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and rediscover their sense of purpose. My expertise spans addressing depression, anxiety, family dynamics, and the nuanced emotional landscapes of personal transformation. I believe in empowering clients to develop meaningful coping strategies, embrace self-forgiveness, and cultivate inner strength through collaborative, personalized therapeutic work.
Beverly Smith
Beverly (Ann) Smith Bio In addition to being a therapist, I am a licensed clinical social worker (MSW, LCSW), certified dementia practitioner and former Baccalaureate trained nurse. This unique background enables me to empower others in multiple ways. My over 20 years of experience includes working in hospitals, clinics, adoption/foster care agencies, assisted living facilities, and teaching as an adjunct professor at local junior colleges. I have counseled children, teens, foster parents, grandparents, young parents, members of the LGBTQ community, and cisgender adults using cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy. I believe that good outcomes with therapy are significantly linked to being matched with the therapist best suited for you. My goal is to be caring, honest, compassionate, committed and effective.
William Edleman
I am licensed in Illinois with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, career difficulties, depression, & 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. 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.
Dr. William Keating
I am licensed in Illinois with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, depression, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
April Balzhiser
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois as well as a Certified Domestic Violence Professional. I have over 15 years of experience in social services/mental health settings working with a variety of individuals, children, families and couples from various backgrounds. I have worked extensively with domestic violence, sexual assault, mental health, child welfare/foster care, alternative schooling, trauma/abuse, and family issues. I work with my clients to ensure that they feel comfortable to share in a safe and open environment. The key to a healthy therapeutic relationship is meeting the client where they are and then growing from there. I look forward to working with you!
Jendaya Clark
Hello! I'm Jendaya, and I have several years of experience in community mental health and individual/group counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes such as quarantine, graduation, weddings/marriage, aging parents, illness/cancer and fertility concerns . 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'd be happy to assist if you'd like to meet.
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!
Eileen Westerman
Specializing in women's mental health needs, I support each client to identify and meet her specific needs in order to promote healing, self-growth, breaking negative life cycles, and the achievement of her goals. I have specific focus in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, life purpose, grief/loss, attachment, and family systems. Whether it's healing deep areas of trauma and loss or managing daily life stress, I walk alongside clients as they journey towards healing and making positive life changes. My clients often come to therapy feeling overwhelmed and stuck, but after working together, they often feel more hopeful, empowered, and purposeful. Together we can work to take steps to help you make positive changes. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming and scary. Therapy helps us to know that were are not alone in our journey! We can take steps together as you move towards healing and purpose.
Benjamin Wrase
As a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience helping individuals navigate complex emotional and behavioral landscapes. I specialize in addressing communication challenges, anger management, feelings of guilt and shame, addictions, and supporting personal growth through compassionate, faith-informed counseling. I understand that growth and healing are deeply personal, and I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences. My approach integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a sensitive, Christian-centered perspective, allowing individuals to work through addiction, relational difficulties, and emotional barriers. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering support that respects your unique story and spiritual beliefs. Together, we can develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation, healing, and emotional resilience.
Kimberley Milton
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-understanding, and effective coping strategies. I have extensive experience addressing challenges such as stress, anxiety, family conflicts, and life transitions. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to overcome social anxiety, workplace challenges, and personal struggles with self-esteem. I am particularly passionate about supporting women through unique emotional journeys, helping clients explore themes of self-love, communication, and personal growth. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthier patterns, and reconnect with their inner strengths. Whether you're dealing with isolation, workplace stress, or seeking deeper personal insights, I'm committed to walking alongside you in your healing process. My practice integrates evidence-based techniques tailored to your individual needs, emphasizing collaborative and personalized care. Together, we can work towards understanding your experiences, building emotional resilience, and creating meaningful, positive change.
Find a Therapist Near You in Ruma , Illinois
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Illinois can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Illinois is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Illinois, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Illinois (IL). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
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 on BetterHelp support adults across Illinois with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Illinois
When searching for a therapist near me in Illinois, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Illinois, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Illinois.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Illinois want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Illinois
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Illinois without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Illinois (IL)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Illinois
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Illinois, including residents in Ruma.
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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.