This is Gina West-Hendrickson's avatar and link to their profile

Gina West-Hendrickson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMHC,RPT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepression
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Iowa. I have over 16 years of experience working with individuals of varying ages to overcome everyday life challenges. I have experience with those struggling with depression, anxiety, /trauma, family and/or parenting issues as well as relationship and career concerns. My treatment approach is open and honest. I will incorporate cognitive-behavioral , rational-emotive and client centered approaches with skill training in mindfulness activities to help clients feel more grounded and calm. However, I am always focused on what the needs of the client are and will individualize to the clients specific needs. I do have specialized training in EMDR and Play therapy techniques. EMDR is a treatment for trauma related issues and Play therapy techniques involve utilizing play as a way to process through feelings and trauma.

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Karla White

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LCPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. I have been practicing mental health therapy for more than 15 YEARS. I have earned a Masters of Science in Community Counseling degree from Eastern Illinois University. I currently work in private practice in addition to working online with Betterhelp. I believe that ANIMALS are a great benefit to our mental health. I use ANIMAL ASSISTED THERAPY in my office location. I work with a certified facility dog named Sheldon, to help clients feel comforted during sessions. I enjoy hearing about client experiences with their animals as support or comfort. I will offer my experience in ANIMAL ASSISTED THERAPY to help any client who may have questions or comments regarding their own animal as emotional support at home. My therapeutic style is to meet you where you are in every aspect of your life. I feel it is very important to provide each client with a down to earth, non-judgmental approach. I draw from many different theories, depending on each client’s needs. I often draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Person Centered Therapy. In addition, I will draw from a variety of other theories and techniques depending on the client’s goals and needs within each session. I believe every person is different and the approach should be tailored to that specific individual. I can help with ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, Bi-POLAR DISORDER, RELATIONSHIP ISSUES, SELF-ESTEEM, CO-DEPENDENCY, INTIMACY DIFFICULTIES and MANY other personal issues or concerns. I have a great amount of experience working with LGBTQ clients as well. I feel privileged to be able to help and become a part of each client’s personal journey. I believe that we, as human beings, all need support from others at some time in our lives.

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Leah Pavela-Mullins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,C-ET
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!

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Amy Louis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): MSEd,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, I'm Amy, I have been a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa for over a decade, was lucky to be prepared for the license by an amazing graduate program in counseling psychology. Since grad school I have worked with many clients and their families helping them reach their goals and overcoming struggles with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, health issues, loss, body image, identity, confidence and the things in life that beat us up. I am a positivity based therapist that will meet you where you are at and help you get where you want to be. I use pieces of many therapeutic approaches however I like to call it you centered, finding what best works to help you get to your balance and move forward. One of my mantra's is enjoy, and to enjoy we need to get into our lives and live. I want to help you enjoy and live! This is about you, the time is now to live the life you want. I look forward to working with you!

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Susan Henry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): LISW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Susan Henry, and I love helping people and seeing them grow. I am originally from the East Coast and resided in California before settling with my family in the Midwest. I received my Bachelor degree in Psychology from Rutgers College, and I received my Master in Social Work degree from Barry University School of Social Work. I am licensed in the state of Iowa as an Independent Level Social Worker. I have worked in the counseling field for over 25 years, with expertise working with issues related to Interpersonal Relations, Grief/Loss and Adjustment, PTSD/Trauma, and Anxiety/Depression. I provide a safe, sensitive, and non-judgemental space to explore your issues. Looking forward to being a part of your journey to better days ahead.

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Clinton Cunningham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Iowa with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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!

This is Nolan Vitzthum's avatar and link to their profile

Nolan Vitzthum

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Wyoming and Iowa with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Matthew Schmeckpeper's avatar and link to their profile

Matthew Schmeckpeper

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
AddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorder
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I graduated from Walden University in 2014 and was initially license March of 2014 in Nebraska and gained my full licensure in August 2019. I have a reciprocal license in Iowa. I have my Provisional License for Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Nebraska and am seeking TCADC in Iowa for substance use. I have worked for community mental health, early development and mental health, school client with mental and behavioral health, residential substance use treatment, correctional treatment, Intense Outpatient and outpatient services. I have used DBT, emotional regulation, and client experiences for both what has been done historically and how they would like to change. I have passions for child abuse recovery and empowerment, been with organizations that are supportive and empowering to those that are part of or served by the organizations.

This is Diana Castro-Moctezuma's avatar and link to their profile

Diana Castro-Moctezuma

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in IA, NE and SD with 8 years of professional work experience. I am bilingual and I also offer therapy in Spanish. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with substance abuse addiction, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

This is Nicole Randel's avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Randel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 10+ years experience in the field. I am committed to creating a safe place for clients to explore themselves, their circumstances, and their experiences. Whatever brings you to therapy, whatever “baggage” you carry, whatever “skeletons” are in the closet, please know that you are welcome here. I have experience working with clients age 4+. My approach is solution focused, trauma informed, and client centered. I enjoy creating a relaxed, safe, and authentic therapeutic environment. If you enjoy dark humor, I’m happy to sprinkle some of that in as well. I have extensive experience working with those employed in emergency services (nurses, medical providers, EMTs, paramedics, etc.) I am also trained in A-TIP (acute traumatic incident processing). Areas of interest include depression, anxiety, chronic health issues, disordered eating, grief/loss, LGBTQIA issues, and first-responder vicarious trauma. It is incredibly difficult to ask for help and I’m glad you’re here. I look forward to being a part of your unique journey. Please don't hesitate to reach out to discuss how I can be of assistance to you throughout this process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Elgin

Finding the best therapist close by in Elgin 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 in Elgin that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Elgin. 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 Elgin, 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 in the Elgin region and in the state of Iowa. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Elgin or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Elgin area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Elgin 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 Elgin, elsewhere in Fayette, or in the greater state of Iowa.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin may not take health insurance, some in the state of Iowa may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Iowa you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

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

Therapists in Elgin, Iowa 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 Elgin psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Elgin 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 Elgin helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Elgin 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Elgin 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 in Elgin?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Elgin 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.

Elgin therapists 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in IA, therapists 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 52141 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

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

Before seeing your Elgin 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Elgin.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Elgin 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 with a Elgin counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Elgin, Iowa 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.

Elgin 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Elgin, Iowa

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 to customer service 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 Elgin.

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

52141

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