Amelia Lambert
• B.A. in Human Services from National-Louis University • MSW from Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work • Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe Throughout our lives we are challenged by obstacles that can be difficult to manage on our own. Reaching out for help in those times can be incredibly difficult. Working with a therapist during those struggles in life can help find the insight into some of the most rewarding and positive changes we make; leading to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. The first step in making changes in your life begins now. I have been working the mental health field for over 16 years with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, grief & loss, addiction & co-dependency issues, and relationship or family dynamics. I have provided services in outpatient, inpatient, residential, as well as rehabilitation long-term care settings to clients ranging in age from adolescent to geriatric, both in individual and group sessions. My professional philosophy stems from the belief that every person deserves to live fully; with hope for the future and the self-respect to believe you are worthy of it. I believe every individual is capable of change and possesses the resiliency within ourselves to improve our lives. We will work together to identify the aspects of yourself that are not working for you and discover a healthier direction for your life.
Erika Luhn
As a licensed therapist in Illinois with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on addressing challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship dynamics. I bring deep expertise in helping clients work through issues like isolation, guilt, shame, body image concerns, and interpersonal struggles. My approach is compassionate and tailored, with a particular commitment to supporting women, young adults, and individuals experiencing life transitions. I understand the intricate ways trauma, mood disorders, and family dynamics intersect, and I'm dedicated to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing and growth. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I offer a nuanced, empathetic approach that honors each person's unique journey. Whether you're dealing with relationship challenges, processing past experiences, or seeking to enhance personal resilience, I'm here to provide thoughtful, professional guidance.
Donna Beichel
I am licensed in Illinois with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & relationship issues. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Kathryn Klein
Hello - I would first like to say I'm not a conventional therapist. I do have professional training and professional experience and degrees, but really, I consider myself a fellow human being here to help another fellow human being. I pull from my knowledge, professional and personal experiences to provide you with insights and guidance. I mostly like to listen, provide feedback and offer solutions in a conversational manner. I feel strongly that this is your healing journey so if you find that my style doesn't work for you, that's okay; but if you want to give me a chance, I'd love to hear your story. I am also currently am not offering any live sessions - just asynchronous messaging. Thank you for reading!
Bradley Wolcott
As a licensed therapist with extensive experience serving individuals in Illinois, I specialize in supporting adults navigating complex life transitions, workplace challenges, and personal growth. My practice focuses on helping clients address stress, anxiety, grief, and self-esteem concerns, with particular expertise in supporting men, young adults, veterans, and individuals with neurodivergent experiences. I bring a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy, drawing from 25 years of professional experience working with diverse populations. My therapeutic style emphasizes understanding individual strengths, communication skills, and developing meaningful strategies for overcoming isolation, workplace difficulties, and personal barriers. My commitment is to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose. Whether you're struggling with life changes, family dynamics, or personal identity, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Heather Friend
Hello, I am Heather Friend, a licensed clinical therapist, and I am glad you have come in for support. Reaching out takes courage, and a big part of my job is working to promote a safe and accepting space for you. My approach to therapy is warm, supportive, and open-minded, with a strong focus on helping you recognize your strengths and build a sense of confidence and emotional clarity. I strive to create a space where you feel respected, and free to be yourself, without judgment or pressure. Therapy with me is collaborative, thoughtful, and paced to meet your needs, because this is your healing space. I believe therapy works best when you feel understood and empowered. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or simply needing a place to process what you are carrying, we will work together to help you feel more grounded and capable in your day-to-day life. If you feel nervous about starting therapy, that is completely normal. We can take things step by step, at a pace that feels right for you, and focus on building comfort and trust along the way. I offer daily and evening sessions. I also offer sessions on the weekend. In addition to sessions, you are welcome to message me anytime for additional support. I typically respond within 24 hours. Live sessions are 45 minutes and can be scheduled easily through my calendar at times that work best for you. My goal is to make therapy feel accessible, supportive, and flexible. Please let me know if you have questions and looking forward to working with you!
Jessica Hrdlicka
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with 11 years of professional work experience, primarily working with individuals ages 3-25. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!
Kenneth Leggin
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with 30 years of professional experience. My work is rooted in a trauma-informed approach that recognizes the strength and resilience each person brings to therapy. I have supported clients through family conflicts, parenting challenges, motivation and self-esteem concerns, confidence building, and career difficulties. In our work together, I strive to create a safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions at your own pace. I honor the impact that past experiences—including trauma and adversity—can have on your well-being, relationships, and daily life. My role is to support you with compassion, transparency, and respect, helping you feel grounded, understood, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process. Reaching out for help reflects courage and hope. Taking steps toward healing and a more fulfilling life can feel vulnerable, and you don’t have to navigate that journey alone. I am here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support as you build the life you want and deserve.
Dr. Akamin Nkengaka
I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a Licensed behavioral therapist with 16 years of evidence-based practice experienced. I help clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma informed care, substance abuse, self-esteem, and relationships challenges. My theoretical approach is based on cognitive-behavioral model and holistic approach. That is, patterns of thoughts and feelings are explored, and solution focus based. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilled and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Susan Rick
As a licensed therapist in Illinois, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients develop self-compassion, improve communication skills, and overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach to mental health that addresses a wide range of emotional experiences. My expertise includes supporting individuals struggling with social anxiety, panic attacks, attachment issues, and mood disorders. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner world, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. My therapeutic style emphasizes understanding each person's unique journey, focusing on strengths and providing practical strategies for emotional healing. Whether you're dealing with isolation, self-esteem challenges, or complex emotional patterns, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
David Petersmark
I am licensed in Illinois with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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 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.
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.
Jamie Taylor
As a licensed therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes, I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges related to social anxiety, trauma, depression, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I focus on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions like guilt, shame, and attachment wounds. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with individuals experiencing panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive patterns, and challenges related to impulsivity and personality dynamics. My background includes dedicated work with diverse populations, including first responders and individuals with adoption or foster care experiences. I am committed to understanding each client's distinct story and supporting their path toward healing and personal growth. My goal is to provide empathetic, skilled guidance that helps clients develop resilience and meaningful strategies for emotional well-being.
Find a Therapist Near You in Bush , 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 Bush.
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.